How to speak in a charming way in natural British English
If you want mastery of natural British English, you can think beyond being able to speak accurately and fluently to being able to speak in a charming way. Think of famous icons like Princess Diana, or James Bond. With relatively few words but a lot of charm they left great marks in the world and in people’s hearts. You can do the same!
Officially, speaking in a ‘charming’ way means speaking in a friendly, pleasant way that makes people like you. You could think of it as ‘saying the right thing at the right time’; conversationally ‘hitting the nail on the head;’ or simply ‘coming across well’. Luckily for you, it can be easier to be charming than you may think. A carefully chosen phrase in the right situation can elevate your language from regular to charming in a matter of seconds.
Being invited to someone’s home
Host: Make yourself at home. = my home is your home (informal)
Guest: This is very cosy. You have a beautiful home! = homely, relaxing and beautiful (neutral)
Host: Can I get you a drink? How about a nice cuppa. = cup of black tea, usually served with cold milk inside. This is commonly offered when someone wants to have a friendly chat with you (informal)
Guest: That would be lovely. Milk, no sugar please. = Accepting the invitation to have a friendly chat over a cup of tea, with a dash of cold milk (neutral). Note – you can choose an alternative hot drink if you don’t like British tea.
Leaving someone’s home
Guest: Thank you for having me. = Thank you for inviting me to your home (neutral)
Host: Thank you for coming. We’ll have to do this again sometime! (neutral)
Saying hello to a new person
Guest: It’s lovely to meet you. I’ve heard so much about you! = our mutual friend has told me a lot about you. (neutral)
Host: All good, I hope! (informal, humorous)
Saying goodbye to a new person
Host: It’s been a pleasure. = I enjoyed meeting you
Guest: Oh, no, the pleasure is all mine. (semi-formal, slightly flirtatious)
During a meal with friends
Guest: Yummy! = this is delicious (informal)
Host: Tuck in! = start eating and enjoy the food (informal)
Guest: This looks amazing. Compliments to the chef! (neutral)
If someone gives you a gift
Oh! You shouldn’t have! = I modestly accept your gift. (neutral)
This is above and beyond = this is more than I expected, and I really appreciate it (neutral)
It’s beyond my wildest dreams. = it’s better than I ever hoped for (neutral)
If someone compliments you
Typically British people lean towards modesty and bashfulness when complimented, so use phrases like:
A: That really suits you!
B: Do you think so? Maybe I don’t scrub up too bad after all. = I’m moderately pleased with my appearance (informal)
A: I love your jumper!
B: Oh, this old thing! I’ve had it for ages. But thank you. = This isn’t a new jumper. I’m bashfully downplaying how good I look. (informal)
Do any of the phrases used in these scenarios ‘ring a bell’? Have you heard them before? Did you think they sounded charming? Which ones would you like to try? Let us know which you choose and let us know. We love to hear what you think about speaking natural British English here at PS English!
Take care,
Emma
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