Borrowing a Household Item
You urgently need a common household item, like an egg or a cup of sugar, and decide to ask a nearby neighbor if they can lend it to you.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
bother
To bother someone means to interrupt or annoy them slightly. In polite requests, like 'Sorry to bother you,' it shows respect for their time.
jam
A 'jam' is an informal word for a difficult or urgent situation, like being stuck without something you need. Example: 'I'm in a bit of a jam' means a small problem.
out of
To be 'out of' something means you have none left. It's common for food or supplies, like 'out of sugar' when your supply is empty.
granulated
Granulated sugar is the regular white sugar with fine grains, used in baking and cooking. It's the most common type in households.
spare
To have something 'to spare' means you have extra that you can share or lend. It's polite when asking to borrow, like 'if you have some to spare.'
lifesaver
A 'lifesaver' is someone who helps you out of a big problem, like saving the day. It's a thankful expression, e.g., 'You're a lifesaver!'
return the favor
To 'return the favor' means to help someone back after they helped you. It builds good neighbor relationships by showing gratitude.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Sorry to bother you, but I'm in a bit of a jam.
This is a polite way to start a request when interrupting someone. 'In a bit of a jam' is an idiom for a small trouble. Use it when asking for help urgently, like borrowing an item.
Oh, no worries at all!
This means 'don't worry, it's not a problem.' It's a friendly response to reassure someone. Useful for casual conversations to show you're happy to help.
I only need about a cup, if you happen to have some to spare.
This specifies a small amount needed and politely asks if extra is available. 'If you happen to have' softens the request. Great for borrowing without pressuring.
Just a sec!
Short for 'just a second,' it means 'wait a moment.' It's informal and quick to use when checking something briefly. Common in everyday English.
You're a lifesaver!
This expresses strong thanks for helpful action. It's idiomatic and shows appreciation. Use it after someone solves your urgent problem.
I'll make sure to return the favor sometime.
This promises to help back later, building reciprocity. 'Make sure to' emphasizes commitment. Useful in neighborly interactions to show good manners.
Don't worry about it! Happy to help.
This dismisses the need for repayment and shows willingness. It's a gracious way to end a favor. Use it to keep relationships positive and casual.