Anything = negative?
Hello everyone,
First, I want to say that I am not going to ask the same old "something/anything" question again. I am in two minds about the use of anything in some questions. Some expect negative answers, others expect positive answers, I've seen people take offense, etc. Would the questions below strike you as impolite?
- (Asking a friend): I know you are going through a rough patch. Is there anything I can do for you, Jack? - Of course, intonation will play its part.
- (Asking a guest): Would you like anything to drink? - I am expecting neither "yes" or "no". I see this question as fairly neutral.
I could easily use "something" instead, but I think it would be somewhat specific in the first sentence, implying that I might know what he wants/needs.
I've probably got it all wrong, so feel free to correct me. Thank you.
Top answer
Gene93 Would the questions below strike you as impolite? No, not at all. Gene93 Of course, intonation will play its part.
- Gene93 Would the questions below strike you as impolite?
- No, not at all.
- Gene93 Of course, intonation will play its part.
- " seem impolite, I suppose short of extreme shouting, snarling, sarcastic tone, etc.
- Gene93 - (Asking a guest): Would you like anything to drink?
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Gene93Would the questions below strike you as impolite?
No, not at all.
Gene93Of course, intonation will play its part.
It is hard to think of any intonation that would make "Is there anything I can do for you, Jack?" seem impolite, I suppose short of extreme shouting, snarling, sarcastic tone, etc.
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