Do you know the right words to sound polite at work?
Tune in today as Lindsay and Aubrey talk about an expression you can use to discuss things politely with your colleagues.
These phrases work even when you don’t fully agree.
Speaking politely at work
To start the episode, Lindsay and Aubrey share a roleplay.
Aubrey: Lindsay, I may need to cut our recording session short today. I’m having WiFi issues.
Lindsay: Fair enough. We can reschedule for another day.
In today’s episode, Lindsay and Aubrey are answering the second half of a listener question.
Here is the question:
Hi! I love your podcast and really appreciate all your hard work!
I have questions about two different things:
The first one is about the phrase “my mistake.” I feel like I’ve heard it used both sarcastically and literally, and I’d love to hear your thoughts on that.
The second one is “fair enough.” It’s really interesting to me because every time I hear it, I don’t expect it, and I wonder why people use it in that way.
Thanks again,
Rama from Saudi Arabia
The All Ears English team answered the first half of this question in a recent episode.
This time, Lindsay and Aubrey talk about the phrase ‘fair enough’ and the different ways you may find it useful at work.
Fair enough
The phrase “fair enough” can be used in many ways and can mean different things depending on the delivery and tone.
Here are some of the meanings and examples of how to use this expression.
#1: To show understanding or reluctant agreement
This means you accept what someone is saying even if you don’t agree with it.
It’s a way to say, “Okay, I understand your point” in a polite manner.
Examples:
Point: I don’t think we should change the plan right now.
Response: Fair enough, let’s revisit it next month.
Point: Sorry, I can’t stay late today.
Response: Fair enough, you’ve already worked extra hours this week.
#2: To show something sounds reasonable or acceptable
This is a more straightforward meaning.
You can use it when you actually think what the other person said makes sense.
Examples:
Point: We need to increase the budget if we want better results.
Response: Fair enough, that’s a good point.Point: We can’t guarantee delivery before Friday.
Response: Fair enough, I knew it was unlikely with such short notice.
#3: To politely end a disagreement
This means you’ve heard their point and you want to move on to something else.
Examples:
Point:I still believe my approach is better.
Response: Fair enough, let’s agree to disagree.Point:I think we should keep the old logo.
Response: Fair enough, I can live with that.
Roleplay
Here is a quick roleplay from Lindsay and Aubrey using expressions and vocabulary shared in today’s episode.
This will help you better understand how you can apply this in daily conversations at work or with friends and family.
In this scenario, Lindsay is a project manager and Aubrey is a marketing lead.
They are preparing for the launch of a new product.
Lindsay: I was thinking we should postpone the product launch until next month. The design team needs more time.
Aubrey: Okay. That might affect our campaign schedule… but, fair enough, quality comes first.
Lindsay: I also saw that you’re using the old logo. I know there was some discussion about creating a new one but wasn’t sure where that landed.
Aubrey: Yes, we decided there wasn’t time to get the new logo finished.
Lindsay: Fair enough.
Takeaway
Being polite at work matters.
Simple phrases like “fair enough” help you show understanding, even when you don’t fully agree.
They keep conversations calm and professional and make it easier to move forward without awkwardness.
The way you say something is just as important as what you say.
Using the right tone helps you avoid being misunderstood and makes work relationships smoother.
Strong connections help you grow in your career and make your work experience a lot more enjoyable.
What are other English expressions you use at work to build connections?
Share it with us in the comments below.
