Politeness strategies
Completion requirements
Lend me 10 euros.
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- Hinting: “I’m a bit short on cash at the moment.”
- Being indirect: “Could you possibly lend me 10 euros?”
- Using a question form: “Would you happen to have 10 euros I could borrow?”
- Understating: “I just need a small favor, could you perhaps lend me 10 euros?”
- Apologising: “I’m sorry to ask, but could you lend me 10 euros?”
- Being pessimistic: "I don't suppose you would have 10 euros to lend me?"
That is an ugly bag.
This is such a boring lesson.
Help me with homework.
The book was terrible.
You were late again.
Last modified: Wednesday, 8 October 2025, 1:10 PM