This article about what Brits say vs what they actually mean was updated by the Great British Mag team on 3 September, 2019
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 |
