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How do you say please in old English?

There isn't a single perfect equivalent of "please" in Old English, as the concept of politeness was expressed differently. Instead of a single word, Old English relied on phrasing and word choice to convey politeness or a request.

Some options, depending on the context, might include:

* Using an imperative mood politely: This often involved the use of a softening word or phrase. For example, instead of a blunt command like *Geh þær!* ("Go there!"), you might use a more polite phrase, but there wouldn't be a direct equivalent of "please."

* Using a verb implying a request: Verbs like *biddan* (to ask, beseech, pray) or *gebiddan* (to pray, entreat) would be used in constructing a polite request. For example, "Ic bidde þe, geh þær" ("I ask you, go there"). The politeness comes from the verb itself, not a separate word for "please".

* Using a polite phrase: Phrases implying deference or humility could be used to soften a request, but again, no single word translates directly to "please."

Therefore, there's no single-word translation. The politeness had to be conveyed through the overall structure of the sentence and the verb choice.

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