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Select a line to hear it again. Tap any word to see what it means. Underlined words are the key words of this video.

1. 0:00
   Barbie: Mariposa and the Fairy Princess Well, that could be difficult.
2. 0:05
   Tutor Say this first, then explain the problem. It works well at work or with people you don't know well. Don't use it when the answer is a clear no, because the other person may think there's still a chance.
3. 0:11
   The Professor I'm not sure that's possible, but I'm promising you that we will try.
4. 0:17
   Tutor Use it when you have real doubts but don't want to say no yet. It leaves room to try. Avoid it if you already know the answer is no.
5. 0:22
   Comanche Territory I'm afraid that won't work, Jim.
6. 0:28
   Tutor Use it to say a clear no in a polite way. "I'm afraid" makes the no softer, but the decision is final. It isn't the right choice when you are still unsure.
7. 0:34
   Tutor That might be a bit tricky.
8. 0:39
   Tutor Use it with friends or coworkers when the request is hard but not serious. It sounds relaxed. In a formal email, "That could be difficult" is a safer choice.
9. 0:45
   Tutor I don't think we can do that by Friday.
10. 0:51
    Tutor Use it when the problem is time and you can name the deadline. Change "Friday" to the real date or time. It's direct, so add a reason or a new date.

Choose your answer for each question, then open the answer to check it.

1. Question 1

   Your manager asks for something you know you can't do. Which line gives a clear but polite no?

   A I'm not sure that's possible. B I'm afraid that won't work. C That might be a bit tricky.
   Check my answer Chat with the tutor
2. Question 2

   Which line shows doubt but leaves room to try?

   A I'm not sure that's possible. B I'm afraid that won't work. C That's impossible.
   Check my answer Chat with the tutor
3. Question 3

   What does "I'm afraid" mean in "I'm afraid that won't work"?

   A I feel scared. B I'm sorry to tell you. C I'm not sure.
   Check my answer Chat with the tutor
4. Question 4

   A friend asks you for a ride at 6 a.m. Which line sounds the most relaxed?

   A That's not realistic with the time we have. B I'm afraid that won't work. C That might be a bit tricky.
   Check my answer Chat with the tutor
5. Question 5

   You said "That could be difficult." What should usually come next?

   A Nothing more. B The reason or a smaller option. C "That's impossible."
   Check my answer Chat with the tutor