Functional Language

"Functional language" is language that we use to perform various "functions" such as giving advice or apologizing. Functional language typically uses fixed expressions for each function–for example "if I were you" or "my suggestion is" in giving advice, and "it was my fault" or "please forgive me" in apologizing.

These pages list common expressions for each function, graded by level.

• Giving Advice
  if I were you, my suggestion is...
• Making Requests
  can I, may I ask, I'd like to request...
• Apologizing
  it was my fault, please forgive me...
• Giving Bad News
  I'm sorry to say, I tried my best but...
• Agreeing
  you're right, I feel the same way...
• Disagreeing
  I don't really agree, but what about...
• Disagreeing Strongly
  absolutely not, rubbish! I can't accept it...
• Offering
  shall I, can I give you a hand...
• Asking for Opinions
  in your opinion, what's your view on...
• Giving Opinions
  I feel that, I could be wrong but...