Disappointment, regret, wishes?

 

Read the text and do exercises given after it.

To express disappointment, regret, wishes –

all this is as distressing to the British as to anyone. So, they have the habit

to understate things when expressing their feelings. For example, when the

British are disappointed they generally state that someone or something

was not quite what they had expected. Their stoic attitude of resignation is

often portrayed by “I suppose I’ll just have to put up with it.” There are

quite a few expressions in English you might use to show that you are disappointed and expected something different.

If you want to express your disappointment and do it tentatively, use

the following: “I’d expected it/him/her/them to be much/nicer/better.”

You may also use the following exclamations, which are very emotive:

“How very disappointing!” “That’s rather/very/extremely/disappointing!”

If you are in informal terms with your interlocutor the following phrases

will be suitable: ”I was very disappointed to get such a low mark.”

“You disappointed me.” “It wasn’t as good as I expected.”

There are things about the past, the present and the future you may

regret. Here are some common ways for you to do so: “I’m sorry, I didn’t

know about this event.” “It’s a pity I didn’t buy this dress/suit.” “I wish

I had/hadn’t seen that show.” “If only I had/hadn’t agreed to accept

his/her invitation.”

Notice that the past perfect is used not only after unrealized wishes but also

after a mistaken assumption in the past, e.g. “I was sure he had agreed to

see me (but he hadn’t).

When expressing your own wishes, or inviting the wishes of others,

you can make the wish more tentative and tactful by using “would like”,

“would prefer”, or “would rather”: “Would you like me to help you?” “I

would/should like to spend my holidays in Paris.” Very popular are questions with “shall”, or more tentatively, with “should/would”: “Shall I offer

you another helping?” “I would/should like to stay here for good.” “What

shall we present him on his birthday? Shall we buy some interesting

book?” “Should we tell him that he is not wanted?” 94

 

The following expressions have a hypothetical meaning: “If only I could

remember his name!” “I do wish I could remember his name.”

 

DIALOGUES

Note the expressions used in the dialogue and the progression of the conversation. The dialogue can be used as a model to have similar conversations.

1. Raelene: Hi, Burt. I heard you’re looking for a new job.

Burt: Yeah. I just had an interview yesterday.

Raelene: Oh. How did it go?

Burt: I think I did well. They said they would make a decision by this Friday.

Raelene: This Friday? Looks like they want to hire the person as quickly as

possible.

Burt: Yeah. I think so, too.

Raelene: What are your chances of getting that job?

Burt: I believe I have a very good chance. The director seems to like me.

Raelene: Well, good luck, then.

Burt: Thanks. I hope it helps.

 

2. Ann: Have you been to the annual meeting of bloggers?

John: It’s disappointing but I was away on business on that day.

Ann: It’s a pity. The meeting was very interesting.

 

3. Jack: What’s the matter with you. You look so sad.

Cindy: I wish I had never watched this movie?

Jack: Why? I liked it very much. And the performance of the actors was

wonderful.

Cindy: I quite agree with you but the death of the main character at the

end….

 

4. Shopper: Excuse me, could you show me to the skirts section, please?

Clerk: Certainly, madam, please come this way.

Shopper: Ah! These are just what I’ve been looking for. Have you got

them in my size? I’m a size 8.

Clerk: Just a moment! I’m afraid not, madam. We appear to be temporarily

out of stock.

Shopper: Oh, how disappointing! When will you have some in?

Clerk: We should be getting a delivery at the beginning a delivery at the

beginning of next week.

 

EXERCISES

I. Read the conversation and answer the questions given below.

 

Peter: Dad, do you remember last week, when Mum was saying how

she’d like a dog, to keep her company during the day?

Dad: My memory may be playing tricks, but no, I don’t remember.

Some time last week she also said something about going back to work,

now that you and Ann are at school all day.

Peter: It’s a pity you don’t remember. I wish you did. She wanted to

know which breed I liked.

Dad: Strange that she hasn’t mentioned it to me. Anyway, you know

what I think about keeping dogs in flats.

Peter: Yes, Mum said you weren’t very keen. It’s a bit disappointing,

really. If only you know! Mum is so lonely when she’s here all day long

with no one to talk to.

Dad: You mean if she had a dog, she could talk to him, do you?

Peter: Well, Dad, you know what women are. They only want someone to listen to them. And dogs make ideal companions.

 

Questions:

1. What is Peter’s father’s attitude to the idea of keeping dogs in flats? 2. Is

Peter disappointed with his father’s attitude to pet animals? 3. What language shows that Peter wished his father’s attitude to keeping dogs in flats

was different. 4. Have you ever been in Peter’s shoes? 5. What do you

think of Peter? What’s he like?

 

II. Read the conversation and answer the questions given below.

Helen: I wish I hadn’t talked to last year’s students – they’ve really

frightened me. Do you know, Andy, they had three professions interviewing them, all at once?

Andy: So what! You can manage three professors. But I hope you

look more confident when you meet them than you do now, or they’ll never pass you!

Helen: Yes, but – do you think they’ll ask me really difficult questions? I do hope not – I’ll just dry up …

Andy: I’m sure they won’t. Anyway, don’t worry, you’ll be all right

… Well, I must be off – I’m delivering a baby this afternoon. Bye, hope it

goes well.

 

Questions:

1. What does Helen want? 2. What does Andy think about interviewing? 3. What language shows that he is sure that everything will be all

right? 4. Why does Andy have to leave in a hurry? 5. When Andy says

“Bye, hope it goes well”, what does “it” refer to?

III. Read the conversation and answer the questions given below.

Mary: You know, Jim, I’m beginning to think that living in a city just

isn’t worth it. I’m rather disappointed

Jim: I’m sorry to hear that, Mary. Cheer up, it gets us all down sometimes.

Mary: It hasn’t just got me down. It’s more than that. I wish I could

have a chance from the life we’re leading now. 97

 

Jim: Poor thing! If only I could help! Did you have a bad day at

school?

Mary: Oh, no! You’re not going to be the same as the rest of them,

are you? Nobody listened to a word I said. They just waited politely till I

finished, and then told me to relax a bit or get away for a few days. I’d like

to get away forever.

Jim: To the country, you mean?

Mary: Well, I wish someone could tell me where I should go.

Jim: Well, if I were you, I’d just have a couple of days off to relax.

 

Questions:

1. Do you think Mary and Jim are on close terms? What language shows

they are? 2. What language shows that Mary isn’t content with the life

she’s leading now? 3. Does Jim sympathize with Mary? 4. Do you think

Mary is just to her colleagues? 5. Does Jim approve of Mary’s wish to get

away forever? 6. What does Jim advise Mary to do? 7. Does Jim do it in a

tactful and tentative way? 8. Have you ever been in the mood Mary is in

now? 8. Have you ever suffered from stress?

 

IV. Express your regret about things you are sorry you did or didn’t do in

the past. Use “I wish + the Past Perfect”.

1. You spent all your time speaking over the telephone. 2. You didn’t do

your best to revise for exams. 3. You thought highly of yourself. 4. You

didn’t give much thought to learning. 5. You missed many lectures and

seminars. 6. You quarreled with your close friend. 7. You didn’t accept an

invitation to the party. 8. You didn’t see the new film directed by Spielberg.

 

V. Express your disappointment about the vacations you have spent in the

south.

1. The beaches were always overcrowded. 2. The hotel you live in was rather noisy. 3. The meals were just horrible and absolutely inedible.

4. There were only two cafes nearby. 5. Public transport was not regular

and it was a problem to get to downtown. 6. All tours were too expensive. 98

 

VI. Express your regret in the following situations.

1. You want to speak to your Mum about something very important for you

but she is always busy.

2. It’s raining hard. You were going out for a picnic in the country. The

rain has upset your plans.

3. You would like to go for a walk with your friends but you have to get

ready for the exam.

4. You would like to buy a new model of a mobile phone but you can’t afford it.

5. You invited your friend to your birthday party but he/she couldn’t come.

 

VII. Express your disappointment in the following situations.

1. A performance you expected to be good was in fact very bad.

2. Your brother who usually gives you a present for your birthday didn’t

give you anything this year. Tell your friend how you feel.

3. The hotel you stayed in is not as good as you expected. Say what’s

wrong with it.

4. You want to let a friend know very urgently that you cannot go to his

birthday party, but when you phone, someone else answers. Express disappointment and leave a message.

5. You expected a bonus for your project but you were paid only a salary.

 

VIII. Express your wishes in the following situations.

1. Your friend tells you about a very interesting job she/he has. You’d like

to be in the same position.

2. You don’t know very much about the history of Great Britain.

3. You’d like to visit a friend of yours who is at hospital. To your regret

you haven’t got a minute to spare.

4. A group of Spanish students arrives at you University. You are eager to

communicate with them but you don’t know the language.

5. You live and study in a big city. Your idea is to settle down in some quiet place.

 

UNIT 13

Sympathy and encouragement

 

I. Read the text and do exercises given after it.

The British give their sympathy or encouragement when they want to soften the effect of

bad news, to cheer someone up who has had an accident. As a rule, they

usually start with “I’m sorry” or something like that and then give their

sympathy or encouragement to the person they are talking to. To soften the

effect of bad news they use the apologetic introduction: “I’m afraid Mr

Smith are not in”

It also helps to follow up your announcement of bad news by encouragement and suggesting a practical course of actions, e.g. “I’m afraid you’ve

failed your exams. I know how you feel. You mustn’t let it get you

down.”

If you want to sympathize with or encourage someone, you can use the following expressions: “I’m sorry.” “I’m so (awfully) sorry!” “I’m sorry

to hear that.” “What bad luck!” “That is a bad luck!” “Never mind!”

“Cheer up!” “Don’t worry (about it).” “You mustn’t worry about

that.” “Don’t let it worry you.” “Don’t let it get you down.” “You

mustn’t let it get you down.” “It could be worse.” “It’s not the end of

the world.” “Let’s hope for the best.”

When a person dies it is difficult to know what to say to the bereaved. If English is your second language, it is even harder to comfort a

grieving person. We sometimes use a present tense verb when we should

use the past. Don’t feel bad if you do this. Even native English speakers

find this awkward in the early hours and days after a person’s passing. It is

important to acknowledge the loss in one form or another. It is a good idea

to name the person who died. If you know this person, describe something

you loved about him or her. Share a fond memory if you have one. If you

don’t know the person, express sadness that you never got to meet him or

her or acknowledge the importance of this person to your friend. 100

 

Here are a few expressions you can use to express your care and concern

in English when someone passes away: I am so sorry to hear about your

loss. I was heartbroken by this sad news. I will never forget when

he/she… (share a memory using the past tense verb). You were such a

dedicated friend/mother/sister to ______________ (name). He/She will

be sadly missed. (Add a detail that describes this person’s best quality. For

example: He was the best listener. OR He was always there when I needed

help with the kids.) I’m sorry, but I am at a loss for words. (If you can’t

think of anything else to say or write.) If you need anything, please ask.

Then offer something specific, such as help with the kids or a home cooked

meal or a coffee date: When you are feeling up to it, let’s have coffee together. I’m here for you if you need anything. Thanks for taking the

time to let me know about _________ (name of deceased).

Examples:

1. - I want to express my condolences (...on your mother's death).

- Thanks, I appreciate your kindness.

 

2. - It's too bad that (... you didn't get that promotion).

- Yes, well maybe next time.

 

3. - It's a shame (pity) that (...your son didn’t get accepted into Harvard).

- How kind of you to say so.

DIALOGUES

Note the expressions used in the dialogue and the progression of the conversation. The dialogue can be used as a model to have similar conversations.

1. Robyn: Last week his sister was admitted to the hospital.

Scotti: Oh? What happened?

Robyn: His sister had a car accident last week.

Scotti: Is she fine now?

Robyn: She is still in a coma.

Scotti: What bad luck! His sister is the only relative, as far as I know.

2. Mark: Hi, Jack, how have you been? 101

 

Jack: Not very well.

Mark: Why? Looks like you are feeling very down! What happened?

Jack: Nothing.

Mark: Come on. For a man who’s feeling do down, there’s usually two

reasons either his career is going downhill, or he has a broken heart. Since

you are so successful, it must be the other.

Jack: Well you are right. I just broke up with Jane.

Mark: Oh, I’m sorry. I thought you two were made for each other.

Jack: Well, you never know. I’m ready for a commitment and want to settle down, but he says she wants to pursue her career while she is still

young.

Mark: Well, you can’t blame her. It’s always difficult to choose between

career and family.

Jack: Maybe you are right.

Mark: Jack, I don’t know what to say to comfort you, but cheer up! You’ll

find a person, your perfect match!

Jack: Yeah, but it’s hard to forget her at the moment. You know we were

together for almost five years. It’s really hard…

 

3. Reese: So, how was your interview?

Kent: I haven’t gone to the interview yet. It’s tomorrow. I’m so nervous.

Reese: Don’t worry. You should do fine. You have the experience.

Kent: I hope so.

Reese: Remember, they want someone who works well with people.

You’ve got to show them how easy-going and personable you are!

Kent: Thanks. I’ll keep that in mind.

 

4. A: I heard that Tom had list his job. Did you hear that, too.

B: I heard something about it.

A: What a terrible thing to happen now, just when he and Olha are expecting their first baby! 102

 

B: It’s a shame, I’ll admit, but I told Tom months ago to get out of that

place where he works and get another job. I had a feeling that the company

wasn’t very stable financially.

 

5. Noah: That history exam was really awful.

Sandy: Was it really so bad?

Noah: Yes it was. Only a couple of the topics which I reviewed for the exam came up.

Sandy: That was really bad luck. Do you think you managed to do enough

to pass?

Noah: No, I think I’ll definitely fail that exam.

Sandy: Oh, come on, don’t be so pessimistic.

 

6. Rob: Are you ill?

Seles: Not really! I’m just tired.

Rob: Didn’t you sleep well last night.

Seles: No, I tossed and turned all night.

Rob: I’m sorry to hear that, I hope you sleep better tonight.

Seles: Thank you, I’m sure I will.

 

EXERCISES

I. Read the conversation and answer the questions given below.

Lidya: I’m reading “Ketika Cinta Bertasbih” what a wonderful story!

Mira: Didn’t you read “Ayat-ayat Cinta” before?

Lidya: I love these stories. They are written by a marvelous writer.

Mira: I will fall asleep if I read those kinds of novels. I hate reading. Also,

those books are too heavy for me to read.

Lidya: Come on, Mira…. You need to read. Maybe you should start reading novels with lighter subjects and language.

 

Mira: Is there any?

Lidya: Yes, of course. Why don’t you start reading some chicklit or teenlit?

The are very popular right now. Try to read “Dealova” for a start.

Mira: Oh, yeah. That’s true. I want to read their novels.

Lidya: See, how you get interested in reading. Why don’t you just read

about a subject that you like first?

Mira: Ha..ha..ha… all right. I will read some teenlit or chicklit for a start.

 

Questions:

1. What do you think the following people are going to do? 2. What book

is Lidya reading? 3. What kind of stories does Lidya like most? 4. Does

Mira like book-reading? 5. What do the words “Come on Mira, you need

to read” imply? 6. What do you know about chicklit and teenlit? 7. Have

you ever read a chicklit or teenlit novel? If so, what is it? 8. Do you think

Mira is aroused by Lidya’s encouragement? Why?

II. Read the conversation and answer the questions given below.

Nick: You’ve heard I had a car accident, haven’t you?

Steve: Yes, what bad luck! But cheer up. It could have been much worse.

Nick: Could it? They tell me it needs a new engine.

Steve: Oh, know! I’m sorry. It’ll cost you a fortune.

Nick: Yes, over $1000 I believe

Steve: $1000? Oh, that’s bad luck. You poor chap.

Nick: Still, as you say, it could have been a lot worse! I might have been

killed.

Steve: Quite. It’s not the end of the world. But I know how you feel. $1000

is a lot of money.

 

Questions:

1. What language shows that Nick is depressed? 2. What language shows

that Steve sympathizes with Nick? 3. What language shows that Steve tries

to cheer up Nick? 4. What language would you have used to give Nick

sympathy and encouragement? 104

 

III. Respond to the remarks made by your friend. Try to cheer him/her up.

1. My trip to Paris has been cancelled. 2. I’m not feeling well today. 3. My

mum has to go into hospital for an operation. 4. I’ve injured my knee and

cannot take part in the competition. 5. The summer examination session is

expected to be very difficult. I’m afraid I won’t be able to get top marks.

6. I’ve failed in my last exam and won’t be paid grants. 7. I’ve failed to

get the job I was so eager to get.

 

IV. Use your imaginations and express sympathy to your partner for the

following situations. Your partner should tell you about the situations

listed below. Continue the conversation by asking questions to get more

details of the situation:

1) parents’ divorce; 2) death of a friend; 3) getting fired from a job;

4) parents serious illness; 5) being dumped by your lover; 6) failing an

important test.

 

V. Fill in missing words.

1. You mustn’t let it … you down. 2. I’m sorry but I am … a loss …

words. 3.It’s not the end of …. 4. When you are feeling … … it, let’s have

a talk. 5. Let’s hope … the best. 6. I was … by this sad story.

VI. Make short conversations in the following situations.

1. The marriage of your friend has broken up.

2. You’re just back from university. Your younger sister/brother looks

gloomy and depressed. She/he has lost her/his new mobile phone.

3. On your way to the University you meet one of your fellow students

who looks worried. He/she says his/her grandmother has fallen ill.

4. You meet your friend you haven’t seen for a couple of weeks. You know

he/she has failed his/her driving test. Try to encourage him/her.

5. Your friend is looking for a job. He/she has had some interviews already

but all of them seem to have been a failure.

 

UNIT 14

Complaining

Read the text and do exercises given after it.

According to one of the surveys one in

three people don’t think that complaining is

worth the effort… or is it simply that we don’t

know

“How to complain”?

If we receive goods that are not what we ordered, which are faulty or

incomplete should we really take it lying down or should we complain? If

we are not getting the product we expected or we receive substandard

goods or services, then we should complain. How we complain however

will increase or decrease our chances of success.

Before you complain sit down and work out what you hope to

achieve. Be clear in your mind what you expect as a result of your complaint. Be clear about what you see is the fault and how you want the fault

to be resolved after your complaint. Complain firmly but politely! You are

more likely to get results when you complain, if you stay calm and don’t

lose your temper.

As for the British they are said to be reluctant to complain. As a rule

they tend to avoid making a fuss and keep themselves in check. All this

helps to explain their reaction to bad plays, bad performances or bad service in hotels or restaurants.

Except on rare occasions, the British do not

boo in the theatre, they simply stay away. They don’t whistle or jeer like an

Italian crowd at the opera or a Spanish crowd at a bullfight. If the star

cricketer scores a duck, if the highly praised footballer misses a goal, they

will be allowed to leave the ground in heavy silence.

When the British do complain they generally tend to give the impression of being unsure in order to be tactful and diplomatic. In fact they tend

to give the impression of being unsure in order to be tactful and diplomatic. 106

 

If the British people want to complain of misbehavior of somebody

and do it politely, they say: “Do you think you could speak less loudly?”

If you want to be direct, you may say: “Oh, Jim, you could be not so

loud.” Complaining of someone who is not present the British say: “I’m

starting to get rather tired of Terri’s manners” “Don’t you think (that)

Jane spends too much money?” “The trouble with Mary is that she always makes bad jokes.” “I’m sick and tired of his/her being always late!”

Very often, when the British are told something worth complaining,

they often use only the two-word answer “He/She would”, e.g.:

A. He told Dave anyway.

B. He would.

The word “would” shows the speaker’s irritation and resentment.

When the British are complaining about something people are doing

in public and some unspecified group of people are responsible for preventing this “something”, they usually say: “They should/ought to stop

people smoking in trains.” “They shouldn’t let people smoke in trains.” If

they agree with the above remarks they can do it like that: “Yes, it is/can

be a problem, isn’t it/can’t it?” “I think I can understand how you

feel.” “Yes, I know what you mean.” If you disagree, you can say: “Really? I can’t say I’ve particularly noticed that he/she shouts.” “I can see

what you mean but I think he is not that bad.” “Oh, come on, Mary, he

isn’t that bad.”

If the British want to show their dissatisfaction with goods or services they have received, they usually do it in the following way: “Excuse

me, I’m afraid this telephone is out of order.” “I’ve had a lot of trouble

with the car I hired yesterday.” “Excuse me, I’m sorry, I’m not at all satisfied with my room.” ”Excuse me, there seems/appears to be something wrong with this camera I bought here yesterday.” “Look, this kind

of service isn’t very good. I’m very dissatisfied with it.” “I’m not the

sort of person who normally complains, but I’m very unhappy about

the way I’m being treated.” 107

 

DIALOGUES

1. Laura: How was work today?

Ben: It was awful. I was very stressed.

Laura: Why? What happened?

Ben: My boss was a bit hot under the collar.

Laura: Why?

Ben: He doesn’t think the new product I designed will sell like hot cakes.

Laura: You’re in hot water now.

Ben: I know. He wants me to come up with a new design as soon as possible.

 

2. Eddie: I’m really fed up with my present job.

Samantha: Really? What’s the matter with it?

Eddie: It’s so boring, the pay’s miserable and there’s no appreciation.

Samantha: I’m sorry to hear that. What are you going to do about it?

Eddie: I’ve already done something. I’ve just put in an application for a

better paid and higher status job in the company where my brother works.

 

3. Sam: Shall we invite John to our party?

Mary: I would rather not.

Sam: Why, Mary?

Mary: The trouble with him is that he always makes bad jokes.

4. Kelly: Where shall we spend our holidays this year?

John: Won’t it be our favorite Turkey?

Kelly: Oh, no. I’m sick and tires of those crowds on the beach!

John: Then let’s look for some quieter place.

EXERCISES

I. Read the dialogue and answer the questions given below.

Ann: I’m sick and tired of the way Tom is always hanging around.

Sally: Yes, I know what you mean. 108

 

Ann: The trouble with him is that he never tries to be considerate. Anyway,

he’s always unpleasant and rather aggressive.

Sally: Oh, come on! He isn’t like that.

Questions:

1. Are Ann and Sally on equal terms? 2. Is Ann annoyed? 3. And what

about Sally? Does she remain calm? 4. Does Sally accept Ann’s complaints?

II. Read the mini-dialogue and answer the questions given below.

Ann: I wish you wouldn’t have your TV so loud.

Kate: Sorry! Were you trying to sleep?

Ann: Yes, and while I think of it please ask when you borrow my textbook

on history in future.

Kate: Sorry! I really ought to have known better.

 

Questions:

1. Are Kate and Ann getting on perfectly well? 2. Is Ann complaining in an

apologetic manner? 3. What language in the conversation shows that Ann

feels strongly about Kate’s misbehaviour? 4. Does Kate accepts Kate’s

complaints? How do we know that she does?

III. Read the mini-dialogue and answer the questions given below.

A. Yes, Sir? Can I help you?

B. Well, yes, … I bought this video-player a week ago and there seems

to be something wrong with it.

A. Well, Sir, I’m afraid there isn’t much we can do about it actually.

 

Questions:

1. Did the customer show his dissatisfaction with the video-player he’d

bought politely? If so, what language shows he was polite? 2. What exactly

was wrong with the video-player? 3. Was the customer’s complaint accepted? 4. What would you say if you were a customer?

 

IV. Read the dialogue and answer the questions below.

Manger: I hope you’re enjoying your stay with us, Mr. Morris.

James: Yes, very much, but there are one or two little things I’d like to

mention to you.

Manager: Oh, yes, Sir? What sort of things?

James: Well, the TV in my room doesn’t work very well. Could you ask

someone to have a look at it, please?

Manager: Certainly, Sir. Is there anything else?

James: Well, I don’t want to make trouble, but I really think you ought to

have a word with that chap behind the bar.

Manager: Why, Sir?

James: Well, he was smoking while he was washing the glasses and his

cigarette ash fell into one of them. My glass was a little dirty, as a matter of

fact.

Manager: I’ll speak to him about that now. Is that all, Sir?

James: Well, no. There seems to be a rather strange couple next door. They

must be dancers or something. They make a terrible noise at about two in

the morning. Do you think you could have a word with them about it?

Manager: Yes, Sir. I’ll see what I can do.

James: I’m afraid there’s one more thing. Your new receptionist is very

polite, but he seems a little absent-minded. He never remembers to call me

in the morning and he must have made a mistake in my bill, because he

seems to have charged me too much.

Manager: Right, Mr. Morris. I’ll see what I can do. Is there anything else?

James: Well, I know I shouldn’t say this because it’s none of my business,

but you have increased your prices very considerably since last year, haven’t you?

Manager: I’m sorry, Mr. Morris, but we can’t do anything about that! It’s

the cost of living, you know. 110

 

Questions:

1. Is James satisfied with the service he gets? 2. What’s his opinion about

the barman? 3. What does James think of the receptionist? 4. What language shows that James was polite? 5. What about the hotel manager?

How do we know he’s polite? 6. Does the manager accept all James’ complaints? 7. What would you have said if you’d been James? 8. Would you

have been as polite as that? 9. Are all James’s complaints justified?

V. Read the dialogue and answer the questions given below.

Albert: Listen, the heating has broken in my room. When are you going to

come and fix it?

Manager: I’m sorry to hear that, Sir. I’ll get someone right away.

Albert: You’d better. It’s freezing up there. And my room’s disgrace. That

maid’s useless. I want her replaced.

Manager: Well, I’ll speak to the housekeeper about it, Sir, but I’m sure …

Albert: And that hall porter’s another one. Cheeky devil. You should get

rid of him too. Doesn’t know how to treat guests with respect. And look at

the money I’m paying.

Manager: Well, I’m very sorry, Sir, but George has been with us for 20

years and we’ve never had any complaints about him until now.

Albert: And another thing! What are you going to do about those foreigners

in number 27? Carrying on all night in that funny language. Shouting, they

were. It shouldn’t be allowed.

Manager: If you like, Sir, I’ll have a word with them and ask them to be a

little more considerate.

Albert: Yes, do that, will you? Then maybe I’ll get some sleep. 111

 

Manager: I’m very sorry you’ve been disturbed, Sir. But are you enjoying

your stay apart from that?

Albert: Well, I don’t think much of the restaurant. I can’t get a decent plate

of fish and chips. It’s all salad and fancy stuff. And the service is terrible,

too.

Manager: Well, Sir, I’m sure the waiters try to be as helpful as they can,

but they are very busy at dinner.

Albert: Well, you should get some more, shouldn’t you? You should be

able to afford it. You’re charging enough this year, aren’t you?

Manager: I’m very sorry you feel that way about it, Sir. Is there anything

else I can do to make your stay here more pleasant, please don’t hesitate to

ask me.

Albert: Don’t worry, I’ll tell you all right.

 

Questions:

1. How does Albert complain about the things he doesn’t like about the hotel he’s in. 2. He wasn’t very polite, was he? What should he have said to

be polite? 3. Was the manager polite speaking to Albert? 4. What would

you have said if you’d been the hotel manager?

VI. Сomplain about the following to another student.

Example: “Mary would think you’ve done that.” “She would.”

1. She would spread rumours. 2. I knew you would forget. 3. The car

would breakdown when we need it most. 4 They would turn up just when

we were in a hurry. 5. I tried to get away but Ann would keep talking.

 

VII. Complain about the followings things that people are doing in public.

Example: - “I get really annoyed by people who are always telling you all

the details of what they’ve been doing.”

- “They ought to stop telling you all the details of what they’ve

been doing.”

1. people smoking in restaurants; 2. people who take their dogs into shops;

3.people who leave litter in the countryside; 4. people who turn down the

corners of library books; 5. people who put their feet on the seats when

they’re on the train; 6. people who speak loudly on their mobile phones in

public transport.

 

VIII. Make shot conversations in the following situations.

1. Your neighbours upstairs have a leaking water-pipe in their bathroom

which is making damp stains on your ceiling. You’re annoyed. Phone your

friend to complain.

2. This last trick of your fellow-student is just too much. Complain to your

friend about the things that person has done, and what you are going to do,

or what you really ought to do.

3. You ordered a taxi for 9.00 a.m. The taxi arrives at 9.15, and you risk

missing the train.

4. You’ve just bought something and the shop assistant has given you the

wrong change by mistake. Make a complaint.

5. You don’t like the appearance of one of your group-mates. He always

looks untidy. His hair is long, his boots are always dirty, his trousers need

pressing. Complain to your friend about it.

 

6. You’ve just bought a CD player and found that the volume control

doesn’t work. You go back to the shop and ask the shop keeper to exchange it for another one. The shopkeeper is sure that you haven’t used the

player properly and rejects the complaint.

7. You bought a watch in a shop. There is really something wrong with it

because it is always 5 minutes slow. You complain to a shop-assistant and

he delays a complaint.

 

REVIEW

 

Exercise 1. Complete the following dialogues.

Dialogue 1

A. Good morning, Mrs. Turner. How are you?

B. ____________________________________

A. I’m not feeling well at the moment. I think I must have caught a

cold.

B. ____________________________________

Dialogue 2

A. Good morning.

B. Good morning. How are you today?

A. ____________________________________

B. ____________________________________

Dialogue 3

A. ____________________________________

B. Hello, Joan. I haven’t seen you for a long time. How are you getting

on?

A. _____________________________________

B. Oh, not too bad, thanks.

Dialogue 4

A. Very glad to see you again! How’s all your family?

B. _____________________________________

A. None too bright, could be better.

B. _____________________________________ 114

 

Dialogue 5

A. _____________________________________

B. Thank you, I will. It was nice to see you again. Give my best wishes

to your wife and the children.

A. _____________________________________

B. Goodbye.

Dialogue 6

A.Well, I think I’d better be going.

B. ______________________________________

A. Thanks, I will. Best wishes to Margaret.

B. ______________________________________

A. Cheerio. See you next Thursday.

Dialogue 7

A. I’ve come to say good-bye.

B. ______________________________________

A. I’m flying home on Sunday.

B. ______________________________________

A. Cheerio. Say good-bye to the rest of the family for me, won’t you?

Dialogue 8

A. _______________________________________

B. That’s all right.

A. _______________________________________

B. Good evening! No apology is needed. I didn’t come in time myself.

Dialogue 9

A. _______________________________________

B. Oh, don’t worry about that.

A. _______________________________________

B. No, I won’t hear of it. That’s quite out of the question.

Dialogue 10

A. Excuse me, could you tell me the correct time, please?

B. _______________________________________

A. I said: ”Could you tell me the correct time, please? My watch has

stopped.”

B. _______________________________________

A. Never mind, the bus is coming anyway. 115

 

Dialogue 11

A. Hello, Hugh. Any news?

B. _______________________________________

A. Congratulations! Everything all right?

B. _______________________________________

A. Good! Give my best wishes to Janet when you go to see her.

B. _______________________________________

Dialogue 12

A. So you are off to Warsaw on Saturday, Kate.

B. _______________________________________

A. I hope you have a nice holiday and a good rest.

B. _______________________________________

A. Well, I can’t promise, but I’ll do my best. Don’t forget to send me a

card.

B. _______________________________________

A. Well, all the best if I don’t see you before you leave.

B. _______________________________________

Dialogue 13

A. _______________________________________

B. Well, my whole family is in the United States now, but we are from

Costa Rica originally.

A. _______________________________________

B. Actually, Costa Rica isn’t in South America.

A. _______________________________________

B. Oh, right. My geography isn’t very good.

Dialogue 14

A.Would you like to come round to our place one evening? We could

have a drink and listen to some records.

B. _______________________________________

A. Are you doing anything special on Friday?

B. _______________________________________

A. Pity. Still, it can’t be helped. Are you free next Wednesday?

B. _______________________________________ 116

 

A. Oh, don’t mention it. Shall we say half past seven?

B. _______________________________________

A. Good, that’s settled, then. Well, I must rush off now. Bye.

B. _______________________________________

Dialogue 15

A. What’s the matter, you look as if you’ve been crying?

B. _______________________________________

A.What happened?

B. ________________________________________

A. Oh, dear! I’m really sorry to hear that. How old was she?

B. ________________________________________

Dialogue 16

Tom: ______________________________________

Jamie: Sure. What is it?

Tom:______________________________________

Jamie: Sure. Will you be long?

Tom:______________________________________

Jamie: Go ahead. It’ll be safe with me.

Dialogue 17

George: ___________________________________

Diana: Good idea. Where shall we meet?

George: ___________________________________

Diana: That’s a bit too early for me. Could we make it half past?

George:____________________________________

Diana: Bye.

Dialogue 18

David: Would you like to come round to our place one evening? We

could have a drink and listen to some records.

Jenny: _____________________________________

David: Are you doing anything special on Friday?

Jenny: _____________________________________

David: Pity. Still, it can’t be helped. Are free next Wednesday?

Jenny: _____________________________________ 117

 

David: Oh, don’t mention it. Shall we say half past seven?

Jenny:______________________________________

David: Good, that’s settled, then. Well, I must rush off now. Bye.

Dialogue 19

Ann: What is the meaning of the word “beautiful”?

Betsy: ___________________________________________

Ann: But let’s speak about your idea of beauty.

Betsy: Well. I can give you a good example. I have a friend, Mary. Her features are very delicate and her charm is irresistible.

Ann: ____________________________________________

Betsy: I think that inner beauty is more important than physical one. But

my friend has double beauty: character and appearance.

 

Exercise 2. Define what terms the speakers are on (formal or informal)

and prove your opinion. Pick up speech patterns used in the dialogues and

say what they express.

Dialogue 1

A: Jane, I’m very upset about something. Can I talk with you? I’d like to

have your opinion.

B: What is it about? Oh, is it about Ed?

A: Yes, it’s all about him.

B: So, what’s up?

A: What do you think of Ed, Jane?

B: What do I think of him? You know him better than I do, don’t you?

A: Please, don’t tease me. Just tell me.

B: Well, it seems to me that you finally met a person who can be a real

friend to to you. Tell me how much time you spend with him?

A: Besides we are classmates and we try to spend every spare minute together.

B: How do you spend your free time? 118

 

A: We go to the cinema, theatre, concerts, discuss our favorite books and

listen to music.

B: It seems to me that you spend too much time with him. You could pay

more attention to your old friends.

A: What are you driving at?

B: Do you remember when we went anywhere together?

A: Oh, I understood. I’m so sorry. I’ll try to pay more attention to you.

B: Well, never mind. I am not angry with you.

A: Thanks, Jane, for your understanding.

Dialogue 2

A: Hi, are you being helped?

B: No, I’m not. I’m interested in some scarves.

A: All our scarves are in this section. What do you think of this one

here? It’s made of silk.

B: It looks nice, but I’d like to have something warm for the winter.

A: Maybe you would like a heavy wool scarf? How about this one?

B: I think that’s what I want. How much is it?

A: It’s … seventy-five dollars plus tax.

B: It’s a little expensive. Do you think it’s possible to get a discount.

A: Hm, since you like it so much, how about a 10 percent discount. That’s

the best I can offer.

A: That’s good. Could you wrap it up for me?

B: Sure. Is there anything else I can get for you?

A: No, that should be it. Thank you.

Dialogue 3

A: Hi, can I help you?

B: No, thanks. I’m just looking.

A: All right. If you need any help, just let me know.

B: Sure. I’ll let you know if I need anything. (Karen pays attention to a

big-size mattress) Hm, this mattress is very firm. Jack will probably like it. 119

 

A: Did you find something you like?

B: Yes, this mattress is very good. It’s pretty firm. The mattress I’m now

sleeping on is saggy.

A: You’re right. This is a very good brand. It doesn’t sag easily. And we

offer a life-time warranty, so you don’t have to worry about its quality.

B: Does it come with a frame?

A: Unfortunately, it doesn’t. However, we could offer a ten percent discount on that. And also if you really interested, we have a very good financial plan here. There’s no payment, no interest until next June.

B: That’s an attractive plan. I’ll think about it.

A: Well, you’ve got to hurry. This mattress sells pretty well, and this promotion ends tomorrow.

Dialogue 4

A: Hi, Jack, how have you been?

B: Not very well.

A: Why? Looks like you’re feeling very down! What happened?

B: Nothing.

A: Come on. For a man who’s feeling so down, there’s usually two reasons. Either his career is going downhill, or he has a broken heart. Since

you are so successful, it must be the other.

B: Well, you are right. I just broke up with Jane.

A: Oh, I’m sorry. I thought you two were made for each other.

B: Well, you never know. I’m ready for a commitment and want to settle

down, but she says she wants to pursue her career while she’s still young.

A: Well, you can’t blame her. It’s always difficult to choose between career and family.

B: Maybe you are right.

A: Jack, I don’t know what to say to comfort you, but cheer up! You’ll find

a person, your perfect match!

B: Yeah, but it’s hard to forget her at the moment. You know we were together for almost five years. It’s really hard… 120

 

Dialogue 5

A: Hey, Jack, is Jenny coming with us?

B: Yes. Why?

A: Nothing. I’m just asking.

B: Just asking? But why is your face burning like mad? Ah-huh, someone

has a crush on Jenny, doesn’t he?

A: Who has a crush?!

B: Come on, Ted, don’t be such a chicken. If you like her, you’ve got to

tell her. Maybe she likes you.

A: Well, I don’t have the guts to ask her out.

B: What are you so afraid of? Just tell her what you’re feeling about her.

A: I’d totally die if she turned me down.

B: But that’s better than keeping everything to yourself. You’ve got to let

her know. Come on! You’ve got to take a chance! Even though you are rejected, it’s not the end of the world! There’s nothing to lose, is there?

A: I don’t know… Well, maybe, you are right, but how am I going to tell

her?

Dialogue 6

A: Have you a hat that will fit me, sir?

B: Velour or felt, black or grey, sir?

A: A grey felt, if not too expensive. What is the price of a good felt hat?

B: Here is one of superior quality for … shillings.

A: Let me try it on. It is too small.

B: Let’s try another. This will do well, I am sure.

A: I do not like the shape. Hats with so wide a brim are not to my taste; besides the Crown is too high.

B: Excuse me, sir. Hats with narrow brims and low crowns are quite unfashionable now. 121

 

A: Well, then I must take it, but the band is too narrow; can’t you change

it?

B: Yes, we can, but you will be charged one shilling extra for this kind of

alternation, sir.

A: Never mind. How long do I have to wait.

B: Oh, it’ll be done in 10-15 minutes.

A: Very good. I’ll go over to the shoe department in the meantime. Which

way am I to go?

B: It’s on the second floor to your right, sir.

Dialogue 7

A: I think television is one of the worst inventions the man ever made. It

occupies all our spare time. We rush home to be in time for this or that

program.

B: I can’t agree with you, john. Television made it possible for people who

live far away from cultural centers to watch theatrical productions, concerts, music and drama competitions, international and national sports

events.

A: I do agree with Ann in this. That’s an advantage the television has. Unfortunately children are the ones who suffer most.

B: Yes. Some American children spend more time in front of TV-sets than

in front of the teacher. Too much television is bad for children.

A: Children should be taught what programs to watch. Most of our educational programs are really good and informative. I used to enjoy them

when a child.

B: What I hate it violence which looks even more violent on color television. 122

 

A: Yes, that’s really awful. There’s always a film of violence on one of the

channels. I think children feel indifferent when people are killed.

B: I doubt that. Can’t your teachers do something about it? They should

protest against violence on TV.

A: They do protest. But television companies take no notice of them. These

films sell well.

Dialogue 8

A: Are you being served, madam?

B: Not yet.

A: What can I do for you?

B: I should like some silk for a dress, please.

A: Natural silk? And what color would you like?

B: Actually, I don’t know. May I ask you to help me make my choice?

A: With the greatest pleasure. Now, would you like it with a pattern or

plain?

B: Well, show me something with a pattern, please.

A: Here is some fine silk that I’m sure you will like.

B: The pattern is too showy. Something quieter, please. Show me that roll

on the third shelf, please, the light blue one.

A: This one?

B: No, the other next to it, please.

A: Here you are. You might look at this as well – this is of much better

quality.

B: Oh, yes, it is indeed. How wide is it?

A: 48 inches, madam.

B: Will you tell me how much I would need for a dress?

A: Well, it depends upon the fashion you choose.

B: I don’t want anything stylish – a dress of severe lines is what I like.

A: I suppose six yards would do.

 

WORKS SITED

∗

 

 

1. Carver, T. A. Conversational book: English in Everyday Life. Englewood Cliffs, 1985.

2. Плюхина, З. А. Англичане говорят так / З. А. Плюхина. ‒ М.:

Высш. шк., 1991.

3. Blundell, John. Function in English, 1992.

4. Arbekova, T. A textbook for learners who take English seriously. –

InKA Teler, ‒ Moscow, 1993.

5. Drozdova, T. Everyday English. – Antology, st.Petersburg, 2004.

6. Clare, A. Total English (Intermediate) – Longman, 2006.

7. Acklam, A. Total English (Upper Intermediate) – Longman, 2006.

8. Зиновьева, Л. Английский язык: 1000 фраз и диалогов / Л. Зино-

В. –М.:ЭКСМО-2009