Do You Mind…? How to Answer This Tricky Question Correctly
- Mark Connolly
- Dec 5, 2025
- 2 min read
Hello everyone, and welcome to On Your Mark’s English.
Today is Friday, and this is English in Use! 🗣️
We’re learning how to answer the very confusing question: "Do you mind...?"
What “Do you mind?” Really Means
Most learners think it means the same as “Is it okay?”
But actually, it means:
"Is it a problem for you?"
Because of this, the answers feel opposite.
If You Say “No”: It’s OK 🟢
Saying “No” means: “No, it is not a problem.” This means the person can do the action.
Example:
"Do you mind if I sit here?"
"No, go ahead."
If You Say “Yes”: It’s NOT OK 🔴
Saying “Yes” means: “Yes, it is a problem.” This means the person should not do the action.
Example:
"Do you mind if I smoke?"
"Yes, I do mind."
The Key Rule to Remember
To give permission politely, you must say NO, not “yes.”
Your Turn
"Do you mind if I open the window?" 🪟If you are happy with that, do you say Yes or No? Write your answer in the comments down below.
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