Page 57 - Perfect Phrases ESL Everyday Business

Small Talk

about food quantities and to arrange seating. A formal invitation may
also have the phrase “Black Tie” or “Black Tie Optional.” Black tie indi-
cates formal attire—a tux for a man and dressy attire for a woman.
A reply card is a small card to be returned to the host(s) by a cer-
tain date. On this card you indicate whether or not you will attend
and, often, your menu preference (meat, chicken, fish, or vegetarian).
A stamped, self-addressed envelope is usually enclosed. This makes it
convenient to reply and to reply on time. Sometimes there is no reply
card, only a phone number to call with an answer.
A less formal invitation may be given by mail, e-mail, or telephone.
Sometimes an invitation has “Regrets Only” with a telephone number.
This means, call only if you are unable to attend, otherwise the host
or hostess assumes you will be there. Also, a party may be a surprise
party. In this case, the hosts do not want the guest of honor to know
about it because they want to surprise the guest. It is very important
not to let the cat out of the bag and also to be sure to be on time so
you don’t spoil the surprise.
Casual or last-minute invitations are often given by e-mail or tele-
phone or in person. All invitations must be answered, and, if you are
unable to attend, it is impolite not to respond at all or to just say no.
Offer a reason why you can’t attend the event or say something to
buy time to think further.
In the United States, some people close conversations with
phrases that sound like invitations, but really are not. These expres-
sions include:

Stop over sometime.
Let’s get together sometime.

We really should meet again soon.
Please stop by, if you are in the neighborhood.

Drop in when you can.

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