English for Today by Ganiu Abisoye Bamgbose (Dr GAB)
Interactional Grammar
Thank you.
Don’t mention. (nonstandard)
Thank you.
Don’t mention it. (standard)
The standard reply for someone who has just thanked you is “don’t mention it”.
I’m sorry about the other other day.
Don’t worry yourself. (nonstandard)
Think nothing of it. (standard)
“Think nothing of it” is used as a polite response when someone has apologised to one or thanked one.
Can I quickly use your pen?
Go ahead (accepted).
Be my guest (more polite).
If you say be my guest to someone, you are giving them permission to do something.
GAB
