The document outlines 20 functions of the English language including giving opinions, agreeing, disagreeing, advising, complaining, inviting, apologizing, and more. For each function, phrases are provided as examples of how to express that function in English.

1. FUNCTIONS
OF
ENGLISH LANGUAGE
J P Wickramasinghe

2. Functions of English Language
1. Giving opinion
2. Agreeing
3. Partly agreeing
4. Disagreeing
5. Advice
6. Insisting
7. Offering help
8. Complaining
9. Asking for information
10. Asking for opinion

3. Contd.
11. Summarizing
12. Defending
13. Comparing
14. Inviting
15. Warning
16. Interrupting
17. Apologizing
18. Analyzing
19. Evaluating
20. Accepting and refusing

4. 1. Giving Opinion
 In my opinion it’s good
 From my point of view I like it
 As far as I’m concerned it’s true
 Personally I think she can do it
 I strongly believe that we can do it

5. 2. Agreeing
 I agree with you
 You are right
 Yes I think so
 Definitely/Absolutely
 I share your idea
 That’s right
 Of course

6. 3. Disagreeing
 I don’t agree
 I disagree
 Yes, but I don’t think so
 Don’t you think it’s wrong
 I don’t share your view
 I don’t have the same opinion
 You’re wrong

7. 4. Warning
 Don’t do that!
 Look out!
 Mind the step!
 Beware of the dog!
 Be careful!
 Let me warn you

8. 5. Asking for opinion
 What do you think about it?
 How do you feel about this?
 What’s your opinion on this project?
 How do you see this?
 Would you go alone with this idea?

9. 6. Complaining
 I’m fed up with your arguments
 I’d like to make a complaint
 I’d like to complain about this issue
 I’m rather upset about this situation
 I’m annoyed about your behavior

10. 7. Interrupting
 May I say something?
 Wait a minute!
 Sorry to interrupt, but it’s wrong
 Hold on/Hang on!
 Excuse me, but she’s wrong
 I’d like to add something if I may

11. 8. Apologizing
 I beg your pardon
 I’m sorry
 I apologize
 I’m awfully sorry
 Please forgive me
 I’m terribly sorry

12. 9. Inviting
 Will you come with me?
 Would you like to join me?
 May I invite you to our party?
 May I have the pleasure of inviting
you there?
 Would you join us? / why don’t
you join us?

13. 10. Offering help
 May I help you?
 Are you looking for something?
 I’d like to lend a helping hand
 What can I do for you today?
 Shall I help you?
 Is it okay if I help you?

14. THANK YOU