Lesson44
【Lesson 44】
◆English expressions to say something that is difficult to say
◆Key Expressions Part 1
I’m afraid ~
I hate to say this, but ~
I’m sorry to have to say this, but ~
◆Let’s try the following exercises.
Q: Your boss invited you to have dinner with him at a steak restaurant. The problem is that you are a vegetarian, but you don’t want to hurt his feelings. What would you say?
A: I’m afraid I don’t eat meat, but I know a great Italian restaurant.
Q: Your parents invite you and your husband Hank on a trip to Hawaii. You are thankful, but you know that your husband is terrified of flying and he never takes airplanes. What would you say?
A: I hate to say this, but Hank is afraid of flying.
Q: Your friend is arranging a party for your colleague Jackie. Your friend invites you to come, but you had a huge fight with Jackie last week and you don’t think it’s a good idea for you to attend. What would you say?
A: I’m sorry to have to say this, but Jackie and I don’t get along very well.
◆Key Expressions Part 2
No offense, but ~
I don’t mean to be rude, but ~
To be honest, I ~
◆Let’s try the following exercises.
Q: Your boyfriend asks you to go to a baseball game with him. You appreciate the thought, but don’t want to go because you think it’s boring. What would you say?
A: No offense, but I’m not a big baseball fan. Why don’t you ask one of your friends instead?
Q: Your friend asks you to come with him to a big Comic Book Convention. You would rather do something else, but he is thrilled about the event so you don’t want to hurt his feelings. What would you say?
A: I don’t mean to be rude, but I’m not that interested in comics. It would be better if you went with someone else.
Q: A bunch of your friends are going swimming in the afternoon. They say they would love for you to come with them. However, you think you have caught a cold and should rest at home. What would you say?
A: To be honest, I don’t feel so well. But I hope you have fun!