Reporting a Problem with an Order
A customer discovers an issue with their delivery or takeout order (e.g., wrong items, missing items, cold food, quality concerns) and contacts the restaurant or delivery platform to resolve it.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
order
A request to buy or deliver food or items; in this context, it means the food you asked for from a restaurant.
problem
An issue or something wrong; here, it refers to a mistake with the delivered food.
order number
A unique code or ID for your purchase to help track it; useful for customer service calls.
mix-up
A small mistake where items get confused or swapped; common in delivery services.
apologies
A polite way to say 'I'm sorry'; used to express regret for a mistake.
within
In less than or by a certain time; for example, 'within 20 minutes' means arriving before that time passes.
assist
To help someone; often used in customer service to offer support.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hi, I just received my order, and there's a problem.
This is a polite way to start reporting an issue; 'just received' means it happened moments ago, and 'there's a problem' states the issue clearly. Use it when contacting support about a delivery mistake.
I'm sorry to hear that. Can I please get your order number?
A customer service response showing empathy; 'I'm sorry to hear that' expresses regret, and the question politely asks for details. Useful for service workers to gather information without sounding rude.
I ordered a chicken Caesar salad, but I received a garden salad instead.
Describes what was expected versus what arrived; 'but...instead' contrasts the difference. This pattern helps explain errors clearly and is practical for complaining about wrong items.
My apologies for the mix-up.
A formal apology for a mistake; 'my apologies' is more professional than 'sorry.' Use it in business or service situations to show responsibility.
We can send you the correct order right away.
Offers an immediate solution; 'right away' means quickly. This sentence shows how to resolve issues positively, useful for customer service replies.
It should be with you within 20-30 minutes.
Gives a time estimate; 'should be' suggests expectation, and 'within' indicates the timeframe. Helpful for setting realistic expectations during deliveries.
Is there anything else I can assist you with today?
Checks if more help is needed; polite closing question in service talks. Use it to end conversations professionally and invite further questions.