The examiner asks for checking the identification of the student, then returns it back and says "Thank you".
What is the appropriate and polite response the student should give?
3
-
1What about "No problem."?– canoeCommented Oct 23, 2013 at 8:36
-
It's my pleasure.– VijayaRagavanCommented Oct 23, 2013 at 8:37
-
No problem is often said but it is less formal and not quite as polite as "You're welcome". No problem is likely an informal shortening of something like: "It was no trouble at all."– JimCommented Oct 23, 2013 at 8:46
Add a comment
|
2 Answers
“Yes, sir” or “Yes, ma'am” or “Certainly” seem to me as among the few appropriate responses possible if the examiner is performing a solemn and official required duty.
Replies like “Not at all”, “Don’t mention it”, “No problem”, and “Anytime” make light of the examiner's duty. “Thank you”, although often suitable as a response to someone just doing their job properly, seems servile in this case. “You’re welcome” runs the risk of seeming insincere as a response to the affront or bother of having one's identification checked.
answered Oct 23, 2013 at 16:21
There are several cordial options you can use, including: "Not at all," "Don't mention it," "No problem," or "Anytime." You could also respond with "Thank you," since the person also did you a service.
Lastly, there is no need of responding to "Thank you" by words, but sometimes a simple smile or courteous nod can work just as well. This is especialy true if you are in a long line.
You can read more interesting opinions about this topic here, here here, and here (that last one links to an ELU question).
answered Oct 23, 2013 at 8:50
