Asking for the Bill

bill

A paper that shows the cost of your food and drinks.

• Can we have the bill, please?
• The bill came to fifty dollars.
• I need to pay the bill.

credit card

A small plastic card you use to pay for things.

• Do you accept credit cards?
• I'll pay with my credit card.
• He gave the waiter his credit card to pay.

❌ Saying 'Check, please.' instead of 'The bill, please.'

✅ In most parts of the world, 'bill' is more common. In American English, 'check' is also used, but 'bill' is universally understood.

Both 'bill' and 'check' are correct, but 'bill' is more common in the UK and other countries. For beginners, it's good to know both, but 'bill' is a safe and polite choice everywhere.

❌ Forgetting to say 'please' and 'thank you.'

✅ Always use 'please' and 'thank you' to be polite and friendly.

These simple words are very important for good manners. Using them makes your request respectful and makes the waiter's job easier.

check

Another word for 'bill,' especially in American English.

• Can we get the check, please?
• The waiter brought the check to our table.
• The check is on the table.

split

To divide something into parts, for example, to divide the bill between people.

• We can split the bill in half.
• We're a big group, so we need to split the check.
• Can you split the check for us?

❌ Just saying 'split' instead of 'split the bill' or 'pay separately.'

✅ Use a full, clear phrase like 'We'd like to pay separately' or 'Could you split the bill for us?'

Being specific helps the waiter understand exactly what you need. 'Split' by itself can be confusing. Using a full phrase is a sign of good communication.

❌ Not being polite when the waiter is busy.

✅ Use phrases like 'Whenever you have a moment...' to show you are patient and respectful of the waiter's time.

This phrase is a sign of politeness and empathy. It tells the waiter that you are not in a rush and that you understand they might be busy with other tables.

tab

An informal word for the bill or a record of what you owe.

• We're going to put everything on one tab tonight.
• Can you start a tab for me at the bar?
• The waiter brought over the final tab.

accommodating

Willing to help and adjust to someone's needs.

• The staff was very accommodating to our dietary needs.
• The hotel was very accommodating when we needed to change our reservation.
• The waiter was so accommodating, he split the bill for us.

❌ Using casual language when asking for a complex request.

✅ Use professional and polite language like 'settling separately' or 'dividing it evenly.'

These phrases are more precise and professional than just 'split.' They show you understand the dining process and are being considerate of the waiter's work.

❌ Not acknowledging the waiter's helpfulness.

✅ Use advanced phrases like 'Thank you for being so accommodating' to show your appreciation.

This phrase is a great way to thank a waiter who has gone out of their way to help you. It shows you recognize their effort and are grateful.