Waiting for a Table to Clear
You see a group of people at a table who look like they are about to leave. You decide to wait nearby and politely indicate your intention to use the table next.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
folks
An informal way to say 'people' or 'group of people'. Use it in casual situations like talking to friends or strangers in a friendly setting, such as a cafe.
about to
Means 'going to happen very soon'. It's useful for describing future actions that are imminent, like 'about to leave' when someone is preparing to go.
finished up
A casual phrase meaning 'completed' or 'ended'. Use it in everyday conversations to say you've done something, like finishing a meal or work.
packing
Putting things into a bag or container to take them away. In this context, it's about gathering belongings before leaving a place.
clear out
To leave a place, often after finishing an activity. It's informal and polite in situations like waiting for a table in a busy cafe.
grabbing
Taking something quickly and casually. Use it for actions like 'grabbing a coat' when you're in a hurry to pick up items.
appreciate
To feel grateful for something. It's a polite way to express thanks, especially in social situations like when someone helps you.
I know, right?
A casual expression to agree with someone and show empathy. Use it in conversations to connect with others, like complaining about a busy place.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, I hope you don't mind me asking, but are you folks about to leave?
This is a polite way to start a conversation and ask a question without being rude. 'I hope you don't mind' softens the request. Use it in crowded places to inquire about seats. Grammar: 'But' connects the polite phrase to the question.
Yes, actually, we just finished up. We're packing our things now.
A friendly response confirming information. 'Actually' adds emphasis or correction. Useful for casual updates on your status. Present continuous 'we're packing' shows ongoing action.
Would it be okay if we waited here for you to clear out?
A polite request for permission. 'Would it be okay if...' is a conditional structure for asking nicely. Use in social settings to wait for space without pressure.
Of course! No problem at all.
An enthusiastic agreement or permission. 'Of course' means it's natural to agree. Great for reassuring others in helpful situations like sharing a table.
Thanks so much, we really appreciate it.
Expressing strong gratitude. 'Thanks so much' is emphatic thanks, and 'appreciate it' shows value. Use after receiving help to build positive interactions.
It's so hard to find a seat in here.
Complaining mildly about a situation. 'So hard' intensifies the difficulty. Useful for small talk in busy places to relate to others.
I know, right? It's always so busy at this time.
Agreeing and empathizing. 'I know, right?' is informal slang for 'I agree'. Follow with explanation to continue conversation naturally.
Enjoy your coffee! You too! Have a good day.
Polite well-wishes for ending conversations. 'Enjoy' suggests positive experience; 'You too' mirrors the wish. Use to say goodbye friendly in casual encounters.