Using focused questions is a way to keep the conversation going, but still make sure that you understand. You can either
- echo something you didn’t understand with rising intonation ? (You work in gynecology ??)
- echo something you didn’t understand with a question word. (You work where?)
Talk about it
Do you do either of these in your language(s)?
Yes, it’s exactly the same!
Yes, but it’s a little bit different.
No, we do something else. We…
How easy/hard is it to interrupt and ask focused questions like this?
Here are some expressions you can use:
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Giving your opinion |
So I think… It seems to me… In my language/country/family… |
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Checking |
Do you mean….? Are you asking…? Are you talking about…? |
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Thinking time |
Hmmmmm… Let me think (about that). I’m not really sure… I haven’t really thought about that before. |
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Complimenting |
That’s a good question. Good point. |
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Choosing not to answer |
(change the subject) I could use a cup of coffee! Hmm, that’s a little personal. I’d rather not talk about that. |
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Involving other people |
What do you think? How about you? |