Listening Comprehension Flashcards

A supervisor gives instructions: 'Before leaving, make sure the cash register is balanced, the alarm is set, and the back door is locked — in that order.' An employee balances the register, locks the back door, then sets the alarm. What mistake did the employee make?

Answer: They locked the door before setting the alarm

The correct order was register → alarm → door, but the employee locked the door before setting the alarm.

You overhear a conversation: 'The seminar starts at noon sharp. If you arrive after it begins, you won't be allowed in.' A colleague arrives at 12:05 PM. What happens to her?

Answer: She will not be allowed to enter

The rule stated that anyone arriving after the seminar begins will not be allowed in, and she arrives 5 minutes late.

A weather forecast says: 'Expect a mix of sun and cloud Monday, with temperatures near 18°C. Tuesday brings a cold front, dropping temperatures to 4°C with a 90% chance of snow.' On which day should you pack a heavy winter coat?

Answer: Tuesday

Tuesday's cold front, 4°C temperature, and 90% snow chance make it the day requiring a heavy winter coat.

A podcast host says: 'Our next guest needs no introduction — she's won the Giller Prize twice and her latest novel debuted at number one.' What can you infer about the guest?

Answer: She is a well-known and successful writer

Winning the Giller Prize twice and debuting at number one indicates she is a well-known, successful author.

A receptionist says: 'Mr. Chen is in a meeting until 3 o'clock. You're welcome to wait in the lounge, or I can take a message and have him call you back.' What TWO options does the receptionist offer?

Answer: Wait in the lounge or leave a message for a callback

The receptionist specifically offers waiting in the lounge or leaving a message for a callback.

A recorded message says: 'Your package was delivered to your front door at 10:14 AM. If you did not receive it, please contact customer service within 48 hours of this notification.' You hear this message at 6 PM on Wednesday. By when must you contact customer service?

Answer: By 6 PM Friday

48 hours from 6 PM Wednesday is 6 PM Friday.

Two neighbours speak. One says: 'The construction noise starts every morning at 7 — I haven't slept past 6:30 all week.' The other replies: 'Have you tried earplugs? They work wonders for me.' What is the second neighbour doing?

Answer: Offering a practical suggestion

The second neighbour acknowledges the problem and offers earplugs as a practical solution.