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[Mastering the Phrase 'Mind You' for Natural English Conversations]-[AEE 789: How to Use "Mind You" to Highlight Your Point in English]

All Ears English Podcast · B1 · 2017-08-10

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📋 Summary

Enhancing Your English Fluency: The Power of 'Mind You'

In episode 789 of the All Ears English podcast, hosts Lindsay McMahon and Michelle Kaplan delve into the nuances of the high-level English phrase "mind you." The discussion stems from a listener question submitted by Andrea, who encountered the phrase in a courtroom television setting. Understanding how to use such idioms correctly is essential for learners aiming to move beyond the intermediate level and achieve more natural, confident communication.

Understanding 'Mind You'

The hosts define "mind you" as a conversational tool used to draw attention to a specific point, essentially meaning "keep in mind," "realize," "remember," or "take note of." It serves as a way for the speaker to add a layer of context or a qualifier to their previous statement.

For example, in the courtroom scenario shared by the listener, the speaker said, "Mind you, he won possession of that apartment. So I had to move." Here, the phrase is used to highlight the hardship the speaker faced, commanding the listener to pay attention to the specific fact that justified their subsequent action.

Contextual Usage and Alternatives

While "mind you" is excellent for adding nuance, the hosts acknowledge that it can sound slightly formal or specific to certain regional dialects. When looking for similar expressions that fit into natural, casual conversation, they suggest several alternatives:

  • "Just so you know": Described as very conversational and natural.
  • "Just to note": A straightforward, functional way to introduce additional information.
  • "To be clear": Useful for removing ambiguity.
  • "You should know that": A slightly more direct approach to highlighting a fact.
  • "Granted": Lindsay notes that she personally prefers "granted" as a synonym, observing that it functions similarly by introducing a concession or a point that the listener should consider.

Practical Application: The Role-Play

To demonstrate the phrase in action, the hosts engaged in a role-play centered on political discourse. Lindsay stated, "Mind you, everyone in my social circle is liberal," after expressing frustration about feeling helpless regarding political news. This example perfectly illustrates how "mind you" functions as a pivot to provide context—explaining why the speaker’s perspective might be limited to a specific "echo chamber."

By using "mind you" in this context, the speaker successfully guides the listener to acknowledge a critical piece of background information that informs their current opinion. The hosts emphasize that incorporating such phrases is a hallmark of reaching a higher level of English proficiency, such as scoring a seven or higher on the IELTS exam, as it demonstrates a more sophisticated grasp of discourse markers.

Conclusion

The episode reinforces the All Ears English philosophy of "connection, not perfection." By studying how native speakers use phrases like "mind you" to manage the flow of information and highlight important points, learners can bridge the gap between knowing vocabulary and speaking naturally. Whether you use "mind you" or "granted," the key is to understand the intent behind the phrase: ensuring that your listener does not overlook the vital context you are providing.

🎯Key Sentences

1
I can't wait.
2
bring a raincoat just in case.
3
All right, will do.
4
No, the weather should be good.
5
It's a good month, right?
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📝Key Phrases

1
mind you
2
keep in mind
3
take note of
4
just so you know
5
just to note
Expand All

📖 Transcript

This is an All Ears English podcast episode 789.
How to use mind you to highlight your point in English.
Welcome to the All Ears English Podcast, downloaded more than 50 million times.
We believe in connection, not perfection.
With your American hosts Lindsay McMahon, the English adventurer, and Michelle Kaplan, the New York radio girl, coming to you from Boston and New York City, USA.
And to get your transcripts delivered by email every week, go to allearsenglishcom.

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