Making Complaints

Making Complaints
There are a number of formulas used when complaining in English. It's important to remember that a direct complaint or criticism in English can sound rude or aggressive. It's best to mention a problem in an indirect manner. Here are some of the most common:
· I'm sorry to have to say this but...
· I'm sorry to bother you, but...
· Maybe you forgot to...
· I think you might have forgotten to...
· Excuse me if I'm out of line, but...
· There may have been a misunderstanding about...
· Don't get me wrong, but I think we should...
After you study these constructions, take the making complaints quiz to check your understanding.
Construction
Formula
Example:
I'm sorry to have to say this but I think we need to take another approach.
I'm sorry to bother you, but I think you need to refine this layout.
Maybe you forgot to include his name and number.
I think you might have forgotten to finish the report on time.
Excuse me if I'm out of line, but your work has not been adequate lately.