General English

• Good, thanks — how about you?
• I should get going — take care.

The phrases every other conversation is built on.

• Could I get an aisle seat?
• Where would you go for good food that is not full of tourists?

Airports, hotels, tickets, directions — and when they go wrong.

• Do you have this in a medium?
• Is there a discount for students?

Stores, pharmacies, appointments, deliveries, returns.

• I'd like a table for four at eight.
• Sorry, I think this is not what I ordered — could you check with the kitchen?

Booking, ordering, allergies, the check.

• I'd like to see a doctor about a cough I have had for three weeks.
• Is this covered under my plan?

Appointments, symptoms, instructions, emergencies.

• Could I ask about the heating in winter?
• When would you like the keys back?

Renting, repairs, utilities, neighbors, moving out.

• I'd like to open a checking account.
• Is this the right department for billing disputes?

Banks, disputed charges, phone queues, officials, forms.

• Do you want to get a coffee after work?
• I am so sorry — I cannot imagine what that has been like.

Invitations, plans, small talk, sympathy, keeping in touch.

• Where do I put my things?
• I have decided to move on at the end of next month.

Interviews, shifts, time off, pay, colleagues, leaving.