Buying Detergent or Supplies
The customer realizes they need detergent, fabric softener, or a laundry bag. They inquire about where to purchase these items, their cost, and what types are available at the laundromat.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
detergent
A substance used for washing clothes, like soap powder or liquid. In the dialogue, it's what Sarah forgot to bring to the laundromat.
vending machine
An automatic machine that sells small items like snacks or supplies when you put in money. Here, it's used to buy detergent at the laundromat.
packets
Small sealed bags containing a single portion of something, like detergent. They are convenient for one-time use without buying a large box.
fabric softener
A product added to laundry to make clothes softer and reduce static. In this context, it's available as sheets in the vending machine.
laundry bags
Bags used to carry or protect dirty clothes when washing. They are sold or displayed at the entrance of the laundromat.
convenient
Something that is easy and saves time or effort. Sarah says the vending machine is convenient because it's right there at the laundromat.
quarters
U.S. coins worth 25 cents each. The vending machine accepts them, which is common for coin-operated machines in places like laundromats.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, I seem to have forgotten my detergent. Do you sell any here?
This is a polite way to start a conversation and ask for help. 'Seem to have forgotten' is a soft way to say you made a mistake. It's useful for service situations when you need something you didn't bring. The question uses 'do you sell' for inquiring about availability.
Yes, we do. We have a vending machine over by the change machine.
A short affirmative response confirming availability. 'Over by' means 'located near.' This sentence is practical for giving directions in a store or service place, helping customers find items easily.
Oh, that's convenient! And do you also have fabric softener or laundry bags available?
Expresses appreciation and asks about more options. 'That's convenient' shows positive reaction. 'Do you also have... available?' is a follow-up question using 'or' for alternatives. Useful for expanding inquiries in shopping scenarios.
The vending machine has fabric softener sheets too, usually in a combo packet with the detergent.
Describes product details. 'Too' means 'also,' and 'combo packet' refers to a combined package. 'Usually' indicates common occurrence. This is helpful for explaining options and uses descriptive language for service responses.
Great! How much do the detergent packets usually cost?
A positive response followed by a price question. 'How much do... cost?' is a standard way to ask about prices. 'Usually' softens the question for general info. Essential for any buying situation to check affordability.
They're typically around $1.50 to $2.00 per packet, depending on the brand and size.
Gives a price range. 'Typically' means 'generally' or 'on average,' and 'depending on' explains variations. 'Per packet' specifies the unit. This sentence teaches how to provide flexible pricing info in customer service.
Okay, that's good to know. Thanks for your help!
A way to acknowledge information and end politely. 'That's good to know' shows appreciation for useful details. Common in conversations to wrap up after getting help, reinforcing gratitude.