The Personal English Company

Sample Material from Say It Politely!

Return to Descriptions

1. Requesting

More Polite

• I wonder if I might use your pen.
• I wonder if you would lend me your pen.
• Can you bring me the file?

Less Polite

• Give me that/your pen.
• I want you to give me your pen.
• You must bring me that file.

---

2. Refusing

More Polite

• I'm sorry I can't attend the meeting because I'll be at the dentist.
• I would attend the meeting, but I have a dental appointment.

Less Polite

• No, I won't/can't attend the meeting.

---

3. Accepting an Apology

More Polite

• No problem.
• That's OK.
• I understand.
• Don't worry about it.

Less Polite

• Don't let it happen again.
• Don't ever do that again.
• If you do that again, I'll never forgive you.

Copyright 1996, The Personal English Company

Return to main catalog
Company Bio and Ordering Information