Sharing a Large Table
You find a large communal table with a few people already seated, and several empty spots. You want to ask if it's okay to sit down at one of the open spaces.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
seat
A place where you can sit, like a chair at a table. In cafes, we often ask if a seat is available.
taken
Means already occupied or in use by someone. Use it to check if a seat is free: 'Is this taken?'
feel free
An expression giving permission to do something casually, like 'Feel free to sit down.' It's polite and friendly.
busy
Describes a place with many people or activity, like a crowded cafe. 'It's pretty busy' means it's full of customers.
squeeze in
To fit into a small or tight space. Useful in crowded situations: 'Can I squeeze in here?'
mind
To object or feel bothered by something. In questions like 'Do you mind?', it politely asks for permission.
appreciate
To feel grateful for help or kindness. Say 'I appreciate it' to show thanks sincerely.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, is this seat taken?
This is a polite way to ask if a seat is available. 'Excuse me' gets attention, and 'taken' checks occupation. Use it in public places like cafes to start a conversation.
No, it's not. Feel free to sit down.
A friendly response giving permission. 'Feel free to' is an idiom for 'go ahead.' It's useful for inviting someone to join you at a table.
Great, thanks! It's pretty busy in here today.
Expresses thanks and comments on the situation. 'Pretty busy' means quite crowded. Use this to continue the chat and build rapport after sitting.
Tell me about it!
An idiomatic response agreeing with a complaint, like about being busy. It means 'I know exactly what you mean!' Casual and common in everyday talks.
Do you mind if I just squeeze in here?
Politely asks permission to fit into a space. The structure 'Do you mind if...' is a common way to request without being direct. Good for shared tables.
Not at all, there's plenty of space.
Means 'I don't mind at all.' 'Not at all' is a strong way to say no objection, and 'plenty of' means a lot. Reassures the person it's okay.
Thanks again! I appreciate it.
Shows repeated gratitude. 'Thanks again' reinforces politeness, and 'appreciate it' adds sincerity. Use at the end of interactions to leave a good impression.