s'il vous plaît
Meaning
The phrase s'il vous plaît translates to 'please' in English. It is the standard polite way to make a request.
Usage and formality
This phrase is used in formal and polite contexts. It specifically uses the formal second-person plural pronoun vous, which is appropriate when addressing someone you don't know well, someone older, or someone in a position of authority. It can also be used when addressing a group of people.
Pronunciation
The pronunciation is approximately seel voo pleh. Note the silent 't' at the end of 's'il' and the liaison (linking sound) between 's'il' and 'vous'. The 's' at the end of 'vous' is also silent, and the 't' at the end of 'plait' is silent. The vowel sound in 'plait' is similar to the 'e' in 'bet'.
Grammar
S'il vous plaît is an idiomatic expression. Literally, it means 'if it pleases you'. It is a fixed expression and does not change based on the verb or the subject of the request.
Watch out
Using the informal 'tu' form (s'il te plaît) in a situation where s'il vous plaît is expected can be considered impolite or overly familiar.
Notes
s'il vous plaît: polite 'please' for requests, uses formal 'vous'.