Last-Minute Change of Plans
Just before heading out, unexpected circumstances (e.g., a planned restaurant is closed, a new urgent task) force a quick change or postponement of lunch plans.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
pop-up
A pop-up is a small window or notification that suddenly appears on a screen, often with important information like a store closure.
renovations
Renovations mean improvements or repairs to a building, like updating a restaurant, which can cause it to close temporarily.
detour
A detour is a change in route or plan to avoid a problem, like switching to a different restaurant when the first one is closed.
bummer
Bummer is informal slang for something disappointing or unlucky, like when your favorite place is closed.
Plan B
Plan B refers to a backup or alternative plan when the original one doesn't work, useful in everyday problem-solving.
ping
To ping someone means to quickly contact them via message or call, like sending a short text to check availability.
flexible
Flexible means willing to change or adapt to different options, showing openness in group decisions like lunch plans.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Our lunch plans might need a slight detour.
This sentence uses 'might need' for possibility and 'slight detour' to suggest a small change in plans. It's useful for politely proposing adjustments in group activities.
That's a bummer, I was looking forward to their beef noodles.
Here, 'bummer' expresses disappointment informally, and 'looking forward to' means anticipating something positively. Use this to share feelings about canceled plans casually.
Any thoughts on a Plan B?
This is a direct way to ask for alternative ideas using 'Plan B' for backups. It's practical for collaborative situations like deciding on meals with colleagues.
If everyone's up for it, we could try the food truck park.
'Up for it' means willing or interested, and 'could try' suggests an option conditionally. This sentence is great for proposing ideas while checking group agreement.
Let me quickly ping John and Emily to see what they prefer.
'Ping' means quick contact, and 'to see what they prefer' uses infinitive for purpose. Useful for coordinating with others in a team setting.
I'm flexible.
This short phrase means open to any choice. It's simple and common in conversations to show adaptability without committing to one option.
Catch you in a bit!
An informal goodbye meaning 'see you soon.' 'Catch you' is casual slang for meeting up shortly, perfect for quick plans like heading to lunch.