Politeness in english, gentility, How to be more polite in english;
Don’t Say
That’s a bad idea.
Say
I’m not so sure that’s a good idea.
Don’t Say
Can I smoke here?
Say
Would you mind if I smoked here?
Don’t Say
Come here.
Say
Could you come here?
Don’t Say
This report is awful.
Say
This report is not really up to standard.
Don’t Say
No.
Say
No thanks.
Don’t Say
Can I borrow your pencil?
Say
Could I borrow your pencil?
Don’t Say
Leave me alone.
Say
Sorry, I’m a bit busy right now.
Don’t Say
It’s hot, open the window.
Say
Do you mind if I open the window?
Don’t Say
Tell me when you’re available.
Say
Let me know when you’re available.
Don’t Say
I hate this colour.
Say
I am not too fond of this colour.
Don’t Say
Your work isn’t good.
Say
I’m not quite satisfied with this work.
Don’t Say
I want a hamburger.
Say
I’d like a hamburger
Don’t Say
Sit down, please.
Say
Take / have a seat, please
