#331: Handle Awkward Situations in English | Express Dislike Politely

Jan 15, 2025 | Communication Skills, Polite English

I really don’t want to…” When was the last time you needed to say this in English but couldn’t find the right words?

Your colleague suggests a project approach you know won’t work. Your friend recommends a restaurant you didn’t enjoy. Your neighbor invites you to a 6 AM running group that sounds absolutely exhausting. These moments happen every day, but expressing dislike or disagreement in English can feel impossible.

Being direct while staying polite isn’t just about knowing the right phrases – it’s about having the confidence to express yourself authentically in English.

This Lesson Will Help You:

  • Express disagreement confidently in both casual and professional settings
  • Navigate uncomfortable situations gracefully in English
  • Give constructive feedback without damaging relationships
  • Say “no” politely while staying true to yourself
  • Understand the cultural nuances of expressing dislike in English
  • Build confidence in sharing your honest opinions

Lessons Mentioned in this Video:

WATCH THE LESSON

Ready to Practice These Skills?

The phrases and strategies in today’s lesson are exactly what you need to express yourself more authentically in English.

But like any new skill, they require practice in a supportive environment. That’s why I invite you to join us in the Confident Women Community, where you can:

  • Practice these phrases in real conversations
  • Get gentle feedback that helps you grow
  • Connect with other women who share your goals
  • Access focused lessons on authentic communication

👉 Click here to learn more about the Confident Women Community. This is your opportunity to transform hesitation into confidence when expressing yourself in English.

Handle Awkward Situations in English | Express Dislike Politely

Personal Situations

Let’s start with casual, everyday situations. These are moments where you can use relaxed, conversational language to express your feelings.

Common Casual Phrases:

  • Neutral: 
    • I’m not into…
    • It’s not my thing.
  • Casual: 
      • Nah, I’ll pass.
      • Not my jam.
      • It’s not up my alley.
      • It’s not my cup of tea.
    • Softened Rejections: 
      • I’m good
      • That’s not really my thing
      • I’m not feeling up for it.
    • Stronger Disapproval: 
      • It rubs me the wrong way.
      • I’m not sold on…
      • I’m not crazy about…
      • I’m not a fan of…

    Scenario #1: Politely expressing disinterest
    Your friend suggests going to a heavy metal concert, but you’re more of a jazz person.

    You could say:

    • Sounds cool, but it’s not really my cup of tea.
    • Nah, I’m not really into that.
      • Thanks, but heavy metal’s not my thing.

      Scenario #2: Sharing dissatisfaction
      Imagine you’re at a trendy café your family member recommended, but it doesn’t live up to the hype.

      You could say:

      • It’s not my jam. The coffee and dessert aren’t quite what I expected.
      • I’m not a fan of the coffee or dessert; I’ve had better.
      • It’s okay, but it’s not quite what I expected.

      Scenario #3: Showing mild disapproval
      Maybe a friend suggests an activity you’re not enthusiastic about, like a weekend road trip.

      You could say:

      • I’m not too crazy about that idea, but let’s see how others feel.
      • I’m just not feeling up for a long drive this weekend.
      • I’d prefer something more relaxing, but thanks for suggesting it.

      Professional Situations

      In professional settings, expressing dislike or disapproval requires more tact and diplomacy. You’ll need to frame your opinions respectfully while maintaining clarity.

      Common Professional Phrases:

      • Neutral:
        • I’m not sure if…
        • Maybe we could consider…
        • I’m open to other suggestions.
        • I’ll need to give it some more thought.
      • Diplomatic Disapproval: 
        • It’s not quite what I had in mind.
        • This doesn’t align with our goals.
      • Constructive Criticism: 
        • I appreciate the effort, but…
        • Let’s explore other options.
      • Soft Disapproval: 
        • I’m not entirely convinced…
        • I’m not fond of that approach.
        • There could be a better way to approach this.

      Scenario #4: Offering constructive criticism.
      A coworker shares a marketing proposal that doesn’t meet client needs.

      You could say:

      • I appreciate the effort, but it’s not quite what I had in mind. The strategy doesn’t align with our client’s goals.
      • It’s a good starting point, but I think we need to adjust it to better fit the client’s expectations.

      Scenario #5: Politely disapproving of an outdated idea.
      A team member suggests reintroducing a service that no longer fits the market.

      You could say:

      • I’m not sure if this approach will work for our current market since so much has changed in the last six months.
      • That’s an interesting suggestion, but it might not resonate with today’s audience. Let’s explore other ideas.

      Scenario #6: Expressing practical concerns.
      Your manager assigns you additional responsibilities, but you’re already stretched thin.

      You could say:

      • I appreciate the feedback. I’m not certain about the feasibility of the new task list. Could we evaluate which tasks require my expertise?
      • Thank you for the opportunity, but I’m concerned about balancing these new responsibilities with my current workload.

      Cultural Tips 

      1. Tone Matters:
        When expressing dislike or disapproval, use a calm and positive tone to avoid sounding harsh or dismissive. For example:
        • It’s not quite what I had in mind, but I see potential in this idea.
      2. Body Language:
        Pair your words with friendly body language, like a smile or open posture, especially in casual settings. For instance:
        • While saying, “That’s not really my thing,” maintain relaxed eye contact and a small smile.
      3. Assertiveness:
        Avoid over-apologizing when disapproving of something, as this can weaken your position. For example:
        • Instead of: “I’m so sorry, but I just don’t like it,” say: “I’d prefer a different option. Let’s explore that.”

      Bonus Practice

      Now it’s your turn! Practice responding to these scenarios using phrases from today’s lesson:

      1. A friend invites you to a concert but you do not like the music — at all!
      2. Your team proposes a risky marketing strategy.
      3. Someone suggests a restaurant you don’t like.
      4. Your manager suggests a last-minute task that interferes with your existing deadlines.

      As always, you can share with me in the comments below.

      All my best,

      ~ Annemarie

       

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