BEP 49 (Transcript & Exercises) – Softening Negative Replies 1

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This is the first in a two-part series on softening negative replies – saying “no” politely.

“No” is one of the strongest words in any language. Because it carries so much force, “no” is hard to say politely. Yet giving a negative reply, disagreeing or refusing a request are all things we have to do on a daily basis. So it’s important to learn how to say “no” in a way that enables you to maintain good relationships. In many cases this requires you to take a softer and more indirect approach. So today we’ll work on ways to soften negative replies in a variety of everyday situations.

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Study Notes

Phrases & Practice
BEP 49: Softening Negative Replies 1 – Quiz

BEP 49: Softening Negative Replies 1 – Gap-fill


Listening Quiz: (Click a question to see the answer)

1) Has Nick been to the Ukraine before?

2) What day of the week is it?