Recent research from Trinity College London reveals that 83% of Britons avoid confrontation. Participants reported using an average of 14 'polite-isms' daily to minimize tension in interactions. Notable phrases like 'Could I just squeeze past you?' and 'Sounds fun, I'll let you know' highlight this behavior. These polite expressions have deep historical roots, existing in English since the era of Beowulf. While many use them in office settings, they are seen as a quirky form of communication that shapes social interactions among friends and colleagues.
“Polite-isms are a fascinating feature of communication, used extensively in the UK, and often reflecting our preference to be indirect to avoid confrontation.”
“They're actually not a new trend. We've been using them for thousands of years. There are even examples of polite-isms in the Old English classic Beowulf.”
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