Using "Let’s" in British English
In British English, the phrase "let’s" is often followed by "shall we" to form a suggestion or proposal (Swan 1995, 306). However, other modal verbs can also be used in this context, depending on the situation.
Example: "Let’s give her another five minutes, should we?" (Drabble, 1972, p. 20)
This structure is commonly used to seek agreement or confirmation from the listener. The use of "should we" instead of "shall we" adds a nuanced tone, implying a slight uncertainty or politeness.
Key Points:
- "Let’s" is a contraction of "let us" and is used to make suggestions.
- In British English, "shall we" is the standard follow-up, but other modals like "should we" can also be used.
- The choice of modal can subtly change the tone of the suggestion.
Why This Matters: Understanding these nuances can help you sound more natural and polite in British English conversations. It also highlights the flexibility of modal verbs in everyday speech.
