General English
Everyday English Foundations
The greetings, questions, and everyday phrases you need first.
Start with the English you use every day: greetings, questions, and the phrases that get you through shops, meals, and small talk. Add each phrase to your box and review it with images until it sticks.
What you will learn
- Use high-frequency greetings, questions, and everyday responses.
- Name people, places, and things you meet in daily life.
- Ask for what you need without pausing to translate.
Section 1
Essential Actions
Collocation
Ask for help
to request assistance or support from someone
Example: If you do not understand the instructions, ask for help.
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Spend time
to use a period of time doing something or being with someone
Example: I like to spend time with my family on weekends.
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Start work
to begin working, especially at a job or on a task
Example: I start work at nine o'clock every weekday.
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Make plans
to decide and arrange what you will do in the future, often with other people
Example: Let’s make plans for the weekend.
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Do homework
to complete school assignments or study tasks that are done outside class
Example: I usually do homework after dinner.
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Fill out a form
to complete a form by writing or entering the required information
Example: Please fill out a form at the front desk before you see the nurse.
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Send a message
to communicate with someone by writing to them, especially by text or an app
Example: I will send a message when I arrive.
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Make an appointment
to arrange a specific time to meet someone, especially a professional such as a doctor or dentist
Example: I need to make an appointment with the dentist.
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Make a mistake
to do something wrong or incorrectly
Example: Everyone can make a mistake, so do not be too hard on yourself.
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Make a decision
to choose what to do after thinking about different options
Example: I need to make a decision by Friday.
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Ask a question
to say or write something in order to get information from someone
Example: If you don’t understand, ask a question.
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Give directions
to tell someone how to get to a place by describing the route
Example: Could you give directions to the nearest subway station?
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Solve a problem
to find an answer or fix an issue so it is no longer a problem
Example: We worked together to solve the problem before the deadline.
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Join a meeting
to enter and take part in a scheduled meeting, especially an online one
Example: Please join the meeting at 10 a.m. using the link in the calendar invite.
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Make a call
to telephone someone or to place a phone call
Example: I need to make a call before the meeting starts.
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Open the door
to move a door so it is no longer closed and can be passed through
Example: Could you open the door, please?
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Turn on the lights
to switch the lights on so a place becomes bright
Example: It is getting dark, so please turn on the lights.
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Pay the bill
to give money for what you have bought or for a service you used
Example: Could you pay the bill, please?
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Get a ride
to travel in someone else’s vehicle, usually because they take you somewhere
Example: I can get a ride to the airport with my sister.
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Take a break
to stop working or doing an activity for a short time to rest
Example: Let’s take a break and get some fresh air.
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Make progress
to improve or move forward toward a goal over time
Example: If you practice every day, you will make progress quickly.
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Book a table
To make a reservation for a table, typically at a restaurant, in advance.
Example: We should book a table for dinner tonight, as it's a very popular place.
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Give advice
to offer suggestions or guidance to help someone decide what to do
Example: Try not to give advice unless someone asks for it.
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Take a photo
to capture an image using a camera or phone
Example: Could you take a photo of us by the fountain?
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Save a file
to store a document or data on a computer so it can be opened later
Example: Don’t forget to save the file before you close the program.
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Write a note
to quickly put a short message or reminder into writing
Example: I will write a note to remind myself to call her tomorrow.
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Make a list
to write down items in an organized way, usually to plan or remember things
Example: I need to make a list of groceries before I go to the store.
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Find a seat
to locate an available place to sit
Example: Please find a seat and the doctor will see you shortly.
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Buy a ticket
to pay for and obtain a ticket that allows you to enter or travel
Example: I need to buy a ticket before the train leaves.
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Keep the receipt
to hold on to the proof of purchase in case you need to return, exchange, or claim a refund or warranty
Example: Keep the receipt in case you need to return it.
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Reset a password
to change a password to regain access to an account, usually after forgetting it or for security
Example: I had to reset my password after I forgot it.
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Meet a deadline
to finish work by the required time or date
Example: We have to meet the deadline by Friday afternoon.
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Make a choice
to decide between options
Example: You need to make a choice before the deadline.
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Keep a promise
to do what you said you would do; not break your word
Example: I always try to keep a promise, even when it is difficult.
Section 2
People, Places, and Things
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Store clerk
A person whose job is to serve customers in a shop or store, or to perform general administrative duties within a retail environment.
Example: The store clerk helped me find the right size shirt.
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Close friend
a friend you know very well and trust; someone you have a strong personal relationship with
Example: She's a close friend of mine from college.
Word
Co-worker
A co-worker is someone you work with.
Example: My co-worker sits next to me.
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Next-door neighbor
a person who lives in the house or apartment immediately beside yours
Example: My next-door neighbor offered to water the plants while we were away.
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New colleague
A person who has recently started working in the same company or department as you.
Example: The team welcomed their new colleague with a small gathering.
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College roommate
a person you share a room with while attending college or university
Example: My college roommate and I are still close friends.
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Front desk
the reception area or staff at a hotel, office, or building where visitors check in and get help
Example: Please check in at the front desk when you arrive.
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Bus stop
a place by the road where buses regularly stop so passengers can get on or off
Example: I will meet you at the bus stop at 8 o'clock.
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Train station
a place where trains stop so passengers can get on or off
Example: Let’s meet outside the train station at 6 p.m.
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Grocery store
a shop where you buy food and everyday household items
Example: I stopped by the grocery store to buy milk and bread.
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Post office
a public place where you can send mail and packages, buy stamps, and use other postal services
Example: I need to go to the post office to mail this package.
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City center
the central area of a city where shops, offices, and main attractions are located
Example: Our hotel is close to the city center, so we can walk to most places.
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Parking lot
an area where people leave their cars for a short time while they visit a place
Example: I left my car in the parking lot behind the supermarket.
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Living room
a room in a home where people relax, sit, and spend time together
Example: We watched a movie in the living room.
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Bedroom window
a window in a bedroom (the room used for sleeping)
Example: I opened the bedroom window to let in some fresh air.
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Kitchen table
a table in the kitchen, often used for everyday meals, homework, or casual family conversations
Example: We ate breakfast at the kitchen table.
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Bathroom sink
the sink located in a bathroom, used for washing hands and face
Example: I left my watch on the bathroom sink.
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Laundry room
a room in a house or building where clothes are washed and dried, usually with a washer and dryer
Example: The laundry room is down the hall next to the kitchen.
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Phone charger
a device used to recharge a mobile phone’s battery
Example: I forgot my phone charger at home.
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Water bottle
a bottle used to carry and drink water, especially when traveling, exercising, or at work/school
Example: I always carry a water bottle to the gym.
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Shopping bag
a bag used to carry items bought in a shop
Example: I forgot my shopping bag, so I carried everything in my arms.
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Credit card
a plastic payment card that lets you buy now and pay later (usually with interest if not paid in full)
Example: I paid for the hotel with my credit card.
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ID card
an official card used to prove who someone is, often with a photo and personal details
Example: Please show your ID card at the entrance.
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House key
the key used to open the main door of a house
Example: I cannot find my house key anywhere.
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Street address
the full location of a place, including street name and number (often with apartment/unit), used for mail or deliveries
Example: Please enter your street address for delivery.
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Email address
the set of characters used to send and receive email for a person or organization
Example: Please enter your email address to create an account.
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Phone number
a set of digits used to call or contact someone by telephone
Example: Can I have your phone number?
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Emergency contact
a person (and their details) to be contacted if someone has an emergency
Example: Please list an emergency contact on the form in case we need to reach someone quickly.
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Office building
a building that is mainly used for offices where people work
Example: Their company moved into a new office building downtown.
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Waiting room
a room where people wait before seeing someone (especially a doctor, dentist, or official)
Example: Please take a seat in the waiting room until the nurse calls your name.
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Service counter
a counter or desk in a store or public place where customers go for help, returns, repairs, or information
Example: If your printer is faulty, take it to the service counter for assistance.
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Delivery driver
a person whose job is to bring goods or packages to customers
Example: The delivery driver left the package at the front door.
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School office
the administrative office in a school where staff handle attendance, records, messages, and student support
Example: If you feel sick, go to the school office and tell the receptionist.
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Community center
a local public place where people can take classes, join activities, and use shared facilities
Example: We signed up for a yoga class at the community center.
Section 3
Describing Everyday Life
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Busy day
a day with a lot to do; full of tasks and activity
Example: It has been a busy day at work, so I am going to bed early.
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Quiet place
a location with little or no noise, suitable for rest, study, or private conversation
Example: Let’s find a quiet place to talk.
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Clean room
a very clean, controlled area designed to keep dust and germs out, often used in labs or electronics manufacturing
Example: The technicians must wear special suits before entering the clean room.
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Fresh coffee
coffee that has been recently made or brewed and has not been sitting for long
Example: I love the smell of fresh coffee in the morning.
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Cheap ticket
a low-priced ticket (often for travel or an event), sometimes implying reduced quality or restrictions
Example: I found a cheap ticket to Paris if you can travel on Tuesday.
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Expensive meal
a meal that costs a lot of money, usually at a restaurant or special occasion
Example: We treated ourselves to an expensive meal for our anniversary.
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Friendly staff
employees in a place (such as a hotel, restaurant, or shop) who are kind, welcoming, and helpful to customers
Example: The hotel has friendly staff who are always happy to help.
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Heavy traffic
a large number of vehicles on the road, causing slow movement or congestion
Example: We were late because of heavy traffic on the highway.
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Light rain
a small amount of rain; not heavy or intense
Example: We went for a walk even though there was light rain.
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Strong smell
a powerful, easily noticed odor
Example: There was a strong smell of smoke coming from the kitchen.
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Weak signal
a low-strength signal (often phone, Wi‑Fi, radio, or GPS) that causes poor connection or reception
Example: My phone keeps dropping calls because there is a weak signal in this area.
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Quick reply
a fast response to a message, question, or request
Example: Thanks for your quick reply to my email.
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Slow service
service that takes a long time, often making customers wait
Example: We left the restaurant because of the slow service.
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Safe area
a place that is protected from danger and where people can stay without being harmed
Example: The school gym was turned into a safe area during the storm.
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Dangerous road
a road that is unsafe to travel on because of hazards such as sharp bends, poor visibility, bad weather, heavy traffic, or damaged surfaces
Example: That mountain pass is a dangerous road in winter.
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Easy question
a question that is simple to answer and not difficult
Example: That is an easy question—of course we should start now.
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Hard choice
a decision that is difficult to make because the options are both appealing or both have drawbacks
Example: Choosing between the two job offers was a hard choice.
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Clear answer
an answer that is easy to understand and not confusing or ambiguous
Example: After a long discussion, she finally gave a clear answer.
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Local shop
a store in your neighborhood or nearby area, often small and independently owned
Example: I usually buy milk at the local shop around the corner.
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Public transport
buses, trains, trams, subways, and other shared travel services available to everyone
Example: I take public transport to work because parking is expensive.
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Private room
a room that is not shared with others and offers privacy, often in a hotel, hospital, or restaurant
Example: We booked a private room for the meeting.
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Early morning
the first part of the morning, soon after waking up or after sunrise
Example: I like to go for a walk in the early morning.
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Late night
happening or done very late in the evening or during the night
Example: We grabbed a late-night snack after the movie.
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Full schedule
a timetable that has no free time because many activities or appointments are planned
Example: I cannot meet this week because I have a full schedule.
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Empty seat
a seat that is not occupied by anyone
Example: There was an empty seat next to me on the bus.
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Warm jacket
a jacket that keeps you comfortable in cold weather by providing warmth
Example: Bring a warm jacket because it gets cold after sunset.
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Cold drink
a beverage that is served chilled or at a low temperature
Example: After the run, I really needed a cold drink.
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Comfortable shoes
shoes that feel good to wear, especially for walking or standing for a long time
Example: Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk all day.
Section 4
Useful Questions
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What does this mean?
Used to ask for the meaning or explanation of something you saw or heard.
Example: What does this mean in English?
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How do I get there?
A common question used to ask for directions to a place.
Example: Excuse me, how do I get there from the train station?
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Can you help me?
A polite request asking someone to assist you.
Example: Excuse me, can you help me find the train station?
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Could you say that again?
A polite way to ask someone to repeat what they just said because you did not hear or understand it.
Example: Sorry, I missed the last part—could you say that again?
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Where is the nearest station?
A question used to ask for directions to the closest train/metro/bus station.
Example: Excuse me, where is the nearest station?
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What time does it open?
A question used to ask when a place or business begins operating and lets customers enter.
Example: What time does it open on Sundays?
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How much does it cost?
A common question used to ask the price of something.
Example: How much does it cost to rent a bike for the day?
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Do I need an appointment?
A polite question asking whether you must arrange a scheduled time in advance to receive a service or see someone.
Example: Do I need an appointment to see the dentist?
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Can I pay by card?
A polite question asking whether payment with a bank or credit/debit card is accepted.
Example: Excuse me, can I pay by card, or is it cash only?
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Is this seat taken?
A polite question used to ask whether a seat is already occupied or reserved.
Example: Excuse me, is this seat taken?
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What should I do next?
A question used to ask for guidance about the next step to take.
Example: I finished the form—what should I do next?
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Who should I contact?
A question used to ask which person or organization you should get in touch with for help, information, or action.
Example: Who should I contact if I have a problem with my order?
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When is the deadline?
A question asking for the due date or the final time by which something must be finished or submitted.
Example: When is the deadline for the application?
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Can I have a receipt?
A polite request for proof of purchase after paying for something.
Example: Can I have a receipt, please?
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Could you show me?
A polite way to ask someone to demonstrate or point out how to do something or where something is.
Example: Could you show me how to use this app?
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Is there another option?
Used to ask if a different choice or alternative is available.
Example: I cannot eat dairy. Is there another option?
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Can I change this?
A polite question used to ask for permission to alter or exchange something (a choice, order, seat, setting, or item).
Example: Can I change this to a medium, please?
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Where should I wait?
A question asking for the best place to stay until someone arrives or something happens.
Example: Where should I wait for you?
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How long will it take?
A question asking the amount of time needed to finish something or for something to happen.
Example: How long will it take to get to the airport?
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What happened?
A common question used to ask for an explanation of an event, problem, or situation.
Example: You look upset—what happened?
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Are you free later?
A casual way to ask if someone is available at a later time.
Example: Are you free later? We could grab coffee.
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Do you have a minute?
A polite way to ask if someone has a short amount of time to talk or help.
Example: Do you have a minute? I want to ask you something.
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Can we talk now?
A polite way to ask if it is a good time to speak immediately.
Example: Can we talk now? I have a quick question.
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What do you recommend?
A polite question asking someone to suggest the best option or course of action.
Example: I am visiting for the weekend—what do you recommend?
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Is it far from here?
A question asking about the distance from your current location to a place.
Example: Is it far from here to the train station?
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Can I try it on?
A polite question asking to put on a piece of clothing to see if it fits or looks good before buying.
Example: Can I try it on before I buy it?
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Does this include tax?
A question asking whether the listed price already has tax added.
Example: Does this include tax, or will it be added at checkout?
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Could I speak to someone?
A polite way to ask if it's possible to talk to an unspecified person, often used when making an inquiry or seeking help.
Example: When I called customer service, I asked, 'Could I speak to someone about my billing issue?'
Section 5
Everyday Responses
Collocation
That sounds good.
An expression used to agree with a suggestion, plan, or idea, or to show approval.
Example: A: How about we meet at 7 PM? B: That sounds good.
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No problem.
You're welcome; it's not an inconvenience or difficulty.
Example: Thank you for helping me move! No problem at all.
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I am not sure.
To express doubt or uncertainty about something.
Example: I am not sure if I locked the door before I left this morning.
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Just a moment.
A very short period of time; please wait briefly.
Example: Could you please hold on for just a moment?
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That makes sense.
Used to express that something is logical, understandable, or reasonable.
Example: His explanation really makes sense to me now.
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I see what you mean.
I understand what you are trying to say or what your point is.
Example: Ah, I see what you mean now. That makes more sense.
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Thanks for letting me know.
To express gratitude to someone for informing you about something.
Example: Thanks for letting me know about the meeting change.
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I will check.
A common expression indicating the speaker's intention to verify, examine, or confirm something.
Example: Don't worry, I will check the meeting schedule for you.
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I can do that.
To express ability and willingness to perform a requested task or action; to confirm one is able to complete something.
Example: A: "Can you pick up the groceries on your way home?" B: "Sure, I can do that."
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I cannot make it.
To be unable to attend an event, appointment, or reach a destination.
Example: I'm so sorry, I cannot make it to your party tonight because I have to work.
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Maybe later.
A polite way to decline or postpone an activity or suggestion, implying it might be considered at another time.
Example: Friend: "Do you want to grab some coffee now?" You: "Maybe later, I'm a bit busy."
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That works for me.
That is acceptable, suitable, or convenient for me; I agree with that.
Example: The meeting at 3 PM tomorrow? Yes, that works for me.
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I agree with you.
To share the same opinion or belief as someone else.
Example: I completely agree with you regarding the new project.
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I do not think so.
To express disagreement, doubt, or skepticism about something that has been said or suggested; to believe something is unlikely to be true or happen.
Example: Will it rain tomorrow? I do not think so; the sky looks clear.
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That is fine.
It's acceptable; there's no problem; I agree. Used to express consent, lack of objection, or that something is satisfactory.
Example: You can leave early if you need to. That is fine.
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It depends.
The answer to a question or the outcome of a situation is not fixed but varies according to circumstances or other factors.
Example: When will you arrive? It depends on the traffic.
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Sorry about that.
An informal expression used to apologize for a small mistake, inconvenience, or minor problem that has just occurred or been pointed out.
Example: Oh, I spilled a little coffee on your desk. Sorry about that.
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Never mind.
Used to tell someone not to worry about something, or that what they said or were going to say is no longer important; don't bother.
Example: Oh, never mind, I've found my keys.
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Go ahead
to start or continue after getting permission; to proceed
Example: If you're ready, go ahead and start the presentation.
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Take your time.
Don't hurry; proceed at your own pace.
Example: Please take your time answering the questions; there's no rush.
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I appreciate it.
To express gratitude or thanks for something specific that has been done or given.
Example: Thank you for your help, I really appreciate it.
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That is a good idea.
An expression used to agree with a suggestion or to express approval of a plan or thought.
Example: When Sarah suggested we take a break, I immediately thought, 'That is a good idea.'
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Let me think.
Used to indicate that one needs a moment to consider or ponder something before giving an answer or making a decision.
Example: That's an interesting question, let me think for a moment before I reply.
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I will let you know.
I will inform you or give you an update.
Example: I will let you know when I have more information.
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It was nice to meet you.
A polite expression used when greeting someone for the first time or saying goodbye after an initial meeting, indicating pleasure in the encounter.
Example: It was nice to meet you.
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See you soon.
A common farewell, indicating an expectation or hope of meeting or seeing the person again in the near future.
Example: Okay, I have to go now. See you soon!
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Have a good one.
An informal way to say 'goodbye' or 'farewell,' wishing someone a pleasant day, evening, weekend, or other period of time.
Example: See you tomorrow! Have a good one!
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I hope so.
A common expression used to say that you want something to be true or to happen.
Example: "Will it stop raining soon?" "I hope so; I want to go outside."
Section 6
Sentence Starters
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I think that
Used to introduce a personal opinion, belief, or idea.
Example: I think that we should leave early to avoid the rush hour traffic.
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I feel like
To have a desire or inclination for something, or to have a certain mood or opinion.
Example: I feel like going for a walk.
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I would like to
A polite way to express a wish, desire, or intention.
Example: I would like to book a table for two this evening.
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I need to
To express that an action is necessary, required, or highly advisable for the speaker or subject.
Example: I need to finish this report by Friday.
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I have to
To be obliged or required to do something; expressing necessity.
Example: I have to wake up early for work tomorrow.
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I am trying to
Expresses that the speaker is making an effort or attempting to do something.
Example: I am trying to learn how to play the guitar.
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I am looking for
To search for something or someone; to seek to find or obtain something.
Example: I am looking for my keys, have you seen them?
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I am interested in
To show or feel curiosity or concern about something or someone; to want to know or learn more about something; to find something appealing or engaging.
Example: I am interested in learning more about renewable energy.
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I am worried about
To feel anxious, concerned, or apprehensive about someone or something.
Example: I am worried about my upcoming exam results.
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I am not sure if
To express doubt or uncertainty about whether something is true or will happen; it introduces a conditional or questioning clause.
Example: I am not sure if I locked the door before I left.
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Could you please
A polite way to make a request or ask someone to do something.
Example: Could you please close the window?
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Can you tell me
A polite way to ask for information or a question.
Example: Excuse me, can you tell me where the nearest subway station is?
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Do you know if
This phrase is used to politely ask for information, usually when you are unsure if the other person possesses the information or if it's appropriate to ask directly. It introduces an indirect question, softening the request.
Example: Do you know if the store is open on Sundays?
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Would it be possible to
A polite way of asking if something can be done or achieved.
Example: Would it be possible to reschedule our meeting for next week?
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Let me know if
An idiomatic expression used to ask someone to inform you about something, usually conditionally.
Example: Please let me know if you need any help with the project.
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The main problem is
Used to introduce and identify the most significant difficulty, obstacle, or issue in a particular situation.
Example: The main problem is that we don't have enough resources.
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The best way is
This phrase introduces the most effective, most suitable, or most preferred method or course of action for achieving a particular goal or solving a problem.
Example: The best way is to start early and work consistently.
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One thing I noticed is
This phrase introduces a specific observation or a particular detail that the speaker has become aware of. It's often used to highlight a significant point or an unexpected aspect.
Example: One thing I noticed is that the new security system is much more efficient.
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What I mean is
Used to clarify, rephrase, or explain the true intention or specific point of something you have just said or are about to say.
Example: I'm not saying it's bad; what I mean is it could be improved.
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For example
Used to introduce an instance or illustration of what has just been mentioned.
Example: There are many types of renewable energy; for example, solar, wind, and hydro power.
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In my opinion
Used to express one's personal view, belief, or judgment about something.
Example: In my opinion, the new art exhibit is truly captivating.
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To be honest
Used to introduce a statement that expresses your true opinion, even if it is critical or difficult to say.
Example: To be honest, I didn't enjoy the movie very much.
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As far as I know
Used to say that you think something is true, but you are not completely certain, or that you are reporting all the information you have.
Example: As far as I know, the library closes at 7 PM on weekdays.
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The reason is
Used to introduce the explanation or cause for something previously stated or implied.
Example: The reason is that we ran out of time.
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It looks like
It appears that; It seems probable that; Used to describe an appearance or a likely situation based on what is observed or known.
Example: It looks like it's going to rain today, so don't forget your umbrella.
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It sounds like
Used to introduce an impression or inference based on what one has heard or what information is available, suggesting a conclusion about a situation or event.
Example: It sounds like you had a really busy day.
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It seems that
To convey an impression or a conclusion based on available evidence, often implying a degree of inference or uncertainty rather than direct knowledge.
Example: It seems that the weather will clear up by the afternoon.
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I was wondering if
A polite and indirect way to introduce a question, request, or suggestion.
Example: I was wondering if you could lend me a hand with this heavy box.