How to say “that's okay” like a native speaker
Reassure someone that something is acceptable or that an apology is accepted. Tone can make it sound warm or reluctant.
All phrases · Polite requests
Hear “that's okay” in real speech
Clip 1 · Susan Cain
The power of introverts | Susan Cain | TED · 18:24
About this video
Susan Cain discusses introversion and the value of time spent alone. She begins with bringing a suitcase of books to summer camp and finding that the social expectations were different from those in her family.
In context
But introverts, you being you, you probably have the impulse to guard very carefully what's inside your own suitcase.And that's okay.
But occasionally, just occasionally, I hope you will open up your suitcases for other people to see,
Clip 2 · Rita Pierson
Every kid needs a champion | Rita Pierson | TED · 2:54
About this video
Rita Pierson draws on her teaching experience to discuss why children need someone who believes in them. She talks about reasons students struggle and ways to encourage their sense of worth.
In context
I taught the whole lesson wrong. I'm so sorry."They said, "That's okay, Ms. Pierson.
You were so excited, we just let you go."
Clip 3 · Terri Trespicio
Stop searching for your passion | Terri Trespicio | TEDxKC · 9:24
About this video
Terri Trespicio questions the pressure to find a single passion. She describes losing her magazine and radio work and considering possibilities she had not expected to enjoy.
In context
I love not knowing what I’m going to be doing five years from now or I will be into.And that’s okay, it’s okay not to know.
You know why?
When to use “that's okay”
- Accepting an apology: “Sorry, I forgot your book.” “That's okay. Bring it tomorrow.”
- Reassuring a nervous learner: “I got the answer wrong.” “That's okay. Try again.”
Possible connected-speech patterns in “that's okay”
The S of “that's” links into the opening vowel of “okay”. “Okay” normally stresses its second syllable.
Related phrases
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A slow line to begin with: listen to how “don’t need to” runs together, then say it at the speaker’s pace.
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