Introduction
- English is a polite language. For this reason, it is advisable to indirectly contradict a person. It is rude to do it directly.
- Although conversation is a two way street, interrupting a speaker is usually regarded as rude. However, at times you need to interrupt. When then can one interrupt?
- You can only interrupt to:
- Ask a question;
- Make a correction;
- Offer an opinion; and
- Ask for clarification.
- In this section, we shall learn how to interrupt and disagree politely.
Steps to Interrupting
- It is important to take note of the following steps when interrupting a speaker during a conversation or during a discussion:
- Signal to the speaker that you have something to contribute by implementing the body language such as:
- Making eye contact;
- Slightly raising your hand;
- Sitting forward on your seat;
- Quietly clearing your throat; or
- Coughing quietly.
- Wait patiently until the speaker pauses or incase of a lull in the conversation.
- Speak clearly using polite phrases. These phrases will be learnt later.
- Wait for the speaker to acknowledge your request to speak before you do so.
- After you have spoken, thank the speaker and allow them continue.
- Take a deep breath and calm yourself before interrupting when you feel angry or annoyed.
- Take care to use low tone of voice.
- Signal to the speaker that you have something to contribute by implementing the body language such as:
Avoid:
- Unnecessary interruptions.
- Finishing speaker’s sentences.
- Interrupting to correct the speaker unnecessarily.
- Speaking harshly or using disparaging comments.
Phrases Used in Interruption
Below is the list of phrases which you can use to politely interrupt someone:
- May I say something here?
- I am sorry to interrupt, but …
- Excuse me, may I add to that…?
- Do you mind if I jump in here?
- Before we move on to the next point, may I add …?
- Sorry, I didn’t catch that, is it possible to repeat the last point?
- I don’t mean to intrude ….
- Sorry to butt in, but …
- Would this be a good time to ….?
- I hate to interrupt, but …
- I know it is rude to interrupt, but …
How to Disagree Politely
The tips that follow will help you handle disagreements without annoying the other person in a discussion or discussion:
- Actively listen to the other person’s point of view. This helps in showing respect and understanding of the other person’s perspective.
- Stay calm even if you feel angry.
- Acknowledge the other person’s point of view before the buts.
- Disagree only with the person’s idea but not he person.
- Use polite phrases to respectfully disagree.
- Speak in a low tone.
- Give some credence to the other person’s point of view before challenging it. For example, say: It’s partly true that I bought this phone at a cheap price, but …
Disagreeing Politely Expressions
- I agree up to a point, but …
- I see your point, but …
- That’s partly true, but …
- I’m not so sure about that.
- That’s not entirely true
- I am sorry to disagree with you, but …
- I’m afraid I have to disagree
- I must take issue with you on that
- It’s unjustifiable to say that..
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