Today is the first in a two-part series on using vague language. “Vague” means not clearly defined. For example, if you ask someone what time it is and they say “About 7 or so,” they are being vague. There are lots of reasons to be vague. Sometimes you need to be vague because you don’t know some information or because the information is not important. And sometimes vague language is just more polite.

In these two episodes, we’ll be looking at how to speak in a vague way, but different situations require different styles. You’ll have to use your knowledge of the culture, the people and the situation that you are dealing with to decide which style is most appropriate. Our goal is to give you the communication tools you need to succeed in different environments. In future episodes, we’ll also be looking at other styles of speaking.

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Study Notes	Phrases & Practice	BEP 51 & 52: Vague Language – Quiz BEP 51 & 52: Vague Language – Gap-fill

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

1) What do you think Jen means by “ulterior motive”?

2) Is Mike a computer expert?

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This is the second in a two-part series on softening negative replies. Last time you worked on softening negative replies in conversation to keep the atmosphere friendly and cooperative.

In this Business English Pod lesson, we’ll be looking at refusing requests and disagreeing politely.

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Study Notes	Phrases & Practice	BEP 50: Softening Negative Replies 2 – Quiz BEP 50 – Softening Negative Replies 2 – Gap-fill

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

1) Why is the GM of Avitek unable to meet with Nick on Thursday?

2) How is the weather in Kiev?

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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?