Discussing Nail Services
A customer is at a nail salon and discusses different types of manicures or pedicures, colors, and designs with the nail technician.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
manicure
A manicure is a beauty treatment for the hands and nails, like cleaning, shaping, and painting the nails. It's common to say 'I want a manicure' at a nail salon.
gel manicure
A gel manicure uses special gel polish that is cured under UV light for a shiny, long-lasting finish. It's popular because it doesn't chip easily.
preference
Preference means your favorite choice or what you like best. In conversations, ask 'Do you have a preference?' to know what someone wants.
last
In this context, 'last' means how long something stays good or doesn't fade, like 'How long does it last?' for nail polish duration.
nail art
Nail art refers to decorative designs or patterns on fingernails, such as drawings or added elements like glitter. It's a way to make nails look artistic.
French tip
A French tip is a classic nail design with white polish on the tips of the nails and a neutral color on the rest. It's simple and elegant.
glitter
Glitter is shiny, sparkling material added to nails for a fun, eye-catching effect. You can say 'add some glitter' to request it.
appointment
An appointment is a scheduled time to meet for a service, like at a salon. Ask 'Do I need an appointment?' if you're unsure.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
I'm looking to get a manicure today. What options do you have?
This sentence is useful for starting a conversation at a salon. 'I'm looking to get' expresses your intention politely, and 'What options do you have?' asks for choices. Use it when inquiring about services.
Do you have a preference?
This is a polite question to ask someone's choice. It's common in service situations. The grammar uses 'do you have' for present simple questions about possession of preferences.
How long does a gel manicure typically last here?
This asks about duration. 'Typically' means usually or on average. It's practical for comparing services. Use present simple 'does...last' for general facts.
Are you looking for a specific color or design today?
This helps guide the customer. 'Are you looking for' is present continuous for current actions or needs. Useful for service providers to offer suggestions.
I'm open to suggestions for colors.
This shows flexibility. 'I'm open to' means willing to consider ideas. It's a polite way to ask for recommendations without deciding yet.
We can definitely do French tips or glitter.
This confirms availability positively. 'Definitely' adds emphasis meaning certainly. Use it to reassure customers about what services are possible.
Do I need an appointment, or can you take me now?
This checks availability. It's an alternative question structure with 'or' for options. Practical for walk-in situations at salons or services.
We can take you right now!
This means immediate service is available. 'Right now' emphasizes urgency or immediacy. It's reassuring and uses present simple for current ability.