In group discussion, knowing how to interrupt politely — and how to hold the floor when interrupted — is a real C2 speaking skill.

Notice

  • Polite interruption: “Sorry to jump in, but…” “Can I just add something here?” “If I could just come in for a second…”
  • Holding the floor: “If I could just finish this point…” “Let me come back to that in a moment.” “Bear with me, I’ll address that shortly.”
  • Yielding the floor gracefully: “Go ahead.” “Sure, over to you.” “That’s a good point — you first.”

Rule

Rule: interrupting is not inherently rude in fast-moving discussion — it becomes rude when it is abrupt or dismissive. Using a softening phrase before interrupting, and a polite phrase to reclaim the floor if you are interrupted, keeps the exchange collaborative rather than combative.

Practice

  1. Give a polite phrase for interrupting someone mid-sentence.
    Answer: Example: “Sorry to jump in, but could I add something here?”
  2. Give a phrase for politely holding the floor when someone tries to interrupt you.
    Answer: Example: “If I could just finish this point, then I’ll come to you.”
  3. Why is a softening phrase important before interrupting in a formal discussion?
    Answer: It signals respect for the other speaker and keeps the interruption from sounding abrupt or dismissive.

Connect

Practise polite interruption and turn-taking phrases with the Sentence Builder.

Try Sentence Builder →

CEFR: C2

Azizul Hakim
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