Initially Requesting a Common Item
A colleague politely asks another for a common and inexpensive office supply that they can easily lend, like a pen or a piece of paper.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
extra
Means something additional or spare that you have more than needed. In office situations, it's polite to ask for an 'extra' item like a pen.
borrow
To take something temporarily from someone with the intention of returning it. Use this when asking to use office supplies like pens or paper.
misplaced
Means you have lost something by putting it in the wrong place accidentally. It's a polite way to say you lost your item without sounding careless.
jot down
To write something quickly and briefly, like notes. Useful in work for recording ideas or information fast.
whenever
Means at any time that is convenient. It shows flexibility, like when to return something borrowed.
get it back
Means to return something you borrowed. 'It' refers to the item, and this phrase promises to return it soon.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hey Michael, do you happen to have an extra pen I could borrow?
This is a polite way to ask for something. 'Do you happen to have' softens the request, making it less direct. Use this pattern when asking colleagues for small favors in the office.
Sure, Sarah. Here, you can use this one.
A friendly agreement to lend something. 'Sure' means yes easily, and 'you can use this one' offers the item right away. Great for responding positively to borrowing requests.
Perfect, thank you so much! I just need it for a few minutes to jot down something.
Shows gratitude and explains the short need. 'Thank you so much' emphasizes thanks, and 'just for a few minutes' reassures it's temporary. Use to make borrowing polite.
No problem at all. Just whenever you're done with it.
Means it's easy to help, no trouble. 'Whenever you're done' gives flexibility on return time. This is a casual, reassuring response in workplace interactions.
I'll make sure to get it back to you right away. Thanks again!
Promises quick return. 'Make sure to' shows commitment, and 'right away' means immediately. Repeat thanks to be extra polite when ending the conversation.
You're welcome!
Standard polite reply to 'thank you.' It's simple and friendly, used after helping someone to close the exchange positively.