Addressing People Correctly

A.

In most American and British companies it is perfectly acceptable to call people by their first name in the majority of cases. However, in other national cultures, for example German, where it is more likely to use their title, perhaps Doctor, followed by their surname. If you’re not sure, it’s probably best to go for a title and surname. If someone asks you to be more informal with them, then you can go for the first name.

Read the following word groups aloud several times. Please don’t try to learn by-heart. Your sub-conscious mind will do that job, even without your knowledge, and rush onto your tongue whenever required. Yes, your job is just to read these word groups aloud several times.

B.

Addressing people you know

• Most British and American people use their first names in all informal situations:
• John
• Mary
• To be more formal, check:
• May I call you John?
• Do you mind if I call you Mary?
• How may I call you?
• How can I address you?
• To be formal, use title and surnames:
• Mr. Smith;
• Mrs. Jones;
• Miss Smith

C.

Addressing strangers

• There is no general word and most people use:
• Excuse me…
• With a man, to be very formal, or if he is a superior, use:
• Sir….
• To be informal or rude, use:
• Hey you;
• Mister
• To be formal to a woman, use:
• Madam; (M’am)
• Miss
• To call a teenager, use:
• Young man;
• Miss/Madam
• To call a young child, use:
• Son Sonny;
• Little girl;
• Dear
• To call a policeman, use:
• Officer
• To call a waiter or barman, use:
• Waiter;
• Barman
• To call a waitress or barmaid, use:
• Miss;
• Waitress
• With a few others, use the name of the job:
• Nurse
• Doctor
• Postman
• Guard

D.

Writing letters

• On the envelope, put both names, or use titles:
• John Smith; Mary Jones;
• Mr. John Smith/Miss Mary Jones;
• Mr. J. Smith/Miss M. Jones;
• Starting the letter, to be formal, use:
• Dear Mr. Smith/Dear Miss Jones;
• To be informal, use the first name:
• Dear John/Dear Mary;
• To be very formal, use:
• Dear Sir/Dear Madam;

Offers & Refusing Offers

A.

Listen to Mary and her guest David as Mary offers David some more food:

Mary: Are you alright there? Have another piece of chicken.

David: No, thanks. I’m fine.

Mary: Oh, go on. Look, just this little piece here. You’ve hardly eaten anything.

David: No, really. I couldn't.

Mary: Oh come on. It’s the last piece.

David: No, honestly. Thanks.

Mary: All right then. If you’re sure.

B.

Read the following word groups aloud several times. Please don’t try to learn by-heart. Your sub-conscious mind will do that job, even without your knowledge, and rush onto your tongue whenever required. Yes, your job is just to read these word groups aloud several times.

Offering food and drinks.

• What would you like?
• Can I get you anything?
• Would you like a (coffee)?
• Do you take it with (sugar)?
• How about a (Scotch)?
• Do you feel like (a drink)?
• Let me get you (something to drink)
• Coffee? With sugar?
• Scotch? Ice?
• Help yourself
• Yes, please
• Thanks/Thank you
• That would be nice

Refusing offers

To refuse an offer, to be polite, use:

• No thanks.
• No thank you.
• It’s all right.
• No thanks, I don’t need (help).
• No, I don’t want (any coffee), thanks.
• It’s OK, thanks; I can (do it myself).
• I’m afraid not.
• Look, I can’t possibly let you…
• Oh no…. I couldn’t eat any more…
• Well, if I have to.
• No, no... Please.
• No, no… I’ve only just had lunch….
• I’d rather not.
• No, not for me. Thanks.
• Not for the moment. Thank you.
• Not this time, thanks.
• I’m afraid I don’t eat fish.
• Not just at the moment. Thank you.
• I've had enough. Thank you.
• I’m afraid I don’t drink coffee.
• I’d love to, but I’m afraid I can’t.

To be more formal, use:

• That’s very kind of you, but it’s all right.
• Thank you for the offer, but I don’t
• Thank you for your kind offer, but I regret we do not need (your services).
• I don’t think I can accept this, you know…
• Well, if you insist.
• Well, if you really want me to...
• If it’s all the same to you, I won’t.
• Well, if you really think so.
• Some other time, perhaps…
• No, it’s far too much, really.
• I’m not sure I can accept this, thank you.
• No, thank you. It’s really superb, but I really couldn’t.
• I really can’t eat another thing. Thanks.
• No, I’m not very fond of it. Thanks all the same.
• The cutlets are delicious. But I’m afraid I couldn’t. Thank you.
• It looks delicious, but I’m afraid I couldn’t. Thank you.
• It looks delicious, but I’m afraid I couldn’t.
• No, thank you. I can’t manage any more.
•  

To be informal, use:

• No.
• I don’t want (any).
• Oh no, no…
• Look, there’s no need…
• No, thanks/Yes/Sure/No, thank you.
• I don’t want (anything) at the moment.
• I don’t feel like (a drink) just now. No, please don’t bother.
• No, thank you. I’m just leaving.
• I've had plenty. Thanks.

Exclamation, Surprise, Admiration, Disappointment

Read the following word groups aloud several times. Please don’t try to learn by heart. Your sub-conscious mind will do that job, even without your knowledge, and rush onto your tongue whenever required. Yes, your job is just to read these word groups aloud several times.

A.

Exclamations

Welcome, sir!

Wonderful

What a surprise!

Hurrah! I have won!

Thank God!

Good heavens!

Is it!

Really!

Yes, it is!

O God!

Wow! Well done! Bravo!

Marvelous!

Excellent!

How sweet!

How lovely!

How dare you say!

That!

Oh dear!

Hurry up!

Done wonderfully!

Certainly!

By god’s grace!

May God bless you!

Same to you!

How bad!

How joyful!

Beautiful!

Oh!

Quiet, please!

Thanks!

What a great victory!!

Hello, listen!

Hurry up, please!

How terrible!

How disgraceful!

How absurd!

For your good health!

What a shame!

How tragic!

How disgusting!

Beware!

What a pity!

B.

Expressing Admiration.

Terrific!

Ah, super!

Oh, that’s lovely!

Oh, that’s marvelous!

Oh, smashing!

Oh, lovely!

It’s really something!

It’s really wonderful!

Isn’t it beautiful?

Ah, really wonderful!

Isn’t that fantastic!

What a grand view!

That’s incredible!

Really fantastic!

That’s quite fantastic!

I just adore this colour!

It’s absolutely splendid!

I’ve never seen anything like it!

You’re the prettiest girl I’ve ever seen!

I’ve never met anyone so attractive!

C.

Expressing Surprise

What!

What! Really?

Oh, no!

Wow!

Impossible!

You don’t say!

Well, I never!

It’s very surprising to hear this!

Fancy seeing you here!

How strange!

Surely not!

D.

Saying that you’re not surprised

Hey, nothing new!

I’m not surprised.

I’m not surprised by the way he behaved.

I’m not surprised at the news.

What’s new in that?

What’s so unusual in that?

E.

Expressing Disappointment

Oh, dear! What fools we were!

Oh, no!

Oh, damn!

Oh, no! Not again!

Oh no, what a letdown!

Oh well, never mind.

Oh dear! I’ve spilt the milk.

Oh, that’s a nuisance!

Oh no, what a shame!

It was an absolute waste of money.

It’s a little bit disappointing, isn’t it!

It wasn’t as good as I thought it would be.

It’s a great shame.

It’s most unfortunate.

It’s very upsetting that this has happened.

I’m sorry to hear that.

I’m disappointed in him.

I thought he could do better.

I had hoped that I’d be able to meet him.

I’d very much hoped that I’d be able to meet him.

I’d very much hoped that I’d get selected this time.

I wish that someone had let me know.

That’s a great pity.

That’s a pity.

How disappointing!

Things always go wrong.

What’s the point of giving a party now?

I’ve never been so disappointed in my life.

But what good will it do?

Unfortunately, I couldn’t reach there in time.

When I think of it!

Congratulations and Good Wishes

Sometimes it’s difficult to find just the right phrase for a particular occasion in Standard English. We want to help you solve that problem. Whether it’s a birthday, a graduation, a wedding, a promotion, a holiday, or whatever, you’d like to be able to say the right thing in English.

Then there are the celebrations and holidays of the season. From New Year’s Eve to Christmas there are numerous times during the year when you may want to send holiday greetings. And don’t forget that there are many holidays that are either not celebrated in our country at all, or are celebrated at different times (Father’s Day, Thanks giving etc.) – or are unique to a particular country.

A.

Congratulating

• If someone has a baby, passes an exam, win a prize, etc., use:
• Congratulations!
• To be informal, use:
• Great! / Well don! / Congrats!

B.

Praising

• To praise a subordinate or equal, use
• Well done!
• That was very well done.
• That’s very good.
• You did that very well.
• Your (meal) was excellent / very good / first class.
• The (food) is / was excellent.
• I was / am very pleased with (your work).

• To praise a superior, use:
• Well done!
• I thought your (work was excellent).
• I really admired / admire your (work).

• To be informal:
• Super! / Great!
• That’s / that was super/ great / fantastic.
• You were super / great / fantastic.

C.

Passing on praise

• To praise a third person, use:
• Please tell (her) I liked it very much.
• Tell (him) how good I thought (he was).
• Give my compliments to (the cook).

D.

Recovery

• Get well soon!
• Rest up! Have a relaxing time!
• A speedy recovery!

E.

General

• Cheers! (toast)
• Congratulations!
• Fortunately, luckily
• Good luck!
• Lucky fellow.
• Best of luck!
• I wish you success!
• Best wishes!
• To your health! (toast)
• Bon appétit! Enjoy your meal!
• Bon voyage! Have a good trip!

F.

Graduation

• Congratulations…
• Congratulations… on graduating with a master’s degree!
• Congratulations… on graduating with a doctorate!
• Best wishes…
• Congratulations… on graduating from college

G.

Marriage & Anniversary

• Congratulations, on the happy event! (new baby)
• Congratulations, on your golden/silver wedding anniversary!
• Congratulations, on your engagement!
• Congratulations, on your wedding!
• Wish you a happy Married life.

H.

Birthday

• Best wishes…
• Happy Birthday to you!
• Many happy returns of the day!
• Many Many happy returns of the day!

I.

Other Occasions.

·         All the best…

·         Best wishes…

·         Congratulations….

·         Congratulations…on your name day!

·         Congratulations on passing your masters test!

·         Best wishes on your new job!

·         Congratulations on your promotion!

·         Wish you a happy retired life!

·         Congratulating…

·         Congratulations!

·         Your essay has won first prize.

·         I’m so glad! My heartiest congratulations!

·         Hey, you’ve got that job? Congratulations.

·         Let me offer you my congratulations.

·         Congratulations! You deserve it!

·         I was delighted to hear about it.

·         Splendid! You must be very pleased.

·         I couldn’t have been more pleased!

·         I congratulate you. You’ve done a fine job, John!

·         That was excellent. Congratulations!

·         I was thrilled to hear about your new job.

·         You deserve all the luck in the world!

Making Complaints

A.

In complaining, the key question to ask is ‘What do I hope to achieve from this complaint?’ There is no point instantly venting your anger if it doesn’t produce a result. Very often, it helps to get the person you are dealing with on your side. For this reason, people are often taught to being any complaint with some sort of mild apology.

For example, ‘I’m sorry to say this but…’, ‘I’m afraid I must tell you that…’

B.

In English there are a number of formulas used when complaining. It’s important to remember that a direct complaint or criticism in English can sound rude or aggressive. It’s best to mention a problem in an indirect manner. Here are some of the most commonly used starters to make complaints:

I’m sorry to have to say this, but….

I’m sorry to bother you, but….

Maybe you forgot to….

I think you might have forgotten to….

Excuse me if I’m out of line, but…

There may have been a misunderstanding about….

Don’t get me wrong, but I think we should….

C.

To express your complaint, use the following word groups with suitable starters mentioned in Section B, above:

I’m sorry to have to say this, but I think we need to take another approach.

I’m sorry to have to say this, but you’re making fun of me.

I’m sorry to bother you, but I think you need to refine this layout.

Maybe you forgot to include his name and number.

I think you might have forgotten to finish the report on time.

Excuse me if I’m out of line, but your work has not been adequate lately.

There may have been a misunderstanding about what I expected from you.

Don’t get me wrong, but I think we should concentrate on the Smith account for the moment.

D.

Read the following word groups aloud several times. Please don’t try to learn by-heart. Your sub-conscious mind will do that job, even without your knowledge, and rush onto your tongue whenever required. Yes, your job is just to read these word groups aloud several times.

It doesn’t work.

It’s broken.

It’s defective.

It’s faulty

It’s not what I wanted.

It’s not what I asked for.

It’s not what I saw.

It’s the wrong size/shape/colour/model.

I was told it would (be made of leather).

I was given /sent the wrong thing.

I can’t use it/wear it.

It only lasted (two days).

I was told it would be (half an hour).

The food wasn’t properly cooked.

The repair wasn’t properly done.

The room wasn’t properly cleaned.

The service was slow/incompetent/very poor.

The staff/people were rude/unhelpful.

I was insulted/kept waiting/overcharged.

E.

Complaining about people’s behavior

What gives you the right to behave like that?

Would you mind making less noise?

Will you please stop making so much noise?

Will you please turn the volume down a bit, please?

If you don’t stop smoking, I’ll have to complain to the conductor.

You shouldn’t have said that.

That’s what hurts me most.

Will you stop teasing me?

I’m sorry, but this has got to stop. What do you think you’re doing?

This is really too much!

Stop shouting! I’ve had enough of this.

You have absolutely no right to behave like that.

Exercise

F.

Your Telephone is not working for the last two days. No action has been taken by the authorities to rectify the problem, even after many complaints and reminders from you. Make a final complaint stating that you will take the matter to the Consumer Forum, if the fault is not rectified immediately.

Obligation

Read the following word groups aloud several times. Please don’t try to learn by – heart. Your sub-conscious mind will do that job, even without your knowledge, and rush onto your tongue whenever required. Yes, your job is just to read these word groups aloud several times.

A.

Stating that you have (don’t have) an obligation to do

I must be there…

I must tell them..

I must do it in the right way

I must do everything I can to help them.

I must be there by Sunday.

I must send the reports today.

I must hand in my report tomorrow.

I have to be there by tomorrow.

I have to be at the office by ten.

I have no choice.

I have to go now.

I have to see that it is running well.

I can’t avoid it.

I can’t refuse to do that.

I can’t get out of doing it.

It’s my duty...

I’ll have to be back here before Thursday.

It is my responsibility to report this to the police.

I’m supposed to do what he tells me.

We needn’t hurry.

We have to show him our ID card.

I had to earn my living in those days.

I’m going to have accepted it.

We don’t have to take them there.

I don’t have to attend tomorrow’s function.

That’s something I have to do urgently.

B.

Asking whether you have an obligation to do or not

I don’t think, I have to go now.

I don’t have to, do I?

Do I have to bring anything with me?

Is it necessary to tell them our intention?

Must I give a reply?

Am I required to hand over these papers to him?

Do I need to leave a note for him?

Must I accept the invitation?

Have I got to give them some more money?

Am I expected to introduce myself to them?

C.

Stating that others have (or don’t have) an obligation to do

You must be there….

You must tell them…

You must do it in the right way

You must do everything I can to help them.

You must be there by Sunday.

You must send the reports today.

You must hand in my report tomorrow.

You have to be there by tomorrow.

You have to be at the office by ten.

You have no other choice.

You have to go now.

You have to see that he is doing well.

You can’t avoid it.

You can’t refuse to do that.

You can’t get out of doing it.

You have to go with your Mum.

You must finish it by Sunday.

You’ll have to pick him up from the Airport.

You’re under no obligation.

You don’t need to hurry.

As per law you’re not required to do it.

You needn’t do it.

You’re expected to get his permission before you do it.

You don’t have to remain there, if you don’t want to.

It’s not necessary to explain everything to them.

It’s up to you.

It’s your duty…

Nobody can force you to do that.

They’ll make you do it.

No, you don’t have to be there before eleven.

There’s no need to rush.

D.

Asking whether others have an obligation to do or not

Has he got to sign there?

Must you work so hard?

Do you need to leave a note for him?

Must you accept the invitation?

Have you got to give them some more money?

Have you got to mention this matter to him?

Are you expected to follow these guidelines?

Do you have to buy it from there?

Are you required to take a photocopy of it?

Do you need to get to the office so early?

Is it necessary for you to collect it today itself?

Expressing certainty & uncertainty

Read the following word groups aloud several times. Please don’t try to learn by – heart. Your sub-conscious mind will do that job, even without your knowledge, and rush onto your tongue whenever required. Yes, your job is just to read these word groups aloud several times.

A.

Expressing certainty.

I’m sure she’s right.

I’m sure of it.

I’m sure.

I’m certain about that.

I’m convinced of it.

I certainly believe that he was in the wrong way.

I have no doubt about it.

I’m convinced we are not to trust him.

I’m sure she’s done the right thing.

I’m absolutely sure that he is from the United States.

I know what she’s going to do.

I’m certain that she’s the one who did it.

I’m quite sure that they had met earlier.

I don’t doubt that he wanted to help her.

I feel quite sure that it was John.

Obviously…

There’s no doubt about…

There’s no doubt about it in my mind.

There’s no doubt that she comes from a royal family.

He’ll come, I’m sure of it.

He doesn’t stand a chance of winning.

She’ll be here in time, I’m sure.

She’s innocent.

She will only start tomorrow, I’m certain about that.

Without doubt, he’s one of the best singers we have.

It’s quite certain she was trying to fool you.

They must have left by now.

It’s clear that she knows him.

Obviously, she is against this proposal.

We were at fault.

It’s impossible that he could have seen her there.

B.

Expressing uncertainty.

I don’t think so.

I can’t make up my mind.

I can’t decide if I should invite them.

I don’t think you’re right.

I haven’t a clue.

I’m not sure about it.

I’m in two minds whether or not to do it.

I’m not sure.

I’m not sure what to do next.

I’m just not sure.

I’m in two minds about doing it.

I’m in two minds whether to accept it or not.

I’m not sure whether he knows it.

I’m a bit uncertain about this.

I don’t believe this is true.

I don’t know what to tell them

I don’t know whether to accept it or not.

I don’t know whether to do it or not.

I don’t believe that he can do it.

I don’t believe him.

I can’t believe it, I really can’t.

I can’t decide whether to take it back or not.

I can’t decide what to do.

I can’t decide whether to invite him or not.

I’ll possibly be able to do it.

I must say I find that very odd.

Yes, I suppose so.

May be I’ll buy it, may be I won’t.

Well, of course.

It’s up to you.

He’s possibly one of our best workers.

Do you think I should call him?

Perhaps the answer is to leave it to chance.

Oh, I feel in such a muddle.

He can’t have known about it.

He can’t do it, I think.

If only I knew what to do.

Tell me a way out.

Well, may be.

Look, I don’t know what to do.

Oh, I don’t know.

May be I shouldn’t do it.

Perhaps I should write to his Secretary first.

C.

Asking about certainty and uncertainty.

Are you quite sure?

Are you absolutely sure?

Are you sure that he’s her brother?

Are you absolutely certain it was Mary?

Do you think so?

Do you believe that he did it?

Do you think he’ll come?

Do you suppose that he’s right?

How do you know?

So you’re quite sure, are you?

You couldn’t have been mistaken, could you?

Was it, really?

How sure are you?

Permission & Consent

Read the following word groups aloud several times. Please don’t try to learn by-heart. Your sub-conscious mind will do that job, even without your knowledge, and rush onto your tongue whenever required. Yes, your job is just to read these word groups aloud several times.

A

Giving permission

Yes, you can proceed.

Yes, you can.

You, may go ahead.

By all means.

You can have as many as you want.

You can, if you want.

You may, if you like.

Yes, certainly.

OK.

I suppose so.

Sure, go ahead.

No, I don’t mind.

Not at all. (I don’t mind at all).

Yes, if you want.

Yes, all right.

Go right ahead.

Well, go ahead, if you must.

Yes, if you must.

I see no objection.

Yes, of course.

Yes, that’s fine.

You have my permission.

B.

Asking someone’s permission

May I come in?

Can I come in?

May I have a word with you, sir?

If you don’t mind, I’d like to smoke.

I’d like to stay behind for sometime, if you have no objection.

Would you mind if I smoke?

Can I switch on the TV please?

Could I see you for a moment?

Can I open the window?

Can I make a call from your telephone?

Do you mind if I use your phone?

Could I possibly take the car?

Would you let me take it home for a day?

Can I go too?

Would you object if I take my dog inside?

You don’t mind if I’m a bit late tomorrow, do you?

Would it be all right if I brought him in now?

Can I come with you?

Is it all right to stay up till midnight?

I wonder if I could borrow this book for a few days.

C.

Refusing permission

I’m sorry.

I can’t allow you to do it.

I’m sorry I can’t let you do it.

I’m afraid it’s out of the question.

I’m sorry you can’t do it.

No, I won’t let you do it.

No, you mustn’t do it.

No, don’t go there today.

No, you mustn’t open it now.

You must be joking!

You’d better ask her.

You’re not supposed to do it.

You’re not allowed to do it.

Sorry, you can’t.

Smoking is not allowed, I’m afraid.

Look, the answer is ‘No.’.

It’s out of the question, I’m afraid.

It’s OK with me, but you must ask the Principal.

There’s no way I’m going to let you do it.

D.

Consent

As you like.

You like.

You are right.

Yes, it’s true.

I agree.

I give my consent to this.

I entirely agree with you.

I’ll follow your advice.

I accept your invitation.

I have no objection

I don’t have any objection.

It doesn’t matter.

It will be so.

It’s rather a matter of pleasure.

This is quite right.

Of course, he gave up all hopes of passing high.

Do as your father says.

I am not trying to impose myself on you.

You don’t seem to agree with me.

Apologizing & Forgiving

A.

The Art of Apologizing

“You must first apologize before you can have a chance at being forgiven.” The right apology will release resentment and cause all people involved to feel better. Apologizing is so important because without it, the person offended will not forget it and the resentment will continue to nag the relationship.

When apologizing it is important to validate the other person’s feelings. If they are upset by something you did or said or what ever, do not tell them THEY are overreacting. We all have a right to our feelings and by apologizing properly you are validating theirs. Say something like: “I’m sorry for yelling at you, you have a right to be upset”.

You should also say what you are sorry for, while validating their feelings: “I’m sorry for not calling when I knew I was going to be late, that was very inconsiderate of me” or “I’m sorry for getting mad at you, I was being overactive” or “I’m sorry for the things I said earlier, it was very mean of me”. When I hear “I’m sorry” with no explanation of why, I think: ‘And what are you sorry for? Do you even know? Or do you think those two words fix everything?’ By clearly admitting your mistake and not making excuses for yourself you are telling the other person that you sincerely do feel bad, and that is what they want to hear.

B.

Apologizing

I’m sorry.

I’m very sorry.

I’m terribly sorry. I’m awfully sorry.

I’m very sorry that this has happened. I didn’t mean it.

I’m sorry you’ve had to wait so long.

I’m sorry – I really am.

I’m sorry if I worried you.

I’m sorry, we’ve really let you down, and there’s no excuse.

I’m really sorry about it.

I’m sorry I’m a little late for my appointment.

I’m sorry for not calling when I knew I was going to be late, that was very inconsiderate of me.

I ‘m sorry for getting mad at you, I was being over reactive.

I’m sorry for the things I said earlier.

Sorry, I’m not ready yet.

Look, I really must apologize for what I’ve done.

Sorry, I haven’t finished it yet.

Sorry about that. I hope you don’t mind.

I hope I’m not disturbing you.

Sorry, this is all entirely my own fault.

How stupid of me! I wasn’t thing.

Sorry, I can’t find it anywhere.

Please forgive me for all this confusion.

I do beg your pardon.

I’d like to apologize for all that.

I can’t begin to say how sorry I’m about it.

Please excuse me for it.

I’m so very sorry for saying all that.

Oh, you must forgive me. I had no idea.

I have to leave early.

I hope you’ll excuse me.

Look, I didn’t mean to upset you.

C.

Accepting an apology

It’s OK.

Forget it.

That’s all right.

It’s all right. It doesn’t matter this time, but don’t repeat it.

Not at all.

Please don’t worry.

I don’t want you to feel bad about it.

That’s perfectly all right.

Don’t worry about it.

Anyone can make a mistake.

Oh well, I suppose it’s all right.

D.

Rejecting an apology

What’s the use of saying ‘sorry’?

It’s too late to say sorry now.

Look at the damage done to my bike.

It’s no use saying sorry now.

Saying ‘sorry’ just isn’t enough.

You should have done it earlier.

E.

Forgiving

It doesn’t matter.

It’s OK, but don’t do it again, will you?

All is forgiven.

It’s quite all right.

I do wish you’ll be more careful. Don’t worry about it.

It’s all right

Well, all right.

Everybody makes mistakes sometimes.

It doesn’t matter at all.

Never mind.

Making an Appointment

Read the small conversation texts A & B (given below) several times. Focus on fluency until it feels smooth. If possible record the conversation and listens to it. Re- record until you are satisfied with the fluency. While reading it is advisable to read like: ‘ThisisRonHolland’ as it there is no space in between “This, is, Ron, and Holland”.

A.

Making an Appointment: Dialogue I

1. Hello. This is Ron Holland. I’d like to make an appointment to see Dr. Hudson
2. Certainly. What seems to be the problem?

1. I’d like to have my monthly check-up.
2. Fine. When would you be available to come to see Dr. Hudson?

1. Any day next week in the evening would be great.
2. How about tomorrow at 6 o’clock?

1. That sounds fine. Thank you.
2. We’ll see you tomorrow Mr. Ron. Goodbye.

B.

Making an Appointment: Dialogue II

A: Excuse me, madam. I want to meet the MD.

B: Do you have an appointment?

A: No, I do not have an appointment.

B: I am sorry then. You will first have to fix an appointment with him.

A: Could I get an appointment, for now?

B: I am sorry, he is in a meeting, and he won’t be free till 5 in the evening.

A: Could I get an appointment, for tomorrow?

B: I’ll have to check his programmes. Please be seated.

A: Thank you.

B: I am sorry, I forgot. Our MD is going out of station, tomorrow, for three days.

A: I’m not in a hurry. I can wait till he comes back.

B: In that case, I will make an appointment for you. Do you want to meet him on a   

            specific day or time?

A: Let me see. Today is Friday. Could you give me an appointment for Wednesday?

B: Sorry, sir. That’s not possible either.

A: What about Saturday, then?

B: We are closed on Saturday.

A: Well, the best thing would be to put it off till next Monday, the.

B: Yes. That’d be fine. He is totally free on Monday. What time would you like to come?

A: I prefer an appointment in the morning.

B: Would 9:30 suit you, sir?

A: Yes, that’s perfect.

B: I’ve noted it down. Have a nice day, sir.

A: Nice day to you too and thank you.

Now read the following word groups aloud several times. Please don’t try to learn by-heart. Your sub-conscious mind will do that job, even without your knowledge, and rush onto your tongue whenever required. Yes, your job is just to read these word groups aloud several times.

C.

Making appointments

I’d like to make an appointment to see Dr Brown, please.

How soon could I have an appointment?

Would today evening be all right?

Is there any other time I could come today?

Can you give me an appointment on Sunday?

Sunday would suit me best.

Is there any other time I could come today?

Could we arrange day after tomorrow, then?

Could I possible come on Monday?

I’m sorry, I can’t come then.

Can I come earlier in the evening?

Can I come later in the morning?

Will Saturday or Sunday suit you best?

I’d like to come in the evening, please.

Could I come on Saturday Morning?

Could you manage Monday?

Yes, afternoon would do very well.

Which day will be more convenient for you?

D.

Arranging to meet

Meet me in fron of the Museum at 9 in the morning.

I’ll meet you at 9 o’ clock.

Shall we meet at the Railway station?

I’ll pick you up at the Railway station.

OK, we’ll meet for break fast, the.

I’ll pick you up at about 6.00.

I’ll come and meet you at the station.

Shall we make it 6.00 outside the church?

If it’s okay with you, I’ll come at about8.

EXERCISE

1. You sell expensive medical equipment (a small cyclotron for treating cancer) You have to make an appointment to talk to a doctor who is very incluential at a hospital where you’re trying to close a sale. You want to get him in the right mood so you invite him to play a round of golf at an expensive coutry club.
2. You used to exhibit the tennis rackets that your small company produced until it went bankrupt many years ago. This year you went back to the show for old time’s sake and you bumped into an old friend you haven’t seen for years. You  make an appointment to get together and reminisce about the old days.
3. You’re a reporter who wants to write an insider story on the corporate reorganizations that are taking place in the wake of the Asian financial crisis. You make an appointment to talk with an investment banker (a friend of a friend) to talk about what’s going on.