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Professor Mike Davis' practical English column
English to show you care
Life is full of special occasions where the perfect words can make a world of a difference. Some situations are delicate where we search for words that can provide comfort and condolence. Others are celebrations where we want to express our congratulations to someone special. We’ve compiled some useful expressions to use in life's special and serious situations.
Weddings
If two friends decide to tie the knot and get married, it is a joyous occasion indeed! Be sure to say "Congratulations!" to the bride and groom. Whether you’re at the wedding or writing a card, you can add, "I wish you the best of happiness in the years to come."
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Birthdays
Usually on this occasion a mere "Happy Birthday!" will suffice. It is also common to ask the birthday boy or girl if they have any special celebration plans: "Are you doing anything special to celebrate?" Remember that in Western cultures, you usually take your friend out on their birthday for dinner or fun – not the other way around. Also, avoid asking about age, as some people might consider it rude.
Birth of a child
If a new bundle of joy has come into this world, tell the proud parents, "Congratulations!" If you don't already know the sex of the baby, follow up by asking, "Is it a boy or a girl?" If you're shown a photo, be sure to say, "She's adorable!", "He's so cute!" or "She takes after her mother!"
Illness
If you're feeling sick, it's always nice to hear a sincere, "How are you feeling?" Phrases such as "Take care of yourself", "Get well soon!" or "I hope you feel better soon!" are also appropriate for minor illnesses. If the situation is more serious, you may want to say, "My thoughts and prayers are with you."
Bereavement
If someone you know has experienced the loss of a loved one, they are certain to be experiencing a lot of heartache. In this delicate situation, telling them, "I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one (father/mother/brother, etc.)" is appropriate. You can add, "If there is anything I can do for you, let me know."
More practical English tips from Mike!
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Ask Mike Mike answers all of your practical English worries!
Q:Dear Mike,
What does it mean when Paris Hilton says, "That's hot" all the time? Julio, San Paolo, Brazil A:Dear Julio, "That's hot!" is basically another way of saying "that's cool", "that's great!" or "that's awesome!" In other words, it's Paris's way of expressing her approval for something. Here is an example of how you can use the expression. Say your friend says, "Julio, I heard that Paris Hilton is going to be on TV tonight!" If you think that this is a good thing, you can then say, "that's hot!" Best, Mike
Q:Dear Mike,
I always wonder why American ladies say they have to go to "bathroom" or "washroom" rather than the toilet. Isn't it all the same thing? Calon, Shanghai, China A:Dear Calon, You're right! They are all the same thing. The answer is that Americans in general, have a more conservative or prudish attitude when it comes to bathroom or toilet affairs. "Bathroom" and "washroom" are essentially euphemisms. A euphemism is an expression intended by the speaker to be less offensive, disturbing, or troubling to the listener than the word or phrase it replaces. In other words: Americans don't want people to picture them in the toilet! Best, Mike
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