Politeness and directness
This task is about using verbs and modal verbs in different ways. We all know that people can be direct or indirect in the ways they phrase things. We often use commands to give instructions, but sometimes these might be seen as too direct and blunt. We sometimes soften them with modal verbs, among other tools.
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Politeness and directness: Activity
Try to make the following expressions less direct. Compose alternative sentences for each one.
- Shut the window.
- Tell me your name.
- Stop talking.
What changes did you make to render the expressions less direct?
Now, make the following expressions more direct. Compose an alternative sentence for each example.