This article about what Brits say vs what they actually mean was updated by the Great British Mag team on 27 January 2021.
Brits take etiquette seriously. They often don’t say what they are thinking because they don’t want to be rude. Instead, they say something which sounds a bit more positive. But don’t be fooled! These common phrases mean the opposite of what you think they mean.
| What Brits say | What you think they mean | What they actually mean |
| I hear what you say | They accept my point of view | I totally disagree and do not want to discuss this further |
| With the greatest respect | They’re listening to me | This is stupid |
| I almost agree | They’re not far from agreement | I do not agree at all |
| That’s not bad | That’s poor | That’s good |
| Quite good | Very good | Not very good |
| Very interesting | Wow, they’re impressed with what I’m saying | Boy, this person is boring and talking nonsense |
| Incidentally/by the way | That’s not important | That’s the main point |
| I’m sure it’s my fault | They think it’s their fault | This is your fault |
| I only have a few minor comments | There’s no major issue | Please redo the whole thing |
| You must come to dinner | They want me to come | This is not an invitation; I’m just being polite |
| Sorry | They’re sorry, but for what? | I simply want to ask a question |
| I might join you later | They might be coming later | There’s no chance that I’m coming out |
| I’ll bear it in mind | They’ll consider my suggestion | There’s no way I’m doing that |
| How are you? | They want to know how I’m doing | Please don’t tell me your life story |
