Page 163 - Perfect Phrases ESL Everyday Business

The American Business Culture in a Nutshell

Don’t Say Do Say
No, I’m busy. I’m sorry. I’m busy now. Can
I [get back to you, do it,
help you] [in ten minutes,
in an hour, tomorrow]?

This is impossible! This is difficult, but we’ll get it
done.

Let’s think this through.
Let’s look at our options.

We don’t sell that. We don’t I’m sorry, but we don’t [carry
do that. that item, offer that
service], but you can try our
; it [has the
same ingredients, does the
same thing, is quite good].
Let me [tell you about it,
show it to you, give you
some samples].
That’s not my job. Let me get someone who can
help you with that.
Can I help you, lady? Can I help you?

Can I help you, [ma’am, miss]?
I’m out of here. I’ll see you tomorrow.
Enjoy your evening.

What a dumb idea. That’s interesting. Let’s think it
through.
Speak up! I’m sorry; I couldn’t hear you.

Can’t you see I’m busy? I’m sorry; I’m trying so hard to
finish this. Can we talk later?

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