Receiving and Initial Thanks (Coworker)
A coworker spontaneously gives you a small gift (e.g., a nice pen, a snack from their trip) in the office. You express immediate, brief thanks while receiving it.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
trinket
A small, inexpensive decorative object or souvenir, often given as a gift. Use it to describe something minor but charming, like 'This trinket from your trip is adorable.'
collect
To gather and keep a group of similar items as a hobby, such as stamps or pens. In conversations, say 'I collect unique pens' to share your interests.
unique
One of a kind; different from others in a special way. It's useful for complimenting gifts, like 'That's a unique pen!' to show appreciation.
thoughtful
Showing care and consideration for someone's feelings or needs. Describe gifts with it, e.g., 'What a thoughtful gift!' to express sincere thanks.
appreciate
To feel grateful for something. It's a polite way to thank deeply, as in 'I appreciate your kindness,' especially in professional or friendly settings.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
You didn't have to!
This is a polite way to express surprise and gratitude when receiving an unexpected gift. It means 'It wasn't necessary, but thank you.' Use it immediately upon receiving something to show humility and appreciation. No complex grammar; it's a simple exclamation.
Thank you so much!
A common, enthusiastic expression of thanks. 'So much' adds emphasis to show strong gratitude. Useful for any gift situation; it's versatile and natural in casual or work conversations. Basic structure: 'Thank you' + intensifier.
You're welcome!
The standard response to 'thank you.' It means 'It was my pleasure' or 'No problem.' Use it right after someone thanks you to keep the conversation polite and friendly. Simple phrase with contraction for natural speech.
I really appreciate it.
A sincere way to thank someone, emphasizing genuine gratitude. 'Really' intensifies the feeling. Great for thoughtful gifts in professional settings like with coworkers; it shows deeper emotion than basic thanks. Present tense verb 'appreciate' for ongoing thanks.
It's a very thoughtful gift.
Compliments the gift by highlighting the giver's care. Useful after receiving something personal; it makes the thanks more specific and warm. Adjective 'thoughtful' describes the noun 'gift'; use 'very' for emphasis in positive feedback.