Expressing Gratitude or Accepting Refusal
If the request is granted, the person thanks the other person. If it's refused, they politely accept the refusal without pressing the issue.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
bother
To bother someone means to disturb or annoy them, often unintentionally. In polite requests, like 'sorry to bother you,' it shows respect for the other person's time.
mind
In 'would you mind,' it means 'do you object to' or 'are you okay with.' It's a polite way to ask permission, common in English for requests.
switch
To switch means to exchange or change places with someone. Use it in situations like 'switch seats' when politely asking to trade positions on transport or in a theater.
separated
Separated means divided or apart from each other. Here, it explains why someone wants to switch seats, like being away from a friend during travel.
appreciate
To appreciate means to feel grateful for something helpful. Say 'I appreciate it' to thank someone sincerely after they do a favor.
welcome
'You're welcome' is a polite response to 'thank you.' It means 'it's no trouble at all' and shows you're happy to help.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, I'm so sorry to bother you, but would you mind switching seats with me?
This is a polite way to make a request. 'Excuse me' gets attention, 'sorry to bother you' apologizes in advance, and 'would you mind' softens the ask. Use it when interrupting someone to request a favor like changing seats.
Oh, not at all. Which seat were you looking at?
'Not at all' means 'I don't mind at all' or 'it's fine.' This sentence agrees to help and asks for more details. It's useful for responding positively to a polite request.
I'm traveling with my friend and we got separated.
This explains the reason for the request, using 'got separated' in past tense for something that happened. It's helpful to give a reason when asking for a seat switch to make your request more understandable.
No problem at all, I can move to your seat.
'No problem at all' emphasizes easy agreement. 'I can move' offers to take action. Use this to confirm you'll help without hesitation in similar situations.
Thank you so much, I really appreciate it!
This expresses strong gratitude. 'Thank you so much' intensifies thanks, and 'I really appreciate it' adds sincerity. Say it after someone agrees to your request to show politeness.
You're very welcome. Glad I could help.
'You're very welcome' politely responds to thanks, and 'glad I could help' shows happiness in assisting. Use this phrase set when someone thanks you for a favor.