You Know What I Mean?

People from English-speaking countries often require more verbal feddback than Koreans. Silence in response to a question can result in the person becoming annoyed or frustrated. Silence can mean that the person didn't understand the question, thinks the person is an idiot, is dreaming about his future spouse, or thinking about his answer.

Silence can mean many things and can be interpret differently. And in the modern day where people are expected to be conversant and well verse, we should know to avert being silent.

Here are some situations which often puts us in silence. Learn how to respond correctly.

In case you don’t know the answer
I don’t know.
I don’t know anything about that.
I haven’t thought about that.

If the question is too broad or too vague
I’m sorry, could you be more specific?
What do you mean exactly?
Is there anything in particular you want to know?

If you need time to think
Hmm. Let me see. . .
Let me think about that.
Well. . .
Good question.

If you don’t understand
Pardon me?
Could you please repeat that?
I didn’t hear what you said. Could you explain what you mean?
What does that mean?

If you feel your English is not good enough
I know what you’re talking about, but it’s difficult for me to explain in English.
But let me see. . .
Let me try again.

If the question is too personal
I’m sorry I’d rather not say.
That’s a little personal.
I’d rather not talk about it.
It’s none of your business.

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