Functional Language & Situations Flashcards

You borrowed a book from your friend and accidentally damaged it. What do you say?

Answer: I'm so sorry, I damaged your book. I'll replace it.

Apologizing sincerely and offering to replace the item is the correct response when you damage someone's property.

A stranger asks you for directions to the train station, but you don't know the way. What do you say?

Answer: I'm sorry, I'm not from around here. You could try asking in that shop.

Apologizing for not knowing and suggesting an alternative source of help is the polite approach.

You want to make a complaint about a noisy hotel room. What is the most appropriate opening?

Answer: I'd like to raise a concern about my room, if I may.

'I'd like to raise a concern' is a formal, polite way to introduce a complaint.

Your colleague has done a great job on a presentation. How do you give them a compliment?

Answer: You did a really great job on that presentation!

A clear, positive compliment directly acknowledges the person's achievement.

You need to leave a party early. What do you say to the host?

Answer: I'm afraid I have to head off — thanks so much for having me.

Expressing regret about leaving and thanking the host is the socially appropriate way to excuse yourself.

You're at a café and your order is wrong. What do you say to the server?

Answer: Excuse me, I ordered the chicken sandwich, not the tuna.

Calmly stating what you ordered versus what you received is the polite way to address an incorrect order.

Your friend asks your opinion on their new haircut and you're not sure you like it. What is the most tactful response?

Answer: Hmm, it's quite different — but I think it takes getting used to.

Acknowledging the change and being diplomatically honest without being unkind is the tactful approach.