Seeking Permission from First Person
The person politely asks the individual directly in front of them if they would mind letting them go ahead.
Dialogue6
Excuse me, I'm so sorry to bother you, but would you mind if I cut in front of you? I have a really urgent appointment.
Oh, an urgent appointment? What kind of urgent?
Yes, I really need to get to the airport quickly. My flight leaves in an hour and I'm running a bit late.
An hour? Oh dear, that is pretty urgent. Well, I guess it's okay then. Go ahead.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your understanding. You're a lifesaver!
No problem at all. Good luck with your flight!
Vocabulary8
- excuse me
A polite way to get someone's attention or interrupt them gently, often used before asking a favor.
- bother
To disturb or annoy someone; here, it's used to apologize for interrupting, showing politeness.
- mind
In 'would you mind,' it means 'do you object to' or 'are you okay with'; a polite way to ask permission.
- cut in
To move ahead of others in a line or queue; in this context, it's asking to go first politely.
- urgent
Something that needs immediate attention because it's important and time-sensitive, like a doctor's visit or flight.
- appointment
A planned meeting or arrangement at a specific time, such as with a doctor, dentist, or for travel.
- running late
Being behind schedule or delayed; a common phrase to explain why you're in a hurry.
- lifesaver
Someone who helps you out of a difficult situation; used to express strong gratitude informally.
Key Sentences6
- 1
Excuse me, I'm so sorry to bother you, but would you mind if I cut in front of you?
This is a polite request for permission to go ahead in line. 'Would you mind' is a conditional structure for asking favors without being direct. Use it in urgent situations to show respect and apologize first.
- 2
I have a really urgent appointment.
A simple explanation for your request, using 'really' to emphasize urgency. This sentence helps justify why you need to cut in; it's useful when giving a quick reason without too many details.
- 3
My flight leaves in an hour and I'm running a bit late.
This provides more details to build sympathy. 'Running a bit late' is an idiomatic expression for being slightly delayed. Use this pattern to explain time pressure in travel scenarios.
- 4
Well, I guess it's okay then. Go ahead.
A reluctant but agreeing response. 'I guess' softens the decision, and 'go ahead' means 'proceed.' This is useful for politely allowing someone to cut in after hearing their reason.
- 5
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your understanding. You're a lifesaver!
Expressions of strong thanks. 'So much' intensifies gratitude, and 'appreciate' shows value for their kindness. Use this after receiving help to make the other person feel good.
- 6
No problem at all. Good luck with your flight!
A casual way to say 'you're welcome.' 'No problem at all' downplays the favor, and 'good luck' wishes well. This is a friendly closing in helpful situations like this.