Page 62 - Perfect Phrases ESL Everyday Business

Giving, Accepting, and Refusing Invitations

How do [people, women, men] usually dress for this?
Are work clothes okay for this event?

Will it be okay if I’m fifteen minutes late?

Phrases Used to Buy Time Before
Responding to Invitations

Let me check [with my wife, with my husband, with my
partner, my calendar, my schedule].

I’ll let you know [later, tomorrow, Monday].
I may [be working, be away, have a previous engagement].
Let me get back to you as soon as I check.
I’m sorry, I can’t confirm my schedule until the conference is
over. As soon as I know, I will tell you.
I’d love to go, but let me check my calendar first to be sure I
don’t have a(n) [conflict, obligation].
I’m not sure when my meeting will end; can I [call, text,
e-mail] you when I’m done?
Thank you for thinking of me, but I may have to go out of
town. Let me check and get back to you.
Let me be sure I can get a babysitter and I will let you know.
Thank you.

Culture Hints: In many countries there are no “false” invita-
tions. When people ask you to their homes they always mean it.
Don’t take it literally when someone in the United States says,
“Drop by any time.” Call first.

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