Specifying Charger Type/Availability
Enquiring about the specific type of charger the other person has (e.g., iPhone, Android, USB-C) to ensure compatibility before asking to use it.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
long shot
An idiom meaning something that is unlikely to happen or succeed, but you try anyway. Use it when asking for something you think might not be available.
by any chance
A polite phrase meaning 'possibly' or 'if you're lucky.' It's used to soften a request and make it less direct.
charger
A device used to recharge the battery of a phone or electronic device. Common in travel or daily life situations.
borrow
To take something from someone temporarily with the intention of returning it. Always polite to say 'could I borrow' when asking.
USB-C
A type of universal cable connector used for many modern Android phones and devices. It's a standard term in tech conversations.
Lightning cable
The specific cable type used for iPhones by Apple. Mention it when specifying compatibility for charging.
relief
A feeling of happiness or comfort after worry or stress ends. Use it to express gratitude when a problem is solved.
battery
The power source inside a phone that holds energy. Say 'low battery' when your phone needs charging.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, I know this is a long shot, but by any chance do you have a phone charger I could borrow for a few minutes?
This is a polite way to make a request for something unlikely. 'Excuse me' starts politely, 'long shot' and 'by any chance' soften the ask, and 'could I borrow' uses modal verb 'could' for permission. Useful for borrowing items from strangers.
What kind of phone do you have? Is it an iPhone or an Android with a USB-C?
A question to check compatibility before offering help. It uses 'what kind' for specifics and alternatives with 'or.' Great for clarifying details in tech or daily situations to avoid mismatches.
It's an iPhone, actually. So, the Lightning cable.
A clear response specifying your device and needs. 'Actually' adds a gentle correction, and 'so' connects to the requirement. Useful when explaining your situation simply and directly.
Oh, perfect! I have one of those right here. You can definitely use it.
Expresses enthusiasm and agreement to help. 'One of those' refers back to the mentioned item, and 'definitely' shows certainty. Use this to confirm availability and offer positively.
Oh, that's such a relief! Thank you so much, I'm almost out of battery.
Shows gratitude and explains the urgency. 'Such a relief' uses 'such a' for emphasis, and 'almost out of' means nearly empty. Ideal for thanking after solving a problem like low battery.
No problem at all! Happy to help. Just let me know when you're done with it.
A friendly response to thanks, offering more help. 'No problem at all' is casual for 'you're welcome,' and 'let me know' is a common phrase for future communication. Use in service or lending situations.