Had To Go Back And Think About It

(My graduate program has several international students, and many are taking English classes to improve their English. In our large common office, it is typical for them to ask the domestic students for help with their English homework. Most days I am glad to help, but sometimes I get busy.)

International Student: “Can you help me? What is the difference between ‘think of’ and ‘think about’?”

Me: *distracted* “I’d love to help, but I have an important deadline in a few hours, so I don’t have time to think of any examples right now. Is it okay if I think about it and get back to you later?”

(Everyone stares at me.)

Officemates: “Did you… Did you do that on purpose?”

Me: “What?” *replays response in my head* “…oh. Nope.”