①
The young woman at the airline check-in desk meant no harm. She greeted a customer with a question which would be no problem—in Chinese, "What's your problem?" But this question is impolite in English, and the customer became very angry. In this situation, the young woman should say, "May I help you?" or "How can I help you?" Then she would not be facing an unhappy traveler. increase tradition repeat product wide
②
Maybe you would like something. Instead of saying "Give me a hamburger", say, "Could I have a hamburger, please?" or "I'd like a hamburger." English speakers often use the expressions "Please" and "Thank you". When requesting something, use "Can I…" or "Could I..." In formal situations, "May I…" is the best.
③
When someone asks your opinion, you don't want to make them feel upset by saying something they think is unkind. Maybe someone asks, "What do you think of my idea?" Don't say, "It's a terrible idea." if you don't like it. Say, "I don't think it's the best idea." Then people will accept your opinion more easily.
④
When you can't accept an invitation, don't say, "I can't. I'm busy." Refuse in a more indirect way, "I'm afraid I can't…" or "I'd love to, but…" or "That sounds great, but…" These phrases soften the message and make it easier to accept.
| A. Offering an Opinion B. Giving a Hand C. Making Requests D. Saying Sorry E. Turning Down an Invitation |
