When delivering bad news, wording such as We must turn down, I am ...

[big1devin]

When delivering bad news, wording such as We must turn down, I am unable to, and We cannot afford to
 
  A) softens the blow by drawing attention away from the reader and onto the sender.
  B) will impress the reader as being straightforward and forceful.
  C) is likely to cause pain and anger in the reader.
  D) is unavoidable.
  E) displays your professionalism.

Question 2

Consider the following statement: Our profits, which have been disappointing, are only part of the total picture. This statement uses a ________ to deliver negative news.
 
  A) mixed metaphor
  B) parenthetical expression
  C) deflective reference
  D) contingent modifier
  E) conditional statement

[prumorgan]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: C
Explanation: C) Always be sure to avoid overly blunt statements that are likely to cause pain and anger such as must refuse, must deny, am unable, cannot afford, much as I would like to attend, or must turn down.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: B
Explanation: B) The bad news is delivered in a parenthetical expression that's inserted in an independent clause.

[big1devin]

Excellent

[strudel15]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it