Eating is simple. Eating out isn't … if you're traveling in a foreign country, that is! But don't panic – we won't let you starve. Check out this list of important dining phrases that will surely help you ease those hunger pangs!
1. I'd like to make a reservation. For some restaurants, you’ll need to call in advance to secure a table. Be prepared to give the number of people in your group, the time you will arrive and your name. "I’d like to make a reservation for four at 8 p.m. for Kristi." The receptionist may ask for your phone number or about your smoking preference, so have this information ready.
2. Could you repeat that, please? This phrase isn't unique to eating out, but it's very important. Restaurants can be loud. Waiters talk fast. If you don't understand something, ask them, "Could you repeat that?" Of course, a simple, "Excuse me?" will also work. Don’t be afraid to use it often!
3. We need another minute. Use this phrase if the waiter approaches to take your order, but you’re not ready. You’ll hear, "Are you ready to order?" Respond with, "Not yet. We need another minute," or "Can we have another minute?" Be aware that "a minute" in a busy restaurant usually means the waiter will return in five.
4. I'd like/I'll have ... These are the two most important phrases! Use "I'd like …" or "I'll have …" when ordering your food and drinks. For example, "I'd like the spaghetti and some tea," or, "I'll have a sandwich and a soft drink." Pointing at the menu always works, too!
5. Could you bring …?/Do you have …? If there's something you need or would like more of, say, "Could you bring some extra napkins?" If you'd like an item you’re not sure the restaurant has then try, "Do you have …?" For example, if you want orange juice but don’t see it listed, ask, "Do you have orange juice?"
6. This isn't what I ordered. If the server brings you the wrong dish, say, "This isn't what I ordered, I ordered …" and continue with the name of the dish you wanted. It doesn't happen often, but when it does, make sure you do something about it.
7. Check, please! When you're ready to go, catch the waiter's attention and say, "Check, please!" for a short and simple end to your meal
Ta-Ta
1. Remember to say "I love you" and "I need you" often.
2. Walk hand in hand in the rain.
3. Write a love poem.
4. Call a radio station and dedicate a favorite song.
5. Write "I Love You" in lipstick or shaving cream on the mirror.
TA-TA
A man called home to his wife and said, "Honey I have been asked to go fishing up in Canada with my boss & several of his Friends. We'll be gone for a week. This is a good opportunity for me to get that Promotion I'v been wanting, so could you please pack enough Clothes for a week and set out my rod and fishing box, we're Leaving From the office & I will swing by the house to pick my things up" " Oh! Please pack my new blue silk pajamas."
The wife thinks this sounds a bit fishy but being the good wife she is, did exactly what her husband asked. The following Weekend he came home a little tired but otherwise looking good.
The wife welcomed him home and asked if he caught many fish?
He said, "Yes! Lots of Salmon, some Bluegill, and a few Swordfish. But why didn't you pack my new blue silk pajamas like I asked you to Do?"
You'll love the answer...
The wife replied, "I did. They're in your fishing box....."
Does your English come across as too polite? While formal language is essential with your boss and your customers, you would sound strange to your friends if you speak with them in the same way. To tone down your English for life's casual situations, check out these tips.
Meetings and greetings
Do you ask everyone you see, "How do you do?" Though quite common in days past, today it's only appropriate in very formal situations - not with your friends. In most situations, choose a more common phrase like, "How are you?" With friends, you could also say, "Hey, what's up?" or "How's it going?"
Wining and dining
"Would you mind passing me the salt, please?" It's always important to remember your manners, especially when you're eating with business associates or important guests. But when you're just grabbing a bite to eat with friends, and you need the salt, it's quite OK to just say, "Hey, pass the salt."
Coming and going
You receive an urgent message during an important meeting, so you ask, "Would you excuse me for a moment, please?" But what if you're with your friends? Just tell them to "hang on a sec" or say you'll "be right back." Remember, it's not always impolite to be informal.
Didn't hear it?
Your customer is speaking to you, but you didn't understand what she said. Don't panic. Just be polite and say, "Excuse me, but would you mind repeating that?" On the other hand, in more casual situations, just ask, "Come again?" or "What did you say?"
Good impressions
"This is quite an impressive abode, my dear." This is a formal way to tell people that you really like their home. If you're over at a friend's place, however, there's no need for such serious language. Your friends would be perfectly happy to hear you exclaim, "What a cool place, man!"