Lesson 25 – Problem solving

April 19, 2018

Summary

Communicating and responding to problems

The topic of this lesson is problem solving. I learnt how to:

  • discuss common problems and your responses to them
  • learn phrases to communicate and respond to problems
  • use phrases for apologising
  • practise word stress and linking to sound more natural.
[Raising about Problem]
  • May we have a word outside?
  • I need to talk to you about something. Well, some things. Not sure if you’re aware of this, but I’m not very happy with things.
  • I mean, I have a problem with your (habits.) /(you + not + doing sth.)
  • I mean, I don’t really mind (them coming), but …
  • Well, it kind of bothers me when …
  • You see, when …, obviously you’ll… Well … you don’t seem to remember to
  • For me, it’s a problem, you know.

 

 

[Responses to Problem – acknowledge the problem(s)]
  • Have I done something wrong?
  • What do you mean?
  • What is the problem? ( = What’s the problem? )
  • Such as …?
  • I don’t think we were …  I mean, we …
  • Okay, okay. I see your point. Anything else?
  • Alright.
  • Uh-uh.
  • I see where you’re coming from.

 

[Suggest solution to a problem]
  • I understand that, and all I’m asking is …. , you know.
  • Look, I don’t want to make a big deal out of it. I just think that I … I always… I try to… , because I respect you and I wouldn’t want to create an uncomfortable situation for you.
[ phrases for apologising]
  • Okay,  I regret + (not) + doing sth, sorry about that. I promised next time …
  • Don’t be angry … Sorry for + ( not ) + doing sth… Please accept my apologies.
  • It was very silly/selfish of me to … Please excuse my behavior.
  • It’my fault. I apologies for + (not) + doing sth.

 

TAG:  #Managing situations
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