Dr Ray
Business English

Meetings Etiquette
Section 8 Qualifiers

Section 8: Using Qualifiers

Qualifiers are words or phrases that soften the impact of a statement, making it less direct or harsh. They are particularly useful in maintaining a polite and respectful tone, especially when discussing potential problems or negative aspects. Here are some common qualifiers and examples of how to use them effectively.

Common Qualifiers

seem/s, seems like

Harsh: This project is difficult.

Polite: This project seems a bit challenging.

a slight

Harsh: There is a problem with this plan.

Polite: There is a slight problem with this plan.

a little

Harsh: The deadline is unrealistic.

Polite: The deadline is a little tight.

a bit

Harsh: Your explanation is unclear.

Polite: Your explanation is a bit unclear.

a little bit

Harsh: We need more time.

Polite: We need a little bit more time.

small

Harsh: There is an error in your calculations.

Polite: There is a small error in your calculations.

a few

Harsh: We need to make changes before we submit our report.

Polite: We need to make a few changes before we submit our report.

some

Harsh: I have doubts about that.

Polite: I have some doubts about that.

Select the sentence that best uses a qualifier to soften the impact.

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Correct answers will  highlight  in green

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