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What does “choose your words carefully” mean?
Meaning, example sentence and a quick practice question.
C1
To think deliberately about how to phrase something sensitive
“This is a delicate topic, so choose your words carefully.”
From the C1 lesson Reading Between the Lines (honest communication).
Quick check
What does “choose your words carefully” mean?
Teaching this phrase?“choose your words carefully” is part of a ready-to-teach lesson, with a reading, three exercises, speaking tasks and an answer key, in Everyday English Chunks C1 Pack 4 (Communication, Decisions and Habits).
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Related phrases
- read between the linesto understand a hidden or implied meaning, not just the literal words
- beat around the bushto avoid saying something directly, out of hesitation
- pull no punchesto speak very directly and honestly, even if it's uncomfortable
- sugar-coat somethingto make bad news sound better or gentler than it is
- get your point acrossto successfully communicate what you mean
- a diplomatic answera careful, tactful response that avoids offense or commitment
- in no uncertain termsvery clearly and directly, leaving no room for doubt
- break the iceto ease initial awkwardness, usually at the start of a meeting or gathering
- drive the point hometo emphasize something strongly so it's clearly understood