Alstublieft, a hyper-polite Dutch term

Approximate cognates • German — Bitte • French — s'il vous plait • Polish — prosze bardzo • Danish — værsågod (when giving something,) and velbekomme (a reply to "thank you.") • Romanian — Poftim

"Alstublieft" is a good Dutch word especially useful during polite unfamiliar transactions.

Alstublieft can translate as "if it pleases you," spoken while handing something to somebody, an elegant way of exchanging money at the checkout stand with style and grace.

In a setting where extraneous conversation is not necessary, "alstublieft" politely focuses attention on the transaction.

Etymologically, "alstublieft" comes from a formal expression of "if it may please you," While one may celebrate or decry the English lack of polite-vs.-formal constructions, it's hard not to regret the lack of an "alstublieft."

Alstublieft is immaculate. It's polite, complete, and always respectful.