Returning the Item with Thanks
The borrower returns the borrowed office supply (or a replacement) to the lender, expressing their gratitude.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
return
To give something back to the person you borrowed it from. Use it when handing back an item, like 'I wanted to return your book.'
borrow
To take something temporarily from someone with permission. It's polite to say 'Can I borrow your pen?' in office situations.
lifesaver
An informal way to say someone helped you a lot in a difficult situation. Use it to show strong gratitude, like 'You're a lifesaver for fixing my computer.'
anytime
Means 'you're welcome to ask me anytime.' It's a friendly response to thanks, showing you're always willing to help.
thoughtful
Describes an action that shows care or consideration for others. Say 'That's thoughtful of you' when someone does something kind unexpectedly.
appreciate
To feel grateful for something. Use it to express thanks sincerely, like 'I appreciate your help with the project.'
in a bind
An idiom meaning in a difficult or troublesome situation. It's casual and useful for work talks, like 'I'm in a bind without my printer.'
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hi Michael, I wanted to return your stapler. Thanks again for letting me borrow it.
This is a polite way to start returning an item while expressing thanks. 'Wanted to' softens the request, making it friendly. Use it when giving back borrowed office supplies to show appreciation.
No problem at all. Glad it could help you out.
A casual response to thanks, meaning it's not a big deal. 'Help you out' is a common phrasal verb for assisting someone. Useful for responding graciously in workplace interactions.
It really did! I was in a bind with those urgent reports. You're a lifesaver.
This shows strong gratitude using an idiom 'in a bind' for trouble. 'It really did' emphasizes agreement. Use this pattern to thank colleagues for urgent help, building rapport.
Anytime! Just let me know if you ever need anything else.
Offers future help politely. 'Let me know' is a common phrase for requesting information or help. Ideal for ending conversations on a positive, helpful note in professional settings.
Oh, you didn't have to do that, Sarah! But that's incredibly thoughtful of you. Thanks a lot!
Expresses surprise and appreciation for an extra kind gesture. 'Didn't have to' shows it's not expected. Use this to respond to thoughtful actions, like receiving a replacement item.
It was no trouble at all. Just wanted to show my appreciation.
Downplays your effort while explaining the reason. 'No trouble at all' is a humble way to respond to thanks. Useful for showing politeness and gratitude in return.
Well, I really appreciate it. Thanks again, Sarah.
Repeats thanks to emphasize sincerity. 'Well' is a filler for natural speech. This sentence reinforces appreciation and is great for closing thankful exchanges at work.
You're welcome, Michael! Have a good rest of your day.
Standard response to thanks, followed by a friendly goodbye. 'Have a good rest of your day' is polite for ending office talks. Use it to keep interactions positive and professional.