Accidental Spill & Apology
You accidentally bump into someone and spill coffee on their coat. You need to apologize sincerely and offer to help.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
spill
To spill means to accidentally pour out a liquid, like coffee, onto something or someone. Use it when describing an accident with drinks.
sorry
Sorry is used to apologize for a mistake or accident. It's a common way to express regret, like 'I'm so sorry' for something you did wrong.
accident
An accident is an unexpected event that causes damage or trouble, but not on purpose. It's often used to excuse small mistakes, like spilling something.
tissues
Tissues are soft paper sheets used for cleaning, wiping, or blowing your nose. In this context, they help clean up spills.
blot
To blot means to gently press something absorbent, like a tissue, onto a wet spot to soak up liquid without rubbing it in.
inconvenience
Inconvenience means causing trouble or extra work for someone. Apologizing for it shows politeness after an accident.
harm
Harm means damage or injury. Saying 'no harm done' means nothing bad happened from the accident.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Oh no! I am so, so sorry!
This sentence shows strong apology using 'so, so sorry' for emphasis. It's useful right after an accident to express deep regret immediately.
Accidents happen.
This is a common idiom meaning unexpected things occur and it's okay. Use it to comfort someone who apologizes, showing forgiveness.
That's alright.
'That's alright' means it's not a problem. It's a polite way to accept an apology and downplay the issue, common in casual conversations.
Let me help you.
This offers assistance politely. The structure 'Let me + verb' is useful for volunteering help in everyday situations like cleaning up.
I hope it didn't burn you.
This expresses concern for safety after a spill. Use 'I hope + past tense' to show worry about possible negative effects.
Don't worry too much about it.
This reassures someone to stop feeling bad. It's helpful for calming friends after minor accidents, using 'too much' for emphasis.
Is there anything else I can do?
This question offers more help. It's a polite way to check if the other person needs additional assistance, good for showing kindness.
No harm done.
This phrase means no damage or problem resulted. Use it at the end to fully forgive and end the conversation positively.