Speak Confidently with This One Powerful Phrase đź’¬
Beginner Level | July 2, 2025
Read the article aloud on your own or repeat each paragraph after your tutor.
Have you ever felt nervous at work when someone asked you a question? Maybe you just nodded or said “okay” because you weren’t sure what else to say. You’re not alone! Many English learners feel this way.
But here’s the good news: there’s one simple phrase that can help you speak confidently in English in almost any situation.
Let’s learn how to use it—and how it can change your conversations.
The Phrase: “That’s a good question!”
This is a short phrase, but it’s powerful.
When someone asks you something and you’re not sure what to say, try saying, “That’s a good question!”
It gives you a few seconds to think. In addition, it shows that you’re listening and that you respect the other person. At the same time, it makes you sound calm and professional—even if you need a moment to think.
Why It Helps You Speak Confidently in English
People like to feel heard. If you say, “That’s a good question,” it tells them, “I’m thinking about your question seriously.” This builds trust.
It also gives you time to prepare your answer. That way, you don’t feel rushed or panicked.
How to Use It
Let’s say someone asks, “Why do you want this job?”
Instead of answering right away, you can smile and say, “That’s a good question.” Then, take a breath and start your answer.
Or, if someone asks, “What do you think about the new project?” you can say:
“That’s a good question. I think the project has a lot of potential.”
This phrase works in meetings, interviews, video calls, and daily conversations.
Practice Time
Try using this phrase with these common questions:
- “Why do you want to study English?”
- “What do you think about our new system?”
- “How would you solve this problem?”
Say the phrase out loud before each answer. Feel how it helps you speak confidently in English by giving you space and time to think.
Quick Tip
Don’t overuse it. If you say it every time, it may sound strange. Use it when you really need a moment to think—or when you want to show respect for a good question.
Vocabulary List
- Nervous (adjective) — Feeling worried or unsure.
Example: I feel nervous before a big meeting. - Phrase (noun) — A small group of words that have meaning.
Example: “That’s a good question” is a useful phrase. - Confident (adjective) — Sure of yourself.
Example: She sounded confident during the interview. - Professional (adjective) — Business-like and respectful.
Example: He looks professional in a suit. - Trust (noun) — A feeling of belief in someone.
Example: Good answers help build trust with others. - Respect (verb) — To show that someone or something is important.
Example: I respect my manager’s opinion. - Conversation (noun) — A talk between people.
Example: We had a short conversation after the meeting. - Respond (verb) — To answer.
Example: He responded to the email quickly. - Interview (noun) — A meeting where someone asks you questions.
Example: I had an interview for a new job. - Potential (noun) — Possibility or future success.
Example: This idea has a lot of potential.
5 Questions About the Article
- What phrase should you use to sound more confident?
- Why is this phrase helpful in conversations?
- When is a good time to use it?
- How does it help your brain?
- What does it show the other person?
5 Open-Ended Discussion Questions
- Have you ever used the phrase “That’s a good question” before?
- In what situations do you feel nervous speaking English?
- What other phrases do you like to use in meetings?
- Can you think of a time when someone gave you a good answer?
- How do you build confidence when speaking English?
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