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How can I help you? vs. What can I do for you?

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ESL Forum | English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms

While we waited vs. While we were waiting | Use of the word since

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Sat Jul 29, 2006 13:49 pm How can I help you? vs. What can I do for you?

which of the following is the right 1) How can I help you? 2) what can I do for you?

pchelot
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Joined: 28 Jul 2006
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Sat Jul 29, 2006 14:17 pm Question

Hi pchelot

Quote:

1) How can I help you?
2) What can I do for you?

Both sentences are correct and would be used in similar situations. Did you have a specific context in mind?

Amy
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Sat Jul 29, 2006 14:40 pm Question

Hi pchelot,

As Amy has said, the two sentences are correct but there is a slight difference in use:

Quote:

1) How can I help you?
2) What can I do for you?

They are both the sort of questions you could be asked by a shop assistant when you come into the shop. The first one suggests that someone has been fetched to deal with your question and wants to know the exact nature of your request. The second could also be what you would be asked when the person fetched comes to see you but in a way to me it suggests something a little more friendly in the approach because they want to do something for you.

alan
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While we waited vs. While we were waiting | Use of the word since

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