Page 69 - Speak En Around Twon_Neat

short-staffed - without enough staff; having less staff than

usual

• Sorry you had to wait so long. We're short-staffed today.

(to) squeeze someone in -to make an appointment available

• You want an appointment for a haircut today? I can squeeze
you in with Lynn at 3 o'clock.

What's the nature of your visit? - Why are you coming?;
W h y do you need to see the doctor?

• You want to see Dr. Patel? What's the nature of your visit?

& Practice the Expressions

Fill in the blank with the missing word:

1) You ·want to come in for a massage this afternoon? We can
squeeze you at five o'clock.

a) out b)in c) up

2) I'm sorry. We can'·t give you an appointment until tomorrow
morning. We're short- today.

a) footed b) staffed c) handled

3) If you don't get a flu shot, you might come with the flu.

a) up b) away c) down

4) When I arrived at the doctor's office, the receptionist asked,
"What's the of your visit?"

a) nature b) matter c) reason

5) Sorry, I'm going to have to give you a speeding ticket. I'd like
to give you a break, but my are tied.

a) feet b) fingers c) hands

63