About thirty years ago, the "How" was dropped from the question. I think it says something about us, as Americans. What are your thoughts?
2007-12-23 07:29:54 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Social Science ➔ Sociology
whomever and wherever you are, Happy Holidays!
2007-12-23 07:46:09 · update #1
i guess there is a big difference, like you say, the one one chooses to use says much about one. "can i help you?" shows indifference, whether or not i help it dont mean that much to me. "how can i help you?" am willing to help you, and am ready to help, just say the word
season greetings, best reg\ards
2007-12-23 07:41:54 · answer #1 · answered by Dar' Lene Princess 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Ive even been in situations where I said " let me help you" to " Hey some help is needed here" to situations where talking about it and asking took too much time as the subject had to have the help immediatly no questions asked. But usually if I am not asked for the help I dont give it.
2007-12-23 18:00:51 · answer #2 · answered by JORGE N 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes...there IS a big difference:
"Can I help you" begs for a yes or no answer.
"How can I help you" begs for a very specific response...this question asks the person what it is they want from me...gives them the responsibility to determine what it is they want? In relationships, this ? is a lot more honest and gives the person asked the responsibility to say either "yes" I CAN help you or "no" I cannot. It also creates an opportunity for compromise..as in..."well, yes, I CAN show where the luggage is AND I can tell you about each one but you will have to decide which one you want for yourself."
2007-12-23 15:44:07 · answer #3 · answered by Barbara A 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There sure is a big difference. Someone asks "can I" my usual thought is ...I don't know....can you? How or May I help you sound so much nicer. You're right again Beatle...manners & being polite don't hardly exist these days. Too many people are very rude anymore. =o{
2007-12-23 23:59:07 · answer #4 · answered by PJ ~88~ FAN 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Can - means are you able.having the ability to .
How -as in what is it you want me to do .
Happy Holidays to you too.
2007-12-23 16:31:24 · answer #5 · answered by BQ 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on the person who is asking either question and the location.
2007-12-23 16:53:36 · answer #6 · answered by journey 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Really none, but if you want to nit pic it.
The How can I version , insinuates the person does need help. Can I leaves it open ended.
2007-12-24 22:41:00 · answer #7 · answered by john k 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
There is a difference. Adding 'How' sounds like you would really like to help.
2007-12-23 17:21:16 · answer #8 · answered by ? 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
'Can I help you', is really asking if you are 'able' to help someone.
'How can I help you', assumes the ability to help, but asks in what way you can be helped.
2007-12-23 16:08:04 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Can I help you? is less inviting than How can I help you?
2007-12-23 18:12:50 · answer #10 · answered by Lily 2 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋