Heard and Understood: 5 Polished Phrases for Receiving Feedback Gracefully

🧭 When Feedback Comes, Language Matters

Getting feedback — especially in a second language — can feel like walking a tightrope. You want to sound open, not weak. Professional, not robotic. These five expressions help you manage that balance: they're polite, natural, and show a strong mindset. Use them in meetings, performance reviews, or even emails to sound thoughtful and mature.

💬 5 Polished Phrases for Receiving Feedback

1. 1. "Thanks for the feedback — I appreciate you taking the time."
   When to use: Right after someone gives you input, especially if it's detailed.
   Why it works: It shows gratitude, maturity, and keeps the tone professional — even if the message stings a little.
2. 2. "That's helpful — could you give me a specific example?"
   When to use: When the feedback is too general or vague.
   Why it works: You're showing that you care about real improvement, not just saying "okay."
3. 3. "Got it — I'll work on that moving forward."
   When to use: To acknowledge the feedback and show you're ready to act.
   Why it works: It's confident, short, and solution-focused. No over-apologizing needed.
4. 4. "Would you be open to reviewing this again after I make changes?"
   When to use: To ask for follow-up or continued support.
   Why it works: This turns the feedback into a two-way process — not just a critique, but a collaboration.
5. 5. "I hadn't seen it that way — thanks for the new perspective."
   When to use: When feedback surprises you or challenges your viewpoint.
   Why it works: It sounds reflective and professional, even when you're internally shocked or unsure.

💬 Class Discussion Questions

• Which phrase above do you feel most comfortable using?
• In your culture, is it normal to thank someone for giving feedback?
• What's a good balance between accepting feedback and staying confident?
• Practice: One student gives feedback; the other uses 2 of the phrases from the list to respond politely.