Rude emails
Jul 2, 2026 · 6m
Summary
This BBC Learning English episode explores rude email etiquette, featuring psychologist Dr. Emma Russell to explain how stress triggers uncivil behavior. The hosts discuss listener complaints about missing greetings and emoji-only replies, linking them to fight-or-flight responses. Key vocabulary includes "put on the defensive," "belittle," and "frazzled." The segment concludes by revealing that Elon Musk sent the controversial email demanding job justifications.
Topics discussed
Sponsor ads for Intuit ERP and Learning English for Work
Introduction: Rude email habits and listener examples
Quiz: Who sent the email demanding job justification?
Psychology of rudeness: Fight or flight responses in emails
Stress and incivility: Feeling frazzled at work
Quiz answer: Elon Musk sent the controversial email
Vocabulary recap: Defensive, uncivil, belittle, and more
Outro: Office English series and website resources
Promo for Good Bad Billionaire podcast on MrBeast
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