Unit 2.8: Interrupting
In a conversation, sometimes we would like to interrupt the
other person to add our own view, to tell our own story or experience,
or to voice our disagreement. We can interrupt without being rude
by using some useful phrases, such as the following.
-
May I say something here?
-
Could I just say something?
-
May I add something here?
-
I want to add one thing...
-
I have a similar experience...
-
Let me tell you a similar story of mine.
-
Sorry, could I interrupt for a moment?
(formal)
-
I wonder if I could comment on what you have just said please?
(formal)
-
Now wait a minute here. I don't agree with you.
-
Excuse me for interrupting, but I don't agree with you on this
point.
-
Hold on a second. I disagree. I think you are wrong.
(informal)
Examples:
Dialog 1: (during a meeting)
-
Chairperson: Let's move on to the next item on the
Agenda, and...
-
Staff A:
Sorry, could I interrupt for a moment?
-
Chairperson: Sure, go ahead.
Dialog 2: (between a husband and a wife)
-
Wife: You
don't care about me and our daughter anymore. All
you care about is work and playing golf and ...
-
Husband: Now wait a minute here. I
don't agree with you. I spent the whole evening
yesterday with you and our daughter!
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