This appears to be a very simple question, and you would think that the vast majority of people would get it right, but if that’s your conclusion, you would be wrong.
When I’m listening to conversations, watching TV, reading or
editing manuscripts, this is what I usually see:
Person A: “Do you mind if I sit down?”
Person B: “Yeah, go ahead. (Variations on this answer –
“Sure. Yes.”)
WRONG!
When somebody asks if you mind, and you consent, the correct
answer is “No. I don’t mind.” End of story.
However, you could say, “No problem.” “Go right ahead,”
“Please do,” or something to that effect. Just don’t say yes unless you don’t
want the person to sit there.
Alternate answer:
Person A: “Do you mind if I sit down?”
Person B: “Yes, I do mind. Sorry. My pet orangutan is
sitting there.”
