Offering a Brief Justification (Optional)
After asking permission, the person might briefly elaborate on why their situation is urgent if the initial explanation wasn't clear enough or if there's hesistation.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
bother
To disturb or interrupt someone, often used politely when asking for a favor, like 'sorry to bother you' to show respect.
alright
Means okay or acceptable, commonly used in questions to ask if something is fine, such as 'Is it alright?' to seek permission politely.
ahead
In front of others, especially in a line; 'go ahead' means to proceed before someone else, useful for situations like cutting in line.
particular
Specific or special; in questions like 'particular reason,' it asks for a detailed explanation in a polite way.
apologize
To express regret for something; 'I apologize' is a formal way to say sorry, often used before making a request.
appreciate
To feel grateful for something; 'I appreciate your help' shows thanks and builds positive interactions.
understanding
Being sympathetic or supportive; thanking someone's 'understanding' acknowledges their kindness in a situation.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, I'm so sorry to bother you, but would it be alright if I just quickly went ahead of you?
This is a polite way to ask permission to cut in line; it uses 'Excuse me' for attention, 'sorry to bother' for apology, and a conditional question 'would it be alright' to soften the request. Useful for urgent situations like needing to hurry.
Hmm, actually, I've been waiting for a while. Is there a particular reason?
A hesitant but polite response asking for more information; 'Hmm' shows thinking, 'actually' corrects or adds info, and present perfect 'I've been waiting' explains the wait. Use this when someone asks a favor and you need a reason.
Yes, I really apologize for asking. My daughter is home alone and she's not feeling well, so I need to get back quickly with this medicine.
Provides a brief justification after an apology; 'really apologize' emphasizes sincerity, and 'so' connects the reason to the need. This sentence pattern is useful for explaining urgency in requests, like family emergencies.
Oh, I see. In that case, please go ahead.
Shows understanding and agreement; 'Oh, I see' acknowledges the explanation, and 'in that case' means 'given this situation.' It's a kind way to allow someone to proceed, common in polite concessions.
Thank you so much, I really appreciate your understanding. You're very kind.
Expresses deep gratitude; 'Thank you so much' intensifies thanks, and 'I appreciate' highlights specific kindness. Use this after receiving help to build rapport and end interactions positively.