Observing and Asking (Before Others)
The person sees a seat that appears empty but has subtle signs of being taken (e.g., a jacket on the back, a drink on the table) and asks to clarify before someone else potentially claims it.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
seat
A place to sit, like a chair in a restaurant or bus. In this dialogue, it's used to ask about availability.
taken
Means already in use by someone. Commonly used with 'seat' or 'table' to check if it's occupied.
free
Available or not in use, the opposite of 'taken'. In seating contexts, it means you can use it.
stepped away
Means temporarily left and come back soon. Useful for explaining short absences in public places.
occupied
Similar to 'taken', meaning in use by someone. Often used politely for seats or rooms.
empty spot
An available place or seat that's not taken. 'Spot' is informal for location.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, is this seat taken?
This is a polite way to ask if a seat is available. 'Excuse me' gets attention, and 'taken' checks occupancy. Use it in public places like cafes before sitting.
Oh, no, it's free.
A casual response meaning the seat is available. 'Oh, no' softens the correction, and 'free' means not in use. Useful for confirming availability politely.
Ah, I see. I thought it might be occupied.
Shows understanding after clarification. 'Ah, I see' acknowledges info, and 'might be' expresses possibility. Good for conversations when you realize something.
Thanks for clarifying!
Expresses gratitude for making something clear. 'Clarifying' means explaining. Use this to thank someone for helpful information in daily interactions.
No problem! You're welcome to sit here if you want to wait.
Offers permission politely. 'No problem' means it's okay, and 'you're welcome to' invites action. Conditional 'if you want to' shows optionality. Ideal for friendly offers.
Thanks, but I'll look for another empty spot then.
Politely declines and explains next action. 'Thanks, but' contrasts gratitude with refusal. Useful when choosing an alternative in social situations.