Question

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.
Without _____ to be rude, I must remind you to speak softly.

• A. wishing
• B. showing
• C. hoping
• D. asking

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

wishing

When we remind somebody to speak softly, it could be mistaken to be a sign of rudeness. Hence, before reminding the listener to speak softly, the speaker is stating upfront that his intention is not to be rude. The appropriate phrase to express the same is: 'Without wishing to be rude'. When the word, 'wishing' is used in the blank, it conveys that: 'I do not want to be rude. However, I must remind you to speak softly'. Hence, option A is correct.

The speaker wants to clarify upfront that he does not want to/ wish to be rude. This is not clear in any of the following expressions:

Option B: 'Without showing to be rude'

Option C: 'Without hoping to be rude'

Option D: Without asking to be rude'

Hence, options B, C and D are incorrect.