Correcting Someone?

Question

I have a friend that is constantly mispronuncing words. How can I tactfully correct her without upsetting her? or should I just keep quiet?

Answer 1

Try using the word in a sentence in the continuing conversation. You could also say something like I think I misunterstood you did you mean to say then put in the word in question.

Answer 2

Let her do her thing. Hopefully your proper pronunciation of those same words at a later date will sink in, but don't hold your breath. I have known someone for ages that butchers so many words I have a nervous twitch after spending time with her or speaking with her on the phone.

Answer 3

I do the same thing, I hate it when people use the English language incorrectly. But when ever I try to correct my friends, they get very upset with me. So my advice for you is to realize that no is perfect and that YOU wouldn't other people correcting you over silly mispronounciations.

Answer 4

Unless your friend is rehearsing for some public speaking engagement, as long as she is understandable, don't correct her pronunciation. It is akin to correcting grammar or pointing out an flaw in table manners.

Answer 5

if you are good friends you should say something. she may get her feelings hurt temporarily but that's a risk we have to take as friends. she could wind up looking like an idiot in a business type situation. if you don't know her that well, then leave it alone. it won't be considered constructive criticism if you're not close.

Answer 6

Tough one. I would say it all depends on the situation. If you are in front of other people....no. If it's just the two of you...just do it gently...like oh do you mean " " and say it correctly. You don't want to become her English teacher, but who else is going to help her?

Answer 7

I would simply keep quiet about it. Even if you do correct her, chances are, she'll keep doing it.

Answer 8

I'm strict on grammar, so if it were me, I would appreciate the correction.