Bumping into Someone Accidentally
Someone accidentally bumps into another person in a public space, like a hallway or street, and immediately apologizes.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
sorry
A common word to express regret or apology for a small mistake, like bumping into someone. Use it right after the accident to show politeness.
apologies
A more formal way to say 'sorry' for your mistake. It's useful in casual situations to sound sincere without being too casual.
surprised
Means feeling shocked or unexpected. In apologies, it describes how the other person might feel after a bump, helping to acknowledge their reaction.
worries
Short for 'no worries,' meaning it's not a problem and no need to feel bad. It's a friendly way to accept an apology and move on.
fault
Means the responsibility for a mistake. Admitting 'my fault' shows you take blame, which is polite in English culture for small errors.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Oh! I'm so sorry! Are you okay?
This is a quick apology with a question to check on the other person. 'So sorry' adds emphasis; use it immediately after a minor accident to show concern. The grammar is simple: exclamation for surprise, then a yes/no question.
I'm fine, thanks. Just a little surprised.
A polite response to an apology, reassuring the person you're okay. 'Just a little' softens the feeling; useful for everyday interactions. It uses basic sentence structure with 'thanks' for gratitude.
My apologies, I wasn't looking where I was going.
Explains the mistake while apologizing. 'My apologies' is formal; the past continuous 'wasn't looking' describes the action. Use this to give a reason without excuses in casual apologies.
No worries! It happens.
A casual way to forgive and end the conversation positively. 'No worries' means don't worry about it; 'it happens' shows it's common. Great for intermediate learners to respond kindly in public spaces.
Still, my fault. Have a good day!
Insists on taking blame politely, then ends nicely. 'Still' means even so; 'my fault' admits error. Use this to wrap up an apology warmly, with a common greeting.