Business English from All Ears English

BE 501: Do You Feel Kind of Confused About this Word?

6 snips
Dec 9, 2025
Discover how the phrases 'kind of' and 'kind of like' are used in Business English! The hosts break down their meanings, showing how 'kind of' softens statements and invites agreement. They'll also dive into how 'kind of like' helps draw comparisons. Tune in for practical role plays that illustrate these phrases in action at work, along with valuable pronunciation tips to enhance your speaking skills. This episode highlights the importance of these phrases in fostering effective communication in business settings!
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INSIGHT

'Kind Of' Signals Partial Commitment

  • "Kind of" usually means "sort of" or "a little," signaling uncertainty or a partial preference.
  • Speakers use it to soften statements or avoid full commitment in business and casual talk.
INSIGHT

Context Changes 'Kind Of' Meaning

  • Saying "kind of" as a short answer often implies reservation or mild disagreement rather than enthusiasm.
  • Tone and context change whether it means slight preference or hesitant refusal.
ANECDOTE

Snack Example Shows Social Language Cues

  • Lindsay shares a story about Glennon Doyle's observation of teens choosing snacks to show social language patterns.
  • The example illustrates how people often moderate direct statements based on group dynamics.
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