Return Without a Receipt
A customer wishes to return an item but has lost the receipt, leading to a discussion with the staff about possible alternatives like store credit or exchange.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
receipt
A receipt is a piece of paper or digital record that proves you bought something. It's important for returns because stores use it to verify your purchase.
return
To return means to bring an item back to the store because you don't want it or it's faulty. Use it when you want to get your money back or exchange it.
exchange
An exchange is when you swap one item for another similar one, like a different size. It's useful if you can't get a full refund but want something else.
refund
A refund is getting your money back for an item you return. Stores often require a receipt for cash refunds to prevent fraud.
store credit
Store credit is like a gift card from the store that you can use to buy other things there instead of getting cash back. It's an alternative when you don't have a receipt.
in stock
In stock means the item is available to buy right now in the store or warehouse. Ask about this when you want to exchange for a specific size or color.
misplaced
Misplaced means you accidentally lost something by putting it in the wrong place. It's a polite way to say 'I lost it' without sounding careless.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
I'd like to return it.
This is a polite way to start a return request. Use it at the beginning of a conversation in a store. The structure 'I'd like to' is a formal expression of desire, common in customer service situations.
Do you have your receipt with you?
This question checks if the customer has proof of purchase. It's useful for store staff. The phrase 'with you' means 'on your person' or 'available now', emphasizing immediacy.
I seem to have misplaced it.
This apologizes for losing the receipt politely. 'Seem to have' softens the statement, making it less direct. Use this when admitting a small mistake to sound humble and avoid blame.
Without a receipt, we can't offer a cash refund.
This explains store policy clearly. 'Without' shows a condition, and it's practical for explaining limitations. Use it to inform customers of rules while being helpful.
We can either do an exchange for a different size or issue you store credit.
This offers alternatives using 'either...or' for choices. It's useful for giving options politely. 'Issue you' means 'give you', common in service dialogues to sound professional.
An exchange would be great if you have a smaller size in stock.
This expresses preference conditionally with 'if'. It's practical for negotiating returns. 'Would be great' is a positive, enthusiastic way to agree to an option.
Let me check for you.
This means 'I'll look it up to help you'. It's a helpful phrase for staff. The structure shows willingness to assist, using 'let me' to offer service politely.
You're welcome! I'll process that exchange for you right away.
This responds to thanks and confirms action. 'Process' means to handle officially, like in transactions. 'Right away' means immediately, assuring quick service.