Leaving the Water Fountain Clean
After using the fountain, you notice a few drips and quickly wipe them with your hand or a tissue, ensuring it's clean for the next person.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
excuse me
A polite way to get someone's attention or interrupt gently, often used in public to ask a question.
almost done
Means nearly finished with an activity; useful for asking if someone is about to complete using something shared like a water fountain.
go right ahead
An invitation for someone to proceed or start immediately; polite response when yielding your turn.
clean
Free from dirt or mess; in this context, it means wiping up water drips to keep a public fountain hygienic for others.
thoughtful
Showing consideration for others' feelings or needs; describes kind actions like cleaning up after use.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, are you almost done?
This is a polite question to check if someone is finishing their turn at a shared resource; use it in lines or public spaces. Grammar: 'Almost done' is an informal way to say 'nearly finished.'
Oh, sorry! Just finished. Go right ahead.
An apologetic response when you realize you're holding up someone; useful for smooth interactions. 'Just finished' means completed moments ago. It's a common pattern for yielding politely.
Thanks!
A simple expression of gratitude; very common in everyday English after someone helps or lets you go first. Short and versatile for quick thanks.
Just want to make sure it's clean for the next person.
Explains a considerate action to keep things tidy; useful for showing politeness in public. 'Make sure' means to ensure or check that something is okay. Highlights cultural emphasis on cleanliness.
That's very thoughtful of you!
Compliments someone's kindness; use it to appreciate helpful behavior. 'Of you' emphasizes the person's character. Good for building positive interactions.