Everyday English Dialogs for Everyday Use. Short situational dialogs for students of English as a foreign language.

Dialog 1 Formal Greetings and Farewells

Paul: Don: Paul: Don:

Hello. How are you? Fine, thank you. How are you? Fine, thanks, (bus sound-effect) oh, excuse mehere's my bus. Good-bye. Good-bye.

Language notes: Hello. Good morning or good afternoon might also be used. They are somewhat more formal. How are you? Notice the information. This how-question is one of the few instances in which a form of be receives the primary sentence stress. (This phenomenon normally occurs in "question word" questions in which the form of be stands at the end or is followed by a non-demonstrative pronoun: What is it? Where is he? When was it? Where will it be? Where have you been?) Sometimes, however, speakers stress the you, so that the intonation is identical to the "response question" described below. How are you? Notice that the responding speaker uses a different intonation for this question than the first speaker used. The shift of stress onto you points to that word as carrying the new or changed bit of meaning in this question, which is otherwise identical to the question in the first linefor now the you refers to a different person than it did in the original question. (Sometimes the responding speaker will answer simply, "Fine, thank youand you?" omitting all the words of the "understood" question except the one word you, which, uttered with a strong stress, carries the new meaning. For an example, see Dialog 2.) Thanks is slightly less formal than thank you. Notice the contraction here's (= here is).

Everyday English Dialog 2 Informal Greetings and Farewells

Dick: Hi! How are you? Helen: Fine, thanks and you? Dick: Just fine. Where are you going? Helen: To the library. Dick: O.k. Ill see you later. Helen: So long.

Language notes Hi is an informal equivalent of hello. For the intonation of How are you? See

dialog 1 Fine, thanksand you? See dialog1. Notice the rising into nation on and you? Notice that the normal response to Where are yon going? Is simply to the library

not I ' m going to the library. It is unnatural and unusual to repeat the information already supplied by the question. Ok. is a less formal equivalent of all right. The common saying I'll see you later

is often shortened to See you later (with the I'll understood). So long is an informal equivalent of goodbye.

Everyday English Dialog 3 Formal Introductions

Margaret:

Mr. Wilson, Id like you to meet Dr. Edward Smith.

Mr. Wilson: How do you do, Dr. Smith. Dr .Smith: Margaret: How do you do Dr. Smith is an economist. Hes just finished writing a book on international trade.

Mr. Wilson: Oh? Thats my field, too. I work for the United Nations. Dr. Smith: In the development program, by any chance?

Mr. Wilson: Yes. How did you guess? Dr. Smith: Ive read your articles on technical assistance. Theyre excellent.

Lan gua ge notes Notice the rising intonation on the words Mr. Wilson. A falling

intonation on a name used in direct address is unusual in American English and tends to sound brusque and impolite. Listen for the d in I'd. It is important to include the d in this expression in order to differentiate it from I like, which has a different meaning. (I'd like = I would like = I want.) How do you do has the form of a question (and is sometimes followed by a

question mark), but it is not a question in meaning. It is simply a polite formula used in formal introductions. The response to How do you do is simply the same phrase uttered with the

same intonation by the other speaker. In fact, lines 2 and 3 are not strictly statement and response but rather statements uttered by the two speakers independently and, possibly, simultaneously. He's just finished writing... A useful pattern indicating an action recently

completed. (Just is frequently used with the present perfect tense.) You may find it helpful to conduct a drill on this pattern in conjunction with the teaching of the present perfect, using variations of this sentence, such as I've just finished reading. . ., Ive just finished cleaning. . ., She's just finished correcting . . ., They've just finishing putting . . . ., The same pattern, with start or begin, is commonly used for an action recently initiated: He's just started writing . . ., I've just started reading . .., 3

Everyday English She's just started correcting .. ., etc. A somewhat simpler form of this pattern (just + present perfect), to indicate an action recently completed, is of even broader usefulness: He's just written, I've just read . . ., We've just eaten . . ., I've just heard. . ., They've just returned. . ., etc. Development program. Since these two words constitute a compound noun, the

principal stress falls on the first word. I've read... Listen for the /v/ in I've. It is important to include the /v/ in this expression in order to differentiate it from I read, which has a different meaning.

Everyday English Dialog 4 Informal Introductions Jim: Whos the girl next to Barbara?

Charles: Thats Mary Anderson. Didnt you meet her at Steves party? Jim: No, I wasnt at Steves party.

Charles: Oh! Then let me introduce you to her nowMary, this is my cousin Jim. Mary: Jim: Mary: Hi, Jim. Im glad to meet you. Im glad to meet you. Cant we sit down somewhere and talk? Sure, lets sit over there.

Language notes Whos is the contracted form of who is. It should not be confused with the possessive whose, which, although pronounced the same (/huwz/), has a different meaning. Didnt you meet her? Notice the use of the negative question. While generally used to indicate the expectation of an affirmative answer, here it expresses surprise that the answer to the question will probably-and unexpectedly-be negative. Notice that in this sentence, the strongest stress, and the high point of the intonation, falls on atalthough prepositions normally receive weak stress. It is as if at, in this case, were equivalent to present or there, as in I wasnt present or I wasnt there-in which the adjective and adverb, respectively, would normally receive the strongest sentence stress. Mary, this is my cousin Jim. Notice that the introducer mentions the girls name first, and introduces the young man to her (not vice versa). This is the normal, courteous manner of introduction among speakers of American English. Notice the rising intonation on Mary, a name used in direct address. See note in dialog 3. Hi. See note in dialog 2. Im glad to meet you. Notice that the second speaker says this sentence with a different intonation than the first speaker used. The second speaker emphasizes you. . (compare \ How are you?) Cant we sit down? = Would you like to sit down? Sure is often used in informal conversation as a strong affirmative response equivalent to yes, certainly, of course, etc.

Everyday English Dialog 5 Time Margaret : What time is it ? Tom : Its a quarter to five.

Margaret : Arent we supposed to be at Jims house by five oclock? Tom : Five or five thirty. He said it didnt make any difference.

Margaret : Then maybe we could pick your suit up at the cleaners . Tom: Sure , we have plenty of time .

Language notes It's a quarter to five. This is probably the most common way of stating this time. Other

possibilities are It's a quarter of five or It's fifteen till five. (It's four forty-five is rarely heard in casual conversation.) Fifteen minutes after the hour would usually be expressed thus: It's a quarter after five or It's a quarter past five. We also hear It's five-fifteen (though this is less frequent in casual conversation). An alternative form for five-thirty is half-past five. For times other than the quarter-hours or half-hour, numbers are used: twenty past five or twenty after five, ten to five or ten till five, etc. Frequently the speaker will omit the it's or it's a and answer simply a quarter to five or quarter to five. Some speakers omit or obscure the a: i t 's (a) quarter to five. Aren't we supposed to be...? Notice that the negative question here indicates, as it usually

does, the speaker's belief that his assumption is true. He expects an affirmative response, a confirmation of his assumption. Supposed to = expected to; obliged to (not as strong as required to). This meaning of suppose occurs only in the passive. Other examples: I'm supposed to prepare a program for our English club meeting next week. They were supposed to be here an hour agoI don't know where they can be. We're supposed to practice the dialogues at home, too. Children are supposed to obey their parents. Notice the difference in intonation between the yes-no question in the c(rising) and the wh-question in line a (falling intonation). By five oclock= no later than five oclock. He said it didnt in conversation the conjunction that (He said that it didnt) is generally

omitted in reported speech, as here.

Everyday English Dialog 6 A telephone call (Phone rings) Barbara: Hello. Fred: Hello. May I speak to Alice Weaver, please?

Barbara: Just a minute ... Alice, it's for you. Alice: Fred: Alice: Fred: Alice: Hello. Hi, Alice. This is Fred. Would you like to go to a movie tonight? Thanks, I'd love to. I haven't been to a movie for a long time. Good. Ill pick you up around seven thirty, then. The movie starts at eight. Fine, Ill be ready. (Phone clicks down) Language notes A simple hello is the usual way of answering the telephone. Business firms, however,

frequently identify themselves when answering the telephone: Jones construction company, or Good morning, Jones construction company, or, possibly, Jones speaking. construction company, Mr. Smith May I speak to Alice Weaver, please? A possible alternative is I' d like to speak to Alice

Weaver. Or the person calling may identify himself: Hello. This is Fred Young. May I speak to Alice Weaver, please? Would you like to...? This is a "polite" form of do you want to .. .? It should be carefully

differentiated from do you like to ...? which has quite a different meaning. I'd love to = I would love to, a somewhat more enthusiastic response than I'd like to. (all of

these are polite" equivalents of I want to.) Care should be taken to include 'd in these expressions in both speech and writing, to differentiate them from I love to and I like to, which differ from them in meaning as well as in form. I haven't been t o . . . = I haven't gone to. . . Other examples: I haven't been to England yet, but I hope to go there soon. Have you been out today? We've been to the theatre three times this week. We hadn't been there at all until last weekend. This use of be is rather strictly colloquial and is generally limited to the perfect tenses. I'll pick you up... = I'll come to your house so that we can go together. Pick up is a separable twoword verb. Around seven-thirty = about seven thirtyperhaps a few minutes before or after 7:30. To indicate a more precise time, the speaker would say "at seven-thirty." to emphasize punctuality 7

Everyday English or the exactness of the appointed lime, a speaker might say "at seven-thirty sharp," "at eight o'clock sharp," etc. (notice that o'clock is often omitted in these expressions.) Although this dialogue ends with the line fine, I'll be ready, a telephone conversation usually ends with each speaker saying good-bye. When your students perform this dialogue, it would probably be useful, therefore, to have each of them say good-bye at the end of the conversation.

Everyday English Dialog 7 Happiness

Linda: You look happy today! Frank: I am happy. I just heard I passed my physics exam. Linda: Congratulations! I'm glad somebody's happy. Frank: Why? Whats the matter? Linda: Oh, Im just worried, I guess. I have to take a history exam next week.

Language notes

Notice the intonation of l am happy. This intonation, with the strongest stress on am, is

the emphatic, confirmatory form normally used in response position (as here). It is similar, in meaning and intonation, to the short answer form, I amwhich might, in fact, be used here, with the weak-stressed happy simply dropping off. I just heard I passed ... Notice that the that is omitted in t h i s bit of reported speech. Exam = examination. Physics exam, a compound noun, has the principal stress on the first word. I ' m glad somebody's happy. Note the omission of that in reported speech, and the

strong contrastive stress on somebody (implying that the speaker herself is not happy). What's the matter? A common idiom meaning What is troubling you? What is

wrong? I'm just worried. Here just means merely, only. In l i n e b (I just heard. . .) it is used in

i t s meaning of very recently. Have to = must. Notice the /f/ in the pronunciation of t h i s idiom: /hft/. History exam. See note on physics exam above.

Everyday English Dialog 8 Ordering a meal (Restaurant sounds) Waiter: Ralph: Waiter: Are you ready to order now, sir? Yes. I'll have tomato soup, roast beef, mashed potatoes, and peas. That's tomato soup, roast beef.. . Mashed potatoes ... And peas. How do

you want the beefrare, medium, or well done? Ralph: Well done, please. Waiter: Anything to drink? Ralph: Hmmm .. . Just water. I'll have coffee with my dessert.

Language notes Ill have tomato soup, roast beef, mashed potatoes, and peas. Notice how the intonation

rises on the last syllable of each item in the series. Notice, too, that the verb in this idiom in have, not take or eat. The waiter pauses briefly as he writes each item in his order book. Rare, medium, or well done? Notice the slightly rising intonation on the first two items of the series. Rare slightly cooked. well done, please. Notice that the subject and verb are omitted in the response; only

the necessary information is given. anything to drink? Notice that the subject and verb are omitted. The question is

"understood" to mean something like Do you want anything to drink? Would yon like anything to drink? Will you have anything to drink? Hmmm is a pause sound, used while the speaker is thinking of what he wants to say. Just water. Again, the response omits the subject and verbin fact, all the words except those needed to supply the necessary (new) information. The rest are supplied by the context. A full-sentence equivalent would be something like Ill just have water to drink. (American restaurants customarily serve water with the meal, without request.) I'll have coffee... Notice that the verb in this idiom is have (not take or drink): I ll have coffee (tea, milk, a coke, etc.).

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Everyday English Dialog 9 Birthdays Patty: How old are you?

Susan: Nine.. . But Ill be ten on May sixteenth. Patty: Im older than you! I'll be ten on May fourteenth.

Susan: Are you going to have a birthday party? Patty: Maybe. I'll have to ask my mother.

Language notes Nine. A short form equivalent to I m nine years old. Sixteenth. Notice that the strongest stress in this word is on the second syllable. (The stress pattern, as well as the final /n/, differentiates sixteen from sixty.) Some speakers insert the between the month and the numeral: may the sixteenth, may the fourteenth. Ill be ten on May fourteenth. Notice the contrastive stress on the first syllable of fourteenth. Normally, the stronger stress falls on the second syllable of this word: fourteenth (like sixteenth in the line above). However, to bring out the contrast, the speaker emphasizes the contrasting element, four-. Going to. The rhythm pattern of English requires that this weak-stressed, potentially three-syllable, element be reduced in length. In the process of reduction some of the consonants are lost or modified and the vowels changed to more centralized, lax forms. Birthday party. Notice that the normal stress for a compound noun falls on the first element of the compound. Maybe. Notice that the intonation falls only slightly indicating doubt, indecision, or lack of completion. Have to. See Dialog 7 Language notes

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Everyday English Dialog 10 A Crowded Theater

Bob: Excuse me, is this seat taken? Larry: No, it isnt. Bob: Would you mind moving over one, so my friend and I can sit together? Larry: No, not at all. Bob: Thanks a lot.

Language Notes would you mind moving over one ...? Would you mind is a polite request form meaning are you willing to. Literally, it is roughly equivalent to do you object to or do you dislike. Therefore, to indicate that he is willing to comply with the request, the person answering will use a negative form, such as no, not at all or no, of course not. By this he means no, I don't mind = I will be glad to. Moving. Notice that the verb following would you mi nd . . . is in the -ing form. Other examples: would you mind opening a window? Would you mind waiting a few minutes? Would you mind speaking a little more slowly? So = so that = in order that. Not. No, not at all = no, I wouldn't mind at all or no, of course

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Everyday English Dialog 11 Mistakes Bruce: Where did John go?

Laura: He went to the drugstore. (pause ) Bruce: To the bookstore? Laura: No, I said he went to the drugstore. Bruce: Oh, I misunderstood you. I thought you said bookstore. Laura: How could you make a mistake like that? Weren't you paying attention?

Language notes drugstore. Since this is a compound noun, the principal stress is on the first syllable. to the bookstore? This is a normally shortened form (or did you say he went to the

bookstore?with the omitted words "understood." bookstore. This word, a compound noun, has the principal stress on the first syllabic. drugstore. Notice the heavy stress and slightly higher than usual intonation on drug-, to

emphasize this syllable, as contrasted with book- in the line above. notice the difference in intonation between the how-question and the yes-no question.

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Everyday English Dialog 12 Games George: Say Joe do you play bridge? Joe: George? George: Well, I happen to be one of the best chess players around. Joe: O.k. Let's play, then. We'll see who's the best! No, I don't play any card games. But I know how to play chess. How about you,

Language notes Say. An interjection, used very informally as an attention-getter. I don't play any card games. Notice the strong stress on card. It is normal for this word to be

stressed, as it is the first element of the compound noun card games. The unusually strong stress here implies that, although the speaker doesn't play card games, he does play other kinds of games (as, for instance, chess). I know how to play chess. The idiom know how to, meaning to be capable of, to have the

skill to do something, is widely used. For example: do you know how to swim? He knows how to drive a car. I don't know how to write. How about you, George? In this case means do you play chess, George? One of the best chess players around = one of the best chess players in this vicinity.

Chess players is a compound noun, and therefore has the principal stress on chess.

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Everyday English Dialog 13 Health Jane: I hear you've been ill.

Cathy: Well, I had the flu for a couple of weeks, but Im fine now. Jane: You're looking well. By the way, did you hear about Mrs. Jackson?

Cathy: No, what about her? Jane: She had such a bad case of the flu that they had to lake her to the hospital.

Cathy: Oh, Im sorry to hear that!

Language notes I hear you've been ill. Notice the omission of that, as is usual in reported speech in casual

conversation. Well. An interjection, used here simply as an introductory word. Youre looking well. Here well is an adjective meaning healthy. Are looking is, in this

sentence, a linking verb. By the way = incidentally. Such a... That... Is a typical "result" sentence. They had to take her... This is the "general" they. This clause is equivalent in meaning to

the passive she had to he taken.

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Everyday English Dialog 14 Sports

Phil:

Say, what's your favorite sport?

Jack: Hmmm ... It's hard to say. I like golf a lotbut I guess I like tennis better. Phil: Do you play much tennis?

Jack: Yes, quite a bit. How about a game sometime? Phil: Sorry. I ' m strictly a spectatorfootball, baseball, basketball, golf... I watch

them all.

Language notes Say. An interjection. See note, Dialog 12 Hmmm is a pause sound, indicating that the speaker is thinking about what he is going to say. It's hard to say = that's a difficult decision to make; it's difficult to make a clear-cut choice. I guess = I think (that). Quite a bit = a lot, rather much. How about a game sometime? = would you like to play sometime? Sorry. This is a short way of saying something like no, I m sorry, but I don't play tennis. Football, baseball, basketball, golf. Notice the series intonation, with the rising tone recurring on each item of the series.

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Everyday English Dialog 15 Asking Directions

Marilyn: Nancy:

Excuse me. Could you tell me which way Dobsons bookstore is? Yes, i t s that way. You go two blocks, then turn left. I t ' s on the corner

opposite the post office. Marilyn: Thanks. I've only been in town a few days, so I really don't know my

way around yet. Nancy: Oh, I know how you feel. We moved here a year ago, and I s t i l l don't

know where everything is.

Language notes Could you tell m e . . . ? An alternative (and slightly softer) version of 'can you

tell me ...'. Which way Dobson's bookstore is. Notice that in the "indirect question" the

subject precedes the verbthe reverse of the word order in the direct question (which way is Dobson's bookstore?). Post office. A compound noun, with the principal stress on the first word. I... Don't know my way around = I don't know how to find things or I don't know

how to go to various places. I know how you feel. Notice how the "indirect question" (how you feel) differs from

the direct question (how do you feel?): it has the word order of a statement rather than of a questionthe subject wholly precedes the verb, and the interrogative do is omitted. I don't know where everything is. Again, an "indirect question" (where

everything is) has the word order of a statement, with subject preceding the verb, rather than of the corresponding

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Everyday English Dialog 16 Coincidences

Allen: Julia: Allen:

Haven't I seen you somewhere before? No, I don't think so. But your face is so familiar. Wait a second . . . . I know . . . . We were on the same

flight to New York last month. Julia: Allen: Oh, yes. Now I remember. What a coincidence to meet in San Francisco! Well, you know what they sayi t ' s a small world.

Language notes Haven't I seen you somewhere before? The negative question is equivalent to Ive seen

you somewhere before, haven't I? And expresses the expectation that the speaker's supposition is true. What a ...! An exclamation denoting a great degree of surprise, joy, disappointment, etc.

Some other examples of its use: what a surprise to see you here! What a joy to have you with us! What a misfortune! What a shame that you have to leave so soon! What a pity she couldn't come! What a wonderful idea that is! You know what they say = you know the saying . .. Notice the word order of the "indirect

question" what they say. This is an instance of the "general" they. It's a small world is a common saying, or clich, among native speakers of English.

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Everyday English Dialog 17 Safety (Street noises) Peter: There's the shoe store we've been looking for. I t ' s just across the street. Gail: Wait! You can't cross the street in the middle of the block! You have to cross at the corner. Peter: Oh, come on. Let's go across here. (Sound of car screeching) Gail: Look out! You nearly got hit by that car! Now do you see why you should cross at the corner? Peter: I guess you're right. I' l l be more careful after this.

Language notes Theres the ... This is the "pointing out" there (the adverb, not the introductory

function word), and therefore it receives a strong stress. Shoe store. A compound noun; therefore the first word is singular and receives the

principal stress. The shoe store we've been looking for. This is the usual, natural way to say this, omitting the relative pronoun and putting the preposition at the end. The shoe store that we've been looking for is also possible. However, for which we've been looking is extremely unlikely in this natural conversational context. Notice how the present perfect progressive emphasizes the immediate, continuous nature of the activity. Just across the street = directly across the street, exactly across the street. Have to /haefta/. Oh, come on, as used here, means something like oh, don't be so careful and

scrupulous! The phrase come on is frequently used to mean hurry along. Don't delay! Notice that the two-word verb come on has the stronger stress on the adverbial element on.

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Everyday English Dialog 18 Musical instruments (Sound of piano playing) Anne: Betty: Anne: Betty: Anne: Listen! Somebody's playing the piano. Yeah, it sounds nice, doesn't i t ? I wish I could play a musical instrument. Don't you play the violin? No, but my sister does. Actually, she's pretty good at i t . I took flute lessons for a couple of years, but I never learned to play very well. I

guess I don't have any musical talent. Betty: Oh, that's not true. You sing very well. I can't even do that!

Language notes Yeah. An informal variant of yes. Doesn't it? The falling intonation on t h i s question tag shows that it is simply a conversational element not requiring an answer. I wish I could ... Notice that could is a past tense form, as required after wish. don't you p l a y . . . ? The negative question implies that the speaker expects the answer

to be affirmative. It is equivalent to you play the violin, don't you? With a rising intonation on the final you. My sister does. Does is a pro-verb, standing in place of the verb. The sentence means

my sister plays the violin. Flute lessons. A compound noun, with the principal stress on the first word.

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Everyday English Dialog 19 Taking a Vacation David: Did you say you're going to take a vacation next month? Ruth: Yes, my family and I are going to New York for a week. We want to visit the museums

and see some plays. David: I envy you. I haven't had a vacation for a longtime. I wish I could get away for a while. Ruth: You can take a vacation sometime soon, can't you?

David: No, there's too much work to do. Maybe next year, though.

Language notes Did you say you're going to...? This could also be past tense: did you say you were going

to? However, the present form (you're) seems more natural. My family and I are going to New York. Notice that this going to is the verb followed by the

preposition to. The going to in the line above is the future marker, which is normally said with weak stress, as here. I wish I could ... Note the required past tense (could) after wish. Cant you? The rising intonation indicates that this is a veritable question, requiring an answer. Theres too much work to do. Other examples of this pattern: there's too much equipment to

carry. There are too many papers to correct. There are too many people to see. There's not enough food to eat. There isn't enough work to do. There aren't enough courses to take.

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Everyday English Dialog 20 Recipes Shirley: Would you like some cookies? I just made them. Louise: Thank you. Yes, I would. Shirley: These are chocolate, and those are almond-flavored. Louise: I guess Ill try a chocolate one first. Mmmm This is delicious! Are they hard to make? Shirley: No, theyre really quite easy. Wait a minute; Ive got the recipe right here. See these are the ingredients and then you just follow the directions. Louise: That does look easy. I think Ill make some tonight.

Language notes Would you like some cookies? Is equivalent to would you like to have some (of these) cookies?

It is a more courteous form than do you want some cookies? Just = very recently. A chocolate one. Notice that the stress falls on chocolate, since one, when used as a

pronoun, is normally unstressed. Mmmm is a sound denoting gustatory enjoyment. Are they hard to make? A useful pattern. Some additional examples: is that hard to do? Are

these hooks difficult to read? Is that paper hard to write on? My new car is easy to drive. These shirts are easy to wash and so on. Ive got the recipe ... Alternative form: I have the recipe. .. Just = simply: only. That does look easy. The emphatic form of that looks easy. Notice the strong stress on does.

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Everyday English Dialog 21 Weather (wind noises) Karen: Brrrr! I'm cold. I thought it was supposed to get warmer today. Ed: Karen: Ed: Karen: Yeah, I thought so, too. That's what the weatherman said. It must be the wind that makes it so cold. I'm freezing! Me, too. Let's go inside. O.k. It's no fun standing out here, even if the sun is shining.

Language notes Brrrr! Is a sound made to indicate that the speaker feels very cold. It is sometimes pronounced

with a trilled r or a bilabial trill. Was supposed to = was expected to. The meaning of supposed to here is slightly different than

in 5, since here it carries no sense of obligation. Notice that was supposed to is past tense afterthought. To get warmer = to become warmer (but become would rarely be used in this context in

casual conversation). Yeah is a very informal form of yes. That's what the weatherman said. A useful pattern. Some other examples: that's what the

teacher told us. That's what Mr. Johnson said. That's what my father always says. That's what the students say. Weatherman. Notice that this word has a primary stress on the first syllable and a tertiary stress

on the third syllable: /Dwca?mn/. Some other words ending in-man that have a tertiary stress on the final syllable are mailman, milkman, superman, snowman. Some words with the suffix -man, however, have an unstressed final syllable (with a consequent obscuring of the vowel sound). Among these are fireman, gentleman, postman, salesman, Englishman. Note that postman and mailman are identical in meaning but differ in stress pattern. It must be the wind... This is the must of probability or supposition. Other examples of

this usage: it must be going to rainit's so dark outside. They must not be home yetthey didnt answer the telephone. That tree must be thirty feet tallit's higher than the roof of the house. Notice that the two its in this sentence have no direct reference or antecedent. The first one is a

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Everyday English function word in the idiomatic structure it must be ..., while the second refers only vaguely to the weather.

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Everyday English Dialog 22 Having Things Done Excuse me; I wonder if you can help me. Sure, what is it? I want to have my hair cut but I cant find the barber shop. I know where one is. Come on, Ill show you.

Language notes I wonder if... A polite introduction to a request for assistance. Some other examples: I

wonder if you could show us how to get there. I wonder if you would mind moving over one, so my friend and I can sit together. I wonder if you can tell me where I can find a barber shop. Sure. See 4. What is it? = what is it you would like me to do? Notice the stress on is. Have my hair cut = have someone cut my hair. Other examples of the causative have: I

had my shoes shined just before I came. We're going to have our house painted next year. You should have that window repaired before the rainy season begins. Barber shop. A compound noun, with the principal stress on the first word. I know where one is. Notice the word order of the indirect question: the subject

precedes the verb. Notice that the pronoun one is weakly stressed, and the stronger stress is on is. See 20.

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Everyday English Dialog 23 Mailing Letters Dean: Do you mind if we stop by the post office? I have to mail these letters and I don't have any stamps. Carol: Oh, I have some. We don't need to go all the way to the post office. Dean: That would save time. Can you let me have two airmail stamps and one regular one? Carol: Here you are. Are you sure that's enough? Dean: Yes, that's fine. Now all we have to do is find a mailbox.

Language notes do you mind ...? = is it all right with you . . . ? Or do you have any objection . . .? This phrase is similar to, but somewhat more direct than, would you mind. . .? (see 10). It is followed by an if clause to provide for the change of subject from you to we: do you mind if we stop .. .? However, if the speaker wishes simply to request the hearer to stop by the post office (in which case there is no "we" involved, hence no change of subject), he will use an -ing form complement: do you mind stopping by the post office? Some additional examples of the "if" type: do you mind if Mary and Fred come with us? Do you mind if we talk about that later, when we have more time? Do you mind very much if I don't come to see you today? Some examples of the' '-ing'' type: do you mind asking Mary and Fred to come with us? Do you mind discussing that later, when we have more time? Do you mind very much postponing our visit until tomorrow? Post office. A compound noun, with the principal stress on the first word. Have to / That would save time. The strong stress on would and the fact that the intonation falls only partially at the end indicate a thoughtful, hesitant attitude. Can you let me have... = can you give me . . . Two airmail stamps and one regular one. Notice the contrastive stress on airmail and regular and on two and one. Notice also the weak stress on stamps and on the corresponding pronoun one. have to/ haefta /. mailbox is a compound noun, with the stress on the first part. All we have to do is... = the only thing that we must do is. . ., the one thing that remains to he done is. . . Some other examples: Ive finished writing the story; now all I have to do is think of a

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Everyday English title, he's finished all his courses; now all he has to do is pass the examination. We've got the decorations all ready for the party; now all we have to do is prepare the food.

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Everyday English Dialog 24 Animals

Thats a beautiful cat! I wonder who it belongs to. It belongs to the Browns. They live across the street from us. They have three cats, two dogs and a canary.

They certainly must like pets! But how do all those animals get along with each other? Dont ask me, ask the Browns!

Language notes who it belongs to. Notice the word order of this indirect question. The preposition

naturally falls at the end. I wonder whom it belongs to and I wonder to whom it belongs are also grammatically correct but sound awkward and inappropriate in this context. three cats, two dogs, and a canary. Notice the rising intonation. they certainly must like pets. This is the must of supposition or logical inference (see 21). Get along with each other = live harmoniously and compatibly.

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Everyday English Dialog 25 Shopping

Saleslady: Can I help you? Gloria: Yes, Im looking for a pair of white gloves. I think I wear size six. Saleslady: The white gloves are on this counter. Lets see heres a size six. These are very nice, and theyre washable, too. Gloria: Oh, Ill try them on. Hmmm they seem to fit. How much are they? Saleslady: five dollars. Gloria: All right. Ill take them. Saleslady: Thatll be five-twenty with the tax.

Language notes Can I help you? Or may I help you? is the way a salesclerk normally approaches a customer with an offer of assistance. Size six. Women's gloves are usually available in quarter-sizes (6, 6 , 6 , 6 , etc.). Most

women wear a size between 6 and 8. The white gloves are on this counter. Notice the emphatic stress on while and this, which the

saleslady is contrasting ment all y with other colored gloves on other counters. Let's see . . . An expression used when a person wants to think something over, to ponder, to

make a choice or decision, or to look for something. Ill try them on. Try on is a separable two-word verb meaning to test the fit or appearance of a

garment by putting it on. See 5. How much are they? = how much do they cost? Notice that the primary sentence stress falls

on are in this question (see 1). five-twenty = five dollars and twenty cents ($5.20)

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Everyday English Dialog 26 Transportation (Street noise) Joyce: Shall we take a taxi or a bus to the meeting? Bill: We'd better take a bus. It's almost impossible to find a taxi during rush hour.

Joyce: Isn't that a bus stop over there? Bill: Yes.. . Oh, oh! There's a bus now. We'll have to run to catch it.

Joyce: O.k . . . . Oh, no! We just missed it. Bill: Never mind. There'll be another one in ten minutes.

Language notes Shall we...? = do you think we should. . .? (will is never used for t h i s meaning.) Take a taxi or a bus...? Notice the rising intonation on taxi and falling intonation on

bus in this "or" sentence. Wed better... = we ought to . . .; it would be wise to .... Rush hour the time of day when most people are going to or from work and therefore

the traffic is heaviest. In most American cities, rush hour is from seven-thirty to nine in the morning and from about five to six-thirty in the evening. Notice that rush hour is a compound noun, with the principal stress on the first word. Isnt that... ? The negative question expresses an expectation of an affirmative

answer. Bus stop is a compound noun, with the principal stress on the first word. Oh, oh! An exclamation expressing alarm or sudden caution. Notice the high-to-low

intonation. Oh, no! An exclamation expressing sudden disappointment, shock, or discouragement.

Notice the emphatic stress and intonation. We just missed it = we arrived a moment too late to catch the bus. Never mind = it doesn't matter; don't concern yourself.

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Everyday English Dialog 27 Comparing Jean: Lois: Jean: I think this material is much prettier than that, don't you? Well, I don't know. I like them both. Why do you like that one better? Well, the design is more interesting and the colors are brighter. And it's not as

expensive, either. Lois: Oh, I see what you mean. And besides, these colors are more becoming to you.

Jean: Do you really think so? Ill buy it then.

Language notes I think this material... Notice that the conjunction that introducing an indirect

statement is often omitted in casual conversation. Much prettier. Much is a common intensifier for comparative adjectives and

adverbs: much harder, much more difficult, much less useful, etc. A lot is also used for this purpose: a lot prettier, a lot more practical, a lot more expensive. That = that material. Don't you? The rising intonation indicates a true question, requiring an answer. I like them both = I like both of them. That one refers to a piece of material

apparently near the first speaker, who referred to it as "this material." I see what you mean = I understand (why you like it). These colors are more becoming to you. The strong stress on are indicates, in t h i s

case, something like: now that I have really thought about it . . ., or taking everything into consideration . . . Becoming to you. Becoming is an adjective meaning suitable in appearance: having

an attractive effect. Then = in that case: since that is so.

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Everyday English Dialog 28 Pastimes What do you do in your spare time? Oh, nothing special. I read Watch TV Go to the movies. Dont you have any hobbies like stamp collecting or things like that? No, I dont have any hobbies. How about you? I have just one: photography. Its expensive but its a lot of fun.

Language notes Spare time = leisure: extra lime: free lime. Nothing special = no particular thing. I read ... Watch TV ... Go to the movies. Notice the rising intonation on the first

two elements of the series. Stamp collecting. A compound noun. Therefore the principal stress falls on the first

word. How about you? = do you have any hobbies? This question How about you? Has the

effect of directing the original question back to the other speaker. just = only.

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Everyday English Dialog 29 Weddings

Bonnie: Guess what! Paul and Susan are engaged! Janice: Really? When did that happen?

Bonnie: A week ago. They met last summer and now. Just think . . . T h e y' l l be married soon. Janice: Have they set a date for the wedding? Bonnie: No, not yet. But Susan says they'd l i k e to get married in November or December. Then they'll go to Hawaii for their honeymoon.

Language notes Guess what! = I have something important to tell yon. Really? This is a rejoinder meaning oh, that's interesting! It is frequently used in

conversation in t h i s way. In t h i s usage, really simply expresses an animated interest in the previous speaker's remark; it does not question the truthfulness of the remark. Just think ... This phrase indicates that the speaker is reflecting with interest on what

has just been said or (as in t h i s case) on what he is going to say next. Set a date = decided on a day when it will lake place. Theyd like = they would like = they want. They'd like is a l i t t l e "softer," a l i t t l e

less positive, than they want.

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Everyday English Dialog 30 Effort I give up. I simply cant learn French! Why do you say that? I think youre making a lot of progress. No, Im not. I try and try and I still cant speak it very well. Learning any language takes a lot of effort. But dont give up! Why dont we practice those dialogs together? Good idea! That just might help.

Language notes Give up = stop trying; abandon effort. Simply = absolutely, completely, clearly. I try and try = I try again and again. Other examples of repetition of the verb to

express continuous or repeated activity: I read and read, and I still can't understand it. He writes and writes, but he never produces a worthwhile composition. The children play and play that game and never seem to get tired of it. Good idea = that's a good idea. That just might help = that might, in fact, be a helpful thing

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Everyday English More Dialogs for Everyday Use. Short situational dialogs for students of English as a foreign language. Dialogue 1 GREETINGS

A. (Acquaintances) MATT: MAXINE: MATT: MAXINE: Good morning Good morning. How are you today? Just fine, thanks. How are you? Wonderful. Things couldnt be better.

B. DOTTY: VIVIAN: DOTTY: VIVIAN: DOTTY: VIVIAN:

(Good Friends) Hi. Whats up? Nothing much. Whats new with you? Not too much. Ive been pretty busy. Me too. Seems like all I do is eat and sleep. Gotta go. Call me tonight. Okay. Check you later.

C. (Family) MOTHER: SON: MOTHER: SON: MOTHER: Good morning. Morning. Whats for breakfast? The usual. Eggs, toast, and cereal. Coffee, if you want. I think Ill just have cereal for a change. Help yourself. The cereal and sugar are on the table. The milks in the refrigerator.

NOTES

*Acquaintance= a person one knows but not a close friend * Things couldnt be better = Everything is going well. * Hi = informal way to say hello 35

Everyday English * Whats up? = Whats new? Used informally. * Pretty = rather; somewhat * Me too = has meaning of I have been busy too. * Seems = It seems * Cotta = Ive got to = I must * Check you later = Ill call you later. * Whats for breakfast? = What are we having for breakfast? * Just = only * Help yourself. = Serve yourself.

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Everyday English Dialogue 2 EARLY IN THE MORNING

GENE: ED: GENE: start. ED:

Its time to get up! I just went to bed! You shouldnt have stayed up so late watching TV. I told you we had to get an early

I know, but that movie was just too good to leave. I guess Ill just have to pay the price

and be sleepy. GENE: Do you want to eat breakfast here?

ED: No. Why dont we just grab a bite at the coffee shop next door? GENE: NOTES Okay by me.

* TV = television * get an early start = leave early in the morning * Just = simply *pay the price = suffer the consequences * grab a bite = (Informal) get something to eat * Coffee shop = a type of restaurant

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Everyday English Dialogue 3 DAILY NEEDS

JUDITH: MOTHER: JUDITH: MOTHER: JUDITH:

This is the last of the milk. I know. I intend to go to the store today. Would you get some of that new cereal we saw advertised on TV? Which one? You know the one with the silly ad about how vitamins jump up and down.

MOTHER: Oh, you mean KIKIES JUDITH: Yeah. Thats the one.

MOTHER: Well, Ill see. Sometimes the stores dont have some of the new kinds of cereal.

NOTES

*Last of the milk = exhausts the supply of milk * Silly = foolish *ad = advertisement * Yeah = (Informal) Yes * III = Ill examine the possibility.

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Everyday English Dialogue 4 AIRPORT BUS

STAN: HARRY: changed STAN: HARRY: STAN: HARRY:

What time does the bus leave for the airport? I dont know. It used to leave every half hour, but I think the schedules been

Do you know the telephone number to call? Its Enterprise 7-4700. At least thats what it used to be. Yeah, Ill try it (PAUSE) they dont seem too answer. I expect that its a little too early. I dont think they open until nine oclock.

NOTES

*At least = In any case

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Everyday English Dialogue 5 MAKING A DATE

DREW: PAUL:

What time are you leaving tomorrow? You mean to go to the graduation ceremony?

DREW: Yes, Id like to go with you if I may. PAUL: DREW: PAUL: DREW: Id be delighted to take you. I plan to leave here about nine-thirty. Fine. I can be ready by then. Okay. Ill pick you up at your house. See you tomorrow, then, about nine-thirty.

NOTES

* making a date = making a social appointment * Ill pick you up = Ill come to your house.

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Everyday English Dialogue 6 CATCHING A BUS

STEVE: Is this where I catch the bus for the zoo? ALAN: You can take a T-30 from here, but then you have to walk about six blocks. STEVE: That doesnt sound too bad. ALAN: Actually, if you go to the bus stop in the next block, you can take a Z-8 which will let you right off in front of the zoo. STEVE: Maybe thats what Ill do. Thanks a lot. ALAN: Youre welcome.

NOTES

* catching a bus = getting a bus * T-30 = number of a bus * That doesnt sound too bad = That doesnt appear to be difficult. * Z-8 = number of a bus * let you right off = take you exactly to

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Everyday English Dialogue 7 ORDERING BREAKFAST

WAITRESS: PHIL: WAITRESS: PHIL: WAITRESS: PHIL: WAITRESS: PHIL:

Would you like to order now? Yes. Id like bacon and eggs with buttered toast. No jelly. What would you like to drink? Do you have hot chocolate? Yes, we do. Then, Ill have a cup of hot chocolate. How do you want your eggs? Over easy, please.

NOTES

* How do you want your eggs? = How do you want your eggs prepared? * Over easy = egg fried on one side and slightly on the other with the yolk left uncooked or partially cooked, not hard. Other ways to prepare eggs are scrambled, fried (hard), boiled (soft or hard), and poached.

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Everyday English Dialogue 8 NEAR ACCIDENT

QUINN: How about that! KERWIN: What? What happened? QUINN: Did you see what that guy did? KERWIN: No. I was looking the other way. QUINN: He made a U-turn right in the middle of the block and almost hit a kid on a bicycle. KERWIN: Drivers get crazier every day! QUINN: Right. Nobody wants to drive by the rules anymore!

NOTES

* Near accident = almost an accident * How about that! = Just consider what happened! * Guy = man * I was looking the other way = I was looking in the opposite direction. * U-turn = turn a vehicle such as a car or truck in the shape of a U.

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Everyday English Dialogue 9 ARRIVAL TIME

PAT:

What time does Mothers plane get in?

CLIFF: Im not sure, but I think at 2:35. Ill call the airline to make sure. PAT: Why dont you do that while I change my clothes?

CLIFF: Do you think Dick or Brenda will want to go? PAT: I dont know. I guess we could call them.

CLIFF: I know Disk has to work, but maybe Brenda can go. PAT: Okay. Call her first, then the airline. Ill go get ready.

NOTES

get in = arrive

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Everyday English Dialogue 10 AFTER THE GAME

GLORIA: Did you watch the game last night? ROY: I sure did. I wouldnt have missed it for anything!

GLORIA: I think it was one of the best games Ive ever seen. ROY: Me too. I thought both teams played super ball. Too bad one had to lose.

GLORIA: Yeah. I thought they were evenly matched. It could have gone either way! ROY: That shot that won in the last fifteen seconds was really something.

NOTES

* I sure did = I certainly did (watch the game) * played super ball = played extremely well * Too bad = unfortunately * It could have gone either way! = Either team could have won! * Really something = extraordinary; quite unusual

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Everyday English Dialogue 11 GOING FOR WALK

ROGER: CLAIRE: ROGER: CLAIRE:

What did you say ? I said that its a lovely day. Why dont we go for a walk? Can you wait a few minutes.? I have to finish this letter. Dont take too long. It would be a shame not to take advantage of such

lovely weather ROGER: I wont be long. No more than ten minutes. Why dont you go on ahead and

Ill meet you in the park. CLAIRE: Believe I will. Look for me near the rock garden.

NOTES

* Dont take too long = dont delay * go on ahead = proceed (to the park) * Look for me... = Meet me...

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Everyday English Dialogue 12 WHATS FOR DINNER?

MOTNER: MONA: MOTNER: MONA: MOTNER: MONA: MOTNER:

I wonder what we should have for dinner this evening? Are you asking me? Yes, I am. I really don`t feel much like cooking, but the family must eat. Well, you know me. I can always eat pizza-or spaghetti. So I`ve noticed. You`re putting on a little weight, aren`t you? I know. Don`t remind me! I`m starting a new diet day after tomorrow. It`s about time!

NOTES

*I wonter... = I wish to know about... * pizza = A spicy Italian dish made like a pie from bread dough and covered with cheese, meat, spices, etc. * putting on a little weight = gaining weight * Dont remind me! = Dont call it to my attention! * Its about time! = Its the right time (to begin)!

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Everyday English Dialogue 13 ACADEMY AWARDS

JANICE: ROB: JANICE: though. ROB: JANICE: understands it. ROB:

Did you see the Academe Awards program last night on TV? I watched for awhile; then a I had to go to bed. You missed a good show. I didnt agree with the selection for best picture,

I guess I missed that part. What happened? Oh, they chose some picture that was so avant- garde that no one

Well, I dont go to the movies very often. You know me. I prefer more

active- type things. JANICE: Too bad. I really wanted to discuss it with someone.

NOTES * Academy Awards = awards in the film industry given annually for the best movie, best actor, best director, etc. The awards, small statues, are called Oscars. * avant-garde = in the arts, having to do with creative ideas, methods, designs, etc., that are ahead of all others.

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Everyday English Dialogue 14 AT THE HOTEL

CLERK: TONY: CLERK:

Yes, sir. May I help you? I have a reservation for tonight. Tony Davis. Just a moment, please, while I check. That is correct. You have a reservation for a

three-room suite for tonight. TONY: CLERK: Im afraid theres been a mistake. I only asked for a single room, not a suite. Im sorry, Mr.Davis, but we have only the suite available. Your request arrived too

late to reserve a single. Theres a large convention in town this week and were full up. TONY: CLERK: Well, if thats the way it is, Ill have to take it. Just sign the register here and Ill have your bags sent up later. Its suite 718.

NOTES

* May I help you? = May I serve you? * Were full up. = All of our rooms are taken.

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Everyday English Dialogue 15 AFTER THE MOVIE

PAMELA: I really enjoyed that movie! SCOTT: I did, too. At first I tought it was going to be a drag, but then it really got good.

PAMELA: What part did you like the best? SCOTT: Oh, I dont khow. I guess the scene that grabbed me the most was the one in which

the old man was dying. PAMELA: SCOTT: PAMELA: SCOTT: I liked that one, too. In fact, I cried. To tell you the truth, I had a few tears in my eyes. Now what? How about a coke and a hamburger?

PAMELA: Super!

NOTES

* be a drag = be boring pr uninteresting * the scene that grabbed me the most = the scene that most moved me emotionally * coke = Coca Cola or any soft drink * Super! = Wonderful!

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Everyday English Dialogue 16 AT THE BANK

TELLER: NANCY: TELLER: NANCY: TELLER: NANCY: TELLER: NANCY: TELLER: NANCY:

May I help you? Id like to cash this check, please. Do you have an account with us? Yeah. Heres my identification card. Do you want large or small bills? Actually, I want to buy some travelers checks. What denomination? Twenties would be fine. Do you want the whole amount in travelers checks? Yes, please.

NOTES

* to cash this check = to receive money for this check * large or small bills = bills of large or small denomination * travelers checks = special checks issued by banks for a special amount and which can only be used by the buyer.

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Everyday English Dialogue 17 DISCUSSING A NEWS STORY

HELEN: Did you hear about that guy who was struck by lightning? MAVIS: You mean that man up in Maine? HELEN: Thats the one; the blind guy who could see again. MAVIS: I read about him in the paper this week. Hed been blind for about eight or nine years. HELEN: Uh-huh. Wasnt he also able to hear again after the lightning hit him? MAVIS: Right. He didnt have to wear a hearing aid anymore. HELEN: I think it was a miracle! MAVIS: Me too!

NOTES

* Maine = state in the northeastern part of the United States * Uh-huh. = Thats right. * Right. = Correct. * hearing aid = device to help deaf or partially deaf persons hear * Me too! = So do I!

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Everyday English Dialogue 18 TALKING IT OVER

JEFF:

Cant we go someplace and talk? Its so crowded in here.

SONIA: Well, theres a little park down the street about three blocks. Its usually not crowded this time of day. JEFF: Lets go. I need to get some fresh air anyway.

SONIA: Just what is it you want to talk about? JEFF You remember that note you sent me last month? SONIA: Which one? The one about the trip out west? JEFF: Yeah. Thats the one. Listen. Ive got a terrific idea about the whole project and we need

to discuss it. SONIA: Wonderful! Id like to hear some of your ideas.

NOTES

* Talking it over = Discussing a matter or problem. * anyway = in any case * Just = Exactly

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Everyday English Dialogue 19 WEEKEND PLANS

AL:

Hi. Im glad I ran into you.

BOB: Why? Whats up? AL: Howd you like to go on a hike this weekend?

BOB: All weekend? AL: Well, just Saturday and Sunday.

BOB: Im not sure I can be gone all weekend. I promised to help my sister move Saturday. AL: How about Sunday, then? We could start early in the morning.

BOB: I might be able to do that. Tell you what. Let me check and Ill call you at home tonight. AL: Great! Ill talk to you later.

BOB: So long.

NOTES

* Im glad I ran into you. = Im glad I met you. * Whats up? = Whats happening? = Whats going on? * to help my sister move = to help my sister move her household effects to another house or apartment. * How about Sunday, then? = Is Sunday a good day, then? * Tell you what = Heres my opinion/reaction. * Let me check... = Let me verify... * Great! = Wonderfull! * So long = Good-bye for now.

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Everyday English Dialogue 20 DINNER INVITION

LAURA: TED: LAURA:

Dont forget. Were invited out to dinner tonight. Oh. I almost forgot. Thanks for reminding me. What time? Seven-thirty. We should leave thr house by six-thirty. You know how bad the

traffic is that time of night. TED: LAURA: TED: LAURA: Uh-huh. Its informal, isnt it? Yeah. You can wear your new sports jacket. Okay. Ill try to get home a little early. Good. Bye-bye.

NOTES

* Were invited out to dinner tonight = Were invited to have dinner with friends or acquaintances. * Uh-huh. = Yes, (I do). * Bye-bye. = Good bye; so long.

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Everyday English Dialogue 21 CAR INSURANCE

DICK: GEORGE: DICK: GEORGE: DICK: GEORGE: DICK: GEORGE:

I need to get car insurance. Ya got any ideas? Well, you could try my company. It seems to have fair rates. Do they insure older cars? As far as I know, they insure all kinds of vehicles. How long have you had a policy with them? Oh, I dont know. Maybe five years. And you say their rates are low? Not low, reasonable. Ive always gotten good service from them. Let me give you

their phone number and you can call them.

NOTES

*car insurance = insurance on automobiles in case of accidents, theft, bodily injury, etc. * As far as I khow... = To the extent of my khowledge...

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Everyday English Dialogue 22 PARENTS NIGHT OUT

JOE:

Can you get a baby-sitter for tonight?

SUSAN: I dont khow. Why? JOE: Well, I thought we could go out for dinner and then go to a movie afterward.

SUSAN: I can call Debbie and see if shes available. She usually doesnt like to sit during the week, but she might make an exception. JOE: Well, do that, and then call me at the office if you have any luck.

SUSAN: Okay, but dont get your hopes too high. Its hard to find a good baby-sitter these days.

NOTES

* night out = evening away from home for the purpose of recreation or relaxation * baby-sitter = woman or young girl hired, usually by parents, to watch small children while the parents are away from home * to sit during the week = to baby-sit on weekdays * if you have any luck = if you are successful * dont get your hopes too high = dont expect success

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Everyday English Dialogue 23 DISCUSSING THE ECONOMY

GORDON: The economic news doesnt look good, does it? HOBART: Not according to the newspaper yesterday. I saw a similar report last night on TV. GORDON: I saw that, too. The analysis seemed to be quite realistic. HOBART: I hope theyre wrong. We really need to get the rising price structure under control. GORDON: Well, costs seem to be rising in so many categories that it appears to defeat any efforts at stabilization. HOBART: Thats my feeling, too. Raw material now costs more. Labol is demanding higher wages and production costs continue to soar. GORDON: There may be some relief this summer. I understand the price of some foodstuffs will decrease.

NOTES

* Thats my feeling, too = Thats my opinion, too. * soar = rise beyond what is common and ordinary

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Everyday English Dialogue 24 DENTAL APPOINTMENT (By Phone)

DENTAL ASSISTANT: KAREN: DENTAL ASSISTANT: KAREN: recommended Dr.Katuna DENTAL ASSISTANT: prefer morning or afternoon? KAREN: DENTAL ASSISTANT: KAREN: DENTAL ASSISTANT: KAREN:

Dr.Katunas office. May I help you? Yes. Id like to make an appointment for a dental checkup. Are you one of the doctors regular patients? No, Im not. I recently moved to this area and a friend of mine

I see. Dr.Katuna can see you next Thursday. Do you

Morning is best for me. Would 10:30 be all right? That would be fine. Good. Well expect you then at 10:30 on Thursday. Thank you very much.

NOTES

* I see = I understand * Would 10:30 be all right? = Would 10:30 be acceptable?

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Everyday English Dialogue 25 MAKING PLANS

ALICE: SOFIA: ALICE: last party? SOFIA: ALICE: to you? SOFIA:

When shall we meet? You mean to talk about the party? Right. We really need to plan better this time. Remember what a mess it was at the

I sure do. I hope well do much more planning this time. Well, thats why were going to meet tomorrow at my house. How does 7:30 sound

Fine by me. Ill call Jan and Judy. Well see you tomorrow.

NOTES

* Right. = Correct. * mess = unpleasant or unsuccessful affair or event * how does 7:30 sound to you? = How do you react to meeting at 7:30? * Fine by me. = Its all right with me.

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Everyday English Dialogue 26 NEIGHBORHOOD PROBLEM

WIFE:

Weve got to do something about the neighbors dog!

HUSBAND: Why? Has he been into your flower garden again? WIFE: yard! HUSBAND: Did you talk to Mrs. Gorham about it? WIFE: You khow how she is. All sweethess and light to your face but then she never does The flower garden, the garbage can, and yesterday he started digging holes in the

anything. They should either keep that animal in the house or tied up! HUSBAND: Ill talk to Hank about it tonight. He usually listens. WIFE: We need more than listening, dear. We need action!

NOTES

* All sweetness and light to your face... = Excessively agreeble and pleasant in the direct confrontation... * Hank = Mr.Gorham

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Everyday English Dialogue 27 CAR THEFT

BYRON: VANCE: BYRON: VANCE: BYRON:

Did you hear about what happened to Howard? No, what? Someone stole his car! Really? When did it happen? Last night. He left it parked in front of his girl friends house and when he came out

to go home, it was gone. VANCE: BYRON: good lead. VANCE: Well, I certainly wish him luck. Wow! Thats really tough. He just bought it last month, didnt he? Uh-huh. Fortunately, hes got insurance and the police think they already have a

NOTES

* theft = act of stealing * Wow! = Exciamation of amazement, surprise, joy, etc. * Thats really tough. = Thats too bad * a good lead = a strong clue

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Everyday English Dialogue 28 GETTING READY

BILL: JERRY: BILL: JERRY: BILL: JERRY: spare. BILL: JERRY:

We don`t have much time! I`m hurriyng as fast as I van! Well, try to hurry a little bit more, will you? I don`t want to be late. Oh, we won`t be late. You know how these affairs are. They never start on time. Maybe so. But I always like to get there on time. Oh, you`re such a fuddy duddy. Don`t worry. I`ll get you there with time to

Is that promise? It`s a promise. Now leave me alone while I finish getting ready.

NOTES

*such a fuddy-duddy = an extremly fussy, hard to-please, or very paricular person. *time to spare=excess time

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Everyday English Dialogue 29 MAKING A PURCHASE

JOAN: CLERK: JOAN: CLERK: JOAN: CLERK:

How much is this? You mean the large one or the small one? The large one. They`re on special this week. They`ve been reduced to five dollars. Is this the only kind you have? No. We have some that different in style but not in color.

They`re over there. Do you see the sign? JOAN: CLERK: Oh, yes. I think Ill look at those over there before I decide. Very well. Just take your time.

NOTES

*on special = special low price *Just take your time.=Don`t be in a hurry

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Everyday English Dialogue 30 MAIL TIME

BARBARA: NORMA: BARBARA:

The mail has arrived. Did I get anything? I think so. Let me look. You got something from the bank and an

advertisement from a health spa. NORMA: BARBARA: NORMA: Give me the letter from the bank. It might be important. Here. Maybe you`ve overdrawn your account. No, danger of that. I don`t have any money to overdraw.

I hope it`s an offer of that job I applied for.

NOTES

*health spa = health resort *Maybe you`ve overdrawn your account.=Perhaps you`ve spent more money than is in your checking account at the bank. *No danger of that=That`s not a possibility.

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Everyday English Dialogue 31 BEDTIME

ANGELA: FRANK: ANGELA; FRANK ;

Did you lock the doors? All except the back door. I left that for Tim. He took the dog for a walk Well, I`m going on to bed . I,m bushed Okey I,m going to stay up a while.I`ve got to go over the household budget. We`re

a litlle overspent this month. ANGELA: Please tell Tim to close the door to the basemant. I`don`t want the dog down there tonight FRANK: Okay. Good night.See you at breakfast

NOTES

*I`m bushed = I`m exhausted very tired * Stay up= remain awake * I`ve got to go oyer...= I must read to examine... *overspent = expenses in excess of income

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Everyday English Dialogue 32 GETTING SOMETHING FIXED

LEE: REPAIRMAN:

How long do you think it`ll take to fix it? Hard to tell. Sometimes we can find the problem rigth away and

sometimes it may take an hour or two LEE: REPAIRMAN: LEE: REPAIRMAN : Should I wait or come back later? Suit yourself, but it`s probably better to come back later. You will get it fixed today, won`t you? I dont see any problem. We should have it ready for you by three at the

latest.But,better call before you come. LEE: Okay. Thanks a lot.

NOTES

*Hard to tell. =Difficult to predict. *right away = immediately *Suit yourself ... = Do as you please ... * by three at the latest = no later than three o clock

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Everyday English Dialogue 33 FAMILY PLANS

WIFE: HUSBAND: WIFE: HUSBAND: WIFE: HUSBAND:

The gas company phoned this afternoon. About the gas stove that we ordered ? Yes, and also about the gas furnace you asked about . What did they say? Theyre going to send someone out to talk with us about the furnace. Good. I think were doing the right thing. The old furnace

just isnt very efficient anymore. WEFE: that raise in salary. HUSBAND: Exactly my thoughts. I agree.We should be able to afford a new furnace now that you got

NOTES

*gas company = public utility company providing natural or manufactured gas for heating , cooking , etc. *I think were doing the right thihg . = I think we are correctly . * afford a new furnace = pay for a new furnace.

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Everyday English Dialogue34 PLANNING A BUSINESS TRIP

DAVE: DON: DAVE: DON: DAVE: DON: DAVE: DON:

When shall I say that you will arrive? Tell them that I plan to be there by tomorrow afternoon. Shall I have them make a hotel reservation for you? No need. I made one last week by telephone. Do you plan to stay longer than three days? I dont think so. I can take care of all the necessary business in three days . Well , have a good trip. Thank you.

NOTES

*No need.= its not necessary. *Have a good trip. = Have a pleasant , successful trip.

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Everyday English Dialogue 35 A SHORT DISCUSSION

ROSALIE: TRACY: ROSALIE: TRACY: ROSALIE: TRACY: ROSALIEA: TRACY: ROSALIE:

Don t forget ,Jim and Adrian are coming over tonight I thought they were coming next week. No.Tonights the night.I told you at least a half a dozen times ! Well, I forget. You forget all too easily if you ask me. Anyway ,Ive made other plans. Like what? I told Frank Id help him work on his car. Then, youll just have to tell him you cant come.

NOTES

*coming over = coming to visit. *Like what? = For example? *work on his car = helf repair his car

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Everyday English Dialogue 36 FAMILY SQUABBLE

BROTHER: SISTER: BROTHER: SISTHER: BROTHER: SISTER: BROTHER: SISTER: BROTHER:

Come on! Its time to go! Wait a minute! Just hold your horses! Whats your hurry, anyway? Well , Ive got to stop and get gas in the car,first. That wont take long. Well , it wont if theres no line at the pump. Well, Im not quite ready. Ill give you five more minutes, then Im going on without you! You wouldnt do a thing like that ! Oh, yes I would!

NOTES

*squabble = noisy quarrel having little importance *Just hold your horses! = Dont be so impatient! *Line at the pump = line of waiting cars at the gasoline pump *not quite ready = not completely ready

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