In an Australian invitation, “Could you bring a plate?” does not mean that the host needs an empty plate. It means bringing a dish of food for everyone to share. The expression is common at barbecues, school functions and community gatherings. Its tone is casual and friendly, not inhospitable.
The point is to contribute food, not to use a particular type of serving plate. A salad, dessert or snack is perfectly suitable, and the food can arrive in a takeaway container. “Please bring a plate to share” has the same meaning. If you are unsure about the quantity or any dietary requirements, asking the host is the most natural approach.
You can ask, “What would you like me to bring?”, or simply reply:
A: Could you bring a plate?
B: Sure. I’ll bring a salad.
When inviting people from different cultural backgrounds, “Could you bring a dish to share?” is clearer. Saying only “I’ll bring a plate” may still sound as though you intend to arrive with nothing but an empty piece of crockery.
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