Preparing your page…
Nina
Can I ask you something about what you said after my presentation?
Free Reading exercise · Lesson 18 of 32
Read first
The complete text and available translations are free. Listen to either opening line or play the two-line sample; Premium adds one-click full-dialogue audio.
Can I ask you something about what you said after my presentation?
Sure. What’s wrong?
You said, “That was much better than I expected.” It sounded like you thought I was going to do a terrible job.
Oh, no. I didn’t mean it that way.
Well, it felt pretty rude. I was already nervous, and your comment made me think you didn’t believe in me.
I’m sorry. That came out wrong. I meant that you seemed much more confident than you did during practice.
Then why did you say you were surprised?
Because you told me this morning that you might forget everything. I was surprised by how calm you looked, not because I thought you were incapable.
You also laughed when you said it.
I was only joking about how worried you had been earlier. I wasn’t laughing at your presentation.
It didn’t sound like a joke to me. It sounded like serious criticism.
I can see why you were upset. I should have said, “You did really well, especially after being so nervous.” That would have been clearer.
Yes, that would have sounded completely different.
I didn’t mean to offend you. I was actually trying to give you a compliment, but I chose the wrong words.
All right. I understand now. I probably reacted strongly because I was still stressed after speaking in front of everyone.
That makes sense. Next time, I’ll think before I make a comment like that.
Thanks for explaining. I’m glad we cleared it up.
Check your understanding
Your latest score and attempt count are saved only on this device. Free accounts are planned to add synced progress and history without requiring Premium.