A Quick Pen Borrow
You realize you forgot your pen just before a meeting. You quickly ask a colleague sitting nearby if you can borrow one.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
extra
Means additional or spare, like an additional pen you don't need right now. Use it when asking for something not essential, such as 'Do you have an extra pen?'
borrow
To take something from someone temporarily with the plan to return it. Common in workplaces for items like pens or staplers, as in 'Can I borrow your pen?'
forgot
The past tense of 'forget,' meaning you did not remember something. Use it to explain why you need to borrow, like 'I forgot my pen at home.'
appreciate
To feel grateful for someone's help. It's polite to say after receiving help, such as 'I appreciate your kindness' in professional settings.
thanks a ton
An informal way to say 'thank you very much.' Use it with colleagues to show strong gratitude, like after borrowing an item quickly.
no problem
A casual response meaning 'you're welcome' or 'it's okay.' Reply with this when someone thanks you for a small favor in the office.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hey Sarah, do you happen to have an extra pen I could borrow quickly?
This is a polite way to ask for a favor. 'Do you happen to have' softens the request, making it less direct. Useful for quick workplace borrowing; the grammar uses 'could' for polite possibility.
I totally forgot mine.
Explains the reason for needing to borrow. 'Totally' emphasizes 'completely,' adding a casual tone. Great for intermediate learners to practice past tense and reasons in conversations.
Oh, sure, John! Here, take this one.
A friendly agreement to lend something. 'Sure' means yes willingly, and 'take this one' offers the item directly. Use this response pattern when helping colleagues; it's simple and positive.
Thanks a ton, I really appreciate it!
Expresses strong thanks. 'Thanks a ton' is idiomatic for big gratitude, and 'appreciate it' shows politeness. Essential for ending favors gracefully in English-speaking offices.
No problem at all! Just make sure to give it back after the meeting.
Responds to thanks while setting a gentle reminder. 'No problem at all' is a common 'you're welcome,' and 'make sure to' advises politely. Useful for borrowing scenarios to ensure return.