How to pay a compliment 如何称赞别人

Tasks

Instructions

Do the preparation task first. Then watch the video and do the exercise. You can also read the transcript.

Preparation task Match the definitions (a–k) with the vocabulary (1–11).

Vocabulary 1. …… I appreciate that 2. …… pay (someone) a compliment 3. …… high street 4. …… modest 5. …… outfit 6. …… clinch 7. …… deal 8. …… you wear it well 9. …… I am flattered 10. …… notice 11. …… by the way

Definition

a. to say something (to someone) to express approval or admiration for things that someone does b. to win (informal) c. not willing to talk too much about one's achievements and abilities d. used to thank someone or to show that you are grateful e. where the most important businesses and shops in a town are located (British English) f. a set of clothes g. used to express that you are very pleased after receiving a compliment h. expression used to introduce a new subject or add information i. a business arrangement j. to see or become aware of something k. it suits you, it is right for you

Task 1

Write a number (1–6) to put the topics of conversation in the order you hear them.

…… The woman's professional skills …… What the man can smell …… A business agreement …… The woman's fashion sense …… The woman's clothes …… A visit to the hairdresser

Discussion

How easy do you find it to pay someone a compliment? How easy is it for you to accept a compliment?

Transcript

Man: Good morning! Woman: Morning! Man: By the way, I just wanted to say well done on clinching that deal! Woman: Oh, thanks. It wasn’t too difficult. Man: You’re being modest! You did really well. Woman: Thank you. Man: You’re a great manager, you know. Woman: Do you think so? Man: Oh yeah. Woman: I appreciate that. (pause) Man: Have you cut your hair? Woman: Oh yes, I did actually. Thanks for noticing! Man: Where did you get it done? Woman: Oh, just that place on the high street. Man: They did a great job and it looks great with the outfit. Woman: Do you think so? Man: Oh yeah. Very … fashionable. Woman: Oh, it’s just an old thing. Man: Well, you’ve got a great sense of style. Woman: Thank you, you too. Man: Thank you. (pause) Man: Nice perfume, too. Is that Dream? Woman: Well, yes, it is actually. Man: You wear it well. Woman: I’m flattered. Man: My pleasure. Woman: Listen, do you want something? Man: No. I’m just being polite, you know. Woman: Hmmm.

Answers

Preparation 1. d 2. a 3. e 4. c 5. f 6. b 7. i 8. k 9. g 10. j 11. h

Task 1 1. A business agreement 2. The woman's professional skills 3. A visit to the hairdresser 4. The woman's clothes 5. The woman's fashion sense 6. What the man can smell

来源：英国使馆文化教育处