Making Requests
FORMAL: "I would be grateful if you could assist me with this matter."
CASUAL: "Could you help me out with this?"

Use formal language in professional settings and casual language with friends.

Expressing Opinions
FORMAL: "In my professional opinion, this approach would be most effective."
CASUAL: "I think this way works better."

Formal opinions often include qualifiers and professional language.

Disagreeing Politely
FORMAL: "I respectfully disagree with that assessment."
CASUAL: "I don't really see it that way."

Softening disagreement helps maintain relationships while expressing your viewpoint.

Making Suggestions
FORMAL: "I would like to propose an alternative approach."
CASUAL: "How about we try it this way instead?"

Suggestions should be presented as options rather than commands.

Asking for Clarification
FORMAL: "Could you please elaborate on that point?"
CASUAL: "What do you mean by that?"

Don't hesitate to ask for clarification when something isn't clear.

Apologizing
FORMAL: "I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused."
CASUAL: "Sorry about that!"

Match the level of formality in your apology to the situation.

At a Café

  • "I'll have a cappuccino, please." Ordering a drink
  • "To go or for here?" Takeaway or dine-in
  • "Could I get that decaf?" Requesting decaffeinated
  • "I'm good, thanks." Politely declining

Shopping

  • "How much does this cost?" Asking about price
  • "Do you have this in a different size?" Size inquiry
  • "I'm just browsing." Looking around casually
  • "Can I return this if it doesn't fit?" Return policy question

Meeting People

  • "Nice to meet you!" First introduction
  • "What do you do for work?" Asking about job
  • "Where are you from originally?" Asking about hometown
  • "We should hang out sometime." Suggesting future plans

At a Restaurant

  • "Table for two, please." Requesting a table
  • "What would you recommend?" Asking for suggestions
  • "I'll have the salmon." Placing an order
  • "Could we get the check, please?" Requesting the bill

Dealing with Misunderstandings

Medium
Person A: "I thought you said the meeting was at 3 PM."
Person B: "I'm sorry for the confusion. I meant 3 PM tomorrow, not today."
Person A: "Ah, I see. So we're good for tomorrow then?"
Person B: "Yes, exactly. I'll send a calendar invite to confirm."

Key Tips:

  • Acknowledge the confusion without blame
  • Clarify the correct information clearly
  • Confirm understanding before ending the conversation
  • Take action to prevent future misunderstandings

Giving Constructive Feedback

Hard
Manager: "I wanted to talk about your presentation yesterday."
Employee: "Sure, how did it go from your perspective?"
Manager: "Your content was excellent, but I think you could work on your delivery speed. You seemed to rush through some key points."
Employee: "You're right, I was nervous and probably spoke too fast. Any suggestions for improvement?"

Key Tips:

  • Start with something positive (sandwich method)
  • Be specific about areas for improvement
  • Focus on behavior, not personality
  • Offer concrete suggestions for improvement

Declining Invitations Politely

Easy
Friend: "Hey, want to come to dinner with us Friday night?"
You: "That sounds really nice, but I already have plans that evening."
Friend: "No worries! Maybe next time?"
You: "Definitely! I'd love to join you another time."

Key Tips:

  • Thank them for thinking of you
  • Give a brief, honest reason
  • Express interest in future opportunities
  • Keep it short and sweet

Handling Interruptions

Medium
You: "So as I was saying about the budget—"
Colleague: "Oh, speaking of budget, did you see the email about—"
You: "I'd like to finish my point first, then I'm happy to discuss that."
Colleague: "Of course, please continue."

Key Tips:

  • Stay calm and professional
  • Politely redirect back to your point
  • Acknowledge their input but maintain control
  • Use phrases like "Let me finish this thought"
Awesome
Excellent, amazing, really good
"That movie was awesome!"
Bail
To leave quickly or cancel plans
"I'm going to bail on the party tonight."
Chill
Relax, calm down, or cool/relaxed
"Just chill, everything will be fine."
Dope
Really cool, excellent
"Your new car is dope!"
Ghosting
Suddenly stopping all communication
"He's been ghosting me for weeks."
Lit
Exciting, amazing, fun
"The concert was absolutely lit!"