BE 533: How to Show Hesitation With “I Suppose” and “I Guess”

The podcast explores the nuances of using "I guess" and "I suppose" in professional English to express hesitation or reservation. It distinguishes "I guess" as more informal and indicative of a hunch, while "I suppose" is slightly more formal, suggesting a careful or reluctant conclusion. Both phrases can signal agreement with reservation or express uncertainty about a statement. The hosts caution against overuse to avoid appearing indifferent or unprepared, advising listeners to be direct when confident. They highlight the collaborative aspect of these phrases, useful for opening discussions and inviting input when unsure. The speakers also touch on how adding "so" can soften the tone and make the expressions more encouraging.