Asking for a Small Favor
A neighbor asks for a simple favor, such as borrowing an ingredient or help carrying something heavy.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
spare
An extra or additional item that you keep in case you need it, like a spare key or tool.
borrow
To take something from someone with the promise to give it back later, often used when asking for temporary help from neighbors.
ladder
A portable tool with steps or rungs that you climb to reach high places, common in home maintenance.
garage
A building or room attached to a house for parking cars, but often used to store tools and items.
sec
Informal short form of 'second,' used to mean 'wait a very short time,' like 'give me a sec' for quick actions.
lifesaver
A slang expression for someone who provides crucial help, making a difficult situation much easier, like saving the day.
appreciate
To feel grateful for someone's help or kindness, often said to show thanks in polite conversations.
anytime
Means 'you're welcome at any time' or 'happy to help whenever,' used to respond positively to thanks.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hope you're doing well.
This is a friendly greeting to check on someone's health or mood. It's useful for starting casual neighbor chats and shows politeness; use it instead of just 'hi' to build rapport.
What can I do for you?
A polite way to offer help when someone approaches you. It's common in service situations and invites the other person to explain their need; great for neighbors to show willingness to assist.
I was wondering if you might have a spare ladder I could borrow?
This is a polite, indirect way to ask for a favor using 'I was wondering if' to soften the request. The structure with 'might' adds politeness; use it for borrowing items to avoid sounding demanding.
Give me just a sec, I'll grab it for you.
An informal promise to do something quickly, where 'sec' means second and 'grab' means fetch casually. Useful for responding to requests; it reassures the person and keeps the interaction smooth.
You're a lifesaver.
An idiomatic expression of strong thanks for helpful actions. It's hyperbolic but friendly; use it after someone does a favor to make them feel appreciated in everyday community interactions.
No problem at all!
A casual way to say 'it's easy' or 'don't worry about it' when agreeing to help. No special grammar, but it's reassuring; perfect for downplaying favors to maintain good neighbor relations.
Anytime, Sarah!
A warm response to thanks, meaning 'happy to help whenever you need.' It's short and positive; use it to end conversations on a friendly note and encourage future interactions.