Common English Speaking Phrases

 

Common English Phrases

In this English Vocabulary lesson, you will learn some common English Phrases saying thank you, saying yes, please and more. Thus, you can improve your English Vocabulary by using these common phrases when speaking in English.

Basically, these phrases have been divided into 14 topics, to better help you remember them.  Try using them in the appropriate situation when expressing yourself.

1. Please

Definition: A polite word used to ask for something.
Pronunciation: /pliz/ (pleez)
Example Sentences:
a) Can I have a glass of water, please?
b) Pass the salt, Please 
c) Could you help me, please?
d) Would you mind closing the window, please?
e) Please let me know your answer.
Tip: Use “please” to make requests sound politer and friendlier.

2. Thank you

Definition: A phrase used to express gratitude.
Pronunciation: /θæŋk ju/ (thank yoo)
Example Sentences:
a) Thank you for your help today.
b) I really appreciate it. Thank you!
c) I wanted to thank you for the lovely gift.  
d) Thank you for inviting me to the party.
e) As ever, thank you for your time.
Tip: Always say “thank you” when someone does something nice for you.

3. Excuse me

Definition: A polite way to get someone’s attention or to apologize.
Pronunciation: /ɪkˈskjuz mi/ (ik-skyooz mee)
Example Sentences:
a) Excuse me, can I ask a question?
b)  I need to get by, Excuse me.
c) Excuse me, I didn’t catch your name.
d)      ”         “, may I join you?
e)  Madam, excuse me but you dropped something.
Tip: Use “excuse me” to be polite when interrupting or when seeking attention.

4. I’m sorry

Definition: A phrase used to express regret or apologize.
Pronunciation: /ˈaɪm ˈsɑri/ (I’m sore-ee)
Example Sentences:
a) I’m sorry for being late.
b)  I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. I’m sorry!
c)   I can’t help you right now. I’m sorry!
d)    I’m sorry to hear that you’re not feeling well.
e)   What a misunderstanding. I’m sorry!
Tip: Basically, use “I’m sorry” when you want to apologize or express sympathy.

5. Yes

Definition: A word used to affirm or agree.
Pronunciation: /jɛs/ (yes)
Example Sentences:
a) Yes, I would like some coffee.
b) Yes, that sounds like a good idea.
c) Are you coming? Yes, I am!
d) Did you finish your homework? Yes, I did.
e) Can I help you? Yes, please!
Tip: Use “yes” to show agreement or acceptance.

6. No

Definition: A word used to deny or disagree.
Pronunciation: /noʊ/ (noh)
Example Sentences:
a) No, I don’t want to go out tonight.
b) No, that’s not what I meant.
c) Are you free tomorrow? No, I have plans.
d) Do you like spinach? No, I don’t.
e) Can I borrow your pen? No, sorry!
Tip: Use “no” to politely decline or disagree.

7. Maybe

Definition: A word used to express uncertainty.
Pronunciation: /ˈmeɪ.bi/ (may-bee)
Example Sentences:
a) Maybe we can go to the movies later.
b) I’m not sure, maybe I’ll think about it.
c) Maybe it will rain tomorrow.
d) Do you want pizza? Maybe, I’m not hungry now.
e) Maybe we should ask for help.
Tip: Use “maybe” when you are unsure or considering options.

8. Ok

Definition: A word used to show agreement or acceptance.
Pronunciation: /ˈoʊˈkeɪ/ (oh-kay)
Example Sentences:
a) Ok, let’s meet at 6 PM.
b) I finished my homework, ok?
c) Is it ok if I sit here?
d) Ok, I understand what you mean.
e) I’ll help you with that, Ok?
Tip: Use “ok” to confirm plans or agree with someone.

9. Why not?

Definition: When a phrase used to suggest that something is a good idea.
Pronunciation: /waɪ ˈnɑt/ (why not)
Example Sentences:
a) Why not try that new restaurant?
b) Why not join us for the trip?
c) If you’re free, why not come over?
d) Why not take a break?
e) Advice? Why not ask? 
Tip: Use “why not” to encourage someone to consider an option.

10. I don’t know

Definition: Specifically, a phrase used when you are unsure of something.
Pronunciation: /aɪ doʊnt noʊ/ (I don’t noh)
Example Sentences:
a) I don’t know the answer to that question.
b) Do you know where she is? I don’t know.
c) Can you help? I don’t know how to solve this problem.
d) What time does it start? I don’t know.
e) Can you make it tonight? I don’t know if I can.
Tip: Use “I don’t know” when you’re uncertain or lack information.

11. Good morning

Definition: A polite greeting used in the morning.
Pronunciation: /ɡʊd ˈmɔrnɪŋ/ (good morn-ing)
Example Sentences:
a) good morning! How did you sleep?
b) I hope you have a great day. Good morning!
c) First, good morning, everyone. Let’s start the meeting.
d)  Did you have good morning breakfast?
e)  good morning to you all!
Tip: Generally, use “good morning” until around noon to greet someone politely.

12. Good afternoon

Definition: Moreover, use this polite greeting in the early to late afternoon.
Pronunciation: /ɡʊd ˌæftərˈnun/ (good af-ter-noon)
Example Sentences:
a) good afternoon! How is your day going?
b)  I hope you’re having a good afternoon?
c)  First, good afternoon, everyone. Let’s begin.
d)       ”         “! What can I help you with?
e)    Hello and good afternoon!  Did you have lunch?
Tip: Use “good afternoon” from around noon until around 5 PM.

13. Good evening

Definition: An explicit, polite greeting used in the evening.
Pronunciation: /ɡʊd ˈivnɪŋ/ (good eve-ning)
Example Sentences:
a) good evening! How was your day?
b) Welcome all and good evening. 
c)   Hello friends and good evening!  Are you ready for dinner?
d)   John, good evening.  It’s nice to see you again.
e)    I think it will be a good evening!
Tip: Accordingly, use “good evening” after 5 PM to greet someone.

14. How are you?

Definition: A common way to ask about someone’s well-being.
Pronunciation: /haʊ ɑr ju/ (how ar yoo)
Example Sentences:
a) Hi! How are you doing today?
b) It’s been a while! How are you? 
c) How are you feeling after the game?
d) I hope you’re well. How are you?
e) Let’s catch up. So, how are you?  
Tip: Use “how are you?” as a friendly way to start a conversation.

Source:  eslinfo.com©