Sound More Polite in English
Learn to communicate well and connect in conversations in English with these articles and video lessons
Today I have a special request for you: Please stop calling me ma’am! You’re probably asking yourself, “But Kim, I’m trying to be more polite when speaking English. Why can’t I call you ma’am?” When I started researching this topic, I noticed that there is a lot of outdated information … Read the article and watch the video lesson
Have you heard anyone start a request with “I was wondering…” or “I was hoping…” and wanted to know why they used a past form of the verb? Or have you felt a little uncomfortable when inviting someone to do something because you’re concerned they may already have plans or be busy? Maybe … Read the article and watch the video lesson
Have you found yourself in a situation where your friend asked for your opinion on their clothes, cooking, or writing, and you wanted to be honest about what you really think? Have you felt that it’s hard to be honest when giving this kind of negative feedback without sounding a … Read the article and watch the video lesson
Have you ever wanted to give a friend or colleague honest feedback that happened to be negative? Or have you struggled to share a negative opinion because you were afraid of offending the other person? Then you need to learn how to sound more polite while still sharing your honest opinion. … Read the article and watch the video lesson
Have you ever been told that your language is too direct, your tone is too aggressive, or that you sound argumentative in English? When you want to sound more polite in English, there are several strategies you can use to soften your language while still making your meaning clear. … Read the article and watch the video lesson
In this lesson, you’ll how to use verbs of suggestion and adjectives of importance with the subjunctive in that-clauses. These verbs and expressions are used to give strong or urgent recommendations, often in the workplace or at school or university. These recommendations often come from a person of authority, such … Read the article and watch the video lesson

Want better conversations?
Get the free small talk guide
This PDF guide includes 17 interesting, neutral conversation topics that work with just about anyone in any situation.