Normally, people do not write letters to give personal advice. When
advice is needed, people best talk face to face and in confidentiality.
Nevertheless, this week we will look at some advice from an 'Agony Aunt'
to look at some expressions you may use when giving advice. An agony aunt
is usually a persona in a newspaper or column, giving advice regarding
health, social etiquette, and relationship.
Below is an example of a personal problem, followed by an advice. Both
of them are fictional.
| Dear
Agony Aunt,
I am 17 years old and I am gay! I don't
know whether or how to tell my parents. Do you think that I
should wait until I am a little older before I tell them? People
say that it might be a phase and it will soon go away, but I
don't think so. I am very attracted to guys and have no interest
in girls at all. I do not want to worry my parents, but on the
other hand, it is difficult to keep a secret from them. I am
the only son, and I do not want to disappoint them.
|
Dear
Kevin,
You sound like a confident and caring
person. I am sure that your parents appreciate you for who you
are. They may react negatively to your sexual preference; however,
I think you should tell them. Sooner or later, they will find
out and it is best that they find out sooner and from you.
|
In asking for personal advice, you can use these expressions:
What should I do?
What do you think I should do?
Can you give me any advice?
I was wondering if you could help.
In offering advice, you may find these expressions useful:
I think you should….
You ought to….
You had better….
It would be a good idea to….
I suggest you….
|
