Item is Out of Stock (All Sizes/Colors)
The sales associate informs the customer that the desired item is completely out of stock in all sizes or colors, or is discontinued.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
sweater
A knitted piece of clothing worn on the upper body for warmth, like a pullover or cardigan. Useful in shopping for clothes.
size
The measurement of clothing, such as small (S), medium (M), or large (L). Ask for a different size when something doesn't fit.
out of stock
Means an item is not available because it has all been sold. Common in stores to explain why you can't buy something.
popular
Something that many people like and buy. Use this to describe trendy items in shopping conversations.
limited edition
A special version of a product made in small quantities, often not restocked. Important for understanding why items won't return.
restock
To bring in more of an item to sell again. Ask if a store will restock when something is out of stock.
shame
A mild expression of disappointment, like 'that's a shame' meaning 'that's too bad.' Polite way to show regret in conversations.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, do you have this sweater in a small or medium size?
This is a polite way to start a conversation in a store and ask for availability in different sizes. Use 'Excuse me' to get attention, and 'do you have... in a ... size?' to inquire about options. Useful for shopping scenarios.
Let me check for you.
A helpful response from a salesperson offering to look up information. 'Let me' shows willingness to assist, and it's a common service phrase. Learners can use it in customer service roles.
I'm afraid that particular sweater is out of stock in all sizes and colors.
This politely informs the customer of unavailability. 'I'm afraid' softens bad news, and 'out of stock' explains the situation. Great for giving disappointing updates in retail.
Oh, that's a shame! Will you be getting more in?
Expresses disappointment and asks about future availability. 'That's a shame' is idiomatic for 'too bad,' and 'getting more in' means restocking. Use when hoping for an item to return.
Unfortunately, no. It was a limited edition item, so once it's gone, it's gone.
This denies restocking and explains why. 'Unfortunately' adds politeness to negative answers, and the idiom 'once it's gone, it's gone' emphasizes finality. Helpful for clear communication in sales.
I see. That's too bad. Thanks for checking!
Shows understanding and appreciation after bad news. 'I see' acknowledges info, 'that's too bad' expresses mild regret, and thanking is polite. End conversations gracefully like this.
You're welcome. Is there anything else I can help you find today?
A standard polite response to thanks, offering more help. 'You're welcome' is the reply to 'thank you,' and the question keeps the service going. Essential for customer interactions.