For men, conversations are negotiations and reflect who is in charge, who is right, and who knows the answers. For women, conversations are opportunities to be close, to connect with others, to create a network, and to maintain relationships. For example, in an ambiguous situation, or when there is a question on the table, men will often provide a direct answer or opinion. Women, in contrast, consider the same ambiguity cause for asking further questions and gathering more information en route to developing a response that is equitable, fair, or balanced. For women this often expresses care for another or restores balance in a conversation.
Men view the phrase as accepting responsibility for a regrettable event or action.
A participant inquired about men in professions where feminine is the dominant style. Another aspect of conversation rituals is hearing what is expected. When a speaker enters a conversation ritual, a ritual response is expected. If a different response is delivered, the speaker is like the person left high in the air when her partner leaves the see-saw. The plop to the ground creates pain, anger and confusion.