can I have the bill
/kæn aɪ hæv ðə bɪl/
Meaning
A polite and common way to ask a waiter or waitress for the total cost of your meal so that you can pay. In American English, 'check' is more common, while 'bill' is standard in British, Australian, and international English.
Examples
-
Excuse me, can I have the bill, please?
Excuse me, can I have the bill, please?
-
We are finished eating, so can I have the bill?
We are finished eating, so can I have the bill?
-
Can I have the bill, or do we pay at the register?
Can I have the bill, or do we pay at the register?
-
Once you're ready, can I have the bill, please?
Once you're ready, can I have the bill, please?
-
We are in a bit of a hurry, so can I have the bill now?
We are in a bit of a hurry, so can I have the bill now?
Common Mistakes
-
✗ Can I have the ticket, please?
✓ Can I have the bill, please?
In English, you receive a 'bill' (UK) or a 'check' (US) at a restaurant, not a 'ticket'.
-
✗ Please bring me the invoice.
✓ Can I have the bill, please?
An 'invoice' is used for business-to-business transactions, not for dining at a restaurant.
Related Expressions
Practice
-
We need to leave soon. Excuse me, ___?
💡 Ask the waiter for the total price to pay.
Show answer
can I have the bill
-
That was a delicious dinner. ___ please?
💡 Requesting the final payment document.
Show answer
Can I have the bill