Using a Map/Phone and Asking for Confirmation
Someone is using a map or a navigation app on their phone, but wants to confirm their route or current location with a local.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
Excuse me
A polite way to get someone's attention when you need help, like asking for directions on the street.
map
A drawing or digital image showing streets and places; useful for finding locations when traveling.
block
A short distance in a city, usually the length between two streets; 'a couple of blocks' means about two short distances away.
straight
In a direct line without turning; used in directions like 'go straight' to mean continue forward.
turn left
To change direction to the left side; a common phrase when giving or asking for directions.
traffic light
A signal at road intersections that controls traffic with red, yellow, and green lights; often a landmark for directions.
intersection
The place where two streets cross; important for describing turns in city navigation.
landmark
A recognizable feature or building that helps identify a location on a map or in directions.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, I'm trying to get to the Central Library.
This is a polite way to start asking for directions; 'trying to get to' means attempting to reach a place, useful for beginners in travel situations.
Does this map look right?
A question to confirm if a map or app shows the correct location; 'look right' means appear correct, great for verifying directions with locals.
Go straight down Elm Street, past the pharmacy on your right.
Gives clear directions; 'go straight down' means continue forward along the street, 'past' means go by something, and 'on your right' specifies the side—key pattern for describing routes.
Turn left at the traffic light.
A simple direction command; 'at' indicates the exact point to turn, commonly used in navigation to avoid confusion.
The library will be on your right, set back a bit from the street.
'Will be' shows future location after following directions; 'set back' means not right on the road but a little behind it—helps describe building positions accurately.
You can't miss it.
Means it's very easy to find and obvious; an idiomatic reassurance in directions, useful to build confidence when helping someone.
Thank you so much! You've been a great help.
A polite way to end the conversation; 'so much' emphasizes gratitude, and 'great help' acknowledges assistance—essential for courteous interactions.