Late Due to Unexpected Errand
An unexpected last-minute errand or task made you late, and you need to briefly mention it as a reason.
Dialogue5
Hey Michael, finally made it! Sorry I'm a bit late.
No worries, Lisa! We just got started. Everything okay?
Yeah, sorry about that. Had to run a quick, unexpected errand for my mom right before I left.
Ah, gotcha. Family first, right? Glad you could make it.
Exactly. What have I missed so far?
Vocabulary4
- worries
As in 'no worries,' this means no problem or don't be concerned. It's a casual way to say it's okay when someone apologizes.
- errand
A short trip to do a small task, like going to the store. Use it when explaining why you're late due to a quick job.
- gotcha
Short for 'I got you' or 'I understand.' It's informal and used to show you comprehend what someone said.
- family first
An expression meaning family is the top priority. Use it to agree that helping family is more important than being on time.
Key Sentences5
- 1
Sorry I'm a bit late.
This is a simple apology for arriving late. Use 'a bit' to soften it, meaning slightly late. It's polite and common in casual situations.
- 2
No worries! We just got started.
This reassures the late person that it's fine. 'Just got started' means the event hasn't progressed much. Great for showing understanding.
- 3
Had to run a quick, unexpected errand for my mom right before I left.
This explains the reason for lateness using past tense 'had to' for obligation. It's useful for giving a brief excuse without too many details.
- 4
Ah, gotcha. Family first, right?
This shows understanding and agreement. 'Right?' seeks confirmation casually. Use it to acknowledge and support the explanation.
- 5
What have I missed so far?
This asks for a summary of what happened before arriving. Present perfect 'have missed' shows the action connects to now. Helpful to catch up quickly.