What the British Really Mean
It is well known that the British do not always say what they really mean. So, with the growing international nature of business, the definitions below may help people from other nations understand their British counterparts better.
What Brits Say = What Brits Mean
I hear what you say = I disagree and do not wish to discuss it any further
With the greatest respect = I think you are a fool
Not bad = Good or very good
Quite good = A bit disappointing
Perhaps you would like to think about = This is an order. Do it or be prepared to justify yourself
Oh, by the way/Incidentally = This is the primary purpose of our discussion
Very interesting = I don't agree/I don't believe you
Could we consider the options = I don't like your idea
I'll bear it in mind = I will do nothing about it
Perhaps you could give that some more thought = It is a bad idea. Don't do it
I'm sure it is my fault = It is your fault
That is an original point of view/brave option to consider = You must be crazy
You must come for dinner sometime = Not an invitation, just being polite
Not entirely helpful = Completely useless
What Brits Say = What Brits Mean
I hear what you say = I disagree and do not wish to discuss it any further
With the greatest respect = I think you are a fool
Not bad = Good or very good
Quite good = A bit disappointing
Perhaps you would like to think about = This is an order. Do it or be prepared to justify yourself
Oh, by the way/Incidentally = This is the primary purpose of our discussion
Very interesting = I don't agree/I don't believe you
Could we consider the options = I don't like your idea
I'll bear it in mind = I will do nothing about it
Perhaps you could give that some more thought = It is a bad idea. Don't do it
I'm sure it is my fault = It is your fault
That is an original point of view/brave option to consider = You must be crazy
You must come for dinner sometime = Not an invitation, just being polite
Not entirely helpful = Completely useless
telha - 8. Dez, 11:17
