Phrase- 1

Addressing People

>> In business>>  Groups of people>> Addressing strangers

In business

When you meet someone new, under social or business circumstances, it’s important to know how to address the individual standing in front of you. Properly addressing people in different situations shows you’re respectful of their position and mindful of not offending them in any way. Refined social etiquette as it relates to addressing others promotes smooth and friendly conversation.

In business situations, use formal titles unless the people you meet tell you otherwise. You may ask a question of another business professional and address them by Mr., Mrs., Miss, or Ms. In fact, Ms. is used quite often in business. Ms. is applicable to a married or unmarried woman. Use Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms. When You know Their Last Name: Before asking to address someone, you need get someone’s attention, you can say

• Excuse me, Sir
• Pardon me, Madam/ Ma’am.
• Hello Sir
• Good morning, Madam/ Ma’am
• Nice to meet you, Sir!

Very polite terms of address

• Sir (adult male of any age)
• Ma’am (adult female – North American)
• Madam (adult female)
• Mr + last name (any man)
• Mrs + last name (married woman who uses her husband’s last name)
• Ms + last name (married or unmarried woman; common in business)
• Miss + last name (unmarried woman)

Examples:

• I’m sorry madam, but we just sold the last blue scarf.
• Miss, your coffee is ready.
• Ms. Kim starts tomorrow as our new manager.
• Hello Mrs. Martinez, it’s nice to meet you.

Job titles

We use a wide range of titles for jobs:

• Dr + last name (some doctors go by Dr + first name)
• Professor + last name (in a university setting)
• Chief Executive Officer CEO
• Managing Director MD
• Financial Director FD
• Chief Technical Officer CTO
• Vice-President VP
• Chair/Chairperson/Chairman

We don’t normally call people by the name of their job or profession. Some jobs or professions which we can use as terms of address are: doctor (medical), driver, nurse, minister, officer, waiter: We use Dr  for medical doctors and people with a doctorate qualification (PhD).

Groups of people

We use:

• Folks
• Guys
• Everyone/everybody
• Children
• Boys
• Lads
• Girls
• Ladies
• Gentlemento

Some of these are more formal. For example, ladies and gentlemenis more formal than folks or guys. Guys is used more and more for groups of both sexes, not just males.

Example:

• OK, boys, could you all wait in the main hall, please.
• Everybody, could you all hand in your evaluations as you leave, please.
• Come, on guys, come and help!

Addressing strangers

If you are unsure of what to call someone, it’s best to use a formal address or simply ask one of these questions:

• What should I call you?
• What should I call your mum / the teacher / the manager?
• Can I call you [first name] ?
• What’s your name? (use in a casual situation like a party or classroom where first names are used)

Why is “What should I call you?” such a difficult question to ask? Perhaps it’s because you are asking the other person to provide their status or position in the world in relation to yours. This position may involve age, job, education, religion and even marital status.

• Is it okay if I call you [the nickname you’ve heard others use] ?

Sometimes it doesn’t hurt to ask someone how he or she wishes to be addressed. Use formal address first, and then ask them if they prefer something else. You can simply ask, “Is it okay if I call you ….?” When you know this is their name you can ask this – they will either say yes, or tell you what they prefer.

If you meet someone in a situation and you’re unsure of how to address him or her, err on the side of caution by using formal address. If the person on the receiving end feels this is too ‘stuffy’ of an address, they will let you know.

For example, you may say, “Nice to meet you, Sir!” Whereupon the person may say, “Please, call me [Name]”  So, until directed otherwise, use formal address to start your conversation.

Answering the question

You might not be the only person wondering about titles. Students, colleagues or acquaintances may not know what to call you. If they seem unsure about how to pronounce your name, or you want them to call you something more casual, help them out:

• Please, call me [first name]
• You can call me [nickname or short form]

 

Phrase-2

Greetings and Expressions

>> General greetings>> First meetings>> Subsequent meetings>> Greeting a person you haven’t seen for a long time>> Introductions/ Ice breakers>> Ways to say “Hello” in English

General greetings

Formal

These greetings can be used in any formal situation, such as a business meeting or meeting someone’s parents, and they can also be used in informal situations as well.

• Hello
• How are you? or How’re you?
• How are you doing? or How ya doin’?
• How is everything?
• How’s everything going?

This is different than “What are you doing.” “How are you doing?” means “How are you?” whereas “What are you doing?” is asking what action you are currently doing.

Informal

These greetings can be used in any informal situation. To show extra enthusiasm you can add “Hey” to the beginning of these greetings.

• (Hey) What’s up (man/dude/bro/their name)?
• (Hey) Good to see you.
• (Hey) How are things (with you)?
• (Hey) How’s it going?

The pronunciation can be shortened to “goin’.” A typical response to this question is “It’s going good.”

• How’s life been treating you?
• What’s cracking?
• What’s up?

The pronunciation is often shortened to “crackin’.” This is highly informal and should only be used with people around your age.

• What’s good?
• What’s happening?

The pronunciation is often shortened to “happenin’.”

First meetings

Introducing yourself

• How do you do? My name is Anna. [formal]
• Hello, Lynne Hand.
• Tom  [informal]

Introducing others

• Mrs Hand, may I introduce my boss, Mr Smith. [formal]
• Lynne, I’d like you to meet John Smith, our salesman. John, this is Lynne Hand.
• Lynne, meet John, my husband. John, this is my teacher Lynne. [informal]

Responding to an introduction

• Pleased to meet you Mrs Hand. [formal]
• Pleased to meet you Lynne.
• Hi, Lynne. How are you? [informal]

On Leaving

• Goodbye. It’s a pleasure to have met you.[formal]
• Goodbye. Nice to have met you.
• Bye. It was nice to meet you.[informal]

Subsequent meetings

Possible Greetings

• Hello, Mrs Hand. It’s nice to see you again. [formal]
• Good afternoon, Mrs Hand. It’s good to see you.
• Hello Lynne. How are you doing?
• Hi, Lynne! How’s it going?
• Hi, Lynne. How are things? [informal]

Possible responses

• What a pleasant surprise! How are you? It’s been a while. [formal]
• I’m very well thank you. And you?
• Thank you. It’s nice to see you too. How are you?
• Fine thanks. What’s new with you?
• Not too bad, busy as ever.
• Oh fine. You know how it is. [informal]

Greeting a person you haven’t seen for a long time

Formal

• It has been a long time.
• It’s been too long.
• What have you been up to all these years?
• It’s always a pleasure to see you.
• How long has it been?
• What’s new?

Informal

• Long time no see. (This is the most common.)
• Where have you been hiding? (This is a playful way of greeting someone.)
• It’s been ages (since I’ve seen you).
• How’ve you been?

Introductions/ Ice breakers

When introducing yourself in another language people are always going to want to know the same information

• What’s your name? (you’re probably going to have to repeat it a couple of times or make it sound more English)
• Where are you from? (be prepared to describe you city geographically)
• What are you doing here? (People are always curious)

Another good way to make a good first impression is to get that person talking about themselves or their city. This can be done during the introduction phase as a way of breaking the ice.

• So, where are you from?
• Is your family from here/there?
• What did you think of the soccer last night?
• What do you think of this place/the beer/the music here?
• Don’t you just hate waiting in line/this music/the noise?

Ways to say “Hello” in English

• Hey/ Hey man/ Hi

You can use “hey” and “hi” to greet someone instead of “hello”. Both are particularly popular among younger people. “Hi” is appropriate to use in any casual situation, “Hey” is for people who have already met. If you say “hey” to a stranger, it might be confusing for that person because he or she will try to remember when you met before! You can also add “man” to the end of “hey” when greeting males. Remember that “hey” doesn’t always mean “hello”. “Hey” can also be used to call for someone’s attention.

• How’s it going?/ How are you doing?

These are casual ways of asking “how are you?” If you’re trying to be particularly polite, stick with “how are you?” but otherwise, you can use these expressions to greet almost anyone. The word “going” is usually shortened, so it sounds more like “go-in”. Most people just answer “good”. Like when responding to “how are you?” you can also follow your answer by asking “and you?”.

• What’s up?/ What’s new?/ What’s going on? (informal)

Used to casually greet someone you have met before. Answer with “nothing” or “not much”. Or, if it feels right to make small talk, you could also briefly describe anything new or interesting that’s going on in your life, before asking “what about you?” to continue the conversation.

• How’s everything ?/ How are things?/ How’s life?

Used to casually greet anyone but most often they’re used to greet someone you already know. Answer “good” or “not bad”. Again, if small talk feels appropriate, you could also briefly share any interesting news about your life, and then ask the person “what about you?” or another greeting question.

• How’s your day?/ How’s your day going?

These questions mean “how are you?” not just right now, but how you’ve been all day. You would use these greetings later in the day and with someone you see regularly. For example, you might ask a co-worker one of these questions in the afternoon, or a cashier that you see at the grocery store every evening. “It’s going well” is the grammatically correct response, but many people simply answer with “fine”, “good” or “alright”. By the way, notice that “good”, “fine” or “not bad” are perfect answers to almost any greeting question.

• Good to see you/ Nice to see you

Used with friends, co-workers or family members that you haven’t seen in a while. It’s common for close friends to hug when they greet each other, particularly if they haven’t seen each other in some time; so you might use this greeting along with a hug or handshake depending on your relationship with the person.

• Long time no see/ It’s been a while

These casual greetings are used when you haven’t seen someone in a long time, particularly if you meet that person unexpectedly. For example, you could use one of these greetings if you normally see the person every week, but then don’t see them for a few months or more. Usually, these phrases are followed with a question like “how are you”, “how have you been?” or “what’s new?”

 

• Good morning, Good afternoon, or Good evening

These are formal ways of saying “hello”, which change depending on the time of day. Note: “good night” is only used to say “good bye”. Good morning can be made more casual by simply saying “morning”. You can also use “afternoon” or “evening” as informal greetings, but these are less commonly used.

• It’s nice to meet you or Pleased to meet you  (formal and polite)

If you say this to someone when you meet him or her for the first time, it will make you seem courteous. Remember to only use these greetings the first time you meet someone. Next time you see the person you can show that you remember him or her by saying “it’s nice to see you again”.

• How have you been?

Only asked by people who have already met. If someone asks you “how have you been?” they want to know if you have been well since the last time the two of you met.

• How do you do? (very formal, and quite uncommon)

Be used by some older people. The proper response is “I’m doing well” or, as strange as it seems, some people even ask “how do you do?” right back as an answer.

• Yo! (common in America)

This greeting should only be used with very close friends, and never in a business setting.

• Are you OK?/ You alright?/ Alright mate? (common in Britain)

This casual way of asking both “hello” and “how are you” You can respond “yeah, fine”, or simply “alright”.

• Sup? or What’s up?

These greetings are abbreviations of “what’s up?” which are common among teenagers. Like with “what’s up?” you can answer “nothing” or “not much”.

• Well hello!

Say “Hi” this way when you’re surprised to see someone, or if you haven’t seen them in a long time. It makes you seem excited.

• Greetings!

This is an extremely formal greeting.. You can use it to be funny if you’re tired of using other phrases.

• Look who it is!

When you see someone that you haven’t seen in a long time. It sounds really excited.

 

Ph-3

Saying Goodbye

>> Formal and Business>> Casual>> Slang

Formal and Business

• Goodbye. The most formal ways to say goodbye to someone. It is typically only used if you are never going to see the person again. Here are some situations in which “Goodbye” is appropriate: You’ve broken up with your partner. You’re sad about it. You think that you may never see this person again.You’re angry with a family member. You say this as you slam the door or hang up the phone.  
• Farewell. This phrase is quite formal and very emotional-sounding. It also seems very final. It’s the type of thing that two lovers in a movie might say if they’re never going to see each other again. You probably won’t use it often in daily life.
• Have a good day/   Have a nice day / Have a good evening These are pleasant, polite ways to say goodbye to someone you don’t know very well, to someone that you’re not very close with. (a coworker that you don’t know well, an employee, a customer, or a friend of a friend)
• Have a good weekend Use “have a good weekend” when saying goodbye to a colleague on Friday afternoon.
• Take care. Take care can be used in professional situations, as well as more casual ones. This phrase is still a little bit formal, but not quite as formal as “Have a good day”. It’s a warm, genuine-sounding expression that is usually received well by others. Use this when you’re not going to see someone again for at least a week.
•  I’ve got to get going/ I must be going These are a good expression to use when you’re ready to leave a social gathering. It would be rude to suddenly say “bye” and leave in the middle of a conversation. Saying “I’ve got to get going” lets people know that you’re ready to start saying “goodbye”.
• I look forward to our next meeting This very formal expression is appropriate if you would like to continue doing business with someone. It lets the person know that although you’re saying goodbye now, you want to keep in contact with him or her.
• It was nice to see you again or It was nice seeing you When you greet someone you often say “it’s nice to see you”, so when you say goodbye you can say “it was nice to see you again”.  You can use this expression to say goodbye to someone you already know. Or if this was the first time you met the person, you can say “it was nice meeting you”.

Casual

• Bye! This is the standard goodbye, the most common way to say goodbye in English. You can say “‘Bye” to anyone you know. It’s appropriate for friends and family, as well as co-workers and business partners. It’s common to say “‘Bye” at the very end of a conversation, even after you’ve said some of the other phrases in this list. . It’s short, simple, and you can say it to absolutely anyone. 
• Bye bye! Little children say “Bye bye”, and adults say it when speaking to children. Occasionally, adults will say “bye bye” to each other, but only if they know each other quite well and they’re trying to be flirtatious or cute. You don’t want to say this to a colleague or business partner.
• Later! “Later!” is a cool, casual way to say goodbye. Men often use “Later!” when speaking with each other. 
• See you later/ See you soon “See you later” is not quite as casual as “Later!”. You can use it with almost anyone.
• Talk to you later.   When you’re talking to someone on the phone, you can say “Talk to you later” instead.
• Have a good one. “Have a good one” means “Have a good day” or “Have a good week.” You sound relaxed and friendly when you use it. 
• Take it easy This expression is a more casual way of saying “have a nice day”. “Take it easy” is basically encouraging the person not to work too hard, and to take some time to relax.

Slang

• Catch you later. This is a variation on “See you later” that you might use if you want to seem super-casual. You might imagine a surfer using this phrase.
• Peace! / Peace out. “Peace!” as a way to say goodbye comes from hip-hop music and culture. It sounds very casual. 
• I’m out/ I’m out of here This is a very casual way of letting people know that you’re leaving, which should only be used among friends. Using these expressions makes it sound like you’re happy to be leaving, so be careful how and when you say them. For example, you might say “I’m out!” to your coworkers as you’re leaving your part time job for the day/ A student might say “I’m out of here” to his friends after his last class, because he’s happy to be finished school and going home for the day.
• I gotta jet, I gotta take off, I gotta hit the road or I gotta head out These are slang versions of “I’ve got to get going”. “Gotta” is an abbreviation of “got to”. Like “I’ve got to get going”, these expressions let your friends know that you’ve had a nice time and you’re at least a little sad to be leaving. There you have it! Feel free to play around with these different ways to say goodbye and see which ones you like the most.

 

4- Saying Apology

>> For small mistakes>> More serious mistake>> For incorrect information>> Making a formal or serious apology>> Writing a formal apology

For small mistakes

Simply saying “sorry” is most common with small mistakes, like bumping into someone or saying someone’s name wrong.

• Whoops! Sorry!
• Oh! Sorry.
• Sorry ‘bout that.
• Oh, my bad.
• My fault, bro.

More serious mistake

For a more serious mistake, especially in customer service situations.

• I’m so sorry.
• I apologize.
• Oh my goodness! I’m so sorry. I should have watched where I was going.

For incorrect information

If you cause a problem with communication, or give incorrect information.

• My mistake.
• I had that wrong.
• I was wrong on that.
• My apologies.
• Sorry, my apologies. I had that wrong.

Making a formal or serious apology

If you make a serious mistake with a friend, loved one, or coworker, you shouldn’t use casual language to apologize.

• I’d like to apologize.
• I want to apologize.
• I owe you an apology.
• I wanted to tell you I’m sorry.
• After these phrases, you can add “for (doing something/ how I… / what I…)”:
• I’d like to apologize for how I reacted yesterday.
• If you want to, you can also say:
• I hope you can forgive me.
• That was wrong of me.

Writing a formal apology

We use the most formal English in writing.

• I sincerely apologize.
• I take full responsibility.

You may want to complete the sentence with one of these phrases:

• ...for any problems I may have caused.
• …for my behavior.
• …for my actions.

A simple apology

If it is a small problem you may just need to say sorry. You should see though that you need to think about whether you want to use but/that/for

• I’m sorry but___
• I’m sorry but I won’t be able to come to the part.
• I’m sorry that ___
• I’m sorry that I broke you mug.
• I’m sorry for___
• I’m sorry for not having replied sooner.

A stronger apology

These are phrases that work when there is a bigger mistake

• I do apologise for ___
• I do apologise for failing to meet you at the station.
• I must apologise for ___
• I really must apologise for___
• I sincerely apologise for ___
• I sincerely apologise for the trouble this has caused you.

More informal

If you are writing to a friend.

• I’m ever so sorry___
• I’m ever so sorry that we won’t see each other next week.
• I’m really sorry ___
• I’m really sorry that I’ve lost that book you lent me.

More formal

• I would like to apologise___
• I would like to apologise for missing my appointment with you.
• Please accept my apologies for___
• Please accept my apologies for the disturbance caused.

Thinking about the consequences

Something else you may need to do is to apologise for any difficulty.

• I’m sorry if this puts you out
• I do apologise for any inconvenience caused
• I hope that this does not cause you any problems

 

5- Saying I love you

>> Express your feelings>> Complimenting

Those three little words “I Love You” hold a lot of meaning but there’s more ways to say them than you think. Here are 100 different ways for you to verbally express your love to your sweetheart.

Express your feelings

Say seriously to the person that you love to let them know how you feel.

• I adore you.
• I’m yours.
• I am infatuated with you.
• I appreciate you.
• I can’t live without you.
• I can’t stop thinking about you when we’re apart.
• I cherish you.
• I dream of you.
• I live for our love.
• I love being around you.
• I need you by my side.
• I can’t live without you.
• I need you.
• I respect you.
• I value you.
• I want a lifetime with you.
• I want you.
• I worship you.
• I yearn for you.
• I’m a better person because of you.
• I’m blessed to have you in my life.
• I’m devoted to you.
• I’m fond of you.
• I’m lost without you.
• I’m nothing without you.
• I’m passionate about you.
• I’m thankful for you.
• Me and you. Always.
• My love is unconditional.
• Our love is invaluable.
• Take me I’m yours.
• The thought of you brings a smile to my face.
• Together forever.
• We were meant to be together.

Complimenting

Complimenting makes the person you love feel good about themselves.

• You are a blessing in disguise.
• You are an angel from God.
• You are like a candle burning bright.
• You are my crush.
• You are my dear.
• You are my everything.
• You are my one and only.
• You are my reason for living.
• You are my strength.
• You are my sunshine.
• You are my treasure.
• You are my world.
• You are precious.
• You are the light of my life.
• You are the reason I’m alive.
• You bring happiness to rainy days.
• You bring joy to my life.
• You cast a spell on me that can’t be broken.
• You complete me.
• You drive me wild.
• You fill me with desire.
• You fill my heart.
• You give me wings to fly.
• You had me from hello.
• You hold the key to my heart.
• You inspire me.
• You intoxicate me.
• You lift me up to touch the sky.
• You light my flame.
• You light up my life.
• You make me hot.
• You make my heart skip a beat.
• You make my world a better place.
• You mean the world to me.
• You motivate me.
• You rock my world.
• You seduce me.
• You set my heart on fire.
• You simply amaze me.
• You stole my heart.
• You sweeten my sour days.
• You turn my world upside down.
• You turn the darkness into life.
• You’re a dream come true.
• You’re a gem.
• You’re a twinkle in my eye.
• You’re absolutely wonderful.
• You’re all I want.
• You’re as beautiful as a sunset.
• You’re beautiful.
• You’re charming.
• You’re enchanting.
• You’re heavenly.
• You’re my angel.
• You’re my perfect match.
• You’re one in a million.
• You’re priceless.
• You’re the best thing that ever happened to me.
• You’re the best.
• You’re the diamond in the rough.
• You’re the one for me.
• You’re the light of my eye.
• You’re my happiness
• You’re all I need.
• You’re the miracle of my life.
• You’re the one I’ve always wished for

 

6- Saying Thank You

>> Common phrases>> For helping>> For wedding or party>> For birthday wishes>> At christmas>> To your boss>> In formal business

Common phrases

Basic

• Thank you!
• Thanks!
• Thanks a lot!
• Thank you very much!
• That’s very kind of you.
• You’re so helpful.
• Thanks for your kind words.
• Thank you for coming here today!

Examples:

• “I love your dress; you look so beautiful!” – “Thank you very much.”
• “Would you like a sandwich?” – “Oh, thanks. I would love one.”

Accepting thanks

• That’s all right!
• You’re welcome.
• Don’t mention it.
• Not at all
• It’s nothing
• My pleasure

Examples:

• “Thanks a lot for your help, you’re very kind.” – “Don’t mention it.”
• ‘Thanks a lot for looking after the children.” – “It’s my pleasure. I love children.”
• “Thank you so much. I couldn’t have managed without your help.” – “No problem.”
• “Thank you for such a wonderful gift.” – “You’re very welcome.”

Written, formal

• Many thank for your email.
• I was so pleased to hear from you
• I greatly appreciate your kind words.
• Thank you for your consideration.
• I’m very thankful that you are considering my problem.

Very polite, formal

• How kind you are to help me.
• Thank you for spending time with me.
• Thank you for talking the trouble to help me. I do appreciate it.
• Many thanks for your assistance in our project.

For helping

• Thank you I really appreciate your help.
• I cannot thank you enough for helping me.
• I really appreciate all the hard work you’ve done to help me.
• Thank you for helping me improve.
• Thank you for being patient and helping me improve.

• Friends like you are not easy to find.
• How can I ever thank you enough.
• I am very thankful that you are my teacher/friend…
• Thank you for sharing your wisdom with me.
• I am eternally grateful for everything you’ve taught me.
• I am grateful for the positive learning environment you provided me with.
• I have learnt so much, thanks to you.
• Thank you for your guidance and support.
• I want you to know how much I value your support.
• I wholeheartedly appreciate everything you’ve done for me.

• I just want to say how grateful I am that you were my teacher. Your guidance and support has been amazing! Thank you for helping me improve
• I really appreciate all the hard work you’ve done to help me. I have learnt so much, and it’s all thanks to you!
• You were there for me every step of the way, and I wholeheartedly appreciate everything you’ve done for me

For wedding or party

If you want to express thanks to your guests.

• Thank you for coming.
• Thank you for joining us today.
• Thank you ever so much for your generous gift.
• I cannot thank you enough for the wonderful gift.
• We really appreciate your presence here.
• You were invaluable today, thank you for all your help.
• What would we have done without your help? Thank you so much.
• Thank you so much for making my wedding/party/class… so special.
• Thank you for making me feel special today/this Holiday/…

You  were the wedding/party guest, and would like to thank them for the invite.

• Words cannot describe how grateful we are.
• It was a pleasure to be a part of your special day
• Thank you for inviting me to share your special day.
• I’m very happy to be a part of your celebrations.

Examples:

• Thank you for coming today. It’s been such a wonderful day, and we really appreciate you sharing it with us.
• Thank you for the gift, and for joining us today. It’s been so special, and we’re really glad you were her.
• Thank you so much for everything you did to help make this day perfect. What would we have done without you?
• Thank you for all the lovely gifts, and for being here with us. It means a lot.
• Words cannot describe how grateful we are for your generous gift. Thank you ever so much.
• It was a pleasure to be a part of your special day. Thank you for inviting me, and sharing your happiness.

For birthday wishes

• Thank you so much for the kind birthday wishes. You helped make it a very happy birthday. Much love.
• Hey Everyone, I just wanted to thank all of you and to let you guys know how wonderful it feels to have friends like you that can share in my special day. Thanks!
• Friends, thank you so much for the kind words on my birthday! I really appreciate the well wishes as I slowly climb over the hill. Can’t wait to party with you ladies soon! Kisses and hugs!
• Thank you so much my lovely friends who made my day. I love you all very much for the wonderful feelings you gave me on my special day and made it the most memorable birthday of my life. God bless you.
• Thank you guys. That was the best birthday wishes ever! you guys rock.
• Thank you all for remembering my birthday.
• Your wishes were all that was needed, to make my birthday much more special Thanks a lot!
• I don’t think of it as being another year older. I think of it as another year of having enjoyed a friend like you. Thank you.
• It wouldn’t be a happy birthday without having friends like you guys, the wishes much appreciated.
• Hello everybody. It was so nice of you to stop by to wish me a “Happy Birthday”. it made my birthday just a little bit more special Thank you…
• Thanks guys for the awesome birthday wishes! You guys are so sweet!
• Thank you all for your warm wishes. Wish us all a happy life ahead. Love you all!!!
• Tom, I’d like to thank you for making my birthday so special. I enjoyed the movie we saw and I absolutely loved the huge barrel of buttery popcorn we ate. It was our night together that made my birthday wishes come true.
• Thanks so much for your wishes!! You made my Birthday… All the more special. May God Bless You All.

At christmas

• Thank you for the wonderful Christmas present.
• Thank you for the Christmas wishes.
• Sending special thanks to you this Christmas. (Written message)
• I’d like to say a warm thank you to you this Christmas.
• Thank you for making me feel special this Christmas.
• Thank you so much for making my Christmas so special.
• Thanks for the Christmas gifts; I love them!
• It has been a very special Christmas thanks to you. Happy Holidays. Thank you for inviting us to your beautiful home for Christmas.
• Thank you for the wonderful Christmas feast!
• Thank you for including us in your Christmas festivities.
• Thank you for hosting Christmas dinner; it was divine.
• Thank you for a memorable Christmas gathering.
• You are a very gracious host. Thank you for the warm invite.
• I really appreciate the gift card, thank you so much!
• Thank you for such a practical gift.
• Thank you for the beautiful Christmas card.
• We all appreciate the lovingly wrapped gifts. Thank you so much!
• Sending you wishes of joy and happiness in return.
• Thank you for spreading the Christmas cheer.
• What a magical Christmas experience! Thank you.

 

To your boss

• Thank you for extending compassion and flexibility when I needed it.
• As a supervisor, you are truly inspirational to your staff.
• Your strong leadership skills along with your support has earned you much deserved respect.
• Your support and dedication to your team has earned you much deserved admiration.
• I am thankful to be a part of your team.
• The workers have seen your dedication, and we would like to express our appreciation.
• We are grateful for your kindness, loyalty and commitment to all of us.
• If there ever was a boss who deserves praise and adulation, that person is you!
• Thank you for providing us with such a great working environment.
• I want to thank you for the expression of faith in my abilities.
• I would like to sincerely thank you for this gesture.
• Allow me to express my sincerest gratitude for this opportunity you have given me.
• I value the trust you have put into me and will work hard to maintain it.
• Thank you very much for putting your trust in me and agreeing to my extended holiday request.
• I am eternally grateful for your trust, and appreciate you allowing me to have this time off work.
• Thank you for your support, guidance and encouragement.
• Thank you for the opportunities you provided, and for having faith in me.
• I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for giving me this opportunity

Examples:

• I would like to sincerely thank you for such a fantastic opportunity. I appreciate your faith in my abilities and will certainly do my very best to meet your expectations.
• Allow me to express my sincerest gratitude for this opportunity you have given me. I am eternally grateful for the trust you have put in me and will work hard to maintain it.
• Thank you for extending compassion and flexibility when I needed it. As a supervisor, you are truly inspirational to your staff.

In formal business

In the business world, sometimes it is important to express thanks to people other than your boss too, such as colleagues, other firms, or even clients! Showing that you appreciate them placing their business with you, providing support, or even partnership, is important. Here is how you can say it well. Most of these can be used for direct contact or email communication.

• Thank you very much; your support is greatly appreciated.
• We would like to express our gratitude.
• I am most grateful for your support.
• Thank you for providing the requested information.
• Thank you for all your assistance.
• Thank you for raising your concerns.
• Thank you for your kind co-operation.
• Thank you for your attention to this matter.
• Thank you for your consideration.
• Thank you once again for everything you’ve done.
• How kind you are to help me. Thank you very much.
• Thank you for spending time with me.
• Thank you for taking the trouble to help me. I do appreciate it.
• Many thanks for your assistance in our project.
• Many thanks for your letter/email.
• I was so pleased to hear from you.
• I greatly appreciate your kind words.
• I am very thankful that you are considering my problem.
• Thank you for your kind consideration.

Examples:

• I was so pleased to hear from you, and am very thankful that you’re considering my problem. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
• I would like to express my gratitude for all that you have done. I am most grateful for your support. Thank you for taking the time to help me, I really do appreciate it. I am very thankful that you are considering my application. I appreciate your response and look forward to hearing from you again soon.Thank you for raising your concerns. I appreciate your co-operation and will respond to your query very soon.

 

 

 

7-Giving Compliments

>> Common phrases>> Praise phrase>> When the person is getting better>> When the person worked hard and done well

Common phrases

• Keep up the good work!  Say this when the person is doing well, and you want them to continue. Example: You are a coach for your daughter’s soccer team. Your team won a match and everyone played well.

• That’s a real improvement/ You’ve really improved Use these phrases to say that the person is making good progress.

• You’re on the right track Use this phrase when a person is close to the answer / close to success, but hasn’t reached it yet. “On the right track” means that they are going in the correct direction.

• Nice job! I’m impressed! “Nice job” means that the other person did something good. You can also add “I’m impressed!” if the person’s success surprised you in a good way.

Praise phrase

• Great, Superb, Cool, Excellent, Terrific, Marvelous, Bravo, Exceptional, Wonderful, Breathtaking, Exceptional, Amazing Effort, Very Good, Stupendous, Awesome, Very Brave, Well Done, Remarkable, Congratulations, Beautiful,Nice One, Wicked, Incomparable, Very Resourceful, Very Courageous, Nice Going.

• You’re… A Shining Star A Good Sport  A Class Act A Winner A Joy A Champ An Angel
• You’re A Pleasure To Know!
• You’re A Great Example For Other
• You’re The Greatest!

When the person is getting better

• You Made The Difference!
• You’ve Got It!
• You’re Getting Better!
• You’ve Improved
• You’ve Outdone Yourself!
• Getting Better All The Time!
• Better Than Ever!

When the person worked hard and done well

• You’re Inspiring/ Amazing/ Special/ Unique/ Tops!
• You’re Very Talented/ Patient!
• You’re So Kind!
• You Should Be Proud!
• You Figured It Out You’ve Got What It Takes!
• You Go The Extra Mile!
• You Came Through!
• You Deserve A Hug!
•  You Make Me Smile!
• You’ve Earned My Respect!
• You’ve Made Progress!
• You Made It Happen!
• You’re A Real Trooper!

• I Appreciate Your Help!
• I Knew You Had It In You!
• I’m Proud Of You!
• I Love It!

• Out Of Sight/ Outstanding Performance/
• The Time You Put In Really Shows!
• It’s Everything I Hoped For!
• It Couldn’t Be Better!

• What An Imagination!
• What A Great Idea!  What A Genius!
• That’s Incredible!
• That’s Perfect!
• That’s The Way!
• How Thoughtful Of You!
• How Artistic/ Original/ Extraordinary!
• Keep It Up
• Keep On Trying!
• Way To Be Responsible!
• Way To Use Your Head!

• Unbelievable Work!
  First Rate Work!
  Fantastic Work!
  Super Job!
  Great Job!
  Extra Special Work!
  Spectacular Work!
  Your Best Work!
  5 Star Work!
  Neat Work!
  A Job Well Done!

 

 

8-Congratulate someone

>> Saying Congratulations>> Congratulations Messages in a Card 

Saying Congratulations

• Congratulations! When addressing graduates, newlyweds, or anyone with good news, a hearty “Congratulations!” is in order.
• Felicitation!  If you want to stand out from the crowd of people offering their congratulations, try roaring “Felicitation!” This less common expression of congratulations comes from the Late Latin felicitate meaning “to make happy.”

Congratulations Messages in a Card

Congratulations messages allow us to celebrate another person’s accomplishment and sometimes. A wedding, baby, engagement, retirement, new house, new job, and graduation are all important occasions that merit a thoughtful card.

For accomplishments, success

• Congratulations! I’m only surprised at the fact that you’re still able to surprise me with your accomplishments.
• There is no limit to the amount of good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.
• It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.
• I am so happy that you made yourself and your parents proud. Keep it up. Congratulations.
• If Oscars were given for a job well done, I’d nominate you. Congratulations for your fantastic achievement.
• Congrats on your fabulous victory. I always knew you are different from others. Your achievement is truly commendable so keep up the good work. Congrats again.
• Congratulations on your success. You have made us all proud. Keep up the good work.
• Well done. You are destined to make it big, you just didn’t know it. This recognition is surely deserved and will give you an opportunity to spread your wings.
• With knowledge in your hands and an open heart, you were sure to find success in your efforts. Congratulations.
• You worked hard, you deserve it, you have got it. Please accept my congratulations on this wonderful recognition of your merits.
• Your dedication, enthusiasm and insight are really inspiring. I wish you many years of great achievements.
• Congratulations. There’s your reward for all the hard work you put in. Enjoy every bit of it.
• Congratulations. Your hard word has finally paid off.
• You’ve worked hard to achieve this promotion, but your efforts were completely worth it. Now one of your great desires became real. Wishing you best of luck in your new capacity.
• Congratulations for your fabulous victory. You deserve it every bit. Aim for the stars.
• Congratulations on your achievements. You have made us all proud. Great job, keep it up.
• It is a success, you truly deserved. It is an achievement you have truly earned. I congratulate you on your success and wish you all the best for your future. Well Done.
• Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm. Congratulations.
• Congratulations. I wish and pray that you always succeed in whatever you do.

For new job/ new position

New job messages can both congratulate someone who has recently started a new job or encourage someone who is looking for a job

• It’s a pleasure to work with someone who knows how to make a friendly and inspiring work environment. I’m glad that a position opened up for you that is a great next step in your career.
• May your new position be fulfilling and serve as a doorway to blessings for you!
• Congratulations on getting a job. I hope that you will enjoy all the new benefits that come with it. I know you will do great in your new position.
• It’s my job to congratulate you and wish you a great start to your new job.
• It’s great to hear that your talents and skills are being recognized by a smart employer!
• I heard you got the job you wished for. Congratulations! I am so happy for you. Cheers to your future success!
• Congratulations for the new job! Finally, you will be spending your energies on tasks you are really passionate about. Way to go, pal!
• It was a pleasure working with you. You deserve that new promotion and I am happy for you. I wish you success in your new career.
• Although I will surely miss your presence in this office, I am truly glad to know you got the new job you desired. Congratulations!
• Congratulations! I wish you all the best as you venture into this new job of yours. It’s a perfect match for you. Enjoy your new career!
• I huge congratulations to you as you fulfill your new role in that position you have long been longing for. Let’s celebrate!
• The company made the right choice of giving you that much deserved promotion. Congratulations! I knew all along that it was going to be you. Cheers!
• You have proven that you were, indeed the best one for the job. Congratulations for this new milestone in your career. I wish you all the best.
• Nothing is impossible when you put your mind and heart to it. Congratulations on your new job!
• Please accept my heartiest congratulations on your new position in this company. You are truly unstoppable. I am proud of you, buddy!
• Congratulations! May you find great fulfillment in your new job. I wish you all the best. Cheers to your success.
• With much power comes great responsibility. I know you can handle your new job well. The position was truly made for you. Congratulations.
• The boss did not make a mistake when he chose you. Congratulations! Your promotion is much-deserved.
• Congratulations! May your new job be the source of your renewed hope and abundance in your life. All the best to you and your career.
• Congratulations for receiving that position you have long been waiting for. Dreams do come true, indeed!
• Your promotion shows that hard work and determination can get you far. Congratulations!
• Congratulations for surviving the test and for being chosen as the one true title holder of that new job position. I celebrate with you and I wish you all the best.
• I always knew that you were too good to stay in this place. Although I will surely miss your company in this office hole, I am happy for your career move. Congratulations!
• Congratulations! Your exemplary performance did you justice and gave you the promotion you deserved. Well done!
• Congratulations! You inspire us all to move forward and keep on working toward our goals. Someday, we will meet you at the top. Cheers!

For new house

• I hope your new home provides you with many future moments of enjoyment.
• Any great king and queen need a great castle. Congratulations for getting yours. What a fun thing it is to move into a new place. Have fun!
• Congratulations on your big move! I hope that you enjoy your new environment whether you are hanging out or working out in the yard. It’s good to see someone like you blessed with a great home.
• Home ownership is a fun thing. I am wishing you enjoyment and years of blessings from your new home.

For Retirement

• Congratulations on your retirement. You have earned it!
• You spent many years working to provide for what was most important to you: your retirement. Oops, I meant your kids.
• Who retires at your young age? Is that even legal? Congratulations!
• If you ever feel lost without having 60 hours of work to do each week, feel free to come over and help me. I have plenty you can do.
• I have to admit that I’m a little jealous of you for getting to retire.
• You have forever to relax now. Congratulations on your retirement!
• Congratulations on being able to finally call it quits and do all the things that you want to do. I have to admit that I am a little jealous of you now. May you look back at your work and see that you did a good job.
• I wish you the best as you move on from work to even more important pursuits.

For Graduation

• All good things must come to an end, except your education which you will continue the rest of your life. Congratulations on a good start!
• All good things must come to an end, and now you have to face reality.
• Hey, you finally did it! Congratulations on your graduation, and we know that you deserve everything that is coming to you… and the good things that will come from your new degree.
• A diploma is symbolic of the hard work you put in. Now take that recognition and do something great!
• I am confident that your education will be an important key to unlocking doors to your potential. You are already a success.
• Congratulations on your graduation. Here’s a few bucks to get you started paying back your student loans.
• You are educated. Your certification is in your degree. You may think of it as the ticket to the good life. Let me ask you to think of an alternative. Think of it as your ticket to change the world.
• You may be done with school for now, but you still get to continue to learn!
• You did it! Congratulations on your graduation. Let’s celebrate!
• There is a good reason they call these ceremonies ‘commencement exercises.’
• Graduation is not the end; it’s the beginning
• Graduation marks the beginning of new opportunities. Continue to grow and learn, as I know you will.

For a Wedding

Weddings are usually a time to give advice, wish the couple a good life, and possibly make fun of how marriage changes people.

• You two are choosing to do something that no one understands fully. And yet it seems so natural, especially with a couple like you two. Congratulations on your engagement/wedding.
• Congratulations on your new titles of bride, groom, husband, and wife. We are wishing you the best in any other titles you will pick up in the future.
• Finding someone to share your life with is an awesome thing. Congratulations to both of you.
• Happy is the man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend in his wife. Congratulations!
• The highest happiness on earth is marriage. Congratulations!
• We wish you the best in all of your new titles and adventures. Husband and wife are just the beginning. Congratulations on becoming Mr. and Mrs. I love to see really cool people like you get hitched. You guys are blessed to have each other and I am glad to know you guys. Have fun! The best part of being married is getting to hang out with your best friend the rest of your life. Congrats! You, two beautiful people, are even more beautiful as a couple.

For a New Baby

• May you be given joy with your new baby’s arrival. May you also be given the patience and energy that you will need. Congratulations!
• Congratulations on your new one coming. We are looking forward to meeting the newest member of the family.
• Wishing you a healthy and happy pregnancy, delivery, and baby.
• Just as you are being blessed with a baby, your baby will be blessed to have you as a parent. Congratulations.
• We’re happy to be able to share this exciting time with you as your family grows!
• Babies are miracles. Congratulations on your little miracle.
• New experiences are coming! We look forward to you sharing some of the details with us!
• We are super excited to hear that you are going to be adding to your family soon. We hope and pray that the pregnancy and delivery all go smoothly. We’ll be praying for you and looking forward to meeting the newest member of the family soon!
• You have received a great gift. With great gifts comes great responsibility. Let us know how and when we can help.

For Expecting Grandparents

Who have not yet met their soon-to-be-born grandchild

• Being a grandparent is one of the greatest joys in life. Being your grandchild will be one of the greatest joys in this new little life that is coming.
• Being a grandparent will make you complete. You’ll be completely smitten with love.
• Even now, before your grandchild is born, you are a grandparent!
• I can’t wait to meet your new little miracle… or should I say, grand-miracle!
• God is blessing you with the opportunity to do one of the most fun jobs in life: being a grandparent. We’re so happy for you.
• I would love having you as my grandparents. You are going to spoil that little grandbaby.
• We are thrilled you will be a grandparent, so I can only imagine how thrilled you are!
• Grandparenting will make you a different person. Mostly, you’ll just become nicer than you were as a parent.
• Grandparenting will take your breath away, and not just because grandchildren can be difficult to catch.
• The wait will be worth it when you see your grandchild for the first time.
• Your heart will be filled with joy when you first lay eyes on your grand-baby.

For New Grandparents

Who recently gained a new grandchild:

• Enjoy your grand-bundle-of-joy!
• I know you will be a great grandparent. Congratulations on your new granddaughter/grandson!
• I’m wishing your new addition to the family much love.
• I would give you some wise advice about how to take care of your grandchild, but that’s your job, since you’re the grandparent.
• I don’t know who is luckier, you for having a new little grandchild, or your grandchild for having you as grandparents.
• I’m praying for your first grandchild. I know you’ll try to spoil your grandchild to death.
• You have a new bundle of joy, whom I am sure you will thoroughly enjoy!
• May your new grandchild provide you with love, smiles, hugs, and much entertainment.
• Now you can give your grandchild candy and toys that make a lot of noise. It’s payback time!
• The arrival of a grandchild means many new experiences for you and for the baby.
• Every step and event in your life has been leading up to your most important role and calling, being a grandparent!
• Now you have your own miracle that is small enough to fit in your arms.

 

 

 

10-Response to congratulation

>> Letter>> Email

Letter

• Thank you.
• Thanks so much for thinking of me.
• It was so nice to hear from you.
• I’m highly thankful to you for your kind and affectionate letter congratulating me on promotion (wedding, having a baby).
• I felt glad to be surrounded by your love and blessings.
• I guess I was just lucky.
• I can assure you, it was a team effort.
• I’m grateful for your wishes and greetings on the occasion of me becoming a mother.
• Thank you for your support.
• Reading your letter full of good words gives me happiness and fine feelings

Email

• Thank you for the congratulations.
• Thank you so much for recognizing my efforts.
• Thanks. We all had a part in the results.
• Thanks a lot for such a kind gesture. Colleagues like you make the work so worthwhile.
• Thank you so much for your message. I was really surprised (pleased)!
• Thank you very much for your kind and encouraging email.
• I was lucky this time.
• Thanks for taking the time to drop me your kind note.
• Thanks everyone for thinking about me. I appreciate it!
• It was nice to receive such good luck wishes.
• It’s good to hear from you
• Your blessings are a source of a great inspiration for me.
• We appreciate your kindness to drop us a congratulation note on our wedding day.

 

 

 

Ph-10    Address

>> Asking for address>> Giving address>> Writing a standard postal address

Asking for address

• What’s your address?
• Where is your domicile place?
• What is your current address?
• What is your permanent address?
• Where are you from?
• What is your hometown?
• Where is your hometown?

More polite:

• Would it be possible for me to get your address?
• May I please have your address?
• Would you please give me your address?
• Would you mind giving me your address?

Note:  “Where is your address” has a slightly different meaning. Here is an example to demonstrate it:
Let’s say you are filling out a form, where you need to write down your address.
When you are finished, the person behind the counter might ask you:
“Where is your address?”
Or in other words: “Where is the piece of paper with your address on it?”

Giving address

• What is your permanent address? – My pernament address is 406 Leroy street, Manhattan, New York
• What is your current address?  – It’s 156 Allen street
•  Where do you live? –  I live at 406 Leroy street, Manhattan, New York/ I live in New York city/ I live on Leroy street/ I live on Madison avenue

Vocabulary list

• Addressee
• Company’s name
• Building, apartment / flat
• Alley
• Lane
• Hamlet
• Village
• Street
• Sub-district or block or neighborhood
• District or Town
• Province
• City
• State
• Zip code postal / zip code

Writing a standard postal address

Postal address should be complete and precise so as to enable postal objects to be delivered to addressees correctly.

The maximum number of lines for a local postal address is 6; words should be aligned to the left, consecutive and with no blank line. Postal address in Portuguese or English should be written or printed, preferably, in capital letters.

The full address should be typed or legibly written in English—using Roman letters and Arabic numerals—and should be placed lengthwise on one side of the item. An address in a foreign language is permitted if the names of the city, province, and country are also indicated in English. Global Express Guaranteed destination addresses must be written completely in English.

The following shows the order of information for the destination address:

• LINE 1: NAME OF ADDRESSEE
• LINE 2: STREET ADDRESS OR POST OFFICE BOX NUMBER
• LINE 3: CITY OR TOWN NAME, OTHER PRINCIPAL SUBDIVISION (such as PROVINCE, STATE, or COUNTY) AND POSTAL CODE (IF KNOWN) (Note: in some countries, the postal code may precede the city or town name)
• LINE4: (Country Name) The last line of the address block area must include only the complete country name (no abbreviations) written in uppercase letters.

Line order

• 1. Write or print the name of the person (or people) you are sending to on the first line, above the address. It’s best to include their surname as well as their first name. You can add a line for an organisation name.
• 2. Use a line for the property number and street name. If the property has a full name, this can take up one line and drop the street name onto the next line. Next line can be used to name the local area or village name. Next line should be for the town. Write the name of the town in capital (upper case) letters.
• 3.The final line should be the postcode, again in capital letters. Remember to write the destination country in upper case (capital) letters on the last line.

Example

• Sr.C.Fernandez
  Av das A’Augsa Livres
  Monte Trigo
  7220 Portel
  PORTUGAL
• Herr Franz Huber
  Beethovenstrasse 12
  1010 WIEN
  AUSTRIA
• M. Miroslav Ondevejka
  Fibichova 92
  125 02 PRAGUE 3
  CZECH REPUBLIC
• Mr Yushi Morimoto
  504 Kasumigaseki 1 chome,
  Chiyoda-ku
  TOKYO
  100 JAPAN
• Mr Mazhar Alkan
  Iskele Caddesi 35
  06101 ANKARA
  TURKEY
• Mr Sudhorn Yoothong
  13/54-26 Chaeng Waltana Road
  Bang Kehn
  BANGKOK 10002
  THAILAND
• Mr Joe Engle
  1612 Dexter Street
  FORT WAYNE IN 46805
  UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
• Mr Bill Harrison
  347 L’Enfant Plaza SW
  WASHINGTON DC 20260-6500
  USA

Return address

A return address is an address we can send the mail back to, in case we were prevented from delivering it.

Write the words ‘return address’ on the back of the envelope and underneath that, the actual return address.

 

 

 

 

11-Asking directions

>> Tips>> Phases

Tips

Asking for directions is the first thing we do when we arrive to a different country, or even when we are just trying to find a place. Knowing how to ask for them can make our life so much easier!

Starting the conversation with a greeting is a must. If you want to receive a nice explanation, begin by saying hello first.

Say “Excuse me” before you ask a person. To make it sound like a question, make your voice go up on “me”.

Examples:

• Excuse me, could you tell me how to get to …?
• Excuse me, do you know where the … is? the bus station post office

Always try and use the word “please” when you are asking someone for directions. It’s polite, and people are more likely to help you! And the adverbs near, nearer, nearest and close, closer, closest will be very useful when you need to find something fast. Finish with a “thank you” and “have a nice day”.

Phases

• “How do I get to …” – This is the simplest way to ask someone for directions. When you use this phrase, the other person will either tell you which mode of transport (bus, underground) to take or will explain your route.
• “Could you tell me the best way to get to …”– This is a very polite way to ask for directions.
• “Where exactly am I?” – Now, if you are travelling to an English speaking country and you ask for directions, you still might get lost. And in order to get new directions, you might need to find out where exactly you are, for example which street you are on. If this is the case, ask this particular question.
• “What is the quickest way to get to …” – Let’s pretend you have to catch a bus and this bus comes at certain times in the day. So you need to get to the bus stop quickly. If you need to go somewhere fast, ask this question.
• “Where is …” – This phrase is also useful when asking for directions. I use this phrase mostly with “Where is the bathroom.” Usually, this phrase is used when you know you are very close to your destination, you just need a little guidance in finding the place.

Examples:

• Hello! Good Afternoon!
• Excuse me, could you help me?
• Hello! May I ask for some help? I need to get to the CN Tower
• I’m sorry, I don’t know…
• Sorry, I’m not from around here. I’m looking for this address
• Are we on the right road for …?

  Is this the right way for …? Brighton Ipswich

• What’s the best way to get to your house next ?
• What’s the best way to get to the computer store from here?
• What’s the quickest way to get to the music store from here?
• What’s the easiest way to get to the nearest Mc donalds from here?

• Which subway line should I take to get to the Rogers Centre?
• I’m trying to getto Downing Street.

• How can I get to the  local market?
• How can we get to High Park?
• How do I get to the office?
• How do you get to the train station?
• How do I get to park?
• Can you tell me how to get to library from here?

• Can you please tell me how I can get to Oxford Street?
• Can you give me directions to the nearest bus stop?
• Can you give me directions to the petrol station?
• Can you tell me how to get to the London bridge?

• Dan you show me on the map?
• Do you have a map?
• Is there a supermarket near here?
• Is there a sports shop around here?

• Where is the nearest supermarket?
• Where is Mc Donalds can you tell me please?
• Where is Chinatown? Where am I on this map?
• Where can I find the nearest bakery?

• Please tell me how I get to your apartment?
• Please could you tell me the easiest way of getting to your apartment?
• Excuse me. How do I get to (the railway station) please?
• Excuse me. Where’s the nearest (post office) please?
• Excuse me. I’m looking for the Number 6 bus stop.

 

 

12-Giving directions

>> Tips>> Important verbs and prepositions>> If you know the way>> If you don’t know the way

Tips

Speak slowly so the other person can understand.

 

Speak slowly so the other person can write down the instructions if talking on the phone.

 

When speaking with someone, use your hands to demonstrate what you mean,  left, right, or straight on.

 

Make sure that the other person understood your directions. Say: “Did you get all that?”

 

Say “You’re welcome. Have a good day!” or “I’m happy to help” or “That’s alright” when someone thanks you.

Important verbs and prepositions

Landmarks

When we give directions to help the other person, we often make reference to landmarks . These can be places in a town (cinema, bank, bus stop, park, lake…).

• taxi rank = a place where taxis queue for passengers
• level crossing = where the road and railway meet. There are barriers that go up and down to signal when a train is coming
• underpass = a walkway that goes under a busy road so pedestrians can get to the other side safely
• overpass / flyover = a road that goes over another road (or railway)
• zebra crossing = black and white markings in the road for pedestrians to cross the road (the markings look like a zebra’s stripes)
• pedestrian crossing = a place in the road where pedestrians can cross. Often there are traffic lights.
• tunnel = a road under (or through) mountains
• crossroads = where two roads cross each other
• junction = where one road meets another, and you can either go left or right
• fork in the road = where the road divides, and you decide to go left or right
• turning = a road off to your left or right
• main road = a big road where there is lots of traffic
• lane = a small road, or a part of a road (the left-hand lane / the right-hand lane; the bus lane)

Use prepositions of direction

• Go past = continue past something so that is is now behind you
• Go across = cross something, like a road or crossroads
• Go along = continue down a road
• Go straight on = don’t turn left or right
• Go up = walk / drive up a hill
• Go down = walk or drive down a hill or a road
• Go through = pass through something, such as a tunnel or a town
• Go out of = exit (i.e. a railway station)
• It’s in front of you = you can see it facing you
• It’s opposite the bank = it faces the bank
• It’s on the corner = it’s where two roads meet at a 90° angle

Word List

• Go straight on (until you come to …).
• Turn back./Go back.
• Turn left/right (into …-street).
• Go along …
• Cross …
• Take the first/second road on the left/right
• It’s on the left/right.
• straight on
• opposite
• near
• next to
• between
• at the end (of)
• on/at the corner
• behind
• in front of
• (just) around the corner
• traffic lights
• crossroads, junction
• signpost

If you know the way…

Use basic English to offer directions. Short phrases are best. Speak slowly and use very careful pronunciation. Spell out a word if necessary.

• The easiest/ quickest/  best way is to go + direction (right, left, down, up, through)
• The easiest/ quickest/ best way is to take + road name
• The easiest/ quickest/ best way is to turn + right/left
• The easiest/ quickest/ best way is to stay on + road name for + distance or time

Examples:

• The easiest way is to go right on Commercial Avenue.
• The quickest way is to take Road Number 1.
• The best way is to turn right on Main Street.
• Stay on Route 1 for about ten minutes.

Here are some useful words and phrases for giving street instructions.

• Turn left / right.
• Go straight on at the lights / when you come to the crossroads.” (Lights = traffic lights; crossroads = where two roads cross)
• Go across the roundabout.(Roundabout = where all the cars go round a circle in the middle of the road)
• Take the first turning / road / street on your left / right. (Turning = road that goes left or right)
• You’ll see / You’ll come to a (bank). Then …
• Don’t take the first road.
• Go on for about (2 minutes / 100 metres).

Use transitions: Separate each leg of the route with a transition.

• after that… then… next… when you get to…go… finally…

 Example: 

• OK. Go straight on, then turn left at the crossroads. It’s about 100 metres on your left. You can’t miss it!
• Of course I will, just followthis road until you come to the main road. Turnright and then continue forabout 100 metres. You will see the petrol station on the left.

Some people feel better knowing how long it will take to get from A to B. Examples:

• It’s just around the corner (not far).
• It’s not far.
• It’s a bit of a way. (it takes a while)
• It’s about a five minute walk.
• It’s about a twenty minute bus ride.

Use landmarks: Tell the person what to watch for. Examples:

• You will see a large clock on the right.
• You will pass a gas station.
• It’s across from the blue church.

Offer warnings

Examples:

• Stay in the right lane.
• It’s a very busy road.
• It’s a big hill. (if they are walking or on a bike)
• There might be construction.
• If you pass the … you went too far.
• There’s no parking.
• You’re going the wrong way
• You’re going in the wrong direction

More examples

• It’s on + street name
• It’s across from…
• It’s opposite…
• It’s near…
• It’s around the corner from…
• Keep going for another …Hundred yards (about 91 metres)/ Two hundred metres/ Half mile (about 800 metres)/ Kilometre
• It’ll be …on your left/ on your right/ straight ahead of you

• It’s this/that way
• Take this road

• Take the first on the left
• Take the second on the right
• Take the third road on the right and you will see the office on the right
• Take the third road on the right and you will see the shop on the left
• Take the second road on the left and you will see the house on the left
• Take the second road on the left and you will see the hospital straight ahead
• Turn back, you have gone past the turning.
• Turn left when you see a roundabout.
• Turn right at the end of the road and my house is number 67.
• Turn right at the crossroads
• Continue straight ahead for about a mile
• Continue past the fire station
• You’ll pass a supermarket on your left
• Go straight on till you see the hospital then turn left.
• Go down to the King’s corner, and there you’ll see the signboard to the cathedral.
• Cross the junction and keep going for about 1 mile.
• The hospital is opposite the railway station.
• The shop is near the hospital.
• The house is next to the local cricket ground.
• The shop is in between the chemist and KFC.
• At the end of the road you will see a roundabout.
• At the corner of the road you will see red building.
• Just around the corner is my house you will need to stop quickly or you will miss it.Go straight on at the traffic lights.
• Follow the signposts for Manchester.
• It’s actually a bit far from here. You’ll have to get a taxi and go to Ken Street.
• Yes, there’s a photocopy shop at Sam’s Plaza. Just walk left from the intersection. It is only three minutes away.
• For a restaurant you will have to walk straight. You will see the Foodmart on the other side of the street.
• That crossroad. Before you reach the other crossroad, look for the house with the red roof and some Eucalyptus trees. That’s Army Joe’s place.
• Take the next right turn from here. After walking for about 5 minutes, take the subway, go towards Rodney Street, from there you.

If you don’t know the way…

Don’t guess! Don’t just shake your head and walk away. Examples:

• I’m sorry, I’m not from here.
• I’m afraid I can’t help you.
• Sorry I don’t know my way around here.

If you are in the car with the driver

• Turn right at the next street
• Get in the left lane.
• Go one more block. Then turn right.
• At the next traffic lights turn…
• It’s going to be on your right.
• Go down there

 

 

13-Asking for help

Common phrases

• Could you please help me out with_______?
• Would you mind showing me _______?
• Is there any chance you have time to _______?
• Could you please explain to me ________?
• Please can you do me a favour?
• Please help me with ________ .
• Is it possible for you to _______?
• I was wondering if you could please show me how to _______.
• Do you have any free time on/at _______(day, date, time)?
• Do you know anything about _______?
• I am having a problem with _________ . Do you think you can help me?
• If you don’t mind, I could really use your assistance with__________ ?
• If you don’t mind, I really need your help with _________ .
• I know your good at/with _______, and I really could use some help.
• I heard you are really good at/with ______ . Is their any chance that you could help me?
• Is their any chance you that you could give me a hand with _______?
• I heard that you have a lot of experience with _______ , and I could really use your help.

 

 

 

 

14-Taking About Health Problems

>> Making an appointment>> Symptoms>> Types of illness>> Something ache / sore something/ bad somethingy>> Types of doctor

In life one of the most important things you can do is to look after your health. When we have a health problem we can go and see a doctor. Here we take a look at the English you need to discuss bad health.

Making an appointment

When you are feeling unwell, you need to see a doctor. Unfortunately, doctors are busy people so you have to make an appointment. This involves calling (or visiting) the doctor’s clinic and making an appointment with the receptionist. When you make an appointment you arrange a date and a time when you can see the doctor.

• Good morning. I’d like to make an appointment to see the doctor today.
• I would like to talk to a doctor or therapist
• I need your help.
• I’d like to make an appointment to see Dr…

Symptoms

When you see the doctor he (or she) might ask you:

• What’s wrong?
• What’s the problem?’
• What are your symptoms?
  Symptoms are any feelings of illness or discomfort which are caused by a health problem
• When did the symptoms start?’

Explaining your problem

The present perfect continuous is used to show that something started in the past and is still happening now. We use ‘I have been + -ing verb.’

Examples:

• I have been coughing a lot these days / recently / for the last few days / since yesterday
• I have been sneezing.
• My head has been hurting.
• I have been having headaches.
• I have been feeling tired.
• I haven’t been sleeping well.
• I have struggled with …
  • changes in appetite
  • changes in weight
  • loss of interest in things I used to enjoy
  • hearing things that were not there
  • seeing things that were not there
  • feeling unsure if things are real or not real
  • my brain playing tricks on me
  • lack of energy
  • increased energy
  • inability to concentrate
  • alcohol or drug use or abuse
  • self-harm
  • skipping meals
  • overeating
  • overwhelming focus on weight or appearance
  • feeling worthless
  • uncontrollable thoughts
  • guilt
  • paranoia
  • nightmares
  • bullying
  • not sleeping enough
  • sleeping too much
  • risky sexual behavior
  • overwhelming sadness
  • losing friends
  • unhealthy friendships
  • unexplained anger or rage
  • isolation
  • feeling detached from my body
  • feeling out of control
  • thoughts of self-harm
  • cutting
  • thoughts of suicide
  • plans of suicide
  • abuse
  • sexual assault
  • death of a loved one

The present simple is used to focus on a situation at the present. It is more common to use thepresent simple than the present continuous when we see a doctor: ‘My head hurts’ is more common than ‘My head is hurting’.

Examples:

• I have a cough
• My head hurts

We also use:

• I have + noun
• I feel + adjective

List phrases for illness expressions:

• feel ill, sick
• feel rundown.
• feel under the weather.
• feel weak
• feel dizzy
• have a temperature
• have a pain in your back, chest, waist, arm, shoulder
• have a headache
• have a sore throat.
• have a fever.
• have a bad back
• suffer from stomach cramps
• have a black eye
• have a swollen, sprained ankle, wrist, foot
• have a lump
• have a broken leg
• have a fracture
• burn, cut a finger
• sprain an ankle
• be allergic to antibiotics
• produce an allergic reaction
• come down with a cold
• be in bed with a cold
• have a heart attack, stroke
• suffer from asthma, malnutrition, diabetes
• fight cancer, depression, addiction, alcoholism
• examine a patient
• take, feel your pulse
• take, measure your temperature
• diagnose an illness, disease
• diagnose a condition, disorder
• prescribe medicine
• make up a prescription
• take someone to hospital
• undergo an examination, operation
• dress a wound
• a bandaged arm, leg
• put on a plaster
• give an injection
• have a blood test
• prevent the spread of disease
• enhance, build immunity to a disease

Types of illness

• Allergy 
  (adjective Allergic) To have a bad reaction to animals, dust, foods or plants. The symptoms are red eyes, runny nose and sneezing.
• Cough 
  (verb to Cough) Pronounced ‘coff’. To force air out of the lungs making a loud and uncomfortable noise: ‘Smoking makes me cough.’
• Dizziness 
  (adjective Dizzy). To have the feeling that everything around you is spinning. ‘I felt dizzy after standing up too quickly when I was in the bath.’
• Fever / Temperature
  A rise in body temperature. To feel hot.
• The Flu
  (also called Influenza) A very strong cold caused by a virus. Symptoms include: fever, headache, runny nose and sneezing.
• Hay Fever
  An allergy to plants and the pollen from flowers. The symptoms are red eyes, a runny nose and sneezing.
• Insomnia 
  Not being able to sleep at night.
• Rash
  em>Uncomfortable, itchy, red spots on the skin. A skin condition. ‘She got a rash on her hand after touching a strange plant.’
• Rundown / Under the Weather 
  (idioms) Both of these mean a general feeling of sickness. Rundown usually comes from living an unhealthy lifestyle. Under the weather means to not feel your usual, healthy self.
• Runny Nose
  Mucus coming from the nose. The need to blow your nose a lot.
• Sneeze 
  (verb to Sneeze) An uncontrollable movement of air from the nose and mouth. ‘The strong smell of flowers makes me sneeze.’
• Sunburn
  Red and painful skin that comes from being in the sun too long.

Something ache / sore something / bad something

-ache

• headache
• backache
• stomachache
• muscle ache

Examples:

• I can’t sleep because my head aches too bad.
• I have a terrible headache, backache, stomach-ache.

Bad

• bad back
• bad head
• bad leg

Sore

Painful (and often red) because of infection or because a muscle has been used too much

• sore throat
• sore eyes
• sore feet

Examples:

• I have a sore throat, I mustn’t take that cold drink.
• She says her stomach is still sore after the operation.
• His feet were sore after the bicycle trip.

Disease
serious illness, often caused by infection

• Peter’s uncle suffers from a rare blood disease.
• A fatty diet increases the risk of heart disease.
• The government is planning further health measures to prevent the spread ofdisease.

Types of doctor

• Cardiologist
  A heart doctor
• Dermatologist
  A skin doctor
• Dentist
  A doctor who treats teeth
• General Practitioner
  (G.P.) A family doctor who you would usually go to see for common health problems
• Obstetrician
  A doctor for female patients before and during pregnancy (child birth)
• Optometrist
  An eye doctor
• Orthopedic Doctor / Surgeon
   A doctor who specialise in bones
• Pediatrician
  A doctor for children
• Surgeon: 
  A doctor who performs operations

Should you need to visit the doctors during your stay, some of these phrases will be necessary.

• I’d like to see a doctor
• I’d like to see a Optometrist Doctor/ Orthopedic Doctor.

 

 

 

 

15-Encouraging children

Positive reinforcement gives children the support and confidence they need to reach their full potential. Saying “I love you” is one way to encourage children, but there are many other fun words and phrases that children love and respond to.

• Super!
• Marvelous!
• Perfect!
• Fine!
• Excellent!
• Great!
• Terrific!
• Fantastic!
• Wonderful!
• Wow!
• Not bad!
• Outstanding!!!
• Congratulations!
• Superb!
• Nice going
• Much better
• Exactly right
• Good thinking
• Good work!
• Good job (name of child)
• Good going
• Good for you!
• Right on!
• Keep it up!
• Way to go!
• Keep on trying!
• Well look at you go!

• That’s good
• That’s right!
• That’s great!
• That’s it!
• That’s the way
• That kid of work makes me very happy
• That deserves a high five
• That’s not half bad!
• That’s coming along nicely
• That’s better
• That was first class work
• That’s a good (boy-girl)
• That’s the best ever
• That’s the best you ever done
• That’s the way to do it
• That’s really nice
• That’s better than ever
• That’s very much better!
• That’s quite an improvement

• You’re on the right track now
• You’re really going to town
• You’re doing a good job
• You really make my job fun
• You’re doing fine
• You did a lot of work today
• You’re really working hard today

• You’re doing much better
• Keep working on it, you’re getting better
• You’ve got your brain in great today
• You’re getting better every day
• You’re really improving
• You figured it out fast
• You’re learning fast
• You’re really learning a lot
• You out did yourself today
• You make it look easy
• How did you do that?
• Nothing can stop you now!
• You’re the best!
• I’ve never seen any one do it better
• You’ve got that down now
• You’re doing beautifully
• You did that very well
• You certainly did well today
• You’re very good at that
• You did it that time!
• You’ve just about got I
• You’ve got it made
• You remembered!
• You haven’t missed a thing
• Good remembering
• You’ve just about mastered that
• You must have been practicing!

• Couldn’t have done better myself
• It’s a pleasure to teach you when you work like that
• I’m happy to see you working like that
• I’m very proud of you
• I’m proud of the way you worked today
• I appreciate your help
• I knew you could do it
• I think you’ve got it now
• I like that
• Now you’ve figured it out
• Now you have it!
• Now you have the hang of it
• Now that’s what I call a fine job
• One more time and you’ll have it.

 

 

 

 

16-Encouraging Someone

 

>> Common phrases>> Quotes

Common phrases

• That was a nice try/ Good effort Use these phrases after the person didn’t succeed, and you want to help them feel better.
• Don’t give up! You can say “Don’t give up!” to encourage a person to continue trying.
• You’ve almost got it. Use this phrase when a person is coming very close to succeeding.
• Give it a try. Example: Your friend has never driven a car with a manual transmission. You offer to let her drive your car, which has a stick shift.
• Give it your best shot. It means “your best try” – so this phrase is used to encourage someone to do their best.
• Come on, you can do it! Use this phrase to emphasize the person’s ability to succeed. You can say this to a person who has low self-esteem or has difficulty believing they can succeed.
• Just do it.  If you want the person to stop worrying and make a decision.
• You might as well. Example: Your friend will be able to finish school a year early if he takes a few extra difficult classes, but isn’t sure if he should. You think it’s a good idea. You can say “you might as well”.
• What have you got to lose? This question is used to emphasize the fact that if the person doesn’t succeed, there won’t be any negative consequences – so they should make an effort.
• What do you have to lose? Example: Your friend sees a job opening. She seems like she wants the job, but she’s hesitating to apply for it. You think she should go ahead and apply.
• What are you waiting for? Example: Your friend has been talking about quitting his job and starting his own company. You think he should do it soon.
• Why not? /Go for it. The person is thinking of doing something and asks if you think it’s a good idea.
• Don’t be discouraged!
• After rain comes sunshine
• Look on the bright sight
• Don’t break your heart!
• Be brave, it will be ok
• Think and affirm yourself!
• Cheer up! Lighten up!

Quotes

• “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
• “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” ~Arthur Ashe
• “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” ~Anne Frank
• “When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.” ~Alexander Graham Bell
• “Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood.”~Helen Keller
• “When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hang on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.” ~Harriet Beecher Stowe
•  “You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” ~Eleanor Roosevelt
• “If you don’t pay appropriate attention to what has your attention, it will take more of your attention than it deserves.” ~David Allen
• “I find hope in the darkest of days, and focus in the brightest. I do not judge the universe.” ~Dalai Lama
• “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” ~Helen Keller
• “It is by going down into the abyss that we recover the treasures of life. Where you stumble, there lies your treasure.” ~Joseph Campbell
• “In essence, if we want to direct our lives, we must take control of our consistent actions. It’s not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives, but what we do consistently.” ~Tony Robbins
• “Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” ~Thomas A. Edison
•   “You are never to old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” ~C.S. Lewis
• “Even if you fall on your face, you’re still moving forward.” ~Victor Kiam
• “Be miserable. Or motivate yourself. Whatever has to be done, it’s always your choice.” ~Wayne Dyer
• “Learn from the past, set vivid, detailed goals for the future, and live in the only moment of time over which you have any control: now.” ~Denis Waitley
• “Do you want to know who you are? Don’t ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you.” ~Thomas Jefferson
• “The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best.” ~Epictetus
• “Be impeccable with your word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.” ~Miguel Angel Ruiz
• “Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” ~William James
• “Learning is the beginning of wealth. Learning is the beginning of health. Learning is the beginning of spirituality. Searching and learning is where the miracle process all begins.” ~Jim Rohn
• “I’d rather attempt to do something great and fail than to attempt to do nothing and succeed.” ~Robert H. Schuller
• “If it is bread that you seek, you will have bread. If it is the soul you seek, you will find the soul. If you understand this secret, you know you are that which you seek.” ~Rumi
• “Always say ‘yes’ to the present moment. What could be more futile, more insane, than to create inner resistance to what already is? what could be more insane than to oppose life itself, which is now and always now? Surrender to what is. Say ‘yes’ to life — and see how life suddenly starts working for you rather than against you.” ~Eckhart Tolle
• “Perhaps everything terrible is in its being something that needs our love.” ~Rainer Maria Rilke
• “Hold on to what is good, even if it’s a handful of earth.” ~Hopi prayer
• “Let your soul stand cool and composed before a million universes.” ~Walt Whitman
• “If you are going through hell, keep going.” ~Winston Churchill
• “Tell you heart that the fear of suffering is worse than suffering itself. And no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dream.” ~Paulo Coelho
• “The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, not to worry about the future . . . but to live the present moment wisely and earnestly.” ~Buddha
• “In the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you.” ~Deepak Chopra
• “Good humor is a tonic for mind and body. It is the best antidote for anxiety and depression. It is a business asset. It attracts and keep friends. It lightens human burdens. It is the direct route to serenity and contentment.” ~Greenville Kleisser
• “What you thought before has led to every choice you have made, and this adds up to you at this moment. If you want to change who you are physically, mentally, and spiritually, you will have to change what you think.” ~Dr. Patrick Gentempo
• “Too often we under estimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” ~Leo Buscaglia
• “Fall seven times, stand up eight.” ~Japanese Proverb
• “Problems are not stop signs, they are guidelines.” ~Robert Schuller
• “We must embrace pain and burn it as fuel for our journey.” ~Kenji Miyazawa
• “By recording your dreams and goals on paper, you set in motion the process of becoming the person you most want to be. Put your future in good hands – your own.” ~Mark Victor Hansen
• “Be patient with yourself. Self-growth is tender; it’s holy ground. There’s no greater investment.” ~Stephen Covey
• “Would you like me to give you a formula for success? It’s quite simple, really. Double your rate of failure. You are thinking of failure as the enemy of success. But it isn’t at all. You can be discouraged by failure or you can learn from it, So go ahead and make mistakes. Make all you can. Because remember that’s where you will find success.” ~Thomas J. Watson
•  “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” ~Maria Robinson
• “If we did all the things we are capable of, we would astound ourselves.” ~Thomas Edison
• “Try not to become a person of success, but rather try to become a person of value. ~Albert Einstein
•  “If you don’t value your time, neither will others. Stop giving away your time and talents — start charging for it.” ~Kim Garst
• “Don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.” ~John D. Rockefeller
• “Life is not about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” ~Lolly Daskal
• “All progress takes place outside the comfort zone.” ~Michael John Bobak
• “When I dare to be powerful – to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.” ~Audre Lorde
• “A man can be as great as he wants to be. If you believe in yourself and have the courage, the determination, the dedication, the competitive drive and if you are willing to sacrifice the little things in life and pay the price for the things that are worthwhile, it can be done.” ~Vince Lombardi

 

 

 

 

17-Making invitation

>> Inviting People>> Accepting invitations>> Declining invitations

Inviting People

Invitations are often structured into three parts: asking the person if they’re free, saying what the event is, then inviting the person to attend Examples:

• What are you doing next Saturday? We’re having some people over for a meal. Would you like to come
• Have you got anything on for this evening? A couple of us are going to the pub after work if you’d like to come. (to have something on = to have an arrangement)

Formal Phrases

• Would you like to + verb?
• I’d like to ask you to + verb
• I was just wondering if you would like to + verb?
• It would be my pleasure if you would + verb
• May I have the honor of your + verb-ing?

Examples:

• I’d like to ask you to attend the open ceremonies next week.
• May we have the honor of your presence at dinner on Friday?
• It would be my pleasure if you would join us for dinner tonight.
• Would you like to attend the performance with me?
• Would you be interested in coming to the cinema with me tonight?
• Would you like to join Sally and I for a bite to eat after work?
• Would you like to go to the theater tomorrow?
• Would you be interested in going to the the stadium next Sunday?
• We’d be delighted to have you over for my birthday party.
• I was just wondering if you would like to come over for a drink.

Informal Phrases

• Would you like to + verb?
• Why don’t we + verb?
• Let’s + verb.
• How about + verb + ing?

Examples:

• Would you like to have a drink?
• Why don’t we go out for dinner?
• Let’s go out this weekend.
• How about going to a movie?

Obviously you could go for the standard question ‘Would you like to Verb?’. Nothing wrong with it, but how about trying one of these alternatives which sound a bit more ‘informal’?

• fancy+v-ing
• fancy + noun
• feel like + ing:
• feel like+ noun:
• to be up for + ing:
• to be up for + noun:
• wanna + infinitive (without to):

Examples:

• Do you fancy going to the cinema tonight?
• Do you fancy coming to the cinema with us on Tuesday?
• (Do you) fancy a movie tonight?
• How do you fancy going to the the restaurant for dinner?
• How do you fancy going out for a meal at the weekend?
• Do you feel like going to the cinema tonight?
• Do you feel like a movie tonight?
• Are you up for going to the cinema tonight?
• Are you up for a movie tonight?
• Wanna go the the cinema tonight?

Indicate that you are making an invitation rather than asking just to do something together by using the following phrases:

• I’m buying.
• My treat.
• It’s on me.
• You’re my guest.

Examples:

• Let’s get a drink. I’m buying.
• Why don’t we have breakfast. My treat.
• Let’s go to a bar. It’s on me.
• No, I’ll pay the tab. You’re my guest.

Other ways

• Are you free next Thursday?
• Are you doing anything next weekend?
• Care to come over for lunch?

Accepting invitations

In accepting a formal invitation, it is important to respond appropriately.

1. Say thank you for the invitation, and your confirmation that you will attend.
2. Express your expectation that the event will be a successful and joyous one.
3. You may also ask for further clarification on any details

• Sure. What time? (1,3)
• Sure. When should I be there? (1,3)
• Sure, that would be great! (informal) (1,2)
• Sure. Why not? (1)
• Yes, let’s do that. (1)
• Thank you. Yes, that would be very nice. (1,2)
• Thank you for inviting me. (1)
• I would/will ….(1)
• I’d love to, thanks. (1)
• I’d like to love to come. (1)
• That’s very kind of you, thanks. (2,1)
• That sounds lovely, thank you. (2,1)
• That sounds like fun. (2)
• Certainly, I’d love to… (2)
• What a great idea, thank you. (2,1)
• That would be very nice. (2)
• That’s fine. (2)

If your invitation starts with a phrase like: “Would you like to…”, you can reply:

• I’d love to, thanks.
• That’s very kind of you, thanks.
• That sounds lovely, thanks.

If the invitation begins: “Do you fancy …”, you can accept with:

• “What a great idea, thanks.”
• “Sure! What’s on?”
• “Yeah, why not! (use it with good friends)

Declining invitations

Thank the host

• Thank you so much for the invitation, I really appreciate it and it means a great deal.
• Thank you so much for the invitation, I’d love to but

Apologise for declining

• Sorry I can’t attend
• Sorry I’m afraid I’m not able to come.

Explain why you can’t attend

A good way to start is always “I’d love to but..” what could come after this ‘but’? Well, what are your reasons? If you’re tired

• I’d love to but I’m shattered/ dead work was quite full-on today
• Sorry I’m tied up now, can you ring me back?

If you’re busy

• I’d love to but I’m already booked / I can’t make it / it’s not going to happen as I’m meeting up with this other guy tonight.
• I’ve already got something on
• I’ve got too much on at the moment.
• I’m busy tomorrow. Can I take a rain check* on that? ((*rain check: used to tell someone that you cannot accept invitations now, but would like to do so at a later time)

If you’re sad

• I’d love to but I’m not in the mood / I don’t feel like it/ I am not really up for it

If you feel ill

• I’d love to but I’m feeling a bit under the weather.

Others

• I’m not in town on that day.
• Sorry I’m out and about now, can I call you back?
• I’m not sure, I’ll give you a ring later.
• I’m not sure, I’ll phone/call you later.
• Not sure, I’ll text you later.

Offer another time to meet/Suggesting a different date

• I’m afraid I can’t make it on Friday. I’m available next week, though.
• I’m afraid I can’t on the 3rd. What about the 6th?
• I’m sorry, I won’t be able to make it on Monday. Could we meet on Tuesday instead?
• Ah, Wednesday is going to be a little difficult. I’d much prefer Friday, if that’s alright with you.
• I really don’t think I can on the 17th. Can we meet up on the 19th?
• What sort of time would suit you?
• Is 3pm a good time for you?
• If possible, I’d like to meet in the morning.
• How does 2pm sound to you?
• I’m afraid that I’m not going to be able to meet you after all. Can we fix another time?
• Something has just cropped up and I won’t be able to meet you this afternoon. Can we make another time

Others

• I’m very sorry, I don’t think I can because…
• I’d like to, but ….
• Thank you for asking me, but ….
• Unfortunately, I can’t ….

Examples:

• I can’t. I have to work.
• This evening is no good. I have an appointment.
• That’s very kind of you, but actually I’m doing something else this afternoon.
• Well, I’d love to, but I’m already going out to the restaurant.
• I’m really sorry, but I’ve got something else on.
• I really don’t think I can. I’m supposed to be doing something else.

 

 

 

18-Making Requests and Offers

>> Request to do something for you>> Asking if you can do something>> Offering to do something for another person>> Responding to offers

Here are some better phrases to make polite requests in English:

• Do you mind…?
• Would you mind…?
• Could I…?
• Would it be ok if…?
• Would it be possible…?
• Would you be willing to…?

Request to do something for you

• Could you open the door for me, please?
• Would you mind opening the door for me, please?
  Would you mind is followed by the verb and -ing.
• Can you open the door for me, please?

Asking if you can do something

When you want to do something:

• Can I use your bike, please?
• Could I borrow some money from you, please?
  Could is more polite that can
• Do you mind if I open the door?
  Do you mind if…” is followed by the verb in the present tense, don’t use please. It’s already polite enough
• Would you mind if I turned up the heating?
  Would you mind if… is followed by the verb in the past tense, don’t use please. It’s already polite enough

Offering to do something for another person

• Can I help you?
• Shall I open the window for you?
• Would you like another coffee?
• Would you like me to answer the phone?
• I‘ll do the photocopying, if you like.

Shall, can and will are followed by the verb without to.

Shall is particularly British English and is more formal than can. Would you like… is followed either by a noun, or by an object pronoun and the verb with to.

Responding to offers

These English dialogues show you ways to accept or reject offers made to you.

• Can I help you?
  Yes, please. I’d like to know what time the train leaves.
• Can I help you?
  No thanks, I’m just looking.
• Shall I open the window for you?
  Yes please. That would be very kind of you.
• Would you like another coffee?
  No thanks/ No thank you.
• Would you like another coffee?
  Yes please, that would be lovely/ Yes please, I’d love one.
• Would you like me to answer the phone?
  If you wouldn’t mind/ If you could. (Note: Don’t answer “Yes, I would”, as this sounds like you expect someone to do it for you.)
• I’ll do the photocopying, if you like.
  It’s OK, I can do it./ Don’t worry, I’ll do it./ Thank you, that would be great.

 

 

 

 

19-Writing letter and email

>> Addressing>> Beginning and small talk>> Formulating the content>> Concluding>> Signing off

Addressing

Start your letter by using the word Dear followed by the first name of the person you’re writing to.

• Dear Jonh,
• Dear Anna,

Standard address for friends, colleagues and business contacts.

• Dear Mr Smith,
• Dear Mrs Jones,
• Dear Miss Richards,

Standard address when the recipient’s name is known. If you know the name of the person you are writing to, start your letter by using Dear Mr (for a man), Dear Mrs (for a married woman), Dear Miss (for an unmarried woman), or Dear Ms (for an unmarried woman or where the marital status is unknown), followed by the surname.

• Dear Sir,
• Dear Madam,
• Dear Sir or Madam,

Formal address for when the recipient is unknown.

• Hello Sarah,
• Hi Mark, [only email]

An informal and very friendly way of addressing colleagues, friends and people with whom you have frequent contact.

• To whom it may concern, [only letter]

Very formal type of address. Mainly used when writing to public organisations or authorities.

Beginning and small talk

Enquiries

• I am writing to enquire about…
• I am writing to request…

Referring

• I am writing in reference to your… letter dated… advertisement enquiry
• Further to our telephone conversation / meeting / discussion…

Thank

• Thank you for your letter / email
• Thank you for your interest in… our company / our products / our services.

Email small talk

• How are you?
• I hope you are well;
• It was good to…see you at… / talk to you on….
• I hope you enjoyed…the conference / our holiday / the party.

Formulating the content

Asking for information/ Requesting something

• I would be grateful if you would send me some information on…
• I would be interested to find out more about…your products / your services / your offers.
• Please could you send me…a brochure / a catalog / your current price list?

• I would be grateful if you would…
• Would you / Could you please…
• It would be great if you would…

Formal

• Could you please let me know if you can attend … / if you are available for a meeting on 12th December?
• I would appreciate it if you could please send me a brochure/ if you could please reply within two days.
• Could you possibly arrange a meeting with the Logistics Manager?
• I would also like to know if there are any swimming pools in your area.
• Please let me know how much the tickets cost.

Informal

• I was wondering if you could come and see me sometime next week.
• Would you mind coming early to help me clear up the place?
• Do you think you could call Jerry for me?
• Can you call me/ get back to me asap? (as soon as possible)

 

Offering help/ giving information

        Formal

• We are happy to let you know that your article has been selected for publication.
• I am glad to inform you that we will be holding our annual conference in Brussels on 20 September 2014.
• We regret to inform you that the show has been cancelled due to bad weather conditions.
• We are willing to arrange another meeting with the CEO.
• We would be glad to send you another statement if necessary.
• Please do let me know if I can be of further assistance.
• Should you need any further information/assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Informal

• I’m sorry, but I can’t make it tomorrow.
• I’m happy to tell you that John and I are getting married next month.
• Would you like me to come early and help you clear up the place?
• How about I come and help you out?
• Do you need a hand with moving the furniture?

Requesting a quote

• Please could you send me a quote for…
• I would be grateful if you could send me a quote for the following:…

Confirming

• I am pleased to confirm that…
• I just wanted to…confirm the meeting / our appointment
• Further to our conversation, I’m pleased to confirm our appointment for 9.30am on Tuesday, 7 January.
• I am writing in reply to your letter of 7 September regarding your outstanding invoice.

Referring to attachments / enclosures

• Please find attached…
• Please find enclosed…

Thank

• I would like to express my sincere thanks for…
• I am deeply grateful for…
• Thanks very much for…

Congratulating

• I would like to wish you a very happy…birthday / anniversary
• I am writing to send you my warmest congratulations on…your promotion /anniversary / new venture / new job.
• I wish you all the best for…your retirement / new job.

Inviting

• You are warmly invited to…
• I would be delighted if you would join us / me for…
• Would you like to…

Making an appointment

• I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you in person.
• Would you like to get together for lunch / coffee / dinner to discuss this in person?
• When are you free this week?
• It would be great if we could arrange to meet sometime. When are you available?

Giving bad news

• I (deeply) regret to inform you that…
• Unfortunately we have no choice but to…
• Unfortunately…

Complaining

• Your product / your service regretably did not meet my expectations.
• I am (deeply) disspointed in…
• I regret that I must call your attention to…
• I would be grateful if you could look into this.

       Formal

• I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with… / to complain about…
• I regret to say that I was not completely satisfied with the room you provided us.
• We regret to inform you that your payment is considerably overdue.
• I would like to receive a full refund and compensation for the damages.
• I am interested to hear how your company can compensate us for the distress we suffered.

 Informal

• I’m sorry to say that you’re late with the payments.
• I hope you won’t mind me saying that the place you’d recommended to us wasn’t as nice as we’d expected.

Apologizing

• Please accept my sincere apologies for… the misunderstanding / the mistake.
• I apologise for any inconvenience that this may cause / have caused.
• I am very sorry about…
• Sorry about… the mix up / misunderstanding / mistake.

Formal

• We would like to apologize for any inconvenience caused.
• Please accept our apologies for the delay.
• Please let us know what we can do to compensate you for the damages caused.
• We will make sure that this will not happen again in the future.
• I am afraid I will not be able to attend the conference.

Informal

• I’m sorry for the trouble I caused.
• I apologize for the delay.
• I promise it won’t happen again
• I’m sorry, but I can’t make it to the meeting.

Attaching files

     Formal

• I am attaching my CV for your consideration.
• I am sending you the brochure as an attachment.
• Please see the statement attached.
• Please find attached the file you requested.
• I am afraid I cannot open the file you have sent me.
• Could you send it again in … format?

     Informal

• I’m attaching/sending you the holiday photos.
• Sorry, but I can’t open it. Can you send it again in … format?

Concluding

Asking for further help

• If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
• Please feel free to call me on (telephone) or at (email), if you require any further information

Requesting contact

• I would be grateful if you would get in touch with me (as soon as possible). You can reach me on (…)
• Inviting further contact
• I very much look forward to hearing from you.
• I look forward to working with you in the future.
• I look forward to hearing from you.
• If you would like any further information, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Ending

      Formal

• I look forward to hearing from you. I look forward to hearing when you are planning to visit our town.

      Informal

• Hope to hear from you soon.
• I’m looking forward to seeing you.

 

Signing off

• Yours sincerely Yours faithfully Sincerely yours [formal]
• Best regards All the best Yours Best wishes [friendly]
• Kind regards [less formal, only letter] Typical ways to finish an informal letter
• Thanks / cheers [casual, only email]
• Love, If writing to a family member, partner, or close friend
• Yours sincerely, [formal] If you started your letter with Dear Mr, Dear Mrs, Dear Miss, or Dear Ms.
• Yours faithfully, [formal] If you started your letter with Dear Sir, Dear Madam, or Dear Sir or Madam.
• Regards, Kind regards, Best regards, With kind regards, [email]

Add your signature at the end In business emails, you should also include your full name, organisation, and contact details at the end. In informal letters, you should finish by signing your first name. In formal letters, you should dd your signature at the end, followed by your full name printed.

 

 

 

20-Giving Opinions

>> Elementary>> Pre-intermediate>> Intermediate>> Upper-intermediate>> Advanced

Expressing a strong opinion

• In my opinion, it’s a good idea.
• If you ask me, we should buy it.
• Personally, I don’t think we should rush to a decision.
• As far as I’m concerned, unless they increase their offer, I’m not interested.
• You know what I think? It’s a great restaurant.
• I reckon it’s the best film I’ve seen this year.- reckon is informal and used more in British English than American English.
• If you don’t mind me saying, yellow really suits you.
• The way I see it, it’s better to keep trying than give up now.
• To my mind, it’s a good idea.
• Frankly, I think this is a bad idea – used when what you are about to say is your honest opinion, even though others might not like what your view.
• I’m absolutely convinced that the best way to improve your English is to live in an English-speaking country such as the UK.
• It’s obvious to me that the best way to improve your English is to buy a grammar book and learn all of the rules.

Secondly, we can express a cautious or reluctant opinion when we show that we are not certain about what we think or we are reluctant to express what we believe.

• I suppose that getting a private tutor would be a good way to improve.
• As far as I understand it, you need to practise on a regular basis if you want to improve.
• It seems to me that there is no best way to learn English. Each person has to find a strategy or method that works for them.
• I must admit that I’m not sure there is a best way to improve your English. I suppose that going to an English-speaking country to study English might be a good way.

Thirdly, we can express an objective opinion, based on research or what we have heard or read. In this way, we distance ourselves from the opinion to show that maybe it’s not what we personally believe.

• Apparently, setting a clear goal, such as passing an exam, can help you improve your English.
• I’ve heard that going to an English-speaking country is the best way to improve.
• The research seems to suggest that there is no best way to improve your English.

Finally, we can express a subjective opinion, based only our own personal experience.

• In my experience, the best way to improve your English is to practise as much as you can and learn from your mistakes.
• I don’t know about other people, but I can say that taking English classes helped me.
• What I’ve found is that watching and listening to films and TV in English can really help.

Elementary

• I (really) think that …
• I believe (that) …
• I’m sure that …
• In my opinion / My opinion is …

Pre-intermediate

• I agree with …
• I feel that …
• I guess/imagine …
• I have no doubt that / I’m certain that …
• I strongly believe that …
• I’ve never really thought about this before, but …
• My personal opinion is that / Personally, my opinion is that …
• To be honest / In my honest opinion, …

Intermediate

• As far as I know, …
• I agree with the opinion of …
• I could be wrong, but …
• I’d definitely say that …
• I’d guess/imagine that …
• I’d say that …
• I’m absolutely certain that …
• I’m fairly confident that …
• I’m no expert (on this), but …
• I’m positive that …
• I’m pretty sure that …
• It seems to me that …
• It’s a complicated/difficult issue, but …
• My (point of) view (on this) is …
• Obviously, …
• Some people may disagree with me, but …
• This is just my opinion, but …
• Without a doubt, …
• You probably won’t agree, but …

Upper-intermediate

• After much thought, …
• After weighing up both sides of the argument, …
• Although I can see both points of view / Although I can understand the opposite point of view, …
• As I see it, …
• Correct me if I’m wrong, but …
• For me/ From my point of view, …
• Frankly, …
• I am not very familiar with this topic, but …
• I do believe/ feel/think …
• I have come to the conclusion that …
• I might change my mind later, but …
• I reckon/suppose …
• I tend to think that …
• I’m not sure I’m the right person to ask, but / I have very limited experience of this, but …
• I’m pretty confident that …
• I’ve always thought that …
• If you ask me, …
• I’m (absolutely) convinced that …
• In my humble opinion, …
• It could be said that …
• It seems clear to me that …
• It would seem to me that …
• My initial reaction is …
• Not everyone will/would agree with me, but …
• Personally speaking / Speaking for myself, …
• The way I see it (is) …
• To be (perfectly) frank, …
• To the best of my knowledge, …
• What I think is …
• You could say …

Advanced

• After giving this matter some (serious) thought, …
• As far as I’m concerned, …
• As the old saying goes, …
• Having given this question due consideration, …
• I am of the opinion that …
• I can’t help thinking that …
• I know this is a minority view, but / I’m in the minority in thinking that …
• I tend towards the opinion that …
• I think it’s fair/reasonable to say …
• I’ll tell you what I think, …
• I’m entirely/quite convinced that …
• I’ve come the conclusion that …
• If I must come up with an opinion / If you (really) want my opinion, …
• In my limited experience, …
• It could/might well be that …
• Know what I think? …
• My opinion was best expressed by … when s/he said/wrote …
• My view/position on this (issue) (is clear and) is that …
• Off the top of my head, …
• Plainly, …
• Quite frankly, …
• There is a part of me that says …
• This may well be controversial, but …
• To my mind / To my way of thinking, …
• To summarise my (rather complex) views on the matter, …
• What I always say is …
• With some reservations, …
• Without a shred/shadow of doubt, …
• You’d have to be crazy not to agree that / Any idiot can see that …

 

 

 

 

21- Christmas Greetings

 

• Christmas brings family and friends together; it helps us appreciate the love in our lives we can often take for granted. May the true meaning of the holiday season fill your heart and home with many blessings.
• May this holiday season sparkle and shine, may all of your wishes and dreams come true, and may you feel this happiness all year round.
• During this season of giving, let us take time to slow down and enjoy the simple things. May this wonderful time of the year touch your heart in a special way. Wishing you much happiness today and throughout the New Year.
• Having you as my friend makes me feel as if it is Christmas every day. The warmth and comfort that comes with this season reminds me of you.
• Christmas is the season for peace, joy and fellowship with family and friends. May the yuletide spirit fill your heart and home with an abundance of mercy, contentment, laughter and harmony.
• It is the season for giving and remembering and sharing the love. Christmas is a time when we take stock of our blessings and reach out to those who have touched our lives. Thank you for being such a wonderful friend/sibling. The best of the Christmas season to you.
• May the message of Christmas fill your life with joy and peace. Best wishes to you and your family during this holiday season.
• Wishing you peace, joy, and all the best this wonderful holiday has to offer. May this incredible time of giving and spending time with family bring you joy that lasts throughout the year.
• Take time during the rush of the holidays to enjoy the things in life that really matter. Take in the serene moments spent with friends and loved ones, and may the wonder of Christmas surround you throughout the holiday season.
• During this time of faith and family, may the true meaning of Christmas fill you with joy. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.
• As you celebrate the miracle of this special season, may your heart be filled with joy and peace. May these holiday blessings linger in your home and stay with you throughout the year.
• Amidst the Christmas carols, eggnog, cookies and mounds of presents, may your heart be filled with contentment and the unique feeling of joy that the season brings.
• Hope your Christmas is as warm and sweet as a cup of hot cocoa and filled with more granted wishes than you can count.
• May the peace and love of the Christmas season wrap you boundless joy during the season and in the New Year.
• The warmth and love surrounding Christmas is a joy to be savored with family and friends. It is a time to give and share with one another. Here’s to wishing you the best this season has to offer.
• Christmas is a season of great joy: a time for remembering the past and hoping for the future. May the glorious message of peace and love fill you with joy during this wonderful season.
• This time of year brings festivities and family fun. It is a time for reminiscing and looking forward. Wishing you wonderful memories during this joyous season.
• During this Christmas season, may you enjoy the message of hope, love, and peace on Earth. May all of these holiday blessings be yours to keep. Here’s to wishing you a Merry Christmas.
• This is the season for bright lights and shiny packages. It is a time for sharing love and being together. It is a time for wishing you and your family all the best.
• The meaning of Christmas is held in our hearts and shared with family and friends. I’m sending you messages of faith and hope for a beautiful holiday season.
• During the miraculous time that is Christmas may you see with the eyes of a child, experience the wonder of love, and truly enjoy all that the season has to offer.
• It’s the time of year when loved ones gather together. It is a special time to be thankful for all of the wonderful blessings in our lives. Sending you good wishes and the hope that your holiday will be a joyous one.
• The glory and beauty of this wonderful season is something we all can share together. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
• This time of year brings to mind those things in life that are most important. It reminds us to focus on all of the good things around us. Wishing warm greetings for you and your family during this holiday.
• As you celebrate the glory of this miraculous season, may your home be filled with love, peace, and joy. May these blessings follow you throughout the New Year.

 

For your parents

 

• I think of you always, Mom and Dad, especially during the holidays. I hope you have the best Christmas ever. You deserve it.
• Mom and Dad, you are always in my heart and on my mind. May Christmas fill you with the kind of joy you give me.
• Because you are such loving parents, I know how fortunate I am to have you in my life. Thanks for everything. Merry Christmas.
• When I think about Christmas, I realize the best gift of all is you. Mom and Dad, have a marvelous Christmas.
• I always felt I had the best parents in the world because you have done so much for me. All my love on Christmas.
• Growing up in a house filled with love has been a splendid experience. Mom and Dad, may you feel my love for you this Christmas.
• I couldn’t imagine life without parents like you. Because you have been so caring and thoughtful, I hope this Christmas is your best one yet.
• You bring me joy beyond compare because you are everything good parents should be and more. I’m so grateful you’re mine. Have a joyous Christmas.
• Christmas is a holiday that’s filled with thanks for family like you. You make Christmas special, Mom and Dad. I hope yours is extraordinary.
• Parents like you are reason to celebrate, and Christmas is the perfect time to do it. Thank you for being so outstanding. Merry Christmas.
• You are my parents and my closest friends. You are the best part of my life. Love to you on Christmas and always.
• Ever since I was a child, you watched over me, and you still do. Love you more than anything, Mom and Dad, and Merry Christmas.
• As you weave your love into Christmas, my dear parents, include mine and have the Merriest Christmas two parents could ever have.
• As parents, you fill my life with love and joy. I hope your Christmas is as joyful as the life you gave me.
• No gift could ever be as great as parents who love their children – parents like you. Hope you have the wonderful Christmas you deserve.
• Christmas would just be another ordinary day to me if you weren’t in it. Love to you both at Christmas, Mom and Dad.
• Mom and Dad, even though you always buy me beautiful Christmas gifts, your love means more to me than anything. Merry Christmas with love.
• Who needs gifts when I have magnificent parents like you? Love and kisses for Christmas, Mom and Dad.
• Memories of sharing Christmas with you warm my heart when this holiday rolls around. I love you, Mom and Dad. Have a very lovely Christmas.

 

 

22- Writing in a Christmas Card

 

• Christmas time is here. I hope you have a wonderful New Year. May every day hold happy hours for you!
• Christmas should be a time of banked-up fines, the scent of flowers and wine, good talk, good memories and loyalties renewed. But if all else is lacking – love will do.
• Christmas greetings and best wishes!
• Christmas comes but once a year. But when it comes it brings good cheer.
• Christmas is the most human and kindly of season, as the month of June with sunshine and the balmy breath of roses.
• Christmas comes but once a year. but when it comes it brings good cheer.
• Wish you a song in your heart at Christmas and blessings all year long.
• Wish you peace, joy and happiness through Christmas and the coming year.
• Wishing you a sparkling Christmas and bright happy New Year! May the season bring much pleasure to you!
• Wish you all the blessings of a beautiful Christmas season.
• Wish you all the happiness of the holiday season.
• Wishing you every happiness when Christmas is near, and expressing appreciation for your cares and concerns during the year.
• Wish you a blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with happy surprises.
• Wish you a Christmas of happy time and a New Year of happy days.
• Wishing you a song in your heart at Christmas and blessings all year long.
• Wishing you peace, joy and happiness through Christmas and the coming year.
• Here is wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a New Year bright with joy and success.
• I wish you a gay and merry Christmas. All affection and best wishes to you and yours.
• Hope all your Christmas dreams come true!
• Hope you enjoy the happiness of Christmas and all the trimmings.
• Here is wishing you all a merry Christmas and a new year bright with joy and success.

 

• Merry Christmas and happy New Year!
• May Christmas and the New Year be filled with happiness for you!
• May the warmest wishes, happy thoughts and friendly greetings come at Christmas and stay with you all the year through.
• May you have the best Christmas Eve!
• May the joy of Christmas be with you throughout the year!
• May the Christmas be a time of laughter and real enjoyment for you! Best wishes.
• May the glow of Christmas candle fill your heart with peace and pleasure and make your New Year bright. Have a love filled Christmas and New Year!
• May the bright and festive glow of Christmas candle warm the days all the year through! Hope you will have a wonderful time enjoying Christmas Day and wish you a New Year that is happy in every way.
• May the beauty and joy of Christmas remain with you throughout the New Year!
• May your Christmas be filled with special moment; warmth, peace and happiness, the joy of covered ones near, and wish you all the joys of Christmas and a year of happiness.
• May who say that Christmas Day will come around forget and forgive the unpleasant bygones. Touch hands.
• May Christmas and the new year be filled with happiness for you.

 

• A Christmas greeting and good wishes to you is thought about all the year through. Have a beautiful Christmas and a happy New Year.
• A cheery Christmas and the New Year hold lots of happiness for you!
• A Christmas greeting to cheer you from your daughters!
• A merry Christmas and a wonderful new year.
• A Christmas greeting and good wishes to you who is thought about all the year through. have a beautiful Christmas and a happy new year.
• A cheery Christmas and the new year hold lots of happiness for you!
• A wish for a truly merry Christmas and May the joy of Christmas linger in your heart all the year!
• With all good wishes for a brilliant and happy Christmas season, hope things are going all right with you.
• With the old wish that is ever new, may the greeting do its share toward making your Christmas a pleasant one
• With my thoughts and greetings in the Christmas season!
• With all good wishes for a brilliant and happy Christmas season. hope things are going all right with you
• Warm hearted wishes for an old fashioned Christmas and a happy New Year filled with all your favorite things.
• Warm greetings and best wishes for Christmas and the New Year!
• Warm greetings and best wishes for happiness and good luck in the coming year!
• Think of you at Christmas with a wish that is warm and sincere. Have a wonderful Christmas and joyous New Year!
• Thinking of you and wishing you a beautiful Christmas season.
• Numerously loving wishes for my wife who will always be my valuable Christmas gift and everything to me.
• Merry Christmas and happy new year!
• Much joy to you in the up coming year!
• It seems that Christmas time is here once again, and it is time again to bring in the new year. we wish the merriest of Christmas to you and your loved ones, and we wish you happiness and prosperity in the year ahead.
• In the season of joy I present my sincere wishes and kind thoughts. May the kind of Christmas outshine all the rest!
• Peace and love for you at Christmas from all your students. ( to teachers)
• At Christmas and always, may peace and love fill your heart, beauty fill your world, and contentment and joy fill your days.

 

 

 

 

23- Writing in a New Year Card

New beginnings, fresh starts, reaffirmations of love and promises for a brighter future all come to mind as we ring in a New Year. There are the superficial, yet purposeful, promises we make to ourselves.

Wishes for Friends

 

• Wishing you a Happy New Year with the hope that you will have many blessings in the year to come.
• Out with the old, in with the new: may you be happy the whole year through. Happy New Year!
• As I think about our friendship and how happy it has made me, I want to wish you happiness in the year to come.
• I would just like to express how much joy you have given me, and wish for your joy and happiness in return. Happy New Year!
• Friend, neighbor, confidante: you have improved my life so much that, as we enter a new year, I wish for you all the love you have shown me. Happy New Year.
• Counting my blessings and wishing you more. Hope you enjoy the New Year in store. Have a joyous New Year, my dear friend!
• A new year is like a blank book, and the pen is in your hands. It is your chance to write a beautiful story for yourself. Happy New Year.

 

Wishes for Best Friend

 

• Knowing you has been a master class in true friendship. During the New Year, I hope to emulate your love and warmth. Wishing you a very Happy New Year.
• May we live in a world at peace and with the awareness of God’s love in every sunset, every flower’s unfolding petals, every baby’s smile, every lover’s kiss, and every wonderful, astonishing, miraculous beat of our hearts.
• Another year has passed, another year has come. I wish for you that, with every year, you achieve all of your dreams. May God pour love and care on you. Happy New Year.
• Another year of success and happiness has passed. With every new year comes greater challenges and obstacles in life. I wish you courage, hope and faith to overcome all of the hurdles you may face. May you have a great year and a wonderful time ahead. God bless you.

 

Wishes for Family

 

• My sister, my first friend, my constant support: in the coming year, I wish you all of the blessings you truly deserve. I love you, Sis.
• Now, in the New Year, we look back upon warm memories. You’ve had a hand in every wonderfully warm memory I have, Mom. Happy New Year, Mom.
• Happy New Year, Grandma. I wish you a bright New Year, just like every year you have brightened in my life. Thank you.
• To my awesome brother: thank you for the fun, and sometimes embarrassing, memories we share. Let’s keep that tradition going in the upcoming year! Happy New Year, with love.
• As I look forward to a New Year, I always think of the gifts my parents have given me. Though we’re miles apart, you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Happy New Year, with gratitude.

 

Wishes for Your Boyfriend or Girlfriend

 

• Another year filled with sweet memories and joyous times has passed. You have made my year very special, and I wish for you to continue to do so.
• With you around, every moment is a special occasion for me. I hope you have a great year ahead. May God bless my love with his care and warmth.
• I love you, and wish you a very Happy New Year.
• Every New Year wish I have ever made came true when I met you. Thank you sweetheart…Happy New Year, with love.
• As we enter the New Year together, let’s resolve to appreciate the love we share and watch it grow even deeper. Happy New Year my love.
• You witnessed my every pratfall and tolerated every bad joke. You’re still smiling with me, and I love you for that. Happy New Year.
• I resolve to stop wasting my resolutions on myself and use them to repay you for the warmth you’ve shown me. Happy New Year, my love.
• New dreams, new hopes, new experiences and new joys: wishing my new love a very Happy New Year.
• All my wishes, all my hopes, all my dreams, and mostly all my love for a Happy New Year.
• Best wishes to my beloved friend for an amazing year ahead. May the sunshine of happiness always shine above you. May the dove of peace rest over you and live in your home. May the dense forest of love surround you all year round. May you have a lovely New Year.

 

Wishes for your teachers

Express how grateful you are for all your teacher does for you

 

• I was blessed with a special teacher, and I hope to see you again next year. Have a Great New Year.
• I’m lucky to have a wonderful teacher like you. Hope your New Year is as wonderful as you are.
• When I felt like I was failing, you helped me succeed, teacher. May your New Year be filled with nothing but happiness.
• If I could choose my teacher, I’d choose you over and over again. Warm wishes for the New Year.
• Behind every successful student is a great teacher. Thanks for being mine. Happy New Year to the best.
• Dearest teacher, you provided me with knowledge that lights the way to success. Blessings for the New Year.
• As the New Year approaches, I thank all those who made a difference in my life. Thank you, teacher.
• Once you recognize a good teacher, they become your role model. You’ve become mine. Happy New Year.
• Some teachers will always be remembered for being the best. You are one of them. Have a marvelous New Year.
• My dearest teacher, Best Wishes to you for the New Year. Many thanks for a wonderful education.
• I hope you enjoy what the New Year holds for you as much as I enjoyed being your student.
• Before you were my teacher, I found school boring. Then you came along and filled me with enthusiasm. Thanks and Happy New Year.
• Even the laziest student learns something from a good teacher. I learned a lot from you. Warm New Year Wishes to a fabulous teacher.
• Great teachers inspire their students to do their best. Thank you for inspiring me. Best New Year Wishes.
• Talented teachers make the future bright by creating smarter individuals. I hope the New Year rewards you nicely.
• New Year’s and teachers give you the chance to make the future brighter. Thank you teacher.
• Teachers make you wise and fill the world with wisdom and happiness. Teacher, may your New Year be the happiest one you’ve ever had.
• With New Year’s on the way, I want to express my thanks to you for being an outstanding teacher.
• A teacher with patience is a blessing I’m grateful to have. Blessings for the New Year, and sincere thanks.
• I know how important a good education is. You were the teacher who made me realize that. Thanks, and enjoy the New Year.

 

New Year Messages

 

• Cheers to the New Year. May it be a memorable one. Happy New Year.
• Don’t worry when others are unable to understand you. Worry only when you are not able to understand yourself. May you have a Happy New Year.
• I wish for this year to have lesser disasters, less hate, less accidents and loads of love. Happy New Year.
• I wish you a very Happy New Year. Hope you have a great time ahead.
• I wish you a very sweet and prosperous New Year. May God pour his love and blessings on you. Enjoy!
• It is time to forget the past and celebrate a new beginning. Happy New Year.
• It’s time for champagne, cake and balloons. It’s time to celebrate the new year. Happy New Year.
• Let go of the past behind you. Right ahead, lies a new beginning. Make it a memorable experience. Happy New Year.
• Let this New Year be the one, where all your dreams come true, so with a joyful heart, put a start to this year anew. Wishing you a happy and prosperous New Year.
• Let’s give a warm welcome to the year that starts a new, cherish each moment that the year shall behold, so let’s come together and celebrate a blissful start to the New Year. Happy New Year.
• May each and every day of yours be renewed with lots of happiness and love. Happy New Year.
• May New Year’s Eve find you seated around the table, together with your beloved family and cherished friends. May you find the food better, the environment quieter, the cost much cheaper, and the pleasure more fulfilling than anything else you might ordinarily do that night.
• May the coming year bring more happiness to you than last year. May you have an amazing year. Happy New Year.
• May the gift of love, happiness, peace, and warmth be yours as you make a new start. Happy New Year!
• May the New Year bring to you Warmth of love and a light to guide your path towards a positive destination. Happy New Year!
• May the new year bring you greater heights of success and prosperity. Have a happy new year!
• May the new year that follows be the best you have ever had. Have a blissful new year!
• May the telemarketers wait to make their sales calls until you finish dinner, may the commercials on TV not be louder than the program you have been watching, and may your check book and your budget balance – and include generous amounts for charity.
• May the year ahead brings you good luck, fortune, success and lots of love. Happy New Year to you and your loved ones.
• May this new year, bring in loads of joy and fun in your life. I wish you a very sweet and warm New Year, and pray to God to bless to with his love, care and support. May you achieve big feats this year.
• May you have a smashing new year filled with lots of delightful surprises. May you have a Happy New year.
• May you know the joy of love,to soothe all tears away, true friend to walk beside you,through each and every day.I pray the year is brighter than the one passed before,good health and happiness and blessings by the score.Happy new year.
• May your days be painted in gold. May your life be filled with diamonds. May the stars shine bright on your world. May you have a fun filled year. Happy New Year.
• No matter if every sunset steels one day from our life, but every sunrise gives us one another day to hope!i wish new hopes will always be a part of your life.Happy new year.
• On this New Year I wish that you have a wonderful January, a lovely February, a Peaceful March, a stress-free April, a fun-filled May, and Joy that lasts from June to November, and finally a happy December. May my wishes come true and may you have a charming and lucky New Year.
• On this New Year, may you change your direction and not dates, change your commitments and not the Calendar, change your attitude and not the actions, and bring about a change in your faith, your force and your focus and not the fruit. May you live up to the promises you have made and may you create for you and your loved ones the most Happy New Year ever.
• Season’s greetings and best wishes for a new year that fills your heart with joy. Happy New Year!
• The future ahead, holds numerous surprises for you. Be open to changes. Happy New Year.
• The New Year is the time of unfolding horizons and the realization of dreams, may you rediscover new strength and garner faith with you, and be able to rejoice in the simple pleasures that life has to offer and put a brave front for all the challenges that may come your way. Wishing you a lovely New Year.
• There are things that are sometimes left undone and there are things that can be left sometimes unsaid. There are things that can be sometimes left unsaid, but wishing someone like you can’t ever be left, so I take this moment to wish you and your loved ones a joyous and wonderful New Year.
• Time is like a flowing river, no water passes beneath your feet twice, much like the river, moments never pass you by again, so cherish every moment that life gives you and have a wonderful New Year.
• When you are happy, smile and celebrate; but when you’re sad, again celebrate to bring a smile to others. Happy New Year.
• Ahh, I do this every year. I promise myself I wouldn’t repeat the same things I write all the time in a greeting card, but how can you avoid that?! Anyway, Happy New Years!
• May God bless you and your family on this special day. Happy New Years!
• And finally here we go: 10… 9… 8… 3… 2… 1…!!! Happy New Years! Wishing you 365 days of good luck!
• 3… 2…. 1…. Wait, what was I supposed to write afterwards? Oh yes, HAPPY NEW YEARS!!!
• Are you ready for the most famous countdown of the whole world? New Years is coming! And 10, 9, 8, …. 3, 2, 1…. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
• You know it’s New Years when you hear the fireworks and the really big count down! Happy New Years! Wishing you all the best!
• You know what I love the most about celebrating New Years? That I get to use the expression “See you next year!” Happy New Years!
• Sometimes people forget how much 365 days actually brings to their lives. However, this is the right moment to reflect and to hope for 365 more wonderful days! Happy New Years!
• I thought hard about what to write in this card. After many hours of thinking, I went on the internet for inspiration and found what I was looking for: Happy New Years!
• I am always excited about this day because I can’t wait to find out what this New Year is going to bring me. But for now, let’s celebrate! Happy New Years!
• I hope this New Year is all that you wish for. Wishing you all the very best.
• The fireworks and the famous countdown to midnight. The things that make every New Years eve all that special. Happy New Years!
• Here’s to hoping that the New Year is gonna be a big one. All the best
• All the best this upcoming year!! We hope that all your goals for 2017 are reached and that it all works out great.
• We hope 2017 brings great happiness and great success to you and the ones that matter most. All the best
• A brand New Year is about to begin. Hope you are ready for more great experiences and adventures! Happy New years!
• Blow up the balloons, get the drinks ready and let’s start the countdown! Happy New Years!!!!!!!!!
• The sun has set on a whole year but it is about to rise on a brand new one. Happy New Years!
• This year has come to an end and it will take away all the pain and mistakes. Now you have a brand new beginning to look forward to. Happy New Years, with love from all of us!
• So I spent hours trying to come up with the perfect message for this card. And do you want to know what I came up with, finally?! Here it goes: Happy New Years!
• Sipping cold fruity drinks while waiting for the countdown to being. Having a good time while having lovely conversations with old friends. Does it get any better than this? Happy new Years!
• You know it’s New Years when on TV all you can see is people in the streets waiting for midnight. Shall we go out there as well?! Happy New Years!
• New Years marks a new beginning. New people to meet, new adventures to enjoy and new memories to create. Here’s wishing you the happiest New Year ever!
• New Years is a chance for all of us to leave our mistakes behind and and start fresh. Let’s freshen up! Happy New Years!
• New Years is the perfect occasion to celebrate love, friendships and all the good things in life. Let’s take the time to appreciate what this year has given us and what the new one is about to bring! Happy New Years!
• To quote John Lennon, “Happy New Year, let’s hope it’s a good one, without any fear!” Wishing you a magical New Years, with love from all of us!
• May all your dreams come true. Wishing you a Happy New Years filled with tons of good luck!
• If there’s one thing I hate is having to watch all these New Years specials on TV. I would much rather be getting drunk on left-over eggnog! Happy New Years!

 

 

 

• We hope you’re ready for another big year. Wishing you great success and happiness in 2017!!
• Wishing you a new year rich with the blessings of love, joy, warmth, and laughter.
• Wishing you a year that is filled with all the fragrance of roses, illuminated with all the lights of the world and be blessed with all the smiles on the planet. Hope this year will be the year when all your dreams come true. Happy New Year 2015.
• Wishing you good health, happiness, and success in the coming year and always. Happy New Year!
• Wishing you a safe and happy New Year!! We hope it turns out to be your best year ever!!
• Wishing you a super-duper extra luck Happy New Years! Here’s hoping that all your dreams come true.
• Wishing you all the best this New Year with all that you set out to achieve!!
• Wishing you the best New Year ever!! We hope it’s filled with lots of good fortune and lots progress.
• Wishing you and your family a safe and prosperous New Year!!
• Wishing you an absolute cracker of a New Year. We hope it’s all that you wish for 🙂
• Wishing you all that’s great in the New Year. We hope it turns out to be a big one!!
• We hope the New Year is going to be really great for you and your family. Wishing you all the very best.
• We hope the New Year is going to be filled with lots of fun and excitement!! Wishing you a big one 🙂
• Wishing you a great New Year filled with happiness and success. All the very best
• Wishing you lots of happiness and success this upcoming year. I have a feeling it’s going to be great!! All the best
• Wishing you a happy New Years. May it be all that you hope it will be! All the best
• Wishing you a happy and magical New Year. We hope it brings you lots of joy and happiness. All the best

 

 

 

• Happy New Year!! It’s your year so make it a good one!!
• Happy New Year!! We hope the New Year will be all that you wish for.
• Happy New Year to you and the ones you love!! We hope it brings you great fortune and great success!!
• Happy New Years! Wait, am I supposed to be writing more?! Sorry, I’m at a loss for words!
• Last year was crap, this year will be better! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!