できれば
できれば
expression
if possible
1.
if possible, if you can
Used to make polite requests or express wishes with the understanding that the condition may not be met. Literally the conditional form of できる (to be able to).
できれば、明日来てほしい。
If possible, I'd like you to come tomorrow.
できれば今週中に返事をください。
Please reply within this week if possible.
できれば日本語で話したい。
I'd like to speak in Japanese if possible.
できれば電車ではなく歩いて行きたい。
If possible, I'd like to walk rather than take the train.
できれば午前中に届けてもらえると助かります。
It would be helpful if you could deliver it in the morning, if possible.
USAGE: できれば is a polite way to make requests or express preferences without being too demanding. It acknowledges that the request may not be feasible.
SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:
- できたら - slightly more casual than できれば
- できることなら - more emphatic, 'if at all possible'
- 可能であれば - more formal, 'if it is possible'
- なるべく - 'as much as possible'
- もし可能なら - 'if possible' (more formal)
GRAMMAR: できれば is the ば-conditional form of できる. It literally means 'if it can be done' but functions as a set phrase meaning 'if possible'.
NOTE: Using できれば softens requests and makes them less direct, which is important in Japanese communication.
Related Words
Related:
できる (base verb)