and use the words correctly regardless of what his reaction would be. Having taught English before, I sometimes have the habit of correcting people. However, I eased up and just continued using the correct words and sentence construction. I think the best way to teach English as a second language is to become an example yourself. Most people retaliate and rebel against direct instruction. Even if they know that they need help in speaking the language, they would rather go on with the incorrect usage rather than follow somebody correcting them on the spot. But, mind you, perhaps he's already using the correct words in front of his friends and colleagues when he's miles away from you. :)

I also agree with Maui. Increase your tolerance and just keep on with your manner of speaking the English language fluently. That way, you will become a good influence and a positive channel of instruction.

"Could you please hand me the pair of scissors that you have borrowed? I need to cut off these three pieces of loose threads. Don't give me the scissor. Otherwise, I'll just use a knife."

If he insists on borrowing your "scissor", then in a gentle manner, you may reply - "May I borrow your screw driver? I need to loosen the screw of my pair of scissors, so I could give you a scissor." :)

Just kidding!

Please carry on. We're both not native English speakers, ourselves, if I'm not mistaken, so we also need to understand others who are just starting to learn the language. We're just lucky that the medium of instruction in our schools back home is English. If not, we shall also be like them.

Let us share our luck as we teach by influence and not by imposition.