Would you mind answering this question?

[momo]

Dear all,

I am a little puzzeled with the answers to the question"Would you mind doing ..."

For example:

A: would you mind taking out the trash?
B: Yes, sure./ No problem/ Of course.
These answers mean the person would love to take out the trash.

B: Sorry, i can't. i have to do my homework. This means the person won't do it.

But if the answer is "no, of course not" what does it mean? can you explain?

I really appreciate your prompt reply.


Thanks


momo

[Mister Micawber]

.
The expected answer to 'Would you mind...' is 'No, (I would not mind at all)', which is acquiescence to the request.

In real-life conversations, however, the respondent often gets confused, and answers 'Yes, sure (etc)'. He has recognized the request and agrees to it in the more usual fashion ('Yes'). The logical error is so common that few take serious notice of the incongruity.
.