6.4.3. The progressive form representing the polite expression The progressive form can express the indirect expression instead of the direct expression, that is to say, the polite expression, since this form has the incompletive meaning explained in 6.2.3. See the following examples. (40) a. We are hoping you will give us some advice. b. We are hoping they will reduce the workload a little. If the present tense is used instead of the above, they mean the direct expression. Now, the past tense can also express the indirect expression (Cf. 2.3.3.). When the past tense co-occurred with the progressive form, it becomes more polite. See the following examples. (41) a. Were you wanting to see me? b. I was wondering if you would care to have dinner with me. These are more polite than the present tense and PrPro.

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