English for Phones - Beginners English Course

There are many different ways of making and answering polite requests in English. Below are some examples. Tap the links to see them.

Example 1. Doctor's surgery

Patient: Could I see a doctor, please?
Reseptionist: Yes, Could you wait in the waiting room? The doctor will call you in.
Patient: Thank you

Example 2. Classroom

Teacher: Would you please bring your homework next week.

Example 3. Pharmacy

Pharmacist: Could I see your prescription please?
Client: Yes, of course
Pharmacist: Thank you. Your medicine will be ready for collection this afternoon.

Example 4. Library

Borrower: Could I borrow these books please?
Librarian: Yes, of course. But would you mind bringing them back next week, as they are needed by another borrower?

Look at the requests and choose the most polite answers.

1. Would you close the door on your way out?

Correct answer: Yes, of course.

I would

Yes, of course

2. Would you mind lending me the book when you finish?

Correct answer: No, not at all.

No, not at all

Yes, I would

Yes

3. Can I ask you a favour?

Correct answer: Of course.

What do you want?

No you can't

Of course

4. Could you help me with these dishes?

Correct answer: With pleasure.

With pleasure

No, I can't

What dishes?

5. Would you help Eric with his maths homework? He is having difficulties.

Correct answer: No problem.

No problem

If I must

Oh, all right then

6. May I leave work a bit earlier today? I have to take my daughter to the dentist.

Correct answer: By all means.

By all means

That's not possible

Don't do it again

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