Do you know how to use “If you will…” in English to sound smart and articulate?
Today we’ll show you exactly how to do it with examples and a role play.
Here is a question from our listener:
Hi! Thank you very much for this amazing podcast. All ears english has been such a great discovery. I would like you to explain us the definition or when to use the phrase: “if you will”. I have heard the phrase quite a few times in different scenarios. Could this mean: i am saying something in a way even though i know that someone could say it in a different way? Thank you!!
-Pancho, Chile
Good question!
It basically means that you are asking for the person to accept your use of a term, a word, an image, etc.
You are saying, “if you will allow me to use this term…”
According to grammarist.com writers use it to apologize for using a bad metaphor, corny usage of a term or maybe for throwing in a cliche.
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Don’t overuse it!
It makes you sound sophisticated or intelligent but don’t overuse it or you will sound obnoxious.
Other ways to say it:
- “as the saying goes…”
- “so to speak…”
- “as they say…
Listen to the episode to get more information and examples on how to use this phrase.
Leave us your comments below. Have you ever heard someone use this term?
