AEE - Learning English, Are We? Use This Native Phrase!

Summary

In this lively discussion, Aubrey and Lindsay explore how native English speakers use 'we' instead of 'you' in conversational phrases like 'Busy, are we?' to add a playful or teasing tone. They break down different variations of this usage, highlighting how it can soften statements, add lightheartedness, or even imply something subtly. The hosts also emphasize how this language style helps build connections by removing direct accusations, and they encourage listeners to incorporate these phrases to engage in more fun and natural English conversations.

Takeaways

• 😀 The phrase 'are we' is often used in English to add a teasing or cheeky tone to a conversation.
• 🌞 'Are we' can imply shared experience, even when the speaker is really talking about the other person's actions.
• 🍃 The use of 'we' instead of 'you' can soften a statement or question, making it feel less accusatory.
• 😉 The intonation and context are crucial for understanding whether 'are we' is a question or a statement.
• 🌟 'Do we' is another verb construction used to make a statement about someone's behavior or preference.
• 🤔 'Can we' is used to highlight someone's inability or difficulty in performing a certain action.
• 🏆 The present perfect tense 'have we' is used to comment on someone's past actions or changes in behavior.
• 📚 Understanding these phrases is a high-level English skill that can help build connections.
• 🎭 Role plays are suggested as a way to practice using these phrases in a conversational context.
• 📈 Regularly using these phrases can improve one's English fluency and rapport with native speakers.

Q & A

What is the main topic of discussion in the transcript?

The main topic is the use of 'we' instead of 'you' in English when making statements, and how it adds a sense of cheekiness or teasing in conversations.

Why do the speakers say using 'we' instead of 'you' is cheeky or fun?

Using 'we' adds a playful, teasing tone to the conversation, softening the statement and making it less accusatory or direct, which can create more friendly and fun banter.

Can you provide an example of how 'we' is used instead of 'you' from the transcript?

An example is 'Spending a lot of time in the sun, are we?' instead of 'Are you spending a lot of time in the sun?' This adds a fun, playful element to the conversation.

In what contexts do the speakers say this structure might be used?

This structure can be used when teasing someone, making a lighthearted observation, or even when pointing out something negative but in a more friendly way, like 'Impatient, are we?'

Why do the speakers think using 'we' instead of 'you' makes the statement less accusatory?

By including 'we', the speaker softens the statement, taking away the directness and creating a shared, inclusive feel, which removes the sting of an accusation or critique.

What kind of tone do the speakers suggest is important when using this structure?

The speakers emphasize the importance of using the right intonation, which should convey playfulness or light teasing rather than genuine annoyance or criticism.

How does the use of 'we' affect statements when someone is being impatient or negative?

Using 'we' in phrases like 'Impatient, are we?' can call out someone's impatience or negativity in a way that diffuses tension, making the comment feel more friendly and less confrontational.

What is an example given of using 'we' in a situation involving children?

An example is 'We don't like broccoli, do we?' said by a parent to a child who is refusing to eat their vegetables. It’s playful and indirect, softening the refusal.

How do the speakers say the use of 'we' can imply hidden meanings or hints?

They explain that sometimes when 'we' is used, it can hint at something unspoken, like 'Busy, are we?' implying that the person might be seeing someone new or avoiding contact for a reason.

What advice do the speakers give about overusing this structure in conversations?

The speakers recommend not overusing 'we' in this way in one conversation, as it can feel strange or repetitive. It should be used sparingly to keep the tone playful and light.