Identifying the Problem
The tenant notices a minor household issue, such as a dripping faucet, and decides it needs to be reported to the landlord.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
faucet
A faucet is a device in a sink or bathtub that controls the flow of water. In this dialogue, it's the sink faucet that's dripping, which is a common household item to report.
dripping
Dripping means leaking liquid slowly, drop by drop. It's used here to describe water coming out of the faucet continuously but not in a big flow.
consistently
Consistently means happening in a steady or regular way. In the dialogue, it shows the dripping is happening regularly, not just once in a while.
urgent
Urgent means needing immediate attention or action. Emily says it's not urgent, meaning it's a minor problem that can wait a little.
plumber
A plumber is a professional who repairs pipes, faucets, and water systems in homes. The landlord arranges for one to fix the issue.
arrange
To arrange means to plan or organize something to happen. Here, the landlord will arrange for the plumber to visit next week.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Do you have a moment?
This is a polite way to ask if someone is available to talk right now. It's useful for starting phone calls or conversations without being too direct. Use it in professional or casual situations to show respect for the other person's time.
What can I do for you?
This sentence offers help and asks about the reason for the contact. It's a common response in customer service or when someone reaches out. The grammar uses 'can' for ability and 'for you' to personalize the offer.
I wanted to let you know about a small issue I've noticed.
This politely introduces a problem without sounding complaining. 'Wanted to' softens the statement, making it less direct. It's useful for reporting issues to authorities like landlords. The present perfect 'I've noticed' shows recent observation.
How long has it been doing that?
This asks about the duration of a problem using present perfect continuous tense 'has it been doing' to focus on how long something has been happening. It's practical for getting details when someone reports an issue.
It's not urgent, but I thought it should probably be looked at before it gets worse.
This explains the problem's priority while suggesting action. 'Not urgent' reassures it's minor, and 'should be looked at' is a polite recommendation. Use this to report non-emergency issues without causing alarm.
I'll make a note of it.
This means 'I'll write it down to remember.' It's a simple way to acknowledge information. Useful in conversations where you need to confirm you've understood and will follow up.
I'll arrange for our plumber to come by.
This promises to organize a fix. 'Arrange for' means to make plans involving someone else. It's helpful for reassuring tenants or customers that action will be taken soon.
Perfect, thank you so much!
This expresses strong agreement and gratitude. 'Perfect' shows satisfaction, and 'thank you so much' emphasizes thanks. Use it to end positive interactions politely.