Responding to Compliments: A Guide for ESL Learners
Accepting compliments gracefully is an essential social skill that can help build and maintain relationships, both personal and professional. For ESL learners, responding to compliments can sometimes be awkward due to cultural and linguistic differences. This lesson will guide you through various ways to accept compliments that not only show your appreciation but also reflect well on you as a thoughtful and considerate communicator. By the end of this lesson, you will be equipped with multiple phrases and the confidence to respond to compliments in a way that feels natural and sincere.
Useful Vocabulary for Responding to Compliments
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"Thank you, it makes my day to hear that."
- Meaning: Expresses that the compliment has positively affected your day.
- Example: "Thank you, it makes my day to hear that. I'm glad you liked the presentation."
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"I really put a lot of thought into this, thank you for noticing."
- Meaning: Acknowledges the effort you put into something and thanks the person for recognizing it.
- Example: "I really put a lot of thought into this report, thank you for noticing."
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"Thank you, I really appreciate your taking the time to express that."
- Meaning: Shows gratitude for the effort the other person made to give the compliment.
- Example: "Thank you, I really appreciate your taking the time to express that. It means a lot to me."
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"Thank you, I am happy to hear you feel that way!"
- Meaning: A positive response that expresses happiness about the compliment.
- Example: "Thank you, I am happy to hear you feel that way about my work!"
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"It is great to hear you feel that way! Actually, Amanda is the one behind this project. If you have a minute, it would make her day to hear how you feel."
- Meaning: Redirects some of the credit to another person who deserves recognition.
- Example: "It is great to hear you feel that way! Actually, Amanda is the one behind this project. If you have a minute, it would make her day to hear how you feel."
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"I would love to take credit, but John is the one responsible for this. I will share your feedback when I see him today."
- Meaning: Politely declines full credit and acknowledges another's contribution.
- Example: "I would love to take credit, but John is the one responsible for this. I will share your feedback when I see him today."
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"Thank you for noticing, it is really great to hear that. Everyone on our team has been working really hard on this over the last few weeks. I will share your feedback in our next meeting."
- Meaning: Expresses appreciation for the compliment and highlights team effort.
- Example: "Thank you for noticing, it is really great to hear that. Everyone on our team has been working really hard on this over the last few weeks. I will share your feedback in our next meeting."
Summary and Takeaways
Exercises Practice these phrases with a friend or in front of a mirror. Role-play different scenarios where you might receive a compliment, and try using different responses each time.
Summary This lesson provided practical phrases for responding to compliments in various contexts, helping you communicate your gratitude effectively.
Key Phrases Remember phrases like "Thank you, it makes my day to hear that" and "I really appreciate your taking the time to express that," which are versatile and sincere.
Tips for Retention Use these phrases regularly in your daily interactions to become more comfortable with them. Reflect on the responses you receive to refine your communication style.
Sharing and Further Learning Share this lesson with friends who might also benefit from learning how to accept compliments gracefully. For more helpful lessons, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/learningenglishfree.co.uk.