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In terms of expressing the linguistic point being made, it seems like a fine analogy. The point is, apparently, that "ask" is a euphemism for something that yo
by nkrisc 7y ago
In terms of expressing the linguistic point being made, it seems like a fine analogy.
The point is, apparently, that "ask" is a euphemism for something that you are effectively obligated to do.
You're reading much too far into it.
- Far_Heat0 7y agoSounds more like he wasn't reading far enough into it
- andyjpb 7y agoAs an English person I am finding this thread very confusing because I encounter very few situations where "ask" doesn't mean exactly what patio11 is describing. This is especially true when the dialogue is between two people (or entities) of different social status or power, but it's also pretty rude to not oblige when you are close to the person. The only time it is truly voluntary is when there is no relationship and nothing to lose by declining.
- roel_v 7y agoIf the IRS would "ask" me about income in the same way that I "ask" my wife to pass me the peas when we're having dinner, you can be sure I wouldn't be paying any taxes...