Match each utterance with its conversational function.
Choose the correct function from the list for each question.
1
Asking for an opinion
2
Delaying / gaining thinking time
3
Presenting a number of arguments
4
Giving an opinion
5
Agreeing
6
Disagreeing
7
Countering
8
Making a logical argument
9
Asking for clarification
10
Expressing solutions and alternatives
11
Making suggestions
12
Complaining
13
Apologising
1. “There are a number of factors to consider, including wages, housing costs, energy prices and the cost of food.”
2. “I’m afraid I have a complaint about the way my energy company has handled my bill. I’ve had several confusing charges added to it.”
3. “How do you feel about the idea of providing more support for people struggling with household bills?”
4. “Consequently, helping people with housing costs could leave households with more money for essentials such as food and heating.”
5. “Well, that’s a difficult question. There are several different issues involved, and they don’t all have the same causes.”
6. “I suggest that local authorities should make sure people know what financial support is available.”
7. “I couldn’t agree more. Housing costs are particularly important because they can take up such a large proportion of a household’s income.”
8. “In my opinion, the biggest problem is that basic costs such as food, energy and housing have become increasingly difficult for some households to manage.”
9. “I’m afraid I disagree. Government support cannot solve every problem caused by rising prices.”
10. “One solution would be to provide more targeted support for households on low incomes.”
11. “Having said that, reducing taxes or increasing benefits could also leave people with more money to spend on everyday essentials.”
12. “Could you clarify what you mean by ‘support’? Are you thinking about direct payments, lower bills, or something else?”
13. “I’m sorry. I gave you the wrong information about the deadline for applying for the local support scheme.”