Answer: “Could you help me?” is more polite and formal while “Can you help me?” is more direct and casual.
The difference between “Can you help me?” and “Could you help me?” lies primarily in their level of formality and politeness as well as the likelihood of the action being performed.
“Can you help me?” is a more direct and straightforward request. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and is considered less formal. It implies that the speaker is seeking assistance and expects a response based on the listener’s ability to provide help.
“Could you help me?” is slightly more polite and formal compared to “Can you help me?” It is often used in situations where the speaker wants to make a polite request or seek assistance in a more courteous manner. While still a request, using “could” instead of “can” softens the tone of the question and may make the listener feel more comfortable or willing to help.
In terms of practicality, both expressions generally convey the same meaning and intent. However, “could” is often perceived as more polite and respectful, especially in formal or professional settings.