Accidentally Stepping on Someone's Foot
In a crowded place, someone accidentally steps on another person's foot and quickly expresses an apology.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
excuse me
A polite way to get attention or apologize for a small mistake, like bumping into someone. Use it immediately after an accident.
sorry
A common word to express apology for something you did wrong. It's simple and used in everyday situations.
step on
To accidentally put your foot on something or someone, like a person's foot. Useful for describing minor accidents.
ouch
An exclamation used when you feel sudden pain, like when someone steps on your foot. It's informal and natural.
crowded
Describes a place with many people close together, making accidents more likely. Common in busy areas like markets or subways.
apologize
To say sorry in a more formal way. Use it when you want to show you feel bad about a mistake.
no worries
A casual way to say it's okay or no problem. Helps to reassure someone after they apologize.
alright
Means okay or fine, often used to check if someone is not hurt. It's a friendly way to show concern.
hurt
To cause pain or injury. In apologies, ask if you hurt someone to show you care about their well-being.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Oh, excuse me! I am so sorry. Did I step on your foot?
This is a quick apology after a small accident. 'Excuse me' starts politely, 'I am so sorry' expresses regret, and the question checks what happened. Use it right away in crowded places to be polite.
Ouch! Just a little. It's okay, crowded place.
An expression of mild pain followed by reassurance. 'Ouch' shows pain, 'just a little' downplays it, and explaining the reason (crowded) makes it natural. Useful for responding without making a big deal.
I really apologize. I wasn't looking where I was going.
A sincere apology with an explanation. 'Really apologize' adds emphasis, and the past continuous tense 'wasn't looking' describes the mistake. Good for showing you take responsibility.
No worries at all. My fault for standing so close too.
A forgiving response. 'No worries at all' means it's fine, and 'my fault too' shares blame politely. Use this to end the conversation positively and avoid awkwardness.
Are you sure you're alright? I hope I didn't hurt you.
Shows concern after apologizing. The question uses 'are you sure' for confirmation, and 'I hope' expresses a wish. It's caring and uses present tense for current state; use to check on the other person.
Yeah, I'm fine. Thanks for asking!
A positive reply to concern. 'Yeah' is casual for 'yes', 'I'm fine' states well-being, and 'thanks for asking' shows appreciation. Simple structure; use to reassure and be polite.