Job Discussion Forums

[mitsui]

Would you say oh dear as a way to express surprise?
Seems like something Oscar Wilde would say, back in 1890.
Kind of dated to me, or would it sound posh and contemporary?
Sounds like what an English woman would say.


As an American I would say that's too bad.

I work with a few Brits and although they speak English, some things seem a bit off.

[Miura Anjin]

I'd use "oh dear" for disappointment or sympathy, but not surprise.　　(I'm British.)

[mitsui]

Yes, for sympathy, but would a man or woman say it equally?
To me, I thought it was something a British woman would say.

Americans or Canadians would not say this.

[mitsui]

The other question I would ask is, does it sound posh?
Does it sound like someone would say in London?

[mitsui]

Would you say you eat or drink soup?
I would say I eat soup

[Knedliki]

[fluffyhamster]

[Snuff]

I also say "Oh dear", to express mild disappointment. In formal situations, at least. When I'm around friends or family, it's a more empthatic, "No."

For surprise, I usually just say "Oh!" Unless I'm around friends, in which case a swear word is thrown in.

[kpjf]

[nomad soul]

Yikes! I'm American and even I find the OP's statements about British English cringeworthy. Talk about stereotypes.

[Shelby]

I'm British and I would tend to use 'oh dear' when talking to a child who has just suffered what they see as a major misfortune (eg a broken toy). It would feel a bit patronising to say it to an adult.

[scot47]

Gee willikins !

[Miura Anjin]