Avoiding uncomfortable questions

日本語でも答えにくい質問はありますね。
今回は、答えにくい質問を上手くかわす、
英語の表現をお教えします。

Not all English speaking situations are
comfortable. Sometimes people don't
want to answer questions. There are
many key words and phrases to choose
from when avoiding a question you
don't like and don't want to answer.
Here are some example questions and
answers for you:

Q. "Do you make a lot of money?"
A. "It depends on what you think is
a lot of money"

"It depends" is a great phrase to use
when you want to avoid a question,
because it doesn't tell any private information.

Q. "How old are you?"
A. "I'm happy with my age"

"I'm happy with..." is a good way to
avoid telling exactly how old you are!

Q. "Do you like my new clothes?"
A. "Hmmm they are interesting"

Using the word "interesting" doesn't really
show any real feelings in this situation.

Q. "Are you busy next weekend?"
A. "May be. I'm not sure."

Both "may be" and "not sure" shows that
you don't know and you have made no plans.

It is a good idea to remember these key words
and phrases so you can readily answer someone
without hurting their feelings or telling your
private information.

Avoiding=try not to answer directly
Uncomfortable=opposite to comfortable, not a happy or relaxed feeling
Readily=quickly