ませんか

Frequency:
1

A polite negative-question ending used to ask for confirmation or suggest that something may not be the case (e.g., “isn't it…?” / “wouldn't it be…?”).

ExpressionPolite (Teineigo) Language

Examples

この道は危険ではありませんか?気をつけてください。

Isn't this road dangerous? Please be careful.

もう閉店してしまっているのではありませんか。

Might it already be closed?

それは少し高すぎるのではありませんか?

Isn't that a bit too expensive?

2

A polite invitation or suggestion: “won't you…?” or “shall we…?” used to invite someone or make a polite request/command.

Expression

Examples

週末に映画を見に行きませんか?

Shall we go see a movie this weekend?

コーヒーをもう一杯いかがですか?(=コーヒーをもう一杯飲みませんか)

Would you like another cup of coffee? (lit. won't you have another cup of coffee?)

この書類に目を通していただけませんか?

Could you please look over these documents?