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Negotiating Different Interests

Two or more people have different shows or genres in mind and are trying to convince others or find a compromise that satisfies everyone.

Dialogue

Listen and follow along with the conversation

1
John (Male)
Hey Emily, what do you feel like watching tonight? I was thinking about catching that new sci-fi series.
2
Emily (Female)
Oh, that's interesting, John. But I was really hoping to watch the latest episode of that cooking show. It's my comfort watch.
3
John (Male)
The cooking show again? We watched that last night! I was hoping for something a bit more, you know, action-packed.
4
Emily (Female)
I know, but this one has a special guest chef! And frankly, I'm just not in the mood for aliens and spaceships right now. Plus, the cooking show is only 30 minutes, it's quick.
5
John (Male)
Hmm, I guess. But I've been looking forward to this sci-fi series all week. What if we watch one episode of the sci-fi, and then you can put on your cooking show?
6
Emily (Female)
That's a fair compromise, John. I suppose I can handle one episode. As long as we switch afterward, like you said.
7
John (Male)
Perfect! Deal. I'll get the snacks ready. Popcorn for sci-fi, fruit for cooking?
8
Emily (Female)
Sounds good to me! Let's do it.

Vocabulary

Essential words and phrases from the dialogue

sci-fi

Short for science fiction, a genre of TV shows or movies about space, aliens, and future technology. Use it when suggesting exciting, imaginative entertainment.

series

A TV program with multiple episodes that continue a story over time. Common in English for ongoing shows like dramas or comedies.

comfort watch

A familiar show that makes you feel relaxed and happy, like a favorite old program. It's used to describe something easy and soothing to watch.

action-packed

Full of excitement, fights, or fast-moving events. Use this to describe movies or shows that are thrilling and energetic.

compromise

An agreement where both sides give up something to meet in the middle. Useful in conversations when negotiating preferences with friends or family.

deal

An informal way to say 'agreement' or 'it's settled.' Often used after reaching a compromise, like 'Deal!' to confirm.

snacks

Small foods eaten between meals, like chips or fruit. In this context, it's about preparing treats while watching TV together.

Key Sentences

Important phrases to remember and practice

What do you feel like watching tonight?

This is a casual way to ask for someone's preference in a relaxed situation. 'Feel like' means 'want to' or 'in the mood for,' useful for suggesting activities with friends.

I was hoping to watch the latest episode of that cooking show.

Expresses a gentle wish or expectation. 'Was hoping' softens the request, making it polite. Good for sharing your idea without being pushy in group decisions.

I was hoping for something a bit more action-packed.

Shows disappointment politely and suggests an alternative. 'A bit more' means slightly more intense. Use this to explain why you prefer one option over another.

What if we watch one episode of the sci-fi, and then you can put on your cooking show?

Proposes a compromise using 'What if' to suggest an idea. It's a conditional question that invites agreement. Helpful for negotiating in everyday conversations.

That's a fair compromise.

Acknowledges an equal agreement. 'Fair' means just or balanced. Use this to show approval and positivity when accepting a shared decision.

Perfect! Deal.

A quick, enthusiastic confirmation of agreement. 'Deal' is like shaking hands on it. Common in informal English to end negotiations happily.

Sounds good to me! Let's do it.

Expresses agreement and eagerness. 'Sounds good' means it appeals to you. This phrase is versatile for accepting plans in casual talks.