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Language, when you need it
Search concise C2 rules, vocabulary and speaking phrases without leaving the course to hunt through past lessons.
What it is
Politeness protects two needs at once: people's wish to be liked (positive face) and their wish not to be imposed on (negative face). Choosing the right strategy shows you respect both.
Form
| Form | Pattern | Model sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Positive-face strategy | compliment/include + then ask | You're always so quick with this stuff, could you take a look? |
| Negative-face strategy | minimise imposition + offer an out | Only if it's no trouble, could you send that file over? |
| Bald on-record (no cushioning) | direct statement | Send me the file. |
| Off-record hint | imply the request without stating it | It's getting a bit cold in here. |
Use it when
- You're asking a favour and want to protect the relationship.
- You need to give a direct instruction without appearing rude.
- You're managing someone's autonomy or freedom to say no.
- You want to hint at a need without making an explicit request.
Examples
- I know you're swamped, but could you spare five minutes?
- No worries at all if you can't, but would you mind covering my shift?
- Feel free to say no, I just thought I'd ask.
- You clearly know this area better than me, any advice?
- It would really help the team if this went out today.
Watch out
✗ Just do it now.
✓ When you get a chance, could you do this?
Bald commands ignore the listener's negative face and can sound rude.
✗ Assuming a compliment alone removes the need to soften a request.
✓ Combine the compliment with an easy way to decline.
Positive-face strategies work best paired with respect for the person's autonomy.
✗ Using off-record hints with someone who needs directness.
✓ Match the strategy to the listener's expectations and the urgency.
Over-indirectness can confuse or delay urgent requests.
Remember
Every request either builds someone up or respects their space — good politeness does both.
Quick check
- 1. What is positive face?
Reveal
A person's wish to be liked, approved of and included.
- 2. What is negative face?
Reveal
A person's wish not to be imposed on or controlled.
- 3. What's a bald on-record strategy?
Reveal
A direct statement or command with no softening at all.