Different cultures may ascribe different meanings to words and languages.

Understanding the implicit meaning of words and language can minimize misunderstandings.

Yes does not always mean commitment. It maybe a declaration to shape the direction and future.

Sometimes saying the word is the first step toward becoming it.

“Can we drive to New Jersey this weekend? I need to get some Japanese supplies “

When I first got married to my American husband, I would ask something like this. I wasn’t driving yet, and getting Japanese stuff was important to a newly arrived immigrant.

Then the weekend came---we slept in……he had to meet up with his friend……next thing we know, the day was over.

Or I would ask him to get something from the store, while he is running errands. He will say of course, only to forget.

In defense of my husband, he is a very responsible and reliable person, so I am exaggerating rare occurrences. But when these types of things happened, I was not so much disappointed as perplexed.

If he is not 100% sure, why wouldn’t he say something like,

“I am busy during the week with work and probably want to rest this weekend. Driving to New........

© Psychology Today