Need a Few Sheets of Paper
You're out of scratch paper for your notes or a quick printout and ask a colleague for a few blank sheets.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
spare
Means extra or not being used; in this context, 'spare sheets' refers to extra paper available to share.
out
When something is 'out', it means you have none left; 'completely out' emphasizes totally finished, like running out of supplies.
blank
Describes paper or pages with nothing written or printed on them; useful for notes or printing.
stack
A pile of things one on top of the other, like a small stack of paper; common in office talk for grouped items.
lifesaver
An informal way to say someone really helped you out of a difficult situation; shows strong gratitude in casual settings.
anytime
Means 'you're welcome at any time' or 'happy to help whenever'; a polite response to thanks in friendly conversations.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hey Michael, do you happen to have a few spare sheets of paper?
This is a polite way to ask for something casually; 'do you happen to have' softens the request, making it less direct. Useful for borrowing items without sounding demanding.
I'm completely out for my notes.
Explains the reason for the request; 'completely out' uses an idiom for 'have none left.' Good for intermediate learners to express needs clearly in office situations.
Sure, Sarah. Let me check. I think I have some blank ones over here.
A helpful response offering to look; 'let me check' shows willingness. The structure uses 'I think' for uncertainty, common in polite offers.
Just a couple, maybe three or four.
Specifies quantity vaguely; 'a couple' means two, 'maybe' adds flexibility. Useful for not being too precise when asking for small amounts.
No problem. Here you go, a small stack.
Means 'it's easy' or 'don't worry'; 'here you go' is a handover phrase. Simple and reassuring, perfect for giving items in casual exchanges.
Perfect! Thanks so much, Michael. You're a lifesaver!
Expresses strong thanks; exclamation marks add enthusiasm. 'Thanks so much' intensifies gratitude, and 'lifesaver' is idiomatic for big help. Use after receiving aid.
Anytime, Sarah. Glad I could help.
A warm reply to thanks; 'anytime' means always available, 'glad I could help' shows happiness. Ends conversations positively, common in workplaces.