Shadowing English Speaking Practice: Master Real-Life English Conversations

0:00 You watch English videos every day.

0:03 You see yourself getting better.

0:05 You understand more.

0:06 You stop needing subtitles.

0:09 You can follow conversations without pausing.

0:14 [music]

0:12 And it feels like real progress.

0:15 Because it is.

0:16 And then one day you're actually talking to someone in English.

0:22 Everything is going fine and then they ask you something slightly unexpected.

0:29 And you just can't reply.

0:33 You have heard those words a hundred times.

0:36 But in that moment they are completely gone.

0:42 The problem is not your vocabulary.

0:44 It's that you've never practiced saying those words

0:48 out loud at speed in a real situation.

0:52 You may be thinking, how do I even pronounce that word?

0:54 Does it fit here?

0:56 So when the moment comes, your mouth has no idea what to do.

1:02 That is what this video is for.

1:04 We have seven real-life conversations today, ordering coffee,

1:09 getting help in a store, making a restaurant reservation, checking into a hotel,

1:15 talking [music] to a doctor, picking something up at a pharmacy,

1:19 and handling it when something goes wrong with your order.

1:22 For each one, we do three things.

1:24 I will walk you through a few words and phrases

1:26 from the conversation that are worth knowing before you hear them.

1:30 Then the conversation plays once and you just [music] listen.

1:33 No pressure, just get familiar with it.

1:36 Then it plays a second time and that is when you speak.

1:39 You say the words out loud at the same time as the speaker you're following.

1:44 Same pace, same moment, out loud.

1:47 Before we start when was the last

1:50 time you actually had a conversation in English?

1:52 Write it in the comments.

1:54 I read all of them.

1:55 Welcome to Lingua Marina.

1:58 The first conversation is about ordering coffee.

2:01 It's actually in a coffee shop.

2:03 You are the customer.

2:05 You walk in, you order, and things do not go smoothly.

2:09 Before you listen, here are some words and phrases that come up [music]

2:13 in this conversation.

2:14 First, to go.

2:16 When you order something to go, you want it packed up so you can

2:20 take it with you rather than sitting down inside.

2:24 Next, for here.

2:26 For here means you are staying to sit down and have it inside.

2:30 It is the opposite of to go.

2:32 Then to customize your order.

2:36 When you customize your order,

2:38 you are changing something about the standard drink.

2:41 The size, the type of milk, or how sweet it is.

2:44 Next, oat milk.

2:46 Oat milk is a dairy-free alternative to regular milk.

2:50 Made from oats, it has become very common

2:53 in coffee shops over the last few years.

2:56 Then a shot of espresso.

2:58 A shot of espresso is a small concentrated amount of coffee.

3:02 When you ask for an extra shot, you are making the whole drink stronger.

3:06 Next, decaf.

3:08 Decaf is short for decaffeinated.

3:10 It is coffee with the caffeine taken out.

3:13 People order it when they love the taste

3:15 of coffee but want to avoid the caffeine.

3:17 Then room at the top.

3:20 When you ask for room at the top,

3:21 you are asking the barista to leave a little space

3:24 in the cup so you can add your own cream or milk.

3:27 Next, to charge someone.

3:30 To charge someone means to add a cost to their bill.

3:33 When the barista says,

3:35 "We charge extra for that," it means they are adding that amount to your total.

3:39 Then to ring that up.

3:41 To ring something up means to put the order

3:44 into the register and calculate the total price.

3:48 And finally, hang on.

3:51 Hang on is a very common informal way of saying,

3:55 "Wait a moment." You will hear it constantly in everyday conversation.

4:01 Now just listen to the full conversation.

4:03 Get familiar with the words, the pacing,

4:06 and the way it sounds in natural speech.

4:09 Hi there.

4:10 Welcome in.

4:11 What can I get started for you?

4:13 Hi, can I get a medium latte, please?

4:15 Absolutely.

4:16 Is that for here or to go?

4:18 To go, please.

4:19 Perfect.

4:20 And what kind of milk would you like?

4:22 We have whole, skim, oat, almond, and soy.

4:26 Oat milk, please.

4:28 Actually, wait.

4:29 Can I also add an extra shot of espresso?

4:32 Of course.

4:33 So that is a medium oat milk latte with an extra shot.

4:36 You want any syrup in there?

4:38 Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut?

4:43 Hmm.

4:44 You know what?

4:45 Can I get half a pump of vanilla?

4:47 Half a pump, sure.

4:49 We can do that.

4:50 Just a tiny bit.

4:51 Not too sweet.

4:53 Oh, and actually, can you make it decaf?

4:56 I know that probably sounds strange with an extra shot,

4:58 but I just genuinely love the taste of espresso without the caffeine.

5:03 Huh.

5:03 Honestly, you are not the first person to order that.

5:06 Decaf, double shot, oat milk latte, half pump vanilla.

5:11 Anything else I can add?

5:12 Actually, yes.

5:13 Sorry, one more thing.

5:15 Can you leave a little room at the top?

5:17 I like to add my own cream after.

5:19 No problem at all.

5:20 Just so you know, the extra shot does add to the price.

5:24 It is 75 cents on top.

5:26 Oh, that is completely fine.

5:28 Yeah.

5:29 Great.

5:30 And can I get a name for the order?

5:32 Alex.

5:33 Alex.

5:34 Perfect.

5:35 Cash or card today?

5:37 Card.

5:38 Actually, hang on.

5:39 Do you guys have any of those coffee cards?

5:42 Like a loyalty card or something?

5:44 We do.

5:45 Every 10 drinks you get one free.

5:47 I can set that up for you right now if you want.

5:49 It only takes a second.

5:51 Oh, yes, please.

5:52 That would be great.

5:53 Cool.

5:54 Let me just grab one.

5:56 Okay, so I am going to stamp it once for today's order.

6:00 There you go.

6:01 Nine more to go.

6:04 Amazing.

6:04 Thank you.

6:05 So, what is my total?

6:07 So, with the extra shot, that comes to $6.20.

6:12 Sorry, quick question.

6:13 Is the oat milk extra, too, or just the shot?

6:16 Just the shot.

6:18 Oat milk is included in the base price here.

6:21 Oh, nice.

6:22 Good to know.

6:23 Perfect.

6:24 I will just need you to tap or insert, whichever you prefer.

6:28 Okay, here's my card.

6:29 I will tap.

6:31 Great.

6:31 That has gone through.

6:33 So, your order is a decaf oat milk latte,

6:36 double shot, half pump vanilla, room at the top.

6:40 I will call out Alex when it is ready.

6:43 Should be about 3 to 4 minutes.

6:45 Perfect.

6:46 Oh, and is there a sleeve on that cup?

6:49 I always burn my hand.

6:50 Always.

6:51 Yes, we put a sleeve on all the to-go cups.

6:54 You are good.

6:55 Amazing.

6:56 Thank you so much.

6:58 Of course.

6:59 Have a wonderful day.

7:00 You too.

7:01 Thanks.

7:02 Now it is your turn.

7:04 The conversation will play again.

7:06 And this time say the customer's words out

7:09 loud at the exact same time you hear them.

7:12 Same pace.

7:14 Do not wait.

7:15 Here we go.

7:16 Hi there.

7:16 Welcome in.

7:17 What can I get started for you?

7:19 Hi, can I get a medium latte, please?

7:21 Absolutely.

7:23 Is that for here or to go?

7:24 To go, please.

7:26 Perfect.

7:27 And what kind of milk would you like?

7:29 We have whole, skim, oat, almond, and soy.

7:32 Oat milk, please.

7:34 Actually, wait.

7:35 Can I also add an extra shot of espresso?

7:38 Of course.

7:39 So that is a medium oat milk latte with an extra shot.

7:43 You want any syrup in there?

7:44 Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut?

7:49 Hmm.

7:50 You know what?

7:51 Can I get half a pump of vanilla?

7:53 Half a pump, sure.

7:55 We can do that.

7:56 Just a tiny bit.

7:58 Not too sweet.

7:59 Oh, and actually, can you make it decaf?

8:02 I know that probably sounds strange with an extra shot,

8:04 but I just genuinely love the taste of espresso without the caffeine.

8:09 Huh.

8:10 Honestly, you are not the first person to order that.

8:13 Decaf, double shot, oat milk latte, half pump vanilla.

8:17 Anything else I can add?

8:19 Actually, yes.

8:19 Sorry, one more thing.

8:21 Can you leave a little room at I like to add my own cream after.

8:25 No problem at all.

8:27 Just so you know, the extra shot does add to the price.

8:30 It is 75 cents on top.

8:33 Oh, that is completely fine.

8:34 Yeah.

8:35 Great.

8:36 And can I get a name for the order?

8:38 Alex.

8:39 Alex.

8:40 Perfect.

8:41 Cash or card today?

8:43 Card.

8:44 Actually, hang on.

8:46 Do you guys have any of those coffee cards?

8:48 Like a loyalty card We do.

8:51 Every 10 drinks you get one free.

8:53 I can set that up for you right now if you want.

8:56 It only takes a second.

8:57 Oh, yes, please.

8:58 That would be great.

8:59 Cool.

9:00 Let me just grab one.

9:02 Okay, so I am going to stamp it once for today's order.

9:06 There you go.

9:08 Nine more to go.

9:10 Amazing.

9:10 Thank you.

9:11 So, what is my total?

9:13 So, with the extra shot, that comes to $6.20.

9:18 Sorry, quick question.

9:20 Is the oat milk extra, too, or just the shot?

9:22 Just the shot.

9:24 Oat milk is included in the base price here.

9:27 Oh, nice.

9:28 Good to know.

9:29 Perfect.

9:30 I will just need you to tap or insert, whichever you prefer.

9:34 Okay, here's my card.

9:36 I will tap.

9:37 Great.

9:38 That has gone through.

9:39 So, your order is a decaf oat milk latte,

9:42 double shot, half pump vanilla, room at the top.

9:46 I will call out Alex when it is ready.

9:49 Should be about 3 to 4 minutes.

9:51 Perfect.

9:52 Oh, and is there a sleeve on I always burn my hand.

9:57 Always.

9:57 Yes, we put a sleeve on all the to-go cups.

10:00 You are good.

10:01 Amazing.

10:03 Thank you so much.

10:04 Of course.

10:05 Have a wonderful day.

10:07 You too.

10:07 Thanks.

10:08 By the way, if you're watching this and you're like,

10:10 "Marina, this is amazing, but I want real stuff.

10:12 I want real conversations with real people where

10:16 I will have to think on my feet,

10:17 respond to something unexpected, and keep going." Well,

10:20 I have something for you that will help do exactly that.

10:24 It is called Speaking Club Pro.

10:26 Every week you get a schedule of live Zoom sessions.

10:29 Each session runs from 40 to 60 minutes,

10:32 and it's dedicated to one specific topic.

10:35 You can come to as many sessions as you like,

10:37 and if you want to practice every single day, well, nobody's stopping you.

10:42 You can just keep coming and chatting.

10:44 All the details and discussions happen in the Telegram channel,

10:47 where you can also find other members and get yourself a study buddy,

10:51 someone to practice with regularly.

10:54 Regular price is $55 a month,

10:56 but because you're watching this video, you have a promo code.

10:59 Use code LingoMarina, your first month is just $35.

11:04 Click the link in the description, sign up,

11:06 use the code, and start practicing speaking English with real people.

11:10 Okay, now let's get back to our conversations.

11:13 The second conversation is in a clothing store.

11:17 You are the customer, and you need help finding something,

11:20 but it turns out to be a little more

11:23 complicated than just picking a size off the shelf.

11:27 Before you listen, here are the words and phrases you will hear.

11:30 First, aisle.

11:32 An aisle is one of the long walkways between the shelves or racks in a store.

11:37 So, the third aisle means the third walkway.

11:39 Next, to be in stock.

11:41 If something is in stock, the store has it available right now.

11:45 If it is out of stock, they have sold out, and you cannot buy it today.

11:49 Then, to check in the back.

11:52 Most stores have a storage room behind the main shop floor.

11:56 When a staff member says they will check in the back,

11:59 they are going to look in that storage area for what you need.

12:03 Next, to place an order.

12:04 When a store places an order for you,

12:07 they contact their supplier to get the item sent in.

12:11 It will arrive later, and you are essentially reserving it.

12:15 Next, to exchange.

12:17 An exchange is when you swap one item for a different one,

12:21 usually a different size or color.

12:23 You do not get cash back, you get a different item instead.

12:27 Next, store credit.

12:29 Store credit is what a shop gives you instead of a cash refund.

12:33 You can only spend it in that store,

12:35 but you do not lose the value of what you paid.

12:38 Then, receipt.

12:40 A receipt is your printed or digital proof of purchase.

12:46 Stores almost always ask to see it if you want to return or exchange something.

12:51 Next, to run small.

12:53 When clothing runs small,

12:55 the sizing comes up smaller than you would normally expect.

12:59 So, a medium in that brand might fit more like a small.

13:03 Then, final sale.

13:04 Final sale means the item cannot

13:07 be returned or exchanged under any circumstances.

13:12 Once you buy it, the transaction is done.

13:14 And finally, on the floor.

13:16 And when a staff member says something is on the floor,

13:19 they mean it is out in the main shopping

13:21 area where customers can see and pick it [music] up.

13:25 Now, listen to the full conversation from start to finish.

13:28 Pay attention to the rhythm, the intonation, and how the sentences connect.

13:33 Excuse me.

13:34 Hi.

13:35 I am looking for a specific jacket I saw on your website, the navy quilted one.

13:41 Do you carry it in store?

13:43 Yes, I know exactly the one you mean.

13:46 We do carry it.

13:47 What size are you looking for?

13:49 Ideally, a medium, but I would try a large as well if that is what you have.

13:54 Okay, let me take a look.

13:55 I am pretty sure I saw some on the floor this morning,

13:58 but we have had a busy day.

14:00 Give me just a second.

14:02 Of course, take your time.

14:04 So, right now I have got a small and an extra large on the floor.

14:08 The medium and large are both showing as out of stock in the system,

14:12 but honestly, that does not always mean we have nothing.

14:16 Let me go and check in the back for you.

14:17 Oh, that would be wonderful.

14:19 Thank you.

14:20 No problem at all.

14:22 I will be back in 2 minutes.

14:24 Okay, so good news and sort of good news.

14:26 I found a medium in the back, but it is in the olive,

14:30 not the navy, and I do have the large in navy.

14:33 Mm.

14:35 Honestly, can I try both?

14:37 I want to see how the large in navy fits before I decide.

14:41 Absolutely.

14:42 The fitting rooms are around the corner to your left,

14:44 just past the accessory section.

14:46 Hi, I am back.

14:49 So, the large in navy actually fits pretty well, better than I expected.

14:54 Yes, they do tend to run small.

14:57 Most customers go up at least one size with them.

15:00 So, what you are experiencing is pretty typical.

15:04 Good to know.

15:05 Does this brand run small in general?

15:08 Because the large is fitting me like a medium normally would.

15:13 You are not between sizes or anything.

15:15 The large is genuinely your size in this brand.

15:18 That is reassuring.

15:20 Thank you.

15:22 What about the olive medium?

15:23 Did that one fit differently?

15:25 Because olive is the same cut and same fabric, it should fit the same way.

15:29 If the large navy works, the medium olive probably would not.

15:33 It would likely feel a bit tight.

15:35 Right, okay.

15:37 Um I think I will stick with the large in navy then.

15:40 Is this one part of the current sale?

15:42 I saw something on your homepage about a promotion.

15:45 Yes, it is 20% off right now.

15:48 The one thing to mention is that sale items are final sale, meaning no returns.

15:54 Exchanges are still fine within the 28 days.

15:57 That is totally fair.

15:59 Okay, I am going to take it.

16:02 Great choice.

16:03 It is honestly one of our most popular pieces this season.

16:06 Do you want to pay here or at the main till?

16:09 I will go to the main till.

16:11 Thank you so much for your help.

16:12 You really went above and beyond.

16:14 It is my pleasure.

16:16 That is what I am here for.

16:17 Enjoy the jacket.

16:19 Thank you.

16:19 Okay, now you speak.

16:21 The conversation plays again.

16:23 Say the customer's words at the exact same time as you hear them.

16:29 Excuse me.

16:29 Hi.

16:30 I am looking for a specific jacket I saw on your website, the navy quilted one.

16:36 Do you carry it in store?

16:38 Yes, I know exactly the one you mean.

16:41 We do carry it.

16:43 What size are you looking for?

16:44 Ideally, a medium, but I would try a large as well if that is what you have.

16:49 Okay, let me take a look.

16:51 I am pretty sure I saw some on the floor this morning,

16:53 but we have had a busy day.

16:55 Give me just a second.

16:57 Of course, take your time.

16:59 So, right now I have got a small and an extra large on the floor.

17:03 The medium and large are both showing as out of stock in the system,

17:07 but honestly, that does not always mean we have nothing.

17:11 Let me go and check in the back for you.

17:13 Oh, that would be wonderful.

17:14 Thank you.

17:15 No problem at all.

17:17 I will be back in 2 minutes.

17:19 Okay, so good news and sort of good news.

17:22 I found a medium in the back, but it is in the olive,

17:25 not the navy, and I do have the large in navy.

17:29 Mm.

17:30 Honestly, can I try both?

17:32 I want to see how the large in navy fits before I decide.

17:36 Absolutely.

17:37 The fitting rooms are around the corner to your left,

17:39 just past the accessory section.

17:42 Hi, I am back.

17:44 So, the large in navy actually fits pretty well, better than I expected.

17:49 Yes, they do tend to run small.

17:52 Most customers go up at least one size with them.

17:56 So, what you pretty typical.

17:59 Good to know.

18:00 Does this brand run small in general?

18:03 Because the large is fitting me like a medium normally would.

18:08 You are not between sizes or anything.

18:11 The large is genuinely your size in this brand.

18:14 That is reassuring.

18:16 Thank you.

18:17 What about the olive medium?

18:18 Did that one fit differently?

18:20 Because olive is the same cut and same fabric, it should fit the same way.

18:25 If the large navy works, the medium olive probably would not.

18:28 likely feel a bit tight.

18:30 Right, okay.

18:32 I think I will stick with the large in navy then.

18:35 Is this one part of the current sale?

18:38 I saw something on your homepage about a promotion.

18:41 Yes, it is 20% off right now.

18:44 The one thing to mention is that sale items are final sale, meaning no returns.

18:49 Exchanges are still fine within the 28 days.

18:52 That is totally fair.

18:55 Okay, I am going to take it.

18:57 Great choice.

18:58 It is honestly one of our most popular pieces this season.

19:02 Do you want to pay here or at the main till?

19:04 I will go to the main till.

19:06 Thank you so It is my pleasure.

19:11 That is what I am here for.

19:13 Enjoy the jacket.

19:14 Thank you.

19:15 Conversation three, and this time you're not face-to-face with someone,

19:19 you're on the phone.

19:20 You're calling a restaurant to make a reservation,

19:23 and it turns out the time you want is not available,

19:27 so you have to think on your feet and work something out.

19:31 Phone calls in English can feel harder than face-to-face

19:34 conversations because you cannot see the other person's face,

19:38 you cannot use gestures, and you have to keep the conversation moving without

19:43 any awkward silences cuz then people will think you're disconnected.

19:47 This one is a great practice for that.

19:51 Here are the words and phrases you will hear.

19:53 First, to make a reservation.

19:56 To make a reservation means to book a table at a restaurant ahead of time.

20:00 It is the phrase you will use every time you call.

20:04 Next, party of.

20:06 Party of is how restaurants refer to the size of your group.

20:11 So, if they ask how many,

20:12 you might say a party of four, meaning four people dining together.

20:16 Then, availability.

20:18 Availability means whether something is free or open at a particular time.

20:23 Asking, "Do you have availability on Friday?" is another way

20:27 of asking if they have a free table that day.

20:31 Next, fully booked.

20:32 When a restaurant is fully booked,

20:34 it means every table for that time has already been reserved,

20:39 and there's nothing left.

20:40 Then, waiting list.

20:43 A waiting list is what restaurants use when they are fully booked.

20:47 They take your name and contact you if a cancellation comes in.

20:51 Next, indoor and outdoor seating.

20:53 Indoor seating is inside the restaurant and outdoor seating is outside.

20:59 Usually on a terrace or patio.

21:01 Most restaurants will ask which you prefer when you book.

21:04 Then, dietary requirements.

21:08 Dietary requirements are any specific food needs someone in your group has.

21:13 An allergy, an intolerance, or a choice like being vegetarian or vegan.

21:19 Next, to note something down.

21:21 When someone notes something down, they are writing it in their records.

21:25 So, when the restaurant says,

21:26 "I will note that down." they are making sure your details are saved.

21:32 Then, confirmation.

21:34 A confirmation is a message, usually a text or email,

21:39 that proves your booking went through and gives you the details in writing.

21:43 And finally, occasion.

21:45 An occasion is the reason for your visit.

21:48 A birthday, an anniversary, a work dinner.

21:52 Restaurants sometimes ask so they can add a small personal touch.

21:55 Now, listen to the full conversation from start to finish.

21:59 Pay attention to the rhythm, the intonation, and how the sentences connect.

22:05 Hi there, good evening.

22:06 Good evening, Olive and Vine.

22:07 How can I help you?

22:09 I am hoping to make a reservation for this Saturday.

22:12 Is that something you can help me with?

22:14 Of course, I would be happy to.

22:17 How many people will you be dining with?

22:19 There will be six of us.

22:21 And what time were you thinking?

22:22 We were really hoping for 8:00 if that is possible.

22:26 Let me check availability for Saturday at 8:00 for six people.

22:30 One moment.

22:32 Unfortunately, we are fully booked at 8:00 on Saturday.

22:35 I'm sorry about that.

22:37 Oh, that is a shame.

22:39 What about 7:30 or anywhere in that range?

22:42 7:30 is also fully booked, I'm afraid.

22:45 I do have availability at 6:45, and then the next slot after that would be 8:45.

22:51 6:45 is quite early for our group.

22:55 Is there genuinely nothing between 7:00 and 8:30?

22:59 Actually, hold on.

23:01 I have just had a cancellation come through for 7:15.

23:04 It literally just came in.

23:07 Would that work for you?

23:08 7:15 would actually be perfect.

23:11 Yes, let us go with that.

23:12 Wonderful.

23:13 Now, for a party of six at 7:15, that would be one of our larger tables.

23:18 Can I ask, will you be wanting indoor or outdoor seating?

23:20 We do have a terrace.

23:22 What is the weather forecast looking like for Saturday?

23:25 I honestly have no idea.

23:27 Uh I wish I knew.

23:29 We are expecting it to be dry, but quite cool in the evening.

23:32 Most of our outdoor guests this time of year

23:35 do end up moving inside after a while.

23:37 I would probably suggest indoor to be safe.

23:40 Indoor is fine.

23:41 Yes, let us do that.

23:42 Perfect.

23:43 Can I take a name for the reservation?

23:45 Yes, it is Carter.

23:47 C A R T E R.

23:49 Carter, lovely.

23:51 And a contact number?

23:53 Of course.

23:54 It is 07700900462.

23:59 Got that.

24:00 Do any of your party have dietary requirements we should be aware of?

24:04 Yes, two of us are vegetarian, and one person has a serious nut allergy.

24:11 I really want to make sure that gets flagged clearly.

24:14 Absolutely.

24:15 I am noting it down right now.

24:17 Two vegetarians and one severe nut allergy.

24:21 Our kitchen is very thorough with allergies,

24:23 and the chef will be briefed before you arrive.

24:25 That is really reassuring.

24:27 Thank you.

24:28 Of course.

24:29 One more thing.

24:30 Can I ask, is this for any special occasion?

24:33 It is actually a birthday dinner.

24:35 My friend is turning 30.

24:37 Oh, how lovely.

24:38 I will add that to the booking.

24:40 We always try to do something small for birthdays.

24:42 Nothing is guaranteed, but we like to make it feel special.

24:45 That is so kind.

24:47 And will I receive a confirmation of some kind?

24:50 Yes, you will get a confirmation text within

24:52 the next hour to the number you gave me.

24:55 And we do ask that if anything changes and you cannot make it,

24:58 please let us know as early as possible so we can release the table.

25:01 Absolutely.

25:02 Of course, that is completely fair.

25:05 Brilliant.

25:06 So, to confirm, table for six this Saturday at 7:15,

25:10 under Carter, two vegetarians,

25:13 one serious nut allergy, birthday dinner, indoor seating.

25:17 Is there anything else I can help with?

25:18 No, I think that covers everything.

25:20 Thank you so much.

25:22 You have been incredibly helpful.

25:25 It is my pleasure.

25:26 We look forward to seeing you all on Saturday.

25:29 Have a lovely evening.

25:30 Goodbye.

25:31 You too.

25:32 Thank you.

25:33 Goodbye.

25:34 Now, it is your turn.

25:36 The conversation will play again, and this time,

25:39 say the customer's words out loud at the exact same time you hear them.

25:45 Same pace.

25:46 Do not wait.

25:47 Here we go.

25:48 Hi there, good evening.

25:49 Good evening, Olive and Vine.

25:50 How can I help you?

25:52 I am hoping to make a reservation for this Saturday.

25:55 Is that something you can help me with?

25:58 Of course, I would be happy to.

26:00 How many people will you be dining with?

26:02 There will be six of us.

26:04 And what time were you thinking?

26:05 We were really hoping for 8:00 if that is possible.

26:09 Let me check availability for Saturday at 8:00 for six people.

26:13 One moment.

26:16 Unfortunately, we are fully booked at 8:00 on Saturday.

26:18 I'm sorry about that.

26:20 Oh, that is a shame.

26:22 What about 7:30 or anywhere in that range?

26:25 7:30 is also fully booked, I'm afraid.

26:28 I do have availability at 6:45, and then the next slot after that would be 8:45.

26:35 6:45 is quite early for our group.

26:38 Is there genuinely nothing between 7:00 and 8:30?

26:42 Actually, hold on.

26:44 I have just had a cancellation come through for 7:15.

26:47 It literally just came in.

26:50 Would that work for you?

26:51 7:15 would actually be perfect.

26:54 Yes, let us go with that.

26:55 Wonderful.

26:56 Now, for a party of six at 7:15, that would be one of our larger tables.

27:01 Can I ask, will you be wanting indoor or outdoor seating?

27:04 We do have a terrace.

27:05 What is the weather forecast looking like for Saturday?

27:09 I honestly have no idea.

27:11 Uh I wish I knew.

27:12 We are expecting it to be dry, but quite cool in the evening.

27:16 Most of our outdoor guests this time of year

27:18 do end up moving inside after a while.

27:20 I would probably suggest indoor be safe.

27:23 Indoor is fine.

27:24 Yes, let us do that.

27:25 Perfect.

27:26 Can I take a name for the reservation?

27:28 Yes, it is Carter.

27:30 C A R T E R.

27:32 Carter, lovely.

27:34 And a contact number?

27:36 Of course.

27:37 It is 07700900462.

27:42 Got that.

27:43 Do any of your party have dietary requirements we should be aware of?

27:47 Yes, two of us are vegetarian, and one person has a serious nut allergy.

27:54 I really want to make sure that gets flagged clearly.

27:57 Absolutely.

27:59 I am noting it down right now.

28:00 Two vegetarians and one severe nut allergy.

28:04 Our kitchen is very thorough with allergies,

28:06 and the chef will be briefed before you arrive.

28:08 That is really reassuring.

28:10 Thank you.

28:11 Of course.

28:12 One more thing.

28:13 Can I ask, is this for any special occasion?

28:16 It is actually a birthday dinner.

28:18 My friend is turning 30.

28:20 Oh, how lovely.

28:21 I will add that to the booking.

28:23 We always try to do something small for birthdays.

28:25 Nothing is guaranteed, but we like to make it feel special.

28:28 That is so kind.

28:30 And will I receive a confirmation of some kind?

28:33 Yes, you will get a confirmation text within

28:35 the next hour to the number you gave me.

28:38 And we do ask that if anything changes and you cannot make it,

28:41 please let us know as early as possible so we can release the table.

28:44 Absolutely.

28:45 Of course, that is completely fair.

28:48 Brilliant.

28:49 So, to confirm, table for six this Saturday at 7:15,

28:53 under Carter, two vegetarians,

28:56 one serious nut allergy, birthday dinner, indoor seating.

29:00 Is there anything else I can help with?

29:02 No, I think that covers everything.

29:03 Thank you so much.

29:05 You have been incredibly helpful.

29:08 It is my pleasure.

29:10 We look forward to seeing you all on Saturday.

29:12 Have a lovely evening.

29:13 Goodbye.

29:14 You too.

29:15 Thank you.

29:16 Goodbye.

29:17 On to conversation number four.

29:19 You have just arrived at a hotel after a long journey, and you go to check in.

29:25 But, there is a small problem waiting for you at the front desk.

29:29 Here are the words and phrases you will need.

29:32 First, to check in.

29:34 To check in at a hotel means to arrive,

29:37 confirm your booking at the front desk, and get your room key.

29:42 Next, reservation.

29:45 A reservation is a booking you made ahead of time.

29:50 At a hotel, you will usually open with I

29:52 have a reservation under the name followed by your name.

29:56 Then king bed versus queen bed.

29:59 A king and a queen are both standard hotel bed sizes, but a king is larger.

30:04 Many hotels let you specify what you want when you book.

30:08 Next, complimentary.

30:10 Complimentary means free of charge, offered as a courtesy.

30:15 So, complimentary breakfast means it is included and you do not pay extra.

30:21 Then, to charge something to the room.

30:24 To charge something to the room means to add it

30:27 to your hotel bill rather than paying for it separately at that moment.

30:33 Next, incidentals.

30:35 Incidentals are a deposit that hotels hold on your card when you

30:40 arrive to cover any potential extras like mini bar use or damages.

30:45 It is released back to you when you check out if you have not used anything.

30:51 Then, late check out.

30:53 Late check out means staying in your room past the standard check out time,

30:57 which is usually noon.

30:59 Some hotels offer it for free [music] depending on availability.

31:03 Others charge a small fee.

31:05 Next, do not disturb.

31:08 Do not disturb is a sign or a switch on your hotel

31:12 room door that tells housekeeping and staff not to knock or enter.

31:16 Then, to upgrade to upgrade a guest means to move

31:20 them to a better room than the one they booked.

31:23 Sometimes hotels do this for free as a goodwill gesture.

31:27 And finally, amenities.

31:29 Amenities are all the facilities and services a hotel provides.

31:34 Things like a gym, a pool, a restaurant, or room service.

31:38 Now, listen to the full conversation from start to finish.

31:41 Pay attention to the rhythm, the intonation, and how the sentences connect.

31:46 Good evening.

31:47 Welcome to The Meridian.

31:49 Checking in?

31:50 Yes, hi.

31:51 I have a reservation.

31:52 The name is Jordan.

31:54 Jamie Jordan.

31:55 Jamie Jordan.

31:56 Let me pull that up.

31:58 One moment.

32:00 Okay, I have got you here.

32:02 A standard king room, two nights, checking out Sunday morning.

32:07 Is that right?

32:08 That is correct, yes.

32:10 So, I do need to mention something.

32:12 The room you originally booked had a maintenance issue earlier today,

32:16 a problem with the heating unit.

32:19 I am really sorry about that.

32:22 But what I have done is moved you to a room on the fourth floor.

32:27 It is a superior room, slightly larger, same rate.

32:32 So, there is no extra charge at all.

32:34 Oh.

32:35 Well, that actually sounds fine.

32:38 Does it have a king bed?

32:39 I specifically requested one when I made the booking.

32:42 It does, yes.

32:44 King bed, city view,

32:46 and it is on the quieter side of the building, away from the street.

32:51 So, in some ways, it is actually an upgrade.

32:54 Okay, that sounds good.

32:57 I will not complain.

32:58 Is breakfast included with my rate or is that separate?

33:01 Breakfast is not included in the standard rate, unfortunately.

33:05 However, we do have a complimentary coffee and pastry

33:10 station in the lobby every morning from 6:00 until 10:00.

33:15 And our restaurant does a full breakfast,

33:17 which you can either pay for directly or charge to the room.

33:22 I will probably just grab something from the lobby.

33:24 That is fine.

33:26 What about the gym?

33:27 Is that available to guests?

33:28 Yes, the gym is complimentary for all guests.

33:32 It is on the second floor and it is open 24 hours.

33:36 The pool is also available, though that closes at 10:00 in the evening.

33:40 Good to know.

33:42 And the mini bar in the room?

33:43 How does that work?

33:45 Everything in the mini bar is charged to your room

33:47 automatically when it is removed from the fridge.

33:51 You will see it itemized on your bill at check out.

33:56 On that note, I do need to take a card for incidentals.

34:00 It is a hold of $50 that is released

34:03 in full when you check out assuming no extras.

34:08 Sure, of course.

34:09 Here's my card.

34:13 Thank you.

34:14 Just give me a moment.

34:17 Perfect, that has gone through.

34:20 Here are your two key cards.

34:22 The lifts are just to your right, fourth floor, room 412.

34:27 The key cards also get you into the gym and the pool.

34:31 Great.

34:33 One thing I wanted to ask, is there any chance of a late check out on Sunday?

34:38 My flight is not until quite late in the evening.

34:41 I cannot confirm it right now,

34:43 but if you call down to reception on Sunday morning,

34:46 we can check what the availability looks like.

34:50 If the room is free for that night, we can usually extend until 2:00 p.m.

34:55 at no extra charge.

34:57 That would be really helpful, thank you.

34:59 Last thing, the do not disturb,

35:02 is it a physical sign or is there a switch somewhere?

35:05 It is a switch just inside the door on the left-hand side as you walk in.

35:10 When it is on, a light comes

35:12 on outside your room and housekeeping will not enter.

35:17 Perfect.

35:17 That is everything I needed.

35:19 Thank you so much.

35:21 Absolutely, my pleasure.

35:23 I hope you have a really comfortable stay.

35:26 Do not hesitate to call the front desk if you need anything at all.

35:31 We are here 24 hours.

35:33 Wonderful, thank you.

35:34 Good night.

35:35 Good night.

35:36 Okay, now you speak.

35:38 The conversation plays again.

35:40 Say the customer's words at the exact same time as you hear them.

35:45 Good evening.

35:46 Welcome to The Meridian.

35:48 Checking in?

35:49 Yes, hi.

35:50 I have a reservation.

35:51 The name is Jordan.

35:52 Jamie Jordan.

35:54 Jamie Jordan.

35:55 Let me pull that up.

35:57 One moment.

35:58 Okay, I have got you here.

36:01 A standard king room, two nights, checking out Sunday morning.

36:05 Is that right?

36:06 That is correct, yes.

36:08 So, I do need to mention something.

36:11 The room you originally booked had a maintenance issue earlier today,

36:15 a problem with the heating unit.

36:18 I am really sorry about that.

36:21 But what I have done is moved you to a room on the fourth floor.

36:25 It is a superior room, slightly larger, same rate.

36:30 So, there is no extra charge at all.

36:33 Oh.

36:34 Well, that actually sounds fine.

36:36 Does it have a king bed?

36:38 I specifically requested one when I made the booking.

36:40 It does, yes.

36:43 King bed, city view,

36:45 and it is on the quieter side of the building, away from the street.

36:50 So, in some ways, it is actually an upgrade.

36:53 Okay, that sounds good.

36:55 I will not complain.

36:56 Is breakfast included with my rate or is that separate?

37:00 Breakfast is not included in the standard rate, unfortunately.

37:04 However, we do have a complimentary coffee and pastry

37:08 station in the lobby every morning from 6:00 until 10:00.

37:13 And our restaurant does a full breakfast,

37:16 which you can either pay for directly or charge to the room.

37:20 I will probably just grab something from the lobby.

37:23 That is fine.

37:24 What about the gym?

37:25 Is that available to guests?

37:27 Yes, the gym is complimentary for all guests.

37:30 It is on the second floor and it is open 24 hours.

37:34 The pool is also available, though that closes at 10:00 in the evening.

37:39 Good to know.

37:40 And the mini bar in the room?

37:42 How does that work?

37:43 Everything in the mini bar is charged to your room

37:46 automatically when it is removed from the fridge.

37:50 You will see it itemized on your bill at check out.

37:54 On that note, I do need to take a card for incidentals.

37:59 It is a hold of $50 that is released

38:02 in full when you check out assuming no extras.

38:06 Sure, of course.

38:07 Here's my card.

38:12 Thank you.

38:13 Just give me a moment.

38:15 Perfect, that has gone through.

38:18 Here are your two key cards.

38:21 The lifts are just to your right, fourth floor, room 412.

38:26 The key cards also get you into the gym and the pool.

38:30 Great.

38:32 One thing I wanted to ask, is there any chance of a late check out on Sunday?

38:36 My flight is not until quite late in the evening.

38:39 I cannot confirm it right now,

38:42 but if you call down to reception on Sunday morning,

38:45 we can check what the availability looks like.

38:48 If the room is free for that night, we can usually extend until 2:00 p.m.

38:54 at no extra charge.

38:56 That would be really helpful, thank you.

38:58 Last thing, the do not disturb,

39:01 is it a physical sign or is there a switch somewhere?

39:04 It is a switch just inside the door on the left-hand side as you walk in.

39:09 When it is on, a light comes

39:11 on outside your room and housekeeping will not enter.

39:15 Perfect.

39:16 That is everything I needed.

39:18 Thank you so much.

39:19 Absolutely, my pleasure.

39:22 I hope you have a really comfortable stay.

39:25 Do not hesitate to call the front desk if you need anything at all.

39:29 We are here 24 hours.

39:32 Wonderful, thank you.

39:33 Good night.

39:34 Good night.

39:35 Before we get to the next conversation,

39:36 I want to quickly tell you about something.

39:39 If you are watching this video, you're probably at an intermediate level.

39:43 You understand English well, but speaking still feels like work.

39:47 Our team from LinguaTrip built a course exactly for that stage.

39:52 The course is called from intermediate to advanced.

39:56 It covers grammar, vocabulary, speaking, writing, and listening.

40:00 We give you practical tasks, and we keep you motivated.

40:04 I recorded some classes about my own experience learning English.

40:08 We also have my favorite Vanya Park,

40:11 who doesn't even sound like a non-native [music] speaker.

40:15 His accent is amazing, and he's a great, great teacher.

40:19 Also an amazing human being.

40:21 We've been friends for 10 years.

40:23 Plus, we have a native speaker who joined us

40:25 in this course to help you improve your grammar.

40:28 If you choose the standard or pro package,

40:31 you'll also get access to a group chat mentored [music] by Vanya,

40:36 homework feedback directly from him,

40:38 and a weekly speaking club with a native speaker.

40:41 You'll take part in our challenge mode, complete tasks with your study buddy,

40:46 earn points, and get a chance to win amazing prizes from LinguaTrip.

40:51 You'll also receive extra memos and practice tasks

40:54 to help you go deeper and stay consistent.

40:56 The link is down below, and the next batch is starting soon.

41:00 So, sign up and take part

41:01 in our best-selling course from intermediate to advanced.

41:05 We already have thousands and thousands of students who've taken it,

41:08 and their results speak for themselves.

41:11 Let's move on to the conversation number five.

41:13 You are at the doctor's office for a recurring problem.

41:17 You have been getting migraines for a while, and they are getting worse.

41:21 This conversation is entirely verbal.

41:25 No examinations, no tests, just you describing what you experience

41:29 and the doctor asking questions and discussing options.

41:35 Quick note before we start.

41:37 Everything in this conversation and the next one is purely for English practice.

41:43 Nothing here is medical advice,

41:44 so please always talk to a real doctor about anything health-related.

41:49 [music] Okay, here are the key phrases you will hear.

41:53 First, [music] recurring.

41:55 Recurring means something that keeps happening again and again over time.

42:01 A recurring headache is one that comes back regularly, not just once.

42:05 Next, to trigger something.

42:08 A trigger is something that causes a migraine to start.

42:12 Like stress, certain foods, or lack of sleep.

42:17 When the doctor asks what triggers your migraines,

42:20 they want to know what sets them off.

42:22 Then, to come on.

42:24 To come on describes how something starts.

42:28 It came on suddenly means it started very fast and without warning.

42:33 Next, throbbing.

42:34 Throbbing describes a type of pain that pulses.

42:40 [music] It beats or pounds in rhythm, often in time with your heartbeat.

42:43 Migraines are very commonly described as throbbing.

42:47 Then, sensitivity.

42:49 Sensitivity means being strongly affected by something.

42:53 Light sensitivity means a bright light makes your symptoms worse.

42:58 Sound sensitivity means noise is painful or unbearable.

43:03 Next, to rule something out.

43:05 When a doctor rules something out, they are eliminating a possible cause.

43:11 Ruling out anything serious means making sure there

43:14 is no serious underlying condition causing the problem.

43:19 Then, prescribed.

43:21 When a doctor prescribes something,

43:23 they officially recommend and authorize a specific medication for you.

43:29 The medication they prescribe is called a prescription.

43:32 Next, over-the-counter.

43:34 Over-the-counter means medication you can buy

43:37 at a pharmacy without a prescription, like painkillers or antihistamines.

43:43 Then, to keep a diary.

43:45 Keeping a diary in a medical context means writing down your symptoms,

43:50 when [music] they happen, how long they last, and what might have caused them.

43:54 Doctors often ask patients to do this.

43:57 And finally, referral.

43:59 A referral is when your doctor sends you to see a specialist.

44:05 Another doctor with expertise in a specific area.

44:09 If your GP refers you to a neurologist,

44:13 they are sending you to a brain and nervous system specialist.

44:17 Now, listen to the full conversation from start to finish.

44:20 Pay attention to the rhythm, the intonation, and how the sentences connect.

44:25 So, what can I do for you today?

44:27 Hi, thanks for fitting me in.

44:29 I have been getting these migraines for about 6 months now,

44:32 and honestly, they have been getting a lot worse recently.

44:36 I wanted to finally come in and talk to someone about it.

44:40 I am glad you came in.

44:42 6 months is a while to be dealing with that.

44:46 Can you tell me a bit more about what they are like?

44:50 How often are they happening?

44:52 At first, it was maybe once or twice a month, which I could manage.

44:57 But for the last 2 months or so,

44:59 it has been more like once or twice a week, sometimes even more.

45:03 That is quite a significant increase.

45:07 And when a migraine comes on, how would you describe the pain itself?

45:12 It is always on one side of my head, usually the right.

45:16 It is a really intense throbbing pain,

45:19 like a pulsing, and it just builds and builds.

45:23 At its worst, I genuinely cannot function.

45:26 Does the pain come on gradually, or does it hit you suddenly?

45:31 It usually builds over about an hour.

45:34 Sometimes I get a kind of warning beforehand.

45:37 I start seeing these flickering lights at the edge of my vision,

45:41 then I know one is coming.

45:44 That visual disturbance you are describing is called an aura.

45:48 It is actually quite a classic migraine pattern.

45:53 Do you also get any nausea when they happen?

45:56 Yes, almost always.

45:58 And I become really sensitive to light and sound.

46:01 I basically have to go and lie down in a dark, quiet room and wait it out.

46:06 It usually lasts anywhere from 4 to 8 hours.

46:10 Have you noticed anything that tends to trigger them?

46:14 Certain foods, stress, changes in your sleep?

46:18 Stress is definitely a big one.

46:21 I have a pretty demanding job,

46:22 and I have noticed they are much worse during busy periods.

46:27 I also think red wine is a trigger for me.

46:30 I have stopped drinking it, and that seems to have helped a little.

46:34 And if I do not sleep enough, I almost always get one the next day.

46:38 Those are all very common triggers.

46:41 What have you been taking for them when they come on?

46:44 Just over-the-counter painkillers, ibuprofen mostly.

46:47 They take the edge off slightly,

46:49 but they do not really touch the pain if it is a bad one.

46:53 I feel like I am just waiting it out rather than treating it.

46:56 That makes sense.

46:58 Standard painkillers are not really designed for migraines.

47:03 They work on general pain,

47:06 but not on the specific mechanism that causes a migraine.

47:11 There is a class of medication called

47:14 triptans that are specifically designed for migraines,

47:18 and they work much better for most people.

47:22 I would like to prescribe you something to try.

47:26 I had no idea that existed.

47:28 Is it something I take every day, or only when I feel one starting?

47:33 You take it at the onset.

47:35 As soon as you feel the migraine starting,

47:38 or even during the aura, if you get one.

47:42 The earlier you take it, the better it works.

47:46 It is not a daily medication.

47:49 That sounds much more manageable.

47:51 Should I be worried that they are happening this frequently?

47:54 Is there something more serious that could be causing this?

47:58 It is always sensible to ask that question.

48:02 Based on what you have described, the pattern, the one-sided throbbing,

48:07 the aura, the triggers,

48:09 this is very consistent with a straightforward migraine disorder.

48:14 But because the frequency has increased significantly,

48:19 I do want to rule out anything else.

48:22 I am going to refer you to a neurologist just to be thorough.

48:27 Okay.

48:28 That is a bit nerve-racking to hear, but I understand.

48:31 I want to be clear.

48:34 I am not referring you because I am worried.

48:37 It is a standard practice when migraines become this frequent.

48:43 The neurologist can also offer additional treatment options

48:48 if the triptans do not give you enough relief.

48:52 That is reassuring, thank you.

48:54 Is there anything I can do in the meantime to help manage them?

48:57 A few things.

48:59 I would really encourage you to keep a migraine diary.

49:03 Write down when each one happens, how long it lasts, how severe it is,

49:09 and what you were doing or eating in the hours before.

49:13 That information will be very useful for the neurologist.

49:18 And try to keep your sleep as consistent as possible.

49:23 Going to bed and waking up at the same time every

49:27 day makes a real difference for a lot of migraine sufferers.

49:32 I can definitely do that.

49:34 I will start tonight.

49:35 How long will it take to get the neurologist appointment?

49:38 It varies, but typically a few weeks.

49:42 In the meantime, try the prescription I am giving you and keep that diary.

49:48 Come back and see me in a month and we can review how you are getting on.

49:53 Perfect.

49:54 Thank you so much.

49:55 I feel a lot better just having talked this through.

49:58 Of course.

49:59 I hope the medication makes a difference.

50:02 Take care.

50:03 Okay, now you speak.

50:05 The conversation plays again.

50:07 Say the customer's words at the exact same time as you hear them.

50:12 So, what can I do for you today?

50:14 Hi, thanks for fitting me in.

50:16 I have been getting these migraines for about 6 months

50:19 now and honestly they have been getting a lot worse recently.

50:23 I wanted to finally come in and talk to someone about it.

50:26 I am glad you came in.

50:29 6 months is a while to be dealing with that.

50:33 Can you tell me a bit more about what they are like?

50:37 How often are they happening?

50:39 At first it was maybe once or twice a month, which I could manage.

50:44 But for the last 2 months or so it has been more like once or twice a week.

50:48 Sometimes even more.

50:50 That is quite a significant increase.

50:54 And when a migraine comes on, how would you describe the pain itself?

50:59 It is always on one side of my head, usually the right.

51:03 It is a really intense throbbing pain, like a pulsing.

51:07 And it just builds and builds.

51:09 At its worst, I genuinely cannot function.

51:13 Does the pain come on gradually or does it hit you suddenly?

51:17 It usually builds over about an hour.

51:20 Sometimes I get a kind of warning beforehand.

51:24 I start seeing these flickering lights at the edge of my vision.

51:28 Then I know one is coming.

51:30 That visual disturbance you are describing is called an aura.

51:35 It is actually quite a classic migraine pattern.

51:39 Do you also get any nausea when they happen?

51:43 Yes, almost always.

51:44 And I become really sensitive to light and sound.

51:48 I basically have to go and lie down in a dark quiet room and wait it out.

51:53 It usually lasts anywhere from 4 to 8 hours.

51:56 Have you noticed anything that tends to trigger them?

52:00 Certain foods, stress, changes in your sleep.

52:05 Stress is definitely a big one.

52:07 I have a pretty demanding job and I

52:10 have noticed they are much worse during busy periods.

52:13 I also think red wine is a trigger for me.

52:17 I have stopped drinking it and that seems to have helped a little.

52:21 And if I do not sleep enough, I almost always get one the next day.

52:25 Those are all very common triggers.

52:28 What have you been taking for them when they come on?

52:30 Just over-the-counter painkillers, ibuprofen mostly.

52:34 They take the edge off slightly,

52:36 but they do not really touch the pain if it is a bad one.

52:40 I feel like I am just waiting it out rather than treating it.

52:43 That makes sense.

52:45 Standard painkillers are not really designed for migraines.

52:50 They work on general pain,

52:52 but not on the specific mechanism that causes a migraine.

52:58 There is a class of medication called triptans that are specifically

53:03 designed for migraines and they work much better for most people.

53:09 I would like to prescribe you something to try.

53:12 I had no idea that existed.

53:15 Is it something I take every day or only when I feel one starting?

53:19 You take it at the onset.

53:22 As soon as you feel the migraine is starting

53:25 or even during the aura if you get one.

53:29 The earlier you take it, the better it works.

53:32 It is not a daily medication.

53:36 That sounds much more manageable.

53:38 Should I be worried that they are happening this frequently?

53:41 Is there something more serious that could be causing this?

53:44 It is always sensible to ask that question.

53:48 Based on what you have described, the pattern, the one-sided throbbing,

53:53 the aura, the triggers,

53:56 this is very consistent with a straightforward migraine disorder.

54:01 But because the frequency has increased significantly,

54:05 I do want to rule out anything else.

54:09 I am going to refer you to a neurologist just to be thorough.

54:13 Okay.

54:14 That is a bit nerve-racking to hear, but I understand.

54:18 I want to be clear.

54:20 I am not referring you because I am worried.

54:24 It is a standard practice when migraines become this frequent.

54:30 The neurologist can also offer additional treatment options

54:34 if the triptans do not give you enough relief.

54:38 That is reassuring, thank you.

54:40 Is there anything I can do in the meantime to help manage them?

54:44 A few things.

54:46 I would really encourage you to keep a migraine diary.

54:50 Write down when each one happens, how long it lasts, how severe it is,

54:56 and what you were doing or eating in the hours before.

55:00 That information will be very useful for the neurologist.

55:05 And try to keep your sleep as consistent as possible.

55:09 Going to bed and waking up at the same time every

55:13 day makes a real difference for a lot of migraine sufferers.

55:18 I can definitely do that.

55:20 I will start tonight.

55:22 How long will it take to get the neurologist appointment?

55:25 It varies, but typically a few weeks.

55:29 In the meantime, try the prescription I am giving you and keep that diary.

55:34 Come back and see me in a month and we can review how you are getting on.

55:40 Perfect.

55:41 Thank you so much.

55:42 I feel a lot better just having talked this through.

55:45 Of course.

55:46 I hope the medication makes a difference.

55:49 Take care.

55:50 Medical conversations are hard and this is exactly why we practice right now.

55:55 Conversation six, you have just come from the doctor and you

56:00 are at the pharmacy to pick up the migraine prescription.

56:04 This is your first time taking this type of medication,

56:07 so you have real questions about how it works,

56:11 when to take it, and what to expect.

56:14 And again, just a reminder, this is English practice, not medical advice.

56:20 Always check with your own doctor or pharmacist

56:23 for anything that applies to you personally.

56:27 Here are the keywords and phrases.

56:29 First, to pick up a prescription.

56:32 To pick up a prescription means to go to the pharmacy

56:35 and collect the medication your doctor has ordered for you.

56:39 Next, at the onset.

56:41 The onset of something is the moment it begins.

56:45 Taking [music] medication at the onset of a migraine

56:48 means taking it as soon as you feel one starting,

56:52 not waiting until it is already bad.

56:54 Then, side effects.

56:56 Side effects are the unwanted things a medication

57:00 can cause alongside what it is supposed to do.

57:03 Things like drowsiness, nausea, or dizziness.

57:07 Next, drowsiness.

57:08 Drowsiness means feeling unusually sleepy or less alert than normal.

57:15 It is one of the most commonly listed side effects on medication packaging.

57:20 Then, to interact with.

57:22 When two medications interact,

57:25 they affect each other in a way that can sometimes be harmful.

57:29 It is always worth asking your pharmacist whether

57:32 a new medication interacts with anything else you are taking.

57:37 Next, generic versus brand name.

57:40 A brand name drug is the commercial

57:42 version made by the company that developed it.

57:45 A generic is chemically identical,

57:47 but produced by a different manufacturer and sold for less.

57:51 Then, insurance.

57:53 Health insurance is a plan that covers part

57:56 or all of your medical costs including medication.

58:00 In the US especially,

58:02 this makes a huge difference to [music] what you pay at the pharmacy.

58:07 Next, to be covered.

58:08 If a medication is covered by your insurance,

58:12 your plan pays for some or all of the cost.

58:16 If it is not covered, you pay the full price yourself.

58:20 [music] Then, refill.

58:21 A refill is when you get a new supply

58:24 of the same medication after your first batch runs out.

58:29 Some prescriptions allow multiple refills.

58:32 Others require you to go back to your doctor first.

58:36 And finally, to keep on hand.

58:38 If you keep something on hand,

58:41 you make sure you always have it available and ready to use.

58:46 For migraine medication, keeping it on hand means carrying it with you

58:50 so you can take it the moment a migraine starts.

58:54 Now listen to the full conversation from start to finish.

58:57 Pay attention to the rhythm, the intonation, and how the sentences connect.

59:05 [sighs] Hi there, how can I help you?

59:05 Hi, I am here to pick up a prescription.

59:08 The name is Jordan, Sarah Jordan.

59:12 Jordan, let me have a look.

59:14 Yes, I have got it here.

59:15 It is sumatriptan 50 mg.

59:19 Is that what you were expecting?

59:21 Yes, that is the one.

59:23 My doctor prescribed it this morning for migraines.

59:26 Perfect.

59:27 Is this the first time you have taken sumatriptan?

59:29 Yes, it is completely new to me.

59:32 My doctor explained a little,

59:34 but I would really appreciate going over how it works.

59:37 Of course, happy to.

59:39 So, sumatriptan is what is called a triptan.

59:42 It works differently from a regular painkiller.

59:46 It does not just block pain, it actually targets the cause of the migraine.

59:50 The key thing is timing.

59:52 You take it at the onset, meaning as soon as you feel a migraine starting.

59:56 The earlier you take it, the better it works.

59:58 My doctor mentioned I might get a warning before a migraine.

1:00:01 I sometimes see flickering lights.

1:00:04 Should I take it then or wait until the head pain actually starts?

1:00:08 If you get that visual warning, that is actually the ideal time to take it,

1:00:13 right at that moment before the headache even begins.

1:00:16 That is when it is most effective.

1:00:19 Good to know.

1:00:20 And what if it does not work?

1:00:22 Can I take a second one?

1:00:23 Yes, if the first dose has not given you enough relief after 2 hours,

1:00:29 you can take a second one.

1:00:31 But do not take more than two in any 24-hour period.

1:00:35 Okay, that is clear.

1:00:37 Are there side effects I should be aware of?

1:00:40 Some people feel a bit of drowsiness or a mild

1:00:44 heaviness in the chest or limbs shortly after taking it.

1:00:49 It usually passes quickly.

1:00:51 A small number of people feel a little nauseous, but that is less common.

1:00:56 If you ever feel chest tightness that does not go away, contact a doctor.

1:01:01 That sounds a bit alarming.

1:01:03 Should I be worried about that?

1:01:05 It is worth knowing about, but it is quite rare.

1:01:08 The vast majority of people tolerate it well.

1:01:12 Your doctor would not have prescribed it if

1:01:14 there were any particular concerns about you specifically.

1:01:18 That is reassuring.

1:01:19 I am also taking a daily magnesium supplement.

1:01:23 My doctor actually recommended it for migraines.

1:01:27 Is there any issue with taking both?

1:01:29 No, magnesium does not interact with sumatriptan at all.

1:01:34 You are fine to take them together.

1:01:36 Great.

1:01:37 This is quite expensive on the label.

1:01:40 Is there a generic version available?

1:01:43 There is, yes.

1:01:44 Sumatriptan itself is actually already the generic name.

1:01:49 The brand name version is called Imitrex.

1:01:51 What you have here is the generic, which is already the more affordable option.

1:01:57 And let me check your insurance.

1:02:00 Yes, it looks like it is covered.

1:02:02 Your total today is $12.

1:02:05 Oh, that is much better than I expected.

1:02:08 Thank you.

1:02:09 One last thing.

1:02:11 How many tablets are in here and how do I know when to request a refill?

1:02:15 There are nine tablets in this pack.

1:02:18 Given that you are just starting out, your doctor will probably want to review

1:02:22 how you are getting on before prescribing more.

1:02:25 I would suggest keeping track of how many you use

1:02:28 and going back to your doctor after a month or so.

1:02:31 That makes sense.

1:02:32 And I am guessing I should keep these on hand

1:02:34 at all times rather than leaving them at home.

1:02:37 Exactly, keep them with you, in your bag or your desk at work.

1:02:41 A migraine can come on anywhere

1:02:43 and the timing really matters with this medication.

1:02:46 Good point.

1:02:47 Okay, I think I have everything I need.

1:02:50 Thank you so much.

1:02:51 This has been really helpful.

1:02:53 Of course.

1:02:54 I hope they work well for you.

1:02:55 Take care.

1:02:56 Thank you.

1:02:57 Now, it is your turn.

1:02:59 The conversation will play again, and this time say the customer's words out

1:03:05 loud at the exact same time you hear them.

1:03:08 Same pace, do not wait.

1:03:10 Here we go.

1:03:12 Hi there, how can I help you?

1:03:13 Hi, I am here to pick up a prescription.

1:03:16 The name is Jordan, Sarah Jordan.

1:03:20 Jordan, let me have a look.

1:03:22 Yes, I have got it here.

1:03:24 It is sumatriptan 50 mg.

1:03:27 Is that what you were expecting?

1:03:29 Yes, that is the one.

1:03:31 My doctor prescribed it this morning for migraines.

1:03:34 Perfect.

1:03:35 Is this the first time you have taken sumatriptan?

1:03:38 Yes, it is completely new to me.

1:03:40 My doctor explained a little,

1:03:42 but I would really appreciate going over how it works.

1:03:45 Of course, happy to.

1:03:47 So, sumatriptan is what is called a triptan.

1:03:51 It works differently from a regular painkiller.

1:03:54 It does not just block pain, it actually targets the cause of the migraine.

1:03:58 The key thing is timing.

1:04:00 You take it at the onset, meaning as soon as you feel a migraine starting.

1:04:04 The earlier you take it, the better it works.

1:04:06 My doctor mentioned I might get a warning before a migraine.

1:04:10 I sometimes see flickering lights.

1:04:12 Should I take it then or wait until the head pain actually starts?

1:04:17 If you get that visual warning, that is actually the ideal time to take it,

1:04:21 right at that moment before the headache even begins.

1:04:24 That is when it is most effective.

1:04:27 Good to know.

1:04:28 And what if it does not work?

1:04:30 Can I take a second one?

1:04:32 Yes, if the first dose has not given you enough relief after 2 hours,

1:04:37 you can take a second one.

1:04:39 But do not take more than two in any 24-hour period.

1:04:43 Okay, that is clear.

1:04:45 Are there side effects I should be aware of?

1:04:49 Some people feel a bit of drowsiness or a mild

1:04:52 heaviness in the chest or limbs shortly after taking it.

1:04:57 It usually passes quickly.

1:04:59 A small number of people feel a little nauseous, but that is less common.

1:05:04 If you ever feel chest tightness that does not go away, contact a doctor.

1:05:09 That sounds a bit alarming.

1:05:11 Should I be worried about that?

1:05:13 It is worth knowing about, but it is quite rare.

1:05:16 The vast majority of people tolerate it well.

1:05:20 Your doctor would not have prescribed it if

1:05:22 there were any particular concerns about you specifically.

1:05:26 That is reassuring.

1:05:28 I am also taking a daily magnesium supplement.

1:05:31 My doctor actually recommended it for migraines.

1:05:35 Is there any issue with taking both?

1:05:37 No, magnesium does not interact with sumatriptan at all.

1:05:42 You are fine to take them together.

1:05:45 Great.

1:05:45 This is quite expensive on the label.

1:05:48 Is there a generic version available?

1:05:51 There is, yes.

1:05:53 Sumatriptan itself is actually already the generic name.

1:05:57 The brand name version is called Imitrex.

1:06:00 What you have here is the generic, which is already the more affordable option.

1:06:05 And let me check your insurance.

1:06:08 Yes, it looks like it is covered.

1:06:10 Your total today is $12.

1:06:13 Oh, that is much better than I expected.

1:06:16 Thank you.

1:06:17 One last thing.

1:06:19 How many tablets are in here and how do I know when to request a refill?

1:06:24 There are nine tablets in this pack.

1:06:26 Given that you are just starting out, your doctor will probably want to review

1:06:30 how you are getting on before prescribing more.

1:06:33 I would suggest keeping track of how many you use

1:06:36 and going back to your doctor after a month or so.

1:06:39 That makes sense.

1:06:40 And I am guessing I should keep these on hand

1:06:42 at all times rather than leaving them at home.

1:06:45 Exactly, keep them with you, in your bag or your desk at work.

1:06:49 A migraine can come on anywhere

1:06:51 and the timing really matters with this medication.

1:06:54 Good point.

1:06:55 Okay, I think I have everything I need.

1:06:58 Thank you so much.

1:06:59 This has been really helpful.

1:07:01 Of course.

1:07:02 I hope they work well for you.

1:07:03 Take care.

1:07:04 Thank you.

1:07:05 Last one.

1:07:07 Conversation seven is about dealing with a problem.

1:07:10 You ordered something online and what arrived

1:07:13 is not what you were supposed to get.

1:07:16 This situation requires you to stay calm, explain clearly what went wrong,

1:07:21 and push for a solution without being rude.

1:07:25 That takes a very specific kind of language,

1:07:27 and these are the words and phrases you will need.

1:07:30 First, to raise a complaint.

1:07:33 To raise a complaint means to formally tell a company

1:07:37 that something went wrong and that you expect it to be fixed.

1:07:40 It is more serious than casually mentioning a problem.

1:07:44 Next, order number.

1:07:46 Your order number is the reference code

1:07:48 you receive when you buy something online.

1:07:51 Always have it ready before you call customer service.

1:07:54 It will be the first thing they ask for.

1:07:57 Then, incorrect item.

1:07:59 An incorrect item means you received the wrong product.

1:08:04 A different color, the wrong size,

1:08:07 or something completely different from what you actually ordered.

1:08:12 Next, to process a return.

1:08:13 And when a company processes a return,

1:08:15 they begin the steps to collect the wrong item

1:08:18 back and issue you a refund or send a replacement.

1:08:22 Then, prepaid return label.

1:08:24 A prepaid return label is a shipping label the company sends you

1:08:28 so you can post the item back without paying for postage yourself.

1:08:32 They cover the cost.

1:08:34 Next, replacement.

1:08:35 A replacement is a new, correct version of the item the company sends you

1:08:40 in place of the wrong or damaged one you received.

1:08:43 Then, refund.

1:08:44 A refund is your money returned to you,

1:08:47 usually back to the original card or account you paid with.

1:08:51 Next, to escalate.

1:08:53 To escalate means to take your complaint to a higher level.

1:08:58 You ask to speak to a supervisor or manager

1:09:01 when the first person was unable to resolve it.

1:09:05 Then, priority shipping.

1:09:08 Priority shipping is a faster delivery option that gets

1:09:12 your package to you sooner than standard shipping, usually for an extra fee.

1:09:16 And finally, to bear with someone.

1:09:20 To bear with someone means to stay patient

1:09:24 while they look something up or sort something out.

1:09:28 Bear with me is a natural polite way of asking you to wait just a moment.

1:09:34 Now just listen to the full conversation.

1:09:36 Get familiar with the words, the pacing,

1:09:39 and the way it sounds in natural speech.

1:09:42 Thank you for calling Maple and Co.

1:09:44 Customer Service.

1:09:46 My name is Ryan.

1:09:47 How can I help you today?

1:09:49 Hi Ryan.

1:09:50 I am calling because I received my order yesterday,

1:09:53 but there is a problem with it.

1:09:55 I got completely the wrong item.

1:09:57 Oh, I am sorry to hear that.

1:10:00 I can absolutely help you sort this out.

1:10:03 Can I start with your order number?

1:10:05 Yes, it is MC-4 49-28731.

1:10:12 Thank you.

1:10:14 Bear with me one moment while I pull that up.

1:10:17 Okay.

1:10:18 I have got your order here.

1:10:20 You ordered the gray wool throw blanket, correct?

1:10:24 That is right.

1:10:25 But what I actually received was a blue cotton one.

1:10:30 Different color, completely different material.

1:10:33 I completely understand and I sincerely apologize for that.

1:10:37 That should not have happened.

1:10:39 So, what I can do is arrange a return of the incorrect

1:10:42 item and get the right one sent out to you.

1:10:44 Okay.

1:10:46 And realistically, how long is all of that going to take?

1:10:49 Because I bought this as a birthday gift and the birthday is coming up soon.

1:10:54 I understand the time pressure.

1:10:56 So, the process is normally this.

1:10:58 We email you a prepaid return label at no cost to you.

1:11:03 You send the item back and once we receive it,

1:11:07 we process the return within two to three business days.

1:11:11 The replacement would then ship and reach you

1:11:13 in five to seven business days after that.

1:11:16 That might be too slow, honestly.

1:11:19 The birthday is 10 days away.

1:11:21 Is there anything you can do to speed it up?

1:11:24 Let me see what options I have.

1:11:26 I can flag your replacement as priority shipping,

1:11:29 which would bring the delivery time down to two

1:11:32 to three business days after we process the return.

1:11:35 I want to be upfront, though.

1:11:37 I cannot promise an exact date.

1:11:41 I appreciate the honesty.

1:11:43 Can I ask one more thing?

1:11:45 Do I need to wait for you to receive the return before you send the replacement?

1:11:50 Or is there any way to send it out now,

1:11:53 given that this was your mistake, not mine?

1:11:57 That is a fair point.

1:11:59 And I completely understand why you are asking.

1:12:02 Normally, we do require the return to be initiated first,

1:12:05 but given that this was our error,

1:12:08 let me check with my supervisor and see what I can do.

1:12:11 Would you mind holding for just a minute?

1:12:14 Not at all.

1:12:14 Go ahead.

1:12:15 Thank you so much for holding.

1:12:17 So, I spoke with my supervisor and because this was clearly our mistake,

1:12:22 we are going to ship the correct item out to you today with priority shipping.

1:12:26 You do not need to wait.

1:12:28 You will receive a separate email with a prepaid return label for the blue

1:12:32 throw and you have 30 days to send it back at your convenience.

1:12:36 That is brilliant.

1:12:37 I really appreciate you sorting that out.

1:12:40 It is absolutely the least we can do.

1:12:43 You will get a confirmation email within the hour with a new tracking number.

1:12:48 Is there anything else I can help you with?

1:12:52 No, that is everything.

1:12:54 Honestly, thank you so much, Ryan.

1:12:56 You handled this really well.

1:12:58 That means a lot.

1:13:00 Thank you.

1:13:01 I hope the gift arrives in time and that your friend has a wonderful birthday.

1:13:05 Thank you.

1:13:06 Fingers crossed.

1:13:07 Have a good day.

1:13:08 You too.

1:13:09 Take care.

1:13:10 Goodbye.

1:13:10 Bye.

1:13:11 Now it is your turn.

1:13:13 The conversation will play again and this time say the customer's

1:13:18 words out loud at the exact same time you hear them.

1:13:22 Same pace, do not wait.

1:13:24 Here we go.

1:13:25 Thank you for calling Maple and Co.

1:13:27 Customer Service.

1:13:28 My name is Ryan.

1:13:30 How can I help you today?

1:13:31 Hi Ryan.

1:13:32 I am calling because I received my order yesterday,

1:13:35 but there is a problem with it.

1:13:37 I got completely the wrong item.

1:13:40 Oh, I am sorry to hear that.

1:13:42 I can absolutely help you sort this out.

1:13:46 Can I start with your order number?

1:13:48 Yes, it is MC-4 49-28731.

1:13:55 Thank you.

1:13:56 Bear with me one moment while I pull that up.

1:13:59 Okay.

1:14:00 I have got your order here.

1:14:03 You ordered the gray wool throw blanket, correct?

1:14:06 That is right.

1:14:08 But what I actually received was a blue cotton one.

1:14:12 Different color, completely different material.

1:14:15 I completely understand and I sincerely apologize for that.

1:14:20 That should not have happened.

1:14:22 So, what I can do is arrange a return of the incorrect

1:14:25 item and get the right one sent out to you.

1:14:27 Okay.

1:14:28 And realistically, how long is all of that going to take?

1:14:32 Because I bought this as a birthday gift and the birthday is coming up soon.

1:14:36 I understand the time pressure.

1:14:38 So, the process is normally this.

1:14:41 We email you a prepaid return label at no cost to you.

1:14:46 You send the item back and once we receive it,

1:14:49 we process the return within two to three business days.

1:14:54 The replacement would then ship and reach you

1:14:56 in five to seven business days after that.

1:14:59 That might be too slow, honestly.

1:15:01 The birthday is 10 days away.

1:15:04 Is there anything you can do to speed it up?

1:15:06 Let me see what options I have.

1:15:09 I can flag your replacement as priority shipping,

1:15:12 which would bring the delivery time down to two

1:15:14 to three business days after we process the return.

1:15:18 I want to be upfront, though.

1:15:20 I cannot promise an exact date.

1:15:23 I appreciate the honesty.

1:15:26 Can I ask one more thing?

1:15:28 Do I need to wait for you to receive the return before you send the replacement?

1:15:33 Or is there any way to send it out now,

1:15:36 given that this was your mistake, not mine?

1:15:39 That is a fair point.

1:15:41 And I completely understand why you are asking.

1:15:44 Normally, we do require the return to be initiated first,

1:15:48 but given that this was our error,

1:15:50 let me check with my supervisor and see what I can do.

1:15:54 Would you mind holding for just a minute?

1:15:56 Not at all.

1:15:57 Go ahead.

1:15:58 Thank you so much for holding.

1:16:00 So, I spoke with my supervisor and because this was clearly our mistake,

1:16:04 we are going to ship the correct item out to you today with priority shipping.

1:16:09 You do not need to wait.

1:16:11 You will receive a separate email with a prepaid return label for the blue

1:16:14 throw and you have 30 days to send it back at your convenience.

1:16:18 That is brilliant.

1:16:19 I really appreciate you sorting that out.

1:16:22 It is absolutely the least we can do.

1:16:26 You will get a confirmation email within the hour with a new tracking number.

1:16:30 Is there anything else I can help you with?

1:16:34 No, that is everything.

1:16:36 Honestly, thank you so much, Ryan.

1:16:38 You handled this really well.

1:16:40 That means a lot.

1:16:42 Thank you.

1:16:43 I hope the gift arrives in time and that your friend has a wonderful birthday.

1:16:48 Thank you.

1:16:48 Fingers crossed.

1:16:49 Have a good day.

1:16:51 You too.

1:16:51 Take care.

1:16:52 Goodbye.

1:16:53 Bye.

1:16:53 You made it through all of them speaking out loud.

1:16:56 The more you repeat these, the faster your mouth catches up.

1:17:00 If you want to keep working on your English beyond speaking practice,

1:17:04 grammar, vocabulary, writing, all of it, the link to our intermediate

1:17:07 to advanced course is right below this video.

1:17:10 Thousands of students have already gone through

1:17:12 it and the next batch is starting soon.

1:17:15 One last thing, tell me in the comments which

1:17:18 of the seven conversations was the hardest for you.

1:17:21 I'm curious whether it's the phone call, the doctor, or something else entirely.

1:17:26 Thank you for watching and I will see you in the next one.