In various social and professional situations, it’s often necessary to politely remind someone of information they already know. Using the phrase “as you know” serves as a concise way to convey this message. However, there are different ways to express this phrase depending on the formality of the situation and the region you’re in. This guide will provide you with several tips and examples for using “as you know” politely, both formally and informally. Let’s explore:
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Formal Ways to Say “As You Know” Politely
In more formal settings, it’s important to choose your words carefully to maintain a professional tone. Here are some phrases you can use to politely remind someone of information they are already aware of:
- 1. As you are aware: This phrase is suitable for professional environments, such as a business meeting or a formal email. For example, “As you are aware, our company has been experiencing a decrease in sales.”
- 2. As you may recall: Using this phrase acknowledges that the person might have forgotten the information, making it a considerate way to refresh their memory without sounding condescending. For instance, “As you may recall, we previously discussed the upcoming project deadlines.”
- 3. As we have previously discussed: By referencing a past conversation, this phrase emphasizes the shared understanding between the parties while remaining professional. For instance, “As we have previously discussed, the budget constraints need to be considered.”
- 4. As you already know: This phrase denotes that the information is common knowledge without making assumptions. It is a safe choice for reminding someone of something in a formal manner. For example, “As you already know, our organization is committed to sustainability initiatives.”
Informal Ways to Say “As You Know” Politely
In casual or informal settings, it’s usually best to use less formal language. However, politeness should still be maintained. Here are some friendly yet polite ways of expressing “as you know” informally:
- 1. You know how: This phrase establishes a shared understanding while sounding more conversational. For instance, “You know how we always carpool to work together.”
- 2. You’re well aware: By using this phrase, you acknowledge that the person is familiar with the subject matter, creating a polite and casual tone. For example, “You’re well aware that I’m an early riser.”
- 3. I don’t need to tell you: This phrase not only implies that the person already knows the information but also saves time by skipping unnecessary details. For instance, “I don’t need to tell you how amazing the food is at that restaurant.”
- 4. It’s no news to you: This phrase conveys the idea that the information being mentioned is not new or surprising to the listener. For example, “It’s no news to you that we always have a great time at our annual get-together.”
Tips for Using “As You Know” Politely
While using “as you know” can be an effective way to remind someone of shared information politely, consider the following tips to ensure the best possible outcome:
1. Context is Key: Always consider the context and formality of the situation. Adapt your language accordingly to strike the right tone.
2. Be Considerate: Use phrases that show you respect the other person’s knowledge and avoid sounding patronizing.
3. Vary Your Vocabulary: Take advantage of different phrases to avoid repetition and maintain the interest of the listener.
4. Body Language: Along with your choice of words, pay attention to your body language and tone of voice to convey politeness effectively.
Remember, using “as you know” politely is all about ensuring a smooth flow of conversation and maintaining mutual understanding.
Examples of Using “As You Know” Politely
Let’s consider some examples to further illustrate the use of “as you know” politely in various situations:
Example 1:
Formal: As you are aware, our team has been working diligently to meet the project deadline.
Informal: You know how we’ve been working hard to meet the project deadline, right?
Example 2:
Formal: As we have previously discussed, the marketing strategy needs to be revised based on the latest market trends.
Informal: I don’t need to tell you that we should update our marketing strategy after checking out the latest market trends, right?
Example 3:
Formal: As you may recall, the budget for this quarter has been reduced due to unforeseen circumstances.
Informal: You’re well aware that the budget for this quarter got slashed due to some unexpected situations, aren’t you?
Example 4:
Formal: As you already know, our company policy strictly prohibits the use of unauthorized software.
Informal: It’s no news to you that we aren’t allowed to use unauthorized software, right?
Remember to tailor your choice of phrases based on the specific situation and the nature of your relationship with the person you are speaking to.
By using these tips, examples, and appropriate phrases, you can effectively and politely remind someone of shared knowledge in various contexts. Remember, politeness and respect go hand in hand with effective communication.
