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).
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.