In a Public Waiting Area
You are in a doctor's waiting room or an airport lounge and need to know the time to manage your appointments or flight, so you ask someone nearby.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
Excuse me
A polite way to get someone's attention before asking a question, like starting a conversation in public.
happen to know
A polite phrase meaning 'do you know by chance,' used to ask for information indirectly and softly.
appreciate
To feel grateful for someone's help; it's a formal way to say thank you and show politeness.
died
When talking about a phone or battery, it means it ran out of power completely and stopped working.
watch
A small device worn on the wrist to tell time, like a traditional timepiece instead of a phone.
running late
Being behind schedule or delayed, often used when worried about missing an appointment or event.
understandable
Something that makes sense or is reasonable; used to show empathy or agreement with someone's situation.
You're welcome
A common response to 'thank you,' meaning it's no trouble at all and you're happy to help.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, do you happen to know what time it is?
This is a polite way to ask for the time in public; 'do you happen to know' softens the question to be less direct. Use it when approaching strangers.
Sure, it's 10:35 AM.
A simple, helpful response giving the time; 'AM' means morning time before noon. Useful for clear, direct answers in everyday conversations.
Oh, thank you so much! I really appreciate it.
Expresses strong gratitude; 'thank you so much' emphasizes thanks, and 'appreciate it' adds sincerity. Use after receiving help to build rapport.
No problem at all.
A casual way to say 'you're welcome' or 'it's okay'; shows the help was easy. Common in friendly interactions to keep things light.
I'm waiting for a flight, and I just needed to make sure I wasn't running late.
Explains your reason for asking; 'make sure' means to check or confirm. Useful for giving context in situations like travel to continue the conversation.
Completely understandable. Is your flight soon?
Shows empathy with 'completely understandable' (fully makes sense), then asks a follow-up question. Good for polite small talk to show interest.
In about an hour, so I have a little bit of time still.
Describes time left; 'in about an hour' means approximately one hour from now, 'a little bit' softens the amount. Use to update on schedules casually.
You're welcome. Have a good flight!
Ends the conversation politely; 'have a good flight' is a well-wish for travel. Ideal for farewells in service or helpful exchanges.