Graciously Declining a Request/Offer
Responding politely when someone asks to use your charger, either agreeing to lend it or explaining why you cannot (e.g., currently using it, different type).
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
charger
A device used to recharge the battery of a phone or other electronic device. In this dialogue, it's a phone charger that Emily needs to borrow.
borrow
To take something temporarily from someone with the intention of returning it. Emily asks to borrow a charger because hers is not working.
died
Informal way to say a battery has run out of power completely. Emily says her phone 'died' meaning it has no battery left.
check
To look or examine something quickly. Michael says 'let me check' to see if he has a charger.
Lightning cable
A specific type of charging cable used for Apple iPhones and iPads. Emily specifies she needs this type.
USB-C
A type of universal charging port and cable commonly used for Android phones and other devices. Michael has this type but not Lightning.
darn
A mild expression of disappointment or frustration, like a softer version of a swear word. Michael uses it when he realizes he can't help.
No worries
A casual way to say 'it's okay' or 'don't worry about it.' Emily uses this to politely accept the refusal.
appreciate
To feel grateful for something. Emily says she appreciates Michael checking for a charger, even though he couldn't help.
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?
This is a polite way to make a request when you're not sure if the person can help. 'Long shot' means something unlikely to succeed, and 'by any chance' softens the question. Useful for asking favors in everyday situations like borrowing items.
Hmm, let me check. I usually carry one. What kind of phone do you have?
This shows how to respond positively to a request by offering to look and asking for more details. 'Let me check' is a common phrase for verifying something. It's useful for customer service or helpful conversations, teaching question forms for clarification.
It's an iPhone, so I need a Lightning cable.
This sentence explains a specific need with 'so' showing cause and effect. It's practical for describing requirements in tech-related talks, like specifying device types, and helps with simple conditional structures.
Ah, darn. I only have a USB-C charger with me right now for my Android. I'm so sorry, I can't help you out.
A polite way to decline a request by explaining the reason. 'Can't help you out' means unable to assist. Useful for graciously refusing, with expressions of apology like 'I'm so sorry' to keep the interaction friendly.
No worries at all! Thanks for checking anyway. I appreciate it.
This is how to respond gracefully to a refusal, showing understanding and gratitude. 'Anyway' means despite the outcome. It's a key phrase for maintaining politeness in conversations, emphasizing positive closure.
Hopefully, someone else nearby has one you can use. Good luck!
Offers encouragement after declining help. 'Hopefully' expresses a wish, and 'good luck' is a friendly closing. Useful for ending interactions on a positive note, common in casual advice or support scenarios.