Waiting and Using Amenities
While waiting for their laundry, the customer might ask about Wi-Fi, restrooms, or a change machine. They may also engage in brief small talk with other customers.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
Wi-Fi
Wireless internet connection you can use on your phone or laptop without cables. In places like laundromats, it's often free for customers.
password
A secret code or word you need to enter to connect to Wi-Fi or access something secure.
restrooms
Another word for bathrooms or toilets, used politely in public places like stores or laundromats.
change machine
A machine that exchanges paper money (bills) for coins, like quarters, which you need for laundry machines.
quarters
U.S. coins worth 25 cents each; often required to operate washing machines in laundromats.
bills
Paper money, like dollar bills, as opposed to coins; you might need to change them for coins.
picky
Describes something that is fussy or difficult to use, like a machine that only accepts certain bills.
heads-up
A warning or tip in advance to help someone avoid problems, like 'thanks for the heads-up' meaning thanks for the warning.
laundry
Clothes or items that need washing; in this context, it refers to the process of washing clothes at a laundromat.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, do you know if there's Wi-Fi here? And what's the password?
This is a polite way to ask for information from a stranger. 'Excuse me' gets attention, 'do you know if' is a yes/no question structure, and 'And what's the password?' adds a follow-up question. Use this when seeking help in public places.
Oh, thank you so much! I appreciate it.
A strong expression of gratitude. 'Oh' shows surprise or emotion, 'thank you so much' emphasizes thanks, and 'I appreciate it' means you value the help. Useful for responding positively to assistance.
No problem! The restrooms are just through that door, past the change machine.
'No problem' is a casual reply to thanks, meaning it's easy to help. The directions use prepositions like 'through' (entering) and 'past' (beyond). Good for giving simple location instructions.
Speaking of which, do you need any quarters?
'Speaking of which' introduces a related topic smoothly. It's a natural way to transition in conversation and ask if someone needs help. Use this for small talk or offering assistance.
Actually, yes! I only have bills. Is the change machine working?
'Actually' corrects or adds information, like admitting something. 'I only have' explains a limitation. This sentence asks about functionality; useful when checking if something is operational.
It was working earlier when I got my change. Just make sure to use exact bills.
Past continuous 'was working' with 'when' clause describes a recent action. 'Just make sure' gives advice. Helpful for sharing experiences and tips about machines.
Good to know, thanks for the heads-up. It's my first time here.
'Good to know' acknowledges useful info. 'Thanks for the heads-up' thanks for a warning. 'It's my first time' explains inexperience. Use this to show appreciation and context in new situations.
We've all been there. My laundry's almost done, so I'll be heading out soon.
'We've all been there' is an idiom meaning everyone has had a similar experience, building rapport. Contraction 'laundry's' for 'is,' and 'heading out' means leaving. Great for friendly small talk.
Thanks again for all your help! Enjoy the rest of your day.
'Thanks again' repeats gratitude. 'Enjoy the rest of your day' is a polite farewell. Use this to end conversations positively and courteously.
You too!
A short, reciprocal response to a well-wish, like returning 'Enjoy your day.' Simple and common in casual goodbyes.