Making the Final Decision
After some back-and-forth, the group tries to reach a consensus and choose one specific restaurant or type of cuisine.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
tossed around
This idiom means to discuss or mention ideas casually without deciding on them yet. Use it when talking about brainstorming options in a group, like 'We tossed around some names for the project.'
leaning towards
This phrase means to prefer or be inclined to choose something. It's useful in decision-making conversations, for example, 'I'm leaning towards the blue shirt.'
in the mood for
This expression means wanting or feeling like having something at the moment. Commonly used for food or activities, like 'I'm in the mood for pizza tonight.'
consensus
This noun means general agreement among a group. It's practical in meetings or group decisions, such as 'We reached a consensus on the plan.'
craving
This means a strong desire for something, especially food. Use it to express hunger for a specific taste, like 'I'm craving chocolate after dinner.'
call ahead
This phrasal verb means to phone a place in advance to make arrangements. It's helpful for reservations, for example, 'I'll call ahead to book the table.'
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
What's everyone leaning towards?
This question asks for people's preferences in a group discussion. It's useful for polling opinions during decisions, like choosing a restaurant. The structure uses 'what's' for contraction of 'what is' and 'everyone' to include the whole group.
I'm in the mood for something a bit different today.
This sentence expresses a current desire for variety. Use it when suggesting options that break routine. 'In the mood for' is an idiomatic phrase, and 'a bit different' softens the idea of change.
Does anyone have any strong objections?
This is a polite way to check for disagreements before finalizing a plan. It's great for group consensus. The question form with 'does anyone' invites responses, and 'strong objections' implies mild opposition is okay.
So, Italian it is?
This confirms a decision with a rising tone for agreement. Use it to wrap up choices, like 'Coffee it is?' The structure uses 'it is' emphatically after the subject for finality.
Looks like we have a consensus.
This states that the group has agreed. It's practical for ending discussions positively. 'Looks like' is a common way to express observation, and 'consensus' highlights the agreement.
Sounds like a plan!
This idiom means the idea or arrangement is good and agreed upon. Use it to confirm next steps enthusiastically. It's informal and common in casual planning, with 'sounds like' suggesting it seems right.