Thank you. I appreciate your help.
Great job. You now have the tools to say no, give bad news, and complain – politely.
You are a customer at a busy restaurant. You ordered a steak medium-rare. It arrives well-done (overcooked). You want a new one. You must be firm but polite. First, listen to the example.
End of audio file.
(5-second pause for practice)
(Long pause. Exhales) Fine. Sunday, 7 p.m. Don’t be late.
Welcome back to Learn Hot English audio. In that dialogue, Sofia did three things perfectly. Let’s break them down. Learn-hot-english-magazine-audio-files
(Firm but calm) That’s not an option. I’m the maid of honour. But… let me finish my thought. I can work on the flight Friday night, and I can be back online Sunday evening by 6 p.m. That’s 10 hours.
(Rushed, slightly pressured) Hey, Sofia. Got a sec?
(Sighing) That’s not a full weekend.
(Pause. Takes a breath) Mark, I can’t do that.
No. But it’s the best I can offer. Or, we ask James. He’s not on a project right now.
(Rushed) Here you are, sir. Enjoy your meal. Thank you
(Muttering) Yeah. Noted. SEGMENT 2: Language Breakdown (Teacher’s Corner) Host speaks clearly, slightly slower than native speed, with pauses for repetition.