The statement "Um, I hate to ask, but can I borrow your pen perhaps?" is an example of
A) powerless language.
B) powerful language.
C) strong dialect.
D) weak dialect.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This statement is an example of powerless language because it includes hesitations ("Um"), hedges ("perhaps"), and polite forms ("I hate to ask, but"), which are characteristics of a less assertive or less confident manner of speaking.

The Statement "Um, I Hate to Ask, but Can I