Luisa2024_Ma
How do I (you?) ask questions about things in general? Should it be: 1. How do you brush your hair? Or How do I brush my hair? 2. How do you make sure you have enough money to pay your bills? Or How do I make sure I have enough money to pay my bills?
Nov 16, 2024 8:08 AM
Answers · 5
1
Hi Luisa. I think it depends on whether you mean people in general, or you’re actually referring to yourself. English doesn’t really have that generic pronoun many other languages have (on in French, Mann in German etc) so it’s a bit more complicated. In your questions do you mean I as in me, or you as in one/people in general?
Nov 16, 2024 8:20 AM
1
The choice between "How do you...?" and "How do I...?" depends on the intent and focus of your question: 1. "How do you...?" This is used to ask how people in general or someone specifically do something. You're seeking advice, knowledge, or insights based on others' methods or habits. Example: "How do you brush your hair?" This asks about the way someone else or people in general brush their hair. "How do you make sure you have enough money to pay your bills?" You're asking for advice or examples from another person. 2. "How do I...?" This is used to ask for advice on how you personally should do something. You're making the question specifically about yourself and seeking guidance for your own actions. Example: "How do I brush my hair?" This asks for instructions tailored to you specifically. "How do I make sure I have enough money to pay my bills?" You're asking for personalized advice on financial planning. Which to Choose? If you want general advice or to learn about others' approaches, use "How do you...?". If you're seeking specific advice for your situation, use "How do I...?". Practical Tip: You can use both forms together for clarity: "How do you usually do X? And how should I do it in my situation?"
Nov 17, 2024 5:19 AM
1
Both ways are common and fine. In both cases there is a risk that the listener thinks you literally mean "I" or "You", and this is why posh speakers will say "One" instead, but this is rare and hyper-formal. It's often heard when one impersonates royalty. For example, the way I just used it. Or: "How does one brush ones/their hair?" and "How might one ensure that one has sufficient capital to pay one's own bills?" etc
Nov 16, 2024 4:15 PM
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