Overview
This lecture covers how to make suggestions in English using polite and indirect phrases, as well as typical positive and negative ways to respond.
Making Suggestions
- Suggestions are not obligatory and use indirect, polite language.
- Common phrases: "I think you should...", "Would you be interested in...", "I thought perhaps you might like...", "I was thinking it would be a nice change if..."
- Other forms: "How about...", "What about...", "Let's...", "Do you fancy...", "Shall we...", "We might as well..."
- "Should" is followed by the base verb (e.g., should go), not ING or "to" infinitive.
- "Would you be interested in..." is followed by a verb + ING (e.g., going, watching).
- "How about/What about/Do you fancy" are followed by verb + ING.
- "Shall we" and "Let's" use the base verb.
- "We might/may as well" is used when there is little or no choice.
Positive Responses to Suggestions
- "That sounds like a great idea."
- "That's not a bad idea."
- "Brilliant!"
- "Count me in too."
- "You're probably right."
- "Sounds perfect."
- "That would be lovely."
- "It's a definite maybe from me."
Negative Responses to Suggestions
- "I don't think so."
- "I'm not sure that would be appropriate."
- "No, I'm not sure about that."
- "Well, I don't know."
- "To be honest, it's not my cup of tea."
- "No, not really."
- "I'm not keen on that idea."
- "No, I'd rather not."
- "I'm sorry, I really don't feel like it."
Key Terms & Definitions
- Suggestion — An idea or proposal that is not mandatory.
- Modal verb — Words like "should" and "would" used to express possibility or suggestion.
- Indirect language — Polite way to phrase requests or proposals, giving the listener a choice.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice making and responding to suggestions using the phrases provided.
- Review the difference between positive and negative responses.
- Try these expressions in conversation to build fluency.