5 answers from our tutors
Best answer
Oh, wow... Hard one. I would say that knowing the person well, one would definitely sense the difference. Otherwise, just by intonation and perhaps a slight smirk on one's face ))
- StephanCertified TEFL and ESL Teacher
It depends on the question itself. Optimism is more linked with emotions whereas cynicism is more in line with "self-interest". To answer your question, I might say it comes down to the question and if it is asked through emosion or pure thought.
Optimism and cynicism are two different attitudes towards life and the world.
Check your English level for free
Take our quick and free test to find out your current level of English
Start test
More than words, reading facial expressions and the tone of voice of our students is way more reliable, especially when they are still learning and may not know the nuances of using the language. Plus, I think we should not be afraid of asking clarifying questions in a polite way. It's better to create a trusting and open atmosphere in the class to better our relationships with them. You may take it lightly and just ask amusing questions relating to the matter.
Do we realize that we are being cynical or optimistic in our responses? I find that some will respond with well meant optimism and others just the opposite, but who is to say that the person believes they are being positively optimistic. I guess we take it from whenst it comes
Other student questions
- Are you looking to learn English? I, an English speaker would be happy to help.I speak 4 languages
- How can we run a successful business English meeting with our foreign clients?
What strategies can we implement to ensure our Business English meetings with foreign clients are engaging and effective?
- Can you share your experience how you teach students conditionals?
What kind of method do you use to explain clearly each conditional for students? Do you provide some examples from real life and how you do it? Thank you!
Best answer
The first thing to do when teaching conditionals would be to explain what conditionals are, then provide them with examples, then play a game where they need to identify the conditional, and finally have them create their own to see if they understood it
