Realizing You're Out of Supplies
A colleague discovers they've run out of a crucial office supply (e.g., a pen, stapler, sticky notes) right when they need it for a task.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
sticky notes
Small pieces of paper with adhesive on the back, used for writing reminders and sticking them on surfaces like desks or walls. Very common in offices for quick notes.
frustrated
Feeling annoyed or upset because things are not going as planned. Use it to describe emotions when something small goes wrong, like running out of supplies.
spare
Extra or unused items you have available. In borrowing situations, say 'spare' to politely ask for something extra without implying it's essential.
lifesaver
An informal way to say someone has helped you a lot in a difficult moment. Use it to express strong gratitude in casual workplace conversations.
pad
A stack of sheets of paper bound together, like a notepad or sticky note pad. Common in office settings for writing or organizing.
pick up
To buy or get something while doing another activity, like shopping on the way home. Useful for talking about quick errands.
no worries
A casual way to say 'don't worry' or 'it's okay.' Use it to reassure someone when they thank you or apologize for small things.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Do you happen to have any spare sticky notes I could borrow for a bit?
This is a polite way to ask for something. 'Do you happen to have' softens the request, making it indirect and courteous. Use it in workplaces to borrow items without seeming demanding. Grammar: Question form with modal 'could' for permission.
Help yourself.
An inviting phrase meaning 'take what you need.' It's friendly and direct for offering items. Useful when sharing office supplies to make the other person feel comfortable. No complex grammar; it's imperative form.
You're a lifesaver!
Expresses big thanks for timely help. Informal and positive, perfect for colleagues. Use after someone assists you quickly. It's an exclamation with 'a' as an article before the noun.
I'll pick up a pack on my way home today and give you these back or replace them tomorrow.
Offers to return or replace borrowed items, showing responsibility. 'Pick up' means buy casually; future tense 'I'll' promises action. Useful to build trust when borrowing. Grammar: Future simple with 'will' and alternatives with 'or'.
No worries at all, Lisa.
Reassures the person not to feel bad about asking. 'No worries' is idiomatic for 'it's fine.' Use to respond to thanks politely. Grammar: Short response with comma for direct address.
Keep them as long as you need to.
Allows the borrower to use items without pressure. 'As long as' shows flexibility in time. Great for offering help generously. Grammar: Imperative with conditional clause for duration.