polite british phrases

“No worries” sounds reassuring, and sometimes it is, but sometimes there are absolutely worries. Good luck figuring that one out.

I’m a Canadian living in the UK, and British politeness can still be confusing. These are 25 phrases that sound perfectly nice until someone says them in a particular tone, so the words alone won’t tell you everything. How someone says them, and how well you know that person, matter. Some of these I love, while others I would rather never hear directed at me.

1. I’ll bear it in mind

Suggest an idea someone hates and you might get this answer, which sounds as though they’ll consider it. In the version I’m talking about, no, they will not.

2. That’s interesting

An enthusiastic “Wow, that’s interesting!” is very different from a flat “That’s interesting.” The tone changes the entire response, and that second one kills me. Bury me.

3. We’ll see

When you suggest doing something and get “Yeah, we’ll see,” it can sound like a possibility while committing to absolutely nothing. They’re being polite, rather than making a plan.

4. I’ll let you know

Imagine suggesting dinner and asking for their schedule. “I’ll let you know” sounds promising, but my translation of this polite rejection is that you’re never going to hear back.

5. I’ll have a think

Imagine trying to choose somewhere for lunch and getting “I’ll have a think.” It’s similar, but now they’re apparently considering your suggestion, with no decision, no commitment, and possibly no lunch either.

6. Maybe another time

It sounds as though there’s another occasion waiting somewhere, but my less optimistic translation is that there will be no other time. They’re refusing without committing to anything further.

7. With all due respect

On the surface, they’re being respectful, but then comes the remark that devastates you. Those polite opening words can introduce something you really would rather not have heard.

8. I’m not being funny, but…

This is one of my favourites, even though it’s diabolical. It usually comes before someone complains, corrects you or says something mean. They’re upset about something, and you’re about to hear it.

9. Not to be rude, but…

Obviously, something rude may be coming. If it’s directed elsewhere, I love it because I’m about to get some gossip, but if it’s directed at me, I’d rather die.

10. It’s not ideal

Imagine someone wrecking their car, then describing the situation as “not ideal.” It can be a gross understatement, with words that sound smaller than the problem. Yeah, no kidding.

11. I’m a bit disappointed

As a reformed people pleaser, or someone trying to be one, this kills me. A “bit” disappointed can mean the person is raging. God help you if it’s aimed at you.

12. That’s brave

Imagine dyeing your hair a different colour and a co-worker saying this, an apparent compliment that I translate as “I would never have done that.” Ouch.

13. Right

You might look casual when you slap your knees and say “Right,” but the message is that you want to leave now. It works with one person or a whole group.

14. Anyway

Rather than explain why they don’t want to discuss a topic, someone can say “Anyway” and steer the conversation elsewhere. Very casual and very polite, but that topic is done. Moving on.

15. I won’t keep you

I love this and use it sometimes. On the phone or during a chat in the street, it sounds like you’re doing someone a favour, but really, you want to go.

16. Fair enough

It sounds as though you’re letting the other person win, when you might just be completely over the debate. “Fair enough” can mean you don’t want to discuss it anymore.

17. Just circling back

You may hear this at work, where the polite follow-up can mean “Why haven’t you done this yet?” Imagine an overdue project and the less indirect version, “Where is it, ya numpty?”

18. Can we have a quick chat?

In the trouble-at-work category, this makes me sweat, and I doubt it will be quick or even qualify as a chat. Just terrible.

19. For future reference

You’ve messed something up, and now comes what you should have done. It sounds like helpful guidance for next time while also telling you that you really screwed it.

20. No worries

This one can genuinely mean “Don’t worry about it,” but it can also mean the opposite. Tone and cadence matter, as does knowing the person you’re speaking with. Good luck.

21. If you wouldn’t mind

Imagine you’re blocking the way and someone says “If you wouldn’t mind” instead of “Hey, move.” The request sounds polite, but they may mind quite a lot. Get out of the way.

22. Bless

Another favourite, and both readings are possible. An unexpected present might earn a sincere “Oh, bless,” while a different tone can mean they think you’re a total idiot. Tricky.

23. Good for you

It could mean “I’m proud of you. I’m happy for you,” or someone is annoyed and wants you to stop talking. Tone is everything, and the second version is a stab to the heart.

24. Not my cup of tea

I love this polite way to dismiss something you don’t like, whether it’s a dessert, TV show, activity or even a person. None of it has to be tea.

25. Fine

For me, this is the nuclear phrase, whether it’s “That’s fine” or “I’m fine.” Said in that particular way, no. That is simply not true.

Some of these really can mean exactly what they say, while others let someone reject a plan or finish a conversation while sounding nice. What’s your favourite seemingly polite British phrase? Have I missed one?

Watch my video, 25 British phrases foreigners always misunderstand.