In English, write questions about phone numbers. Mini-dialogues "Telephone conversations"

Hi all! Let's keep talking!

Talking on the phone in English can be very stressful. We often have to resolve various issues over the phone, be it meeting a friend or booking a table at a restaurant. The following sample dialogues will help you prepare.

From this dialogue you can learn take a call in English.

- Hello! Can I speak to Sarah?	- Hello! Can I talk to Sarah?
- Hello! Who's asking?	- Hello! Who's asking?
– It’s John, we work together.	- This is John, we work together.
– Wait a second, I’ll call her.	- Wait a second, I'll call her.

In this telephone conversation, a young man asks his colleague for his phone number mutual friend.

- Hi, John!	- Hello, John!
– Hi, Sarah! How are you?	- Hello, Sarah! How are you?
– Fine, thanks. You?	- OK, thank you. And you?
– I’m fine too. Listen, I wanted to ask you if you know Lisa’s phone number. I wanted to ask her on a date.	- I'm good too. Listen, I was wondering if you knew Lisa's number. I want to ask her out on a date.
– Lisa’s? Let me see. Yes, I think I have it.	- Lisa? Let me think. Yes, I think there is.
– Could you give it to me, please?	- Could you give it to me, please?
– All right, I hope she won’t mind. +44 5674889903.	- Okay, I hope she won't mind. +44 5674889903.
– Thank you so much, Sarah! See you tomorrow at work.	- Thank you very much, Sarah! See you at work tomorrow!
- See you! Good luck!	- See you! Good luck!

This dialogue provides an example of a more formal telephone call. conversation between secretary and visitor.

Dialogue between two friends.

- Hello! Ann, is that you?	- Hello! Ann, is that you?
– Mary! What's up?	- Mary! What's new?
– I want to go to the cinema tomorrow evening, wanna join?	— I want to go to the cinema tomorrow night, would you like to join?
– Sure! What do you want to watch?	- Certainly! What do you want to see?
– There is a new romantic comedy with Taylor Lautner...	— A new romantic comedy with Taylor Lautner has been released...
– Oh I love this actor! And at what time do you wanna go?	- I adore this actor! And what time do you want to go?
– It starts at 7 pm. What do you think?	— Starts at 7. What do you think?
– I’d love to go! Should we invite someone else?	- I'll be happy to go! Shall we invite someone else?
– Maybe Kate wants to come, she likes Lautner too.	“Maybe Kate will want to go, she likes Lautner too.”
– Okay, I’ll call here now and ask.	“Okay, I’ll call her now and ask.”
– Great! See you tomorrow!	- Great! See you tomorrow!
- See you.	- See you.

This conversation is taking place between two classmates.

- Hello! I'd like to speak to Adam Johnson.	- Hello! I'd like to talk to Adam Johnson.
- Hello! It's Cara Johnson, his sister. I'll call him now.	- Hello! This is Kara Johnson, his sister. I'll call him now.
- Okay, thank you.	- OK, thank you.
– Hey, this is Adam. Who's speaking?	- Hello, this is Adam. Who's speaking?
– It’s Jacob, we’re in Biology class together.	- This is Jacob, we go to biology class together.
– Sure I remember you, what’s up?	- Of course, I remember you. How are you?
– Ms.Golden asked me to call everyone and ask if they want to go to the National Museum next Tuesday.	Mrs. Golden asked me to call everyone and ask if they wanted to go to the National Museum next Tuesday.
– Instead of the lesson?	— Instead of a lesson?
– Yes. Everybody present will be granted ten points.	- Yes. Everyone who comes will receive 10 points.
– Okay, I’m in!	- Great, I'm for it!
– Great! If there are any more details, I’ll let you know.	- Wonderful! If there are any new details, I'll let you know.
– Thanks. See you.	- Thank you. See you.

An example of how reserve a hotel room by phone.

- Hello! Is this the “Northern Hotel”?	- Hello! Is this Northern Hotel?
- Hello, sir. Yes, how can I help you?	- Hello, sir! Yes, how can I help you?
– I would like to book a room in your hotel. Is it possible?	— I would like to reserve a room at your hotel. Is this possible?
– Of course. What date? How long are you going to stay?	- Certainly. On what date? How long are you going to stay here?
– From 8th till 14th of April.	— From 8 to 14 April.
– Perfect. Would you like a single or a double room?	- Great. Would you like a room for one person or two?
– A double room, please. I am traveling with my wife.	- Two, please. I am traveling with my wife.
– With a view on the mountains or on the sea?	— With a view of the mountains or the sea?
– On the mountains, please.	- To the mountains, please.
- All right. We happen to have a couple of available rooms with the view on the mountains. Could you please tell me your name and your phone number?	- Fine. We just have several free rooms with mountain views. Could you tell me your name and phone number?
– Jason Lee And my number is +56 7899002319.	— Jason Lee. And my phone number is +56 7899002319.
- Ok, thank you. Wait a second… Your booking number is 432568.	- OK thanks. Wait a second... Your reservation number is 432568.
– Should I pay in advance?	— Do I need to pay in advance?
– No, you can pay after you arrive in the hotel. Also, in case you have to cancel, it is free as well.	— No, you can pay after you arrive at the hotel. Also, if necessary, cancellation of the reservation is free.
– That’s great, thank you! Good bye!	- Great, thanks. Goodbye!
- Good bye.	- Goodbye.

So it is possible book a table at a restaurant in English.

- Hello! This is “Red Dragon”. How can I help you?	- Hello! This is Red Dragon. How can I help you?
- Hello! I would like to reserve a table for today at 8 pm.	- Hello! I would like to reserve a table for 8pm tonight.
– I am terribly sorry, madam, but for today it is all full.	- I'm very sorry, but there are no places for today.
– What about tomorrow?	- And for tomorrow?
– Yes, it is possible. Tomorrow at 8 pm?	- Yes it is possible. Tomorrow at 8 o'clock?
- That's right.	- Right.
- Very well. Could you please tell me your full name?	- Great. Could you tell me your full name?
– Karen Bennett.	— Karen Bennett.
– And for how many people?	- How many people?
– For ten people.	- On 10.
– Will you need a birthday cake?	— Would you like a birthday cake?
– No, thank you, it’s just a business meeting.	- No, thank you, this is a business meeting.
– No problem. All right, tomorrow, 10th of August a reservation at 8 pm for ten people. Please do not be late.	- No problem. Okay, tomorrow August 10th there is a reservation for 8 pm for 10 people. Please don't be late.
– Thank you very much. Good bye.	- Thank you very much. Goodbye.
- Good bye.	- Goodbye.

After studying examples of these dialogues, you will be able to communicate on the phone in English, both in business and informal communication.

If you confidently talk to your interlocutor in person, but at the thought of making a phone call you break out in a cold sweat - this article is for you.

Today we’ll talk about how to conduct a dialogue in English on the phone, what phrases to use for conversation, and also look at examples of telephone conversations in English with translation.

Communication over the telephone (a conversation over the telephone or telephone conversation) is always more difficult to conduct than the usual face-to-face dialogue. This is due to the fact that the interlocutor on the other end of the line does not see your facial expressions and gestures. He evaluates what is said based on the rate of speech, intonation and pronunciation - in this case, it is your knowledge of the English language that is “at gunpoint”.

Of course, for the most part we are talking about business calls: if you need to call someone at work, take a call from the HR service (recruitment), report to the director about a project, or interest potential partners in a product. But the skill of telephone conversations in English will be useful to you in life: to reserve a table in a restaurant, book a hotel room, call government services, an insurance hotline, a medical facility, and much more.

The first impression is usually formed in the first 30 seconds of a telephone conversation. Therefore, you need to be confident and calm. Check out our helpful tips on how to prepare for and successfully conduct a telephone conversation:

Write a conversation plan.

Especially if you are planning to call your work partner abroad. Write down on a piece of paper a few main topics that you would like to discuss. You can do this schematically, or you can do it right away - in whole sentences, so as not to get confused and forget the idea during a conversation. This will help you not to be nervous, because you will know exactly what to say to your interlocutor.

Rehearse the dialogue.

Before making an important call, we recommend replaying it several times not only in your head, but also speaking out loud. You can do this in front of a mirror, or you can ask a friend or family member to help you. This way you will not only remember the phrases you wanted to say faster, but you will also feel more confident.

Use an electronic dictionary.

During a conversation, your interlocutor may use words that are not yet known to you. In this case, keep an electronic dictionary on hand. Ask the person to spell the word and check its meaning online.

Don't be afraid to ask to repeat what you don't understand.

Maybe the quality of the connection is not very good, and your conversation is interrupted by interference and silence, or maybe you just didn’t understand the meaning of the phrase the first time. One way or another, ask your interlocutor to repeat what was said. There's nothing wrong with that. Plus, while he repeats, you can consult your plan or electronic dictionary.

Maintain a formal communication style and be polite.

It’s the same as with official letters: don’t shorten words or use slang unnecessarily.

And of course, do not forget to use polite turns of phrase like “could you, please” and “thank you”, otherwise you may be considered a rude interlocutor.

Practice listening.

Those who will have to talk a lot on the phone in English should develop their listening skills. This is necessary to make it easier to understand foreign speech by ear, regardless of the accent, intonation and speed of speech of the interlocutor.

Work on your pronunciation.

In addition to simple listening, you need to work on your speaking. Practice dialogues more often, pronounce complex words and constructions out loud.

Learn phrases for communication.

By memorizing a few of these universal phrases, you can supportalmost any conversation, including telephone. Check them out.

Use professional language.

In addition to common phrases for communication, you simply need to know highly specialized vocabulary related to your work topic. This will allow you not only to understand what exactly your interlocutor is talking about, but will also increase the level of trust on his part when you skillfully use terms in a conversation.

Well, now let’s move on directly to the phrases themselves, which are useful for talking on the phone in English.

Greetings and conversation starters

There are different ways to introduce yourself over the phone. The simplest and most understandable -“Hello, this is...”(Hello, this is...). Next, we state your name and occupation or position, if necessary. Let's imagine that a guy named John is calling someone. He can introduce himself simply"This is John".

Other phrases to start a dialogue:“John is speaking” and “It’s John here” (This is John).

If you are calling on behalf of a company, then say so right away:

Good morning. This is John Brighton from “IST Solutions” - Good morning. This is John Brayton from IST Solutions.

If you are calling a specific person and know his name, then you can ask him to answer the phone using the following phrases:

Could/Can/May I speak to..., please? – Can I talk to... please?
May I speak to...? - Please....!
Is...in? -... on the spot?
This is John calling for ... - This is John, I’m calling ...

If, on the contrary, you receive a call and the interlocutor has not introduced himself, then you can clarify his name:

Could I ask who is calling? - May I know who is calling?
May I ask who is calling? - May I ask who is calling?
Can I take your name, please? - May I know your name, please?

You can immediately ask about the purpose of the call:

Where are you calling from? -Where are you calling from?
Could you tell me what it is about? - Could you tell me the purpose of the call?
Who are you calling? - Who are you calling?
Who do you want to speak to? -Who would you like to talk to?
The name of the person you are calling, please? - Please tell me the name of the person you are calling.
What company are you calling from? - Which company are you calling from?

It would be a good idea to ask the interlocutor if it is convenient for him to talk on the phone now:

Is it convenient for you to talk at the moment? - Is it comfortable for you to talk now?

By the way, if you are calling to book a hotel room or a table in a restaurant, then get straight to the point:

I’m calling to make a reservation - I’m calling to reserve (room, table).

It also happens that the person you are calling is busy. Or, you are busy and cannot answer. Standard phrases come to the rescue:

Can I call you back? - Can I call you back?
Could you call me back, please? – Could you call me back, please?
I’ll call back later - I’ll call back later.
Could you call again a little later, please? - Could you call back a little later?
Try calling again later - Try calling back later.
Could you tell me when the best time to call is? - Tell me, please, when is the best time to call you back?

It happens that a person is busy or moved away and cannot answer the call. How to answer that a person is not there and ask when he will return:

He is not here - He is not there.
Mr Brown is out at the moment - Mr Brown is out now.
I’m afraid he"s out at the moment - I’m afraid he’s not here now.
John is not here right now - John is not here now.
I am afraid he is in a meeting now - I'm afraid he's at a meeting now.
He is talking on another phone now - He is now talking on another phone.
She is not in the office at the moment - She is not in the office now.

When will he be in? - When will he come?
In about 2 hours. - In 2 hours.
Won't be back in 15 minutes - He will return in 15 minutes.
She will be back in an hour - She will be back in an hour.

In this case, we leave our phone number (or ask the interlocutor for it) or leave a message for the addressee. By the way, the number we leave is called “call back number”.

What is your telephone number? - What is your phone number?
Could you leave your phone number, please? - Could you leave your number? Could I get your phone number, please? - May I know your number?
My telephone number is... - My phone number...
You can reach me at... - You can contact me at...
Call me at... - Call me at number...
Could you please tell me... - Tell me, please...
Can I get your name? - May I know your name?

Could/Can/May I take a message? - Can I give you something?
Would you like to leave a message? - Would you like to leave a message?
Is there any message? - Anything to pass on?
What message would you like to leave? - What would you like to convey?
Tell him I will call in the evening, please - Tell him that I will call in the evening, please.
Tell him John telephoned and I’ll call again at half past four - Tell him John called and I’ll call you back at 16:30.

Write down the caller's number: “Hold on, let me grab a pen and a piece of paper. What's your number again? (Wait, I'll take a pen and paper. What number did you give?). Assure the person that you will convey the message:

Great! I’ll let him know you called - Excellent. I'll let him know you called.
I will pass on the message - I will pass on the message.

But the caller may say that he will not transfer anything and will simply call back: No, that’s okay. I’ll try again later (No, everything is fine. I’ll try to call back later). You can take this phrase into service for yourself.

What should you do if you dialed the wrong number and ended up in the wrong place? Specify the number and, politely apologizing, end the conversation:

Is this 555-5555? - Is this number 555-5555?
I must have got the wrong number - I must have dialed the wrong number.
I’m sorry, I must have dialed the wrong number - Sorry, I must have dialed the wrong number.
Sorry to have troubled you - Sorry I had to bother you.

If, on the contrary, they called you and made a mistake, then you should check with the person on the other end of the line where he called and also politely say that he was mistaken:

What number are you calling? - What number are you calling?
What number did you dial? - What number did you dial?
I’m sorry, but we don’t have … here - Unfortunately, we don’t have an employee with that last name.
Sorry, you must have got the wrong number - Sorry, you must have got the wrong number.
Sorry, you’ve got the wrong number - Sorry, you got the wrong number.
You must have misdialed - You must have dialed the wrong number.

If the number dialed is correct and the person you are calling is on the spot, you will be connected to him:

I"ll put him on - I will connect you with him.
I’ll put you through - I’ll connect you.
Please hold, I’ll transfer you - Please wait, I’ll transfer you.
Please hold and I"ll put you through to his office - Please wait and I will connect you to his office.

You can also use the following phrases to take a time out and call someone to the phone if you are receiving a call:

One moment, please - Just a minute, please.
Just a moment, please - Just a minute, please.
Please hold - Please wait.
Hold the line, please - Please stay on the line.

Let's continue the conversation on the phone

Let's say you got to where you need to go and the person you want to talk to is there. Let's move on to phrases that will be useful during the conversation itself.

It happens that the connection is bad and you need to tell your interlocutor about it:

Can you hear me? - You hear me?
I can't hear you - I can't hear you.
It's a bad line - The connection is bad.
This line is so poor - The connection is very poor.
This is such a terrible line (It "s a really bad line). I can’t hear a thing - I don’t hear anything, the connection is terrible.
Sorry, it’s too noisy here today - Sorry, it’s very noisy here today.
The line just went dead - The connection has disconnected.

So it's okay if you ask to repeat something or speak more clearly:Could you please speak up a little? - Could you speak a little louder, please?

Sorry, can you speak up? - Excuse me, could you speak louder?
Could you please speak a little slower? My English is not very strong - Could you speak a little slower please. I don't speak English very well. Could you speak a little louder, please? - Could you speak a little louder, please?
Sorry, I didn’t quite understand that - Sorry, I didn’t quite understand what you told me.
Sorry, I did not catch you - Sorry, I didn’t understand you.
Sorry, I did not catch that - Sorry, I didn’t understand.
Could you please repeat that? - Could you repeat that?
I’m sorry, I didn’t get that. Could you say it again, please? - Sorry, I didn’t understand what you said. Could you repeat it please?
Could you repeat your last phrase, please? - Could you repeat your last phrase, please?
I’m sorry, I don’t understand. Could you repeat that, please? - Sorry, I can’t understand. Could you repeat this again please?
Could you, please, repeat what you said? - Could you repeat what you said?

If everything is very bad, just tell meCould you call me back, please? I think we have a bad connection (Could you call me back? I think we have communication problems).

Most likely, you will need to ask the other person to spell something in order to understand the name or title. This is fine:

Would you mind spelling that for me? - Please spell it (Would you mind spelling it?)
How do you spell that? - Please spell it.

Just as in Russian we are used to dictating by letter based on names (Ruslan, Olga), so in English there is a universal alphabet for this:

A - Alpha
B - Bravo
C-Charlie
D - Delta
E-Echo
F - Foxtrot
G - Golf
H-Hotel
I - India
J-Juliet
K-Kilo
L - Lima
M-Mike
N - November
O-Oscar
P-Papa
Q - Quebec
R - Romeo
S-Sierra
T-Tango
U-Uniform
V - Victor
W - Whiskey
X - X-ray
Y-Yankee
Z-Zulu

By the way, the line you are calling on may be busy:

The line is busy - Busy.
I’m sorry, but the line is engaged at the moment - I’m sorry, but the line is busy now.
I can't get through at the moment - I can't get through.

It happens that during a conversation the essence is a little lost or you want to say something else. The following phrases will help you politely interrupt someone:

Wait a minute! What about?.. - Wait a minute! And what's about?..
Would you mind if I just say something here? - Would you mind if I say something now?
I’m sorry for interruption, but... - Sorry to interrupt you, but...
May I add something here, please? - Can I add something please?

If the conversation has gone completely off track, politely return to the topic:

So, let me continue... - So, let me continue...
Anyway, let’s get back to the topic... - In any case, let’s get back to the subject of conversation...
To return to what I was talking about... - Returning to what I said...

If you have a long conversation ahead of you mobile phone, then the device may be discharged. You can inform your interlocutor about this as follows:

I’m sorry, I need to recharge my mobile. The battery is very low - I need to charge my phone, the battery is almost empty.
My battery"s about to run out - My battery is almost empty.
I need to charge up my phone - I need to charge my phone.

By the way, you can express your intention to call or use someone else’s phone in a public place by contacting the person:

I have to make a phone call - I need to call.
Could I use your phone? It's urgent! - Can I use your phone? It's urgent!

Before you say goodbye, do not forget to summarize the main results of the telephone conversation. If you have booked a room or a table in a restaurant, ask to clarify all the details again; if you have made an appointment (arrange an appointment), then check the place and time again. Don't forget to leave your contact information with the person if this is your first conversation.

Parting

Everything is quite simple here: be polite, say goodbye to the person you are talking to by name and say that you were glad to talk to him on the phone.

Bye, ... - Goodbye, ...
Goodbye, ... - Goodbye, ...
Thank you. Goodbye - Thank you, goodbye.
Take care, goodbye - Take care of yourself, goodbye.
Have a nice day - All the best.
It"s been nice to talk to you - It was nice to talk to you
I look forward to hearing from you soon - I look forward to your next call.
I hope to have been of help to you - I hope I could help you.
Thanks for calling. Goodbye - Thanks for calling. Goodbye.

By the way, do you remember that there is such a thing as an answering machine? Although they are becoming less common these days, they are still used in some companies and homes.

Option for personal answering machine:Hello, this is John. I"m sorry I"m not available to take your call at this time. Please, leave me a message and I"ll get back to you as soon as I can. (Hi, this is John. I'm sorry, but I can't answer the call right now. Please leave your message and I'll call you back right away, as soon as I can).

How to introduce yourself

Table 2. How to introduce yourself over the phone in English

How to ask to speak to someone

Table 3. How to call someone on the phone in English

How to ask to wait

Table 4. How to ask to wait in English

How to ask for something over the phone

Table 5. How to ask by phone in English

How to ask to leave a message

Table 6. How to ask to leave a message in English

Sammy"s not in. Who"s this?	Sammy is not at home. Who's calling?
I"m sorry, Lisa"s not here at the moment. Can I ask who's calling?	Sorry, Lisa is not at home right now. May I know who is calling?
I"m afraid he"s stepped out. Would you like to leave a message?	I'm afraid he's moved away. Would you like to leave a message?
He"s on lunch right now. Who"s calling please?	He's at lunch now. Who is asking him?
He's busy right now. Can you call again later?	He is busy now. Could you call back later?
I"ll let him know you called.	I'll let him know you called.
I"ll make sure she gets the message.	Rest assured, I will pass on your message to him.

How to leave a message

Table 7. How to leave a message in English

Yes, can you tell him his wife called, please.	Could you tell him that his wife is calling?
No, that's okay, I'll call back later.	It's OK. I'll call you back later.
Yes, it "s James from ____ here. When do you expect her back in the office?	James is calling from ____. When will she return to work?
Thanks, could you ask him to call Brian when he gets in?	Thank you. Would you ask him to call Brian back when he gets back?
Thanks. My number is 222-3456, extension 12.	Thank you. My number is 222-3456, extension 12.

How to confirm something

Table 8. How to confirm in English

How to listen to a message on your answering machine

Table 9. How to listen to a message in English

Hello. You"ve reached 222-6789. Please leave a detailed message after the beep. Thank you.	Hello, you have reached 222-6789. Please leave a detailed message after the signal. Thank you.
Hi, this is Elizabeth. I"m sorry I"m not available to take your call at this time. Leave me a message and I"ll get back to you as soon as I can.	Hello, this is Elizabeth. I'm sorry I can't take your call right now. Leave a message and I will call you back as soon as I can.
Thank you for calling Dr. Mindin's office. Our hours are 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday. Please call back during these hours, or leave a message after the tone. If this is an emergency please call the hospital at 503-7896.	Thank you for calling Dr. Mindin's office. Our opening hours are from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Please call back at this time or leave a message after the tone. If you have an emergency, call the hospital at 503-7896.

How to leave a message on an answering machine

Table 10. How to leave a message on an answering machine in English

Hey Danny. It's Alice. Call me!	Hello Danny. This is Alice. Call me back!
Hello, this is Ricardo calling for Luke. Could you please return my call as soon as possible. My number is 504-5689. Thank you.	Hello, this is Ricardo. I need Luke. Could you please call back as soon as possible? My number is 504-5689.
Hello John. This is Marina from the doctor"s office calling. I just wanted to let you know that you"re due for a check-up this month. Please give us a ring/buzz whenever it's convenient.	Hello John. Marina calls you from the clinic. I wanted to tell you that you need to undergo an examination this month. Please call back at your convenience.

How to end a conversation

Table 11. How to end a telephone conversation in English

Glossary of terms for talking on the phone

Table 12. English dictionary to talk on the phone

to answer		answer the call
answering machine	[ˈænsərɪŋ məˈʃiːn]	answering machine
	[ˈbɪzi ˈsɪgn(ə)l]	short beeps


to call back/phone back		call back
		phone screen
cellular phone/cell phone	[ˈseljulə "fəun sel ˈfəun]	mobile phone
		wireless phone
		dial
directory/phone book		phone book
		hang up
	["ɔp(ə)reɪtə]	operator

phone booth/pay phone	[ˈfəun buːð / pei ˈfəun]	phone booth
international dial code	[ˌɪntə"næʃ(ə)n(ə)l "daɪəl kəud]	international dialing code
		to answer a call
		handset


		phone call
		phonebook

And in Bulgarian “Telephone directory” is “telephone index”, and in Ukrainian “telephone directory”.

Conversing on the phone in English in business is one of the most difficult tasks that employees of international companies have to perform. The point here is both the language barrier and the fear of not understanding the interlocutor. Therefore, we will tell you what phrases can be used in a telephone conversation in English in different cases, and we will give general tips on how to properly communicate on the phone with native speakers in order to understand everything and be understood.

We have written a simple phrasebook for travelers, in which you will find dialogues, phrases and vocabulary on 25 essential topics. Go on a journey with the main character and improve your English. You can download the book for free at.

Useful phrases for talking on the phone

Greetings

The theater begins with a hanger, and a telephone conversation in English begins with a greeting. In addition to the usual Good morning/afternoon/evening, you need to introduce yourself. According to the rules of etiquette, you need to immediately tell your interlocutor who is bothering him. In this case, it is advisable to give not only your full name, but also the company you represent.

Welcome phrases in English on the phone:

Phrase	Translation
This is Ostap Bender calling.	It's Ostap Bender who worries.
It's Ostap Bender here.	This is Ostap Bender.
It’s Ostap Bender from “Horns and hoofs” here.
This is Ostap Bender from “Horns and hoofs”.	This is Ostap Bender from Horns and Hooves.

And after the person greets you, be sure to ask a simple but very important question:

Phrase	Translation
Is it convenient for you to talk at the moment?	Are you comfortable talking now?

If the person is busy, immediately clarify when you can talk to him. Take into account the following phrases:

Phrase	Translation
Can I call you back?	Can I call you back?
I'll call back later.	I'll call you back later.
Could you tell me when the best time to call is?	Please tell me when is the best time to call you back?

It may also happen that you dial the wrong number. In this case, you can use the following phrases:

How to respond to a greeting

Now let’s imagine the opposite situation - they called you and introduced themselves. How to answer your interlocutor correctly?

First, be sure to say hello with the usual words Good morning/afternoon/evening, then, depending on your position and the specifics of cooperation with foreign partners and clients, you can use the following phrases when talking on the phone in English:

Phrase	Translation
“Horns and hoofs.” How can I help you?	"Horns and hooves". How can I help you?
Thank you for calling “Horns and hoofs”. Ostap Bender speaking. How can I help you?	Thanks for calling Horns and Hooves. Ostap Bender is on the phone. How can I help you?
“Horns and hoofs”, Ostap Bender speaking. How may I be of help?	“Horns and Hooves”, Ostap Bender on the phone. How can I help you?
“Horns and hoofs”, Ostap Bender speaking. Is there anything I can do for you?	“Horns and Hooves”, Ostap Bender on the phone. Can I help you?

Are you busy at the moment? Politely ask the person to call you back later.

The person has the wrong number? Let him know about this using one of the following phrases.

Phrase	Translation
What number are you calling?	What number are you calling?
What number did you dial?	What number did you dial?
I’m sorry, but we don’t have Mr. Koreiko here.	Unfortunately, Mr. Koreiko does not work for us / we do not have an employee with that last name.
Sorry, you must have the wrong number.	Sorry, you must have the wrong number.
Sorry, you’ve got the wrong number.	I'm sorry, you have the wrong number.
You must have misdialed.	You must have dialed the wrong number.

There are situations when a person has the wrong number, but his call is unpleasant to you, for example, if he intrusively offers you unnecessary goods or services. How to politely answer an unwanted call?

Phrase	Translation
I"m sorry, I"m not interested.	Unfortunately, I'm not interested.
Sorry, I'm busy at the moment.	I'm sorry, I'm busy right now.
We have no interest in your services.	We are not interested in your services.
Please, accept that I do not want any more telephone calls.	Please note that I do not want you to call me.

How to clarify caller information

Let's imagine that they called you, but did not introduce themselves. In this case, you need to avoid pauses in the conversation and immediately clarify who is calling and for what purpose. In this situation, use the following phrases:

Phrase	Translation
Who is calling, please?	Please, introduce yourself.
Could I ask who's calling?	May I know who is calling?
May I ask who's calling?	May I ask who is calling?
Can I take your name, please?	May I know your name please?
Where are you calling from?	Where are you calling from?
Could you tell me what it's about?	Could you please tell me the purpose of the call?
Who are you calling?	Who are you calling?
Who do you want to speak to?	Who would you like to talk to?
The name of the person you are calling, please?	Please state the name of the person you are calling.
What company are you calling from?	Which company are you calling from?

How to ask to be connected to the right person

You call the company, but end up with a secretary or the general telephone number of a large department. In this case, you need to ask the employee to call the person you need on the phone. You can also ask to be connected to the internal telephone number of a specific employee. Use these phrases:

Phrase	Translation
Can I speak to Mr. Koreiko?	Can I speak to Mr. Koreiko?
Can I get Mr. Koreiko, please?
May I speak with Mr. Koreiko, please?	Can I speak to Mr. Koreiko please?
Could I speak to Mr. Koreiko, please?	Can I speak to Mr. Koreiko please?
I'd like to speak to Mr. Koreiko, please.	I'd like to speak to Mr. Koreiko, please.
Is Mr. Koreiko there, please?	Tell me, please, is Mr. Koreiko there?
Could you put me through to Mr. Koreiko, please?	Could you put me through to Mr. Koreiko, please?
Could I have extension number 635?	Could you connect me to number 635?

How to ask to wait to connect with the right person

And again the opposite situation - they call your company, and you understand that the interlocutor needs another employee. In this case, you need to ask the person not to hang up and wait for the connection. When speaking on the phone in English, depending on the specifics of your activity, the following phrases are used:

Phrase	Translation
I"ll put him on.	I will connect you with him.
I'll put you through.	I'll connect you.
Hold the line, please.	Please stay on the line.
One moment please.	One minute please.
Please hold and I"ll put you through to his office.	Please wait and I will connect you to his office.
One moment, please. I'll see if Mr. Koreiko is available.	One minute please. I'll see if Mr. Koreiko can answer the phone.
Do you know what extension he"s on?	Do you know what line he is on (internal phone)?

What to do if the connection is bad

Interference on the line is the main phobia of any person who needs to conduct a conversation on the phone in English. However, do not be discouraged, a few simple phrases will help you cope with this situation. These phrases will help you out if technical problems arise:

Phrase	Translation
Can you hear me?	You hear me?
I can't hear you.	I can not hear you.
It's a bad line.	Bad connection.
This line is so poor.	Very bad connection.
Could you please speak up a little?	Could you speak a little louder please?
Could you please speak a little slower? My English isn't very strong.	Could you speak a little slower please. I don't speak English very well.
Could you speak a bit louder, please?	Could you speak a little louder please?
Sorry, I didn’t quite understand that.	Sorry, I didn't quite understand what you told me.
Sorry, I didn't catch you.	I'm sorry, I did not catch you.
Could you please repeat that?	Could you repeat that?
I’m sorry, I didn’t get that. Could you say it again, please?	Sorry, I didn't understand what you said. Could you repeat it please?
Could you repeat your last phrase, please?	Could you repeat your last sentence please?
I’m sorry, I don’t understand. Could you repeat that, please?	Sorry, I can't understand. Could you repeat this again please?
Could you repeat, please, what did you say?	Could you repeat what you said?
Did you say Saturday 9 a.m.?	Did you say Saturday 9am?
You said his name was Ostap, right?	You said his name is Ostap, right?
Would you mind spelling that for me?	Please spell it. / Would it be difficult for you to spell it?
How do you spell that?	Please spell it out.
Could you please call me back? I think we have a bad connection.	Could you call me back? I think we have communication problems.
Let me read this back to you.	Let me read what I wrote down from your words (to make sure it is correct).
Let me repeat that just to make sure.	Let me repeat to make sure I understand everything correctly.

Sometimes it’s not a bad connection, but a call on the other line prevents you from talking. If a call on the second line is more important than a call on the first, you can apologize to the interlocutor and ask him to put himself in your position. Use these phrases:

How to make an appointment

If you are calling a person to set up a meeting with them, use the phrase templates below. They sound polite and will help you quickly reach an agreement with your interlocutor. Use the following phrases to make an appointment:

Phrase	Translation
I'd like to arrange an appointment.	I would like to make an appointment.
When is it convenient for you?	When is it convenient for you?
Would next Friday be okay?	Is next Friday convenient for you?
I could make it after five.	I can meet you after five o'clock.
I wonder if you would mind if I visited your office next week?	I was wondering if you would mind if I visit your office next week?
Shall we say 5:20 next Friday, in “Horns and hoofs’s” office?	So at 5:20 on Friday at the Horns and Hooves office?

How to politely interrupt someone

When having a telephone conversation with a foreign partner or client, it is better not to interrupt the interlocutor, but there are times when this is necessary. You can do this politely using the following phrases:

And you will find even more similar phrases in the article “How to skillfully interrupt your interlocutor? Dealing with interruptions."

How to ask someone to tell you that you called

Have you called your foreign partners, but the person you need is not there? Ask to inform him about your call and do not forget to leave your contact information. You can politely ask for a call in the following ways:

Phrase	Translation
Could you please tell him Ostap Bender from “Horns and hoofs” called?	Could you please tell him that Ostap Bender from “Horns and Hooves” called?
Could you ask him to call Ostap Bender from “Horns and hoofs” when he gets in?	Could you tell him to call Ostap Bender from Horns and Hooves when he arrives?
Tell him I will call tomorrow, please.	Please tell him that I will call you tomorrow.
Please, tell him Ostap Bender telephoned and I’ll call again at half past five.	Please tell him that Ostap Bender called. I'll call you back at 17:30.
Do you have a pen handy? I don't think he has my number.	Do you have a pen on hand? I don't think he has my number.
Thanks! My number is 777-5555, extension 13.	Thank you! My number is 777-5555, extension 13.
Could you ask him to call me back?	Could you ask him to call me back?
He can reach me at 777-5555.	He can reach me at 777-5555.

If you would rather call the person back yourself, say the following:

Phrase	Translation
When will he be in?	When will he be there?
That's okay. I'll call back later.	Everything is fine. I'll call you back later.

How to take a message for someone

You received a call and asked to pass the phone to a colleague, but he was not there or he was busy? In this case, you need to politely inform that the person cannot answer the phone and offer to leave a message. At the same time, do not forget to specify the name of the caller, as well as his contact phone number. Learn these phrases:

Phrase	Translation
I"ll let him know you called.	I'll tell him you called.
Can I take your number?	May I know your phone number?
What is your number?	What's your phone number?
Can I take your message?	May I receive your message?
Is there any message?	Anything to tell him?
I'll pass on your message.	I will pass on your message to him.
I"m afraid he"s out. Would you like to leave a message?	I'm afraid he's out. Would you like to leave a message?
I"m sorry, Ostap"s not in at the moment. Can I ask who's calling?	Unfortunately, Ostap is not there. May I know who is calling?
He"s on meeting right now. Who"s calling please?	He's in a meeting now. Please tell me who is calling?
He's busy right now. Could you please call again later?	He's busy at the moment. Could you call back later?
I’m sorry, he’s not available at the moment.	Unfortunately, he can't answer the phone right now.
I’m sorry, he is not in the office at the moment.	Unfortunately, he is not in the office right now.
I’m sorry, he’s on another call.	Unfortunately, he is now speaking on a different line.
Don’t be back in 20 minutes.	He'll be back in 20 minutes.
Can I take a message or shall I ask him to call you back?	Can I give him a message or ask him to call you back?
What message would you like to leave?	What would you like to convey to him?
I"ll make sure he gets the message.	I will definitely pass on your message to him.

You can also ask the other person to call you back later using these phrases for talking on the phone in English:

How to leave a message on an answering machine

If you only get through to the answering machine, do not rush to hang up. Leave a message so that the person can call you back as soon as they are free. You can leave a simple message like this:

What message should you record for your answering machine?

Do not neglect the answering machine function in your own phone, because this option will allow you not to miss a single important call. Take 5 minutes and write down a simple text for the caller. The text might look like this.

Phrase	Translation
Hello, this is Ostap Bender. I"m sorry I"m not available to take your call at this time. Please, leave me a message and I"ll get back to you as soon as I can.	Hello, this is Ostap Bender. I'm sorry, but I can't answer your call right now. Please leave me a message and I will call you back as soon as I can.
Thank you for calling. There’s no one here to take your call at the moment. Please, leave the message after the tone, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.	Thank you for calling. There is no one near the telephone who could answer your call. Please leave a message after the beep and I will call you back as soon as possible.
Thank you for calling “Horns and hoofs’s” office. Our hours are 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Monday-Sunday. Please, call back during these hours, or leave the message after the tone.	Thank you for contacting the Horns and Hooves office. We work from 9 am to 9 pm from Monday to Sunday. Please call us back during business hours or leave a message after the beep.

Parting

Have you successfully talked on the phone and resolved all your issues? Then the time has come to say goodbye, and this must also be done correctly: without sentimentality and politely. You can say goodbye to your interlocutor like this:

Phrase	Translation
It's been nice to talk to you.	It was a pleasure talking with you.
I hope to have been of help to you.	I hope I was able to help you.
Have a nice day.	All the best.
Thanks for calling. Bye for now.	Thank you for your call. Goodbye.
Thanks for calling. Goodbye.	Thank you for calling. Goodbye.
Bye, Mr. Koreiko.	Goodbye, Mr. Koreiko.
Goodbye, Mr. Koreiko.	Goodbye, Mr. Koreiko.

To see and hear what a telephone conversation in English looks like in practice, we recommend watching the following video:

Successful conversation on the phone in English: general tips

1. Write a conversation plan in advance

If you are going to call your partner or client abroad, your task is simplified because you can think in advance about what you will talk about and what words and phrases to use. Don’t be lazy to write down a brief outline of your conversation on paper, this way you will kill not two, but three birds with one stone: study the phrases while writing them, draw up the most accurate and complete conversation plan and save yourself nerves, because during the conversation you will know what to say and when.

2. Try rehearsing the dialogue

To sound confident, try speaking the dialogue several times in front of a mirror or on the phone with a friend. This will help you remember phrases faster, and you won’t have to refer to your plan during a conversation.

And if you're learning a language online, try studying with your teacher without a camera. This will be a complete simulation of a telephone conversation. Try acting out a dialogue with your teacher using your plan. If you practice this way at least a few times, then when communicating on the phone it will be easier for you to understand the person on the other end of the line.

3. Don't worry

Anxiety affects understanding in the same way as poor communication: if you listen to the interference (or the inner voice that says you won’t understand anything), it will interfere with you, and if you don’t pay attention to it, you will be able to understand the interlocutor . The more relaxed you are about speaking on the phone in English, the easier it will be for both you and the person on the other end of the line.

4. Maintain a formal communication style

The formal style of communication differs from the usual conversational style. We communicate with business partners politely, avoiding slang, word abbreviations, etc. You can read more about the features of the formal style of English.

5. Be as polite as possible.

The concept of “politeness” in our country and abroad is quite different. Pay attention to the phrase templates we have proposed: almost every one of them contains the construction “Could you please”, every sentence contains the word “please”. Moreover, when translated into Russian, the word “please” does not even always logically fit into the phrase. To us this sounds like obsessive politeness. In English sentences, you must use words like “please” and “thank you”, otherwise you may seem rude to your interlocutor.

6. Keep an electronic dictionary handy

Are you unable to understand some word that plays an important role in your partner's speech? Ask your partner to spell the word and look up its meaning in a dictionary. It is impossible to learn all the words in the English dictionary, so your partner will react normally to the request to repeat the word. So before every business conversation on the phone in English, turn on your computer and open one of the electronic dictionaries.

7. Ask to repeat what you didn’t understand

Remember, even when we have a telephone conversation in Russian, sometimes we do not understand the interlocutor or cannot hear some words due to a poor connection. In this case, without a shadow of embarrassment, we ask the interlocutor to repeat what was said. What prevents us from doing the same when talking on the phone in English? Your partner or client understands that you are speaking a foreign language, so they will calmly respond to the request to repeat a phrase.

8. Develop your listening skills

The more often you listen to foreign speech, the faster you will get used to it and begin to understand (if you also study grammar and new words). Therefore, listen to podcasts and audiobooks, watch videos and news in English. You can test your listening comprehension of the language and at the same time listen to samples of telephone dialogues in English on the Simple English website. Select one of the dialogues, turn on the audio recording and try to insert the missing words into the exercise under dictation. And also read our articles “” and “”.

9. Work on your pronunciation and intonation

Take care not only of yourself, but also of your interlocutor. Try to speak clearly, take your time, pronounce words and sounds correctly. Fluent speech is good in normal conversation, but not in dialogue on the phone with business partners. It would be ideal if you try to adapt to the pace of speech of your interlocutor, in which case you will be “on the same wavelength” with him. If you know that your pronunciation is not yet perfect and you may not be understood, speak at an average pace. A measured pace of speech will allow your interlocutor to understand you and give your words a confident sound. Be sure to read the article "". Watch your intonation: speak confidently, but in a calm, friendly tone.

10. Learn useful phrases for communication

The phrases that we presented in the article are excellent “blanks” for your speech. It is best to learn them by heart, so that when you call you do not have to choose words, but speak in patterns that are already familiar to you.

11. Read examples of dialogues in English on the phone

To see how the phrases you've learned work in natural conversation, study examples of telephone conversations, for example, on the official BBC website. On the pages of the resource you will see several examples of telephone dialogues on different topics and take a test on your knowledge of “telephone” vocabulary.

12. Learn professional vocabulary

To leave a positive impression of yourself after a conversation, study not only the phrases we present, but also the professional vocabulary of your field of activity. Understanding between you and your interlocutor will arise when you speak the same language both literally and figuratively.

Full list of phrases for download

We have compiled a document for you that will make it easier for you to conduct a dialogue over the phone. You can download it from the link below.

(*.pdf, 292 Kb)

Now you know how to successfully conduct a telephone conversation in English. Practice listening, learn the phrases we suggest in English for dialogue on the phone and improve your pronunciation, then the interlocutor will understand you, and you will understand him. We wish you successful telephone conversations!

And if you want to thoroughly study business English with a competent teacher, we suggest studying in. Our teachers will help you master business style in communicating in English, teach you to understand the speech of your interlocutor and speak so that you are understood.

Many people have to work telephone conversations in English. For some business conversation on the phone in English- a simple matter, but still for many talking on the phone in English- this is stressful, especially until it becomes a habit and becomes a routine activity.

Today we’ll talk about how to properly structure a dialogue on the phone, pay attention to special vocabulary, and arm ourselves with useful phrases for talking on the phone in English.

Let's start, perhaps, with the vocabulary that you need to know in order to feel more confident during a conversation.

Vocabulary for telephone conversations.

Types of phone calls:

	Call at the subscriber's expense
	Local call
A long-distance call / a trunk call	Long distance call
	Personal call
	Urgent call

Useful nouns:

Useful verbs and expressions

Answer a call / Pick up	Answer the call
	Request a call
Call/phone/ring up	Call
Connect/put through	Call
Cut off/disconnect	Disconnect
Get someone over the phone	Catch someone on the phone
	Hang up
Hold on / hold the line	Wait by the phone
	Leave a message
	To make a call
	Find out/settle
Speak over the phone	Talking on the phone

Call back/phone back	call back

Let's move on to talking on the phone in English.

We answer the call.

When answering a call in English, you need to tell the subscriber where he has reached and say hello. Example phrases:

XCompany,goodmorning.– Company X, good morning.
Green's office, can I help you?- Mr. Green's office, how can I help?
Sales Department speaking.– Sales department is in touch.
John Green speaking. / This is John Smith. – John Green is on the phone.
JohnGreenhere.– John Green is on the phone. (informal version)

If you are calling someone, you should greet them by introducing yourself and clarifying the purpose of your call. You can do this as follows.

Good morning, Greg Smith speaking. I"d like to speak to Mr. Brown, please. — Good morning, Greg Smith speaking. I'd like to talk to Mr. Brown.
CouldyouputmethroughtoMr.Brownplease? — Could you put me through to Mr. Brown, please?
I'dliketospeaktoMr.Brownaboutdeliveries,please. – I would like to talk to Mr. Brown about supplies, please.
I am (just) calling to inform you…— I’m (just) calling to let you know...

Let's imagine this situation: you pick up the phone, but the person the caller needs is temporarily absent. In this case, you can use the following phrases:

Green has stepped away from his desk for a moment. I expect him back very shortly.- Mr. Smith just came out for a minute. He'll be back soon.
He is not in at the moment.- He’s not there at the moment.
He is not in just now.- He’s not there at the moment.
He is out of the office at the moment. — He left the office at the moment.
He has left for the day.“He left town for a day.
I"m afraid he is out / away / off at the moment. Can I take a message?“I’m afraid he’s not here at the moment.” What shall I tell to him?
May I take a message?- Can I take a message?
Would you like to leave a message?— Would you like to leave information for him?
MayIhavehimcallyou?– Should I tell him to call you back?
I'lltellhimyoucalled.- I'll tell him that you called.
I'll have him to phone you.- I'll tell him to call you back.
I'll give him your message as soon as he gets back.– I will give him your message as soon as he returns back.
I'll ask him to give you a call.– I’ll ask him to call you back.

If during the conversation you did not understand something, do not hesitate to ask again. You can do this using the following phrases.

I'm sorry. Ididn'ttgetthename(number).— Sorry, I didn’t hear the name (phone number).
Wouldyourepeatthatnumber,please?– Could you repeat the phone number?
Wouldyouspellthatforme,please?– Could you spell it?
Did you say...?- You said...?
Let me repeat to make sure I understand what you said. – Let me repeat to make sure that I understood you correctly.
I want to be sure that I have this right.– I want to make sure that I understand you correctly.
I"dliketobesurethatIunderstand.– I would like to make sure that I understand you.
That’s ... (repeat number or spelling the name), isn’t it? – This is... (repetition of number or surname), isn’t it?

If during a conversation you need to be distracted for a while, use the following phrases:

Hold on just a moment, please.- Wait by the phone for a minute.
Ihaveanothercall;willyouholdon,please?— They’re calling me on another phone, could you wait a minute?
Holdon;I'llbewithyouinamoment.– Wait by the phone, please, I’ll be back on the phone soon.
Please hold on while I get that information. Thank you for waiting. – Please wait while I receive the information. Thanks for waiting.

If you need to make an appointment by phone, you can say the following.

I"m phoning to arrange a meeting.— I'm calling to arrange a meeting.
I'd like to see Mr. Jones. IshefreeonMonday? — I would like to meet Mr. Jones. Is he free on Monday?
How about 2 o'clock?– How about 2 hours?
Is he coming there soon?– Will he be back soon?
Are you meeting the clients tomorrow? – Are you meeting with clients tomorrow?
CouldyoumanageMonday?– Will you be able to do it on Monday?
What about Tuesday?- How about Tuesday?
Shall we say two o'clock?– Say, at 2 o’clock in the afternoon?
I’m sorry, I"m out all day.- Sorry, I won't be there all day.
Tuesday would be fine.— Tuesday suits me

How to end a phone conversation in English? It's simple!

Thank you for calling, Mr. Green. I’m glad I was able to help.— Thank you for the call, Mr. Green. I was glad to help you.
You"rewelcome,sir.Goodbye.- Please, sir. Goodbye.
I look forward to seeing you.- Looking forward to our meeting.

Telephone conversation in English. Examples of dialogues.

Dialogue on the phone 1.

Receptionist 1: Cassat Company. Can I help you?

Patrick: Yes, I would like to speak to Mr. Green please.

Receptionist 1: Do you have an extension for him?

Patrick: No, I don't, but I know he is in the delivery department.

Receptionist 1: Hold on, please. I"ll ring that department.

Patrick: Thank you.

Receptionist 2: Delivery department, Miss Elliot.

Patrick: Mr. Green, please.

Receptionist 2: Mr. Green is on the other line at the moment. May I tell him who's calling?

Patrick: This is Patrick Brown. Mrs. Priesley suggested that I call him.

Receptionist 2: Will you hold on or would you like to leave a message?

Patrick: I"ll hold on, thank you.

Mr. Green: Mr. Green speaking; can I help you?

Patrick: Yes, my name is Patrick Brown. A mutual friend of ours, Susan Priesley, referred me to you. I am interested in changing careers, and she thought you would be a valuable source of information for me.

Mr. Green: Mrs. Priesley, of course. How can I help you?

Patrick: I would like very much to come up and speak with you. Would you be willing to give me a few minutes of your time?

Mr. Green: Well, my schedule is a little tight. When were you thinking of meeting?

Patrick: Whenever it is convenient for you.

Mr. Green: Well, can you make it after five o’clock some day next week?

Patrick: Yes, I can.

Mr. Green: Fine, then how is 5:15, Wednesday, at my office?

Patrick: Next Wednesday at 5:15 is fine. Thank you very much, Mr. Green.

Mr. Green: You're welcome. Hold on — my secretary will give you directions.

Patrick: Thank you. See you Wednesday.

Dialogue on the phone 2.

Switchboard: Company X. Can I help you?

Phillip: Could I speak to Mr. Brown, please?

Secretary: Just a moment, please. . . . I"m afraid his line"s engaged.

Phillip: I"ll hold, (music)

Switchboard: Sorry to keep you waiting, (music)

Secretary: Mr. Brown's office.

Phillip: Can I speak to Mr. Brown, please? This is Phillip Morris from Haxter Computers.

Secretary: I"m afraid he"s in a meeting. Can I take a message?

Phillip: Yes. Could you ask him to call me back. My name is Phil Morris - M-O-R-R-I-S. My number is 308 2017 and my extension is 462.

Secretary: Phil Morris. 308-2170 extension 462

Phillip: No, 2017, not 2170. .

Secretary: Sorry, 308-2017 extension 462.

Phillip: That's right. I'll be in all the day.

Secretary: Right, thank you, Mr. Morris. Goodbye. Goodbye.

I hope these phrases for talking on the phone in English, as well as examples of dialogue, helped you. Good luck with international telephone conversations!