Can I get the bill?
A2
Everyday Phrase
Neutral
Very Common
Meaning
A phrase used to ask for the bill in a restaurant or café.
When to use it
A customer says this to a waiter or café worker when they are ready to pay. It is neutral and common in everyday conversation. It is less suitable when you want to see the menu or order food.
Example Sentence
Excuse me, can I get the bill, please?
Grammar & structure
Can + I + get + the bill? You can add please: Can I get the bill, please?
✓ Correct
Can I get the bill, please? We're ready to leave.
Can I get the bill for our table?
Can I get the bill now? I've finished my coffee.
✗ Incorrect
Can I get the bill for pay?
Can I get the bill, please you?
Use the base verb get after can. Adding please makes the question more polite.
How to reply
Similar expressions
Could I have the bill, please?
A slightly more polite way to ask.
Check, please.
A short, common request in American English. Check means bill here.
Common mistakes
✗ Can I get the bill for pay?
✓ Can I get the bill so I can pay?
Use so I can pay to explain why you want the bill. For pay is not correct here.
✗ Can I get the bill, please you?
✓ Can I get the bill, please?
Please does not take you after it in a polite request.
Dialogue
Maya is finishing lunch at a restaurant and talking to Ben, her waiter.
Ben
Would you like dessert?
Maya
No, thanks. Can I get the bill, please?
Ben
Of course. How was your lunch?
Maya
Really good, thanks.
Ben
Great! I'll bring your bill over.
Maya
Thanks. Can I pay by card?
Complete the conversation
1. A: Can I get the bill, please?
B: ___
2. A: You've finished your meal. Are you ready to pay?
B: ___
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