Q. “Tea or coffee?” Why can’t I say, “Yes”? Answer: In an office or a home, if your host asks, “Would you like tea or coffee?†the person is actually asking you “which†you want, not “if†you want it. So do not say just “Yes.†It is proper to reply with your choice: “Tea […]
Q. How can one speak “politely” in English? Answer: Businesspeople may say to a client, “Good morning, Mr. Jones. How are you today?†The same businesspeople may say to a college classmate, “Hi, Jack. How’s it going?†The point here is that even Americans use a kind of keigo depending on the person they are […]
Q. When do I need to use English euphemisms? Answer: In polite company, Americans will not speak directly of certain subjects, but will use euphemistic expressions to communicate. One such subject is death and instead of saying, “He died last week,†it seems less harsh to say, “He passed away last week.†In addition to […]
