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Observatory For Lifelong Learning

English in use

What English natives say What is understood What the English natives mean
I hear what you say He accepts my point of view I disagree an do not wish to discuss it any further
With the greatest respect He is listening to me I think you are wrong
Not bad Poor or mediocre Good or very good
Quite good Quite good A bit disappointing
Perhaps you would like to think about/
I would suggest/
It would be nice if		 Think about the idea but do what you like This is an order. Do it or be prepared to justify yourself.
Where appropriate locally/
Local flexibility		 Do it if you can Do whatever you like
Oh, by the way/
Incidentally 		This is not very important This is the primary purpose of our discussion
It was a bit disappointing that/
It is a pity you		 It doesn't really matter I am most upset and cross
Very interesting They are impressed I don't agree/
I don't belive you
Could we consider some other options They have not yet decided I don't like your idea
I'll bear it in mind They will probably do it I will do nothing about it
Please think about that some more Good idea, keep developing it It is a bad idea. Don't do it
I'm sure it is my fault It was their fault It is your fault!
That is an original point of view They like my ideas You must be crazy
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