What supervisor says | What supervisor means | What trainee hears |
I hear what you say | I entirely disagree and do not want to discuss it further | He accepts my point of view |
With the greatest respect | You are a total idiot | He’s giving me respect |
That's not bad | That's good | That's poor |
That’s a very brave Advice | You are clearly insane | He thinks I have courage |
Quite good | Not very good | Quite good |
I might suggest... | Do what I say exactly, or be prepared to justify yourself | Consider my idea, but do what you think best |
Oh, incidentally/by the way... | The primary purpose of our discussion is... | This can’t be very important |
I was a little disappointed that ... | I am very annoyed that ... | It doesn't really matter that much |
That’s very interesting | That’s plainly bollocks | They are impressed |
I'll bear it in mind | I've forgotten it already | They will probably do it |
I'm sure it's my fault | It's entirely your fault | Why does he think it’s his fault? |
We must have lunch | We’re not having lunch, I'm just being polite | I’ll get a lunch invitation soon |
I almost agree | I don't agree one bit | He's not far from agreement |
I only have a few minor comments | Please redraft this completely | He has found a few typos |
Perhaps we could consider some other avenues? | Your suggestion is ridiculous | He has not yet decided |
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