(1).Introductios and Opening Conversations 介绍和开场白
People in the United States don't always shake hands when they are introduced to one another. However, in a formal or business situation people almost always shake hands.
1.A: Mary, this is Joe's brother David.
B; I'm very glad to meet you.
C: It's a pleasure to meet you.
B: How do you like Texas so far?
C: It's really different from what I expected.
B: Don't worry. You'll get used to it in no time.
2.A: Mrs. Smith, I'd like to introduce a friend of mine, Pierre Dubois.
B: How do you do?
C: Hello.
B: What's your impression of the United States?
C: Well, I can't get over how different the weather is here.
B: Oh, you'll get used to it soon!
3.A: Wendy, I'd like you to meet my brother Sam.
B: Hi.
C: Nice to meet you.
B: What do you think of Dallas?
C: Well, I'm still feeling a little homesick and so many things seem strange to me.
B: You're bound to feel that way at first, I guess.
4.A: Mrs.Hughs, this is Peter Brown.
B: Pleased to meet you.
C: How do you do?
B: I hope you're enjoying your stay here.
C: If it weren't for the climate, I'd like it here very much.
B: It always takes time to get used to a new place.
(2).Special Greetings 节假日的问候
There are eight national holidays celebrated in the United States: New Year's
Day(Jan.), Washington's Birthday (Feb.), Memorial Day(May), the Fourth of July, Labor Day(Sep.),Veteran's Day(Nav.),Thanksgiving(Nov.) and Christmas(Dec.), In addition, there are many state and local holidays.
1. A: Merry Christmas!
B: The same to you!
A: Are you doing anyting special?
B: We're having some friends over. What are you doing?
A: Oh, I'm just going to take it easy.
2. A: Happy New Year!
B: Thank you! Same to you.
A: Have you got any plans?
B: I've been invited over to la friend's. And you?
A: My reemmate's having a party.
3. A: Have a nice Thanksgiving!
B: Same to you!
A: Are you going anywhere?
B: I thought about going to my sister's. How about you?
A: Oh, I'll probably just stay at home.
4. A: Have a nice weekend!
B: Thanks. You too!
A: Do you have any plans?
B: Well, my family's away and I can't afford to do much. What about you?
A: Oh, I haven't decided what I'm going to do yet.
(4).Saying Goodbye 告别
When you're far from friends and family, you can keep in touch with them by letters, post cards, short notes or phone calls.
1.A: I've come to say goodbye.
B: When are you off?
A: I'm flying home on Sunday afternoon.
B: Well, goodbye. See you soon.
A: Please don't forget to say goodbye to the rest of the family for me.
2.A: I'd like to say goodbye to everyone.
B: What time are you going?
A: My plane leaves at 7:25.
B; Well, goodbye and have a good trip!
A: Goodbye. Remember to look me up if you're ever in Washington.
3.A; I'm calling to say goodbye.
B: When do you leave?
A: I'm catching the 11:00 train.
B: Take care of yourself and don't forget to keep in touch.
A: Goodbye. Thanks again for everything.
4.A: I just dropped in to say goodbye.
B: What time are you leaving?
A: I'm going to try to leave by 10:00.
B: Take care and give my best to your parents.
A: Goodbye. Hope to see you again next year.
(5).Saying Thank You 道谢
When someone invites you for dinner, you can bring flowers,candy or a bottle of wine. Sometimes people send a thank you note to the host or hostess a few days after the event.
1.A: I'd better be going.
B: So soon? Why don't you stay a little longer?
A: I wish I could, but it's already late.
B: Oh, it's a shame that you have to leave.
A: Thank you for a wonderful meal.
B: I'm glad you enjoyed it.
2.A: I really must be going now.
B: But you just got here. Can't you stay a little longer?
A: That's very nice of you, but I really can't.
B: Well, it's too bad that you have to go.
A: Thanks very much. It was a great party!
B: It was our pleasure.
3.A: I think it's about time we got going.
B: What? Already? Won't you have more coffee?
A: I'd love to, but I have to get up early tomorrow.
B: Oh! I'm sorry. I wish you could stay.
A: Thank you for a very enjoyable evening.
B: Don't mention it. I hope you can come again soon.
4.A: I really should be on my way.
B: Oh, not yet! At least have one for the road.
A: No. Thanks all the same.
B: Well, I'm sorry you have to leave so early.
A: Thank you very much. We really had a good time.
B: Well, thank you for coming.
(6).Asking People to Repeat 请人复述
As long as you ask politely, most people do not mind repeating something you didn't hear or understand.
1.A: I'm sorry, but I didn't catch what you said.
B: I said, "Do you want me to help you?"
A: If you're sure you're not in a hurry, I can use a lttle help.
B: Would you like me to get you a cab?
2.A: I beg your pardon?
B: I said, "Do you need any help?"
A: That's very nice of you. I guess I could use some help.
B: Just tell me what you'd like me to do.
3.A: What was that?
B: I said, "Is there anything I can do?"
A: If it's not too much trouble, I would like some help.
B: It's no trouble at all. I'll carry this suitcase for you.
4.A: Excuse me? I didn't hear what you said.
B: I asked you if you wanted some help.
A: If you wouldn't mind, I could use a hand.
B: I'll get this bag for you.
(7).Asking Favors 求助
When you ask for things, it is important to be polite. The intonation that you use in making your request is as important as what you actually say. When you think someone will refuse your request, you can ask the question in such a way that the refusal does not cause embarrassment.
1. A: Is there any chance of my borrowing your type-writer?
B: For how long?
A: Until the end of the week.
B: Yes, I guess that would be all right.
2. A: Would you mind if I borrowed your car?
B: Well, when exactly?
A: Until Monday or Tuesday of next week.
B: I'm sorry, but it's just not possible.
3. A: Do you think you could lend me some of your records?
B: Until when?
A: Oh, just over the holidays.
B: I'm not sure. I'll have to think about it.
4. A: I was wondering if you'd let me stay with you for a few days.
B: It really depends on when.
A: Until next weekend, if that's OK.
B: Let me think it over, and I'll let you know later.
(8).Giving Compliments 赞美
Friends often compliment one another on clothes, especially if the clothes are new.
1.A: What a beautiful sweater!
B: Do you think it looks good on me?
A: Yes, and it goes beautifully with your pants.
B: You won't believe it, but it was really cheap.
A: I wish I could find one just like it.
2.A: I like your new coat.
B: Do you think it fits OK?
A: Yes. It looks terrific!
B: I bought it at half price.
A: You were lucky to find it.
3.A: That's a very nice jacket.
B: Does it really look OK?
A: Yes, and I like the color too. It matches your hat.
B: And I got it on sale.
A: That's incredible!
4.A: I love that shirt.
B: Do you really like it?
A: Yes, it fits perfectly.
B: It wasn't very expensive either.
A: That's amazing! It sure looks expensive.
(9).Apologizing 道歉
Sometimes it is necessary to tell someone bad news gently.
1.A: I'm afraid I spilled coffee on the tablecloth.
B: Oh, don't worry about it.
A: I want to apologize. Is there anything I can do?
B: Just forget about it. I never did like it anyway.
2.A: I'm really sorry, but I seem to have misplaced your scarf.
B: Oh, that's all right.
A: I'm very sorry. Can I get you another one?
B: No. Forget about it. It's not important.
3.A: I'm sorry, but I can't find the book you lent me.
B: That's OK.
A: I really feel bad about it. Let me buy you a new one.
B: No. Don't be silly. I wouldn't dream of letting you do that.
4.A: I feel terrible, but I've just broken your ashtray.
B: It's nothing to get upset about.
A: I don't know what to say. I'd like to replace it.
B: No. It's out of the question.
(12).Asking for Change 换零钱
It is sometimes difficult toget change without buying something, so it's a good idea to carry change with you at all times. If you need change, you can buy something inexpensive like candy or a newspaper and ask for the coins you need.
1.A: Excuse me, but could you give me some change?
B: Let me see. Are dimes and quarters OK?
A: I want to make a long distance phone call.
B: Then you'll need small change.
2.A: Sorry to bother you, but do you have change for a one?
B: I'll have to look. What do you want it for?
A: I need it for the parking meter.
B: I can give you quarters, if that'll help.
3.A: Pardon me, but I was wondering if you could break a one.
B: Let me look. What do you need?
A: I need the change for the stamp machine.
B: I think dimes and quarters will do.
4.A: Excuse me, could you give me change for a dollar?
B: I'll see what I have. What do you need it for?
A: I want to get cigarettes.
B: You can use quarters, dimes and nickels.
(13).Making a Telephone Call 打电话(1)
The telephone system in the United States, as in many other countries, has a special number for each region of the country. It is called as "area code". If you know the area code and the phone number, it's usually cheaper to dial the number yourself. Of course, you must go through an operator to make person-to-person or cllect calls. You can dial direct to many countries
overseas or you can ask for the overseas operator.
1.A:Operator.
B:I'd like to make a collect call to Los Angeles. That's area code 213-486-2435.
A:And what's the name of the person you want to speak to?
B:Susan Greene.
2.A:Operator.
B:Yes, Operator. I'd like to place a person-to-person call to Chicago. The number is
932-8647, but I don't know the area code.
A:Who do you want to speak to?
B:I'll speak to anyone at extension 214.
3.A:Operator.
B:I want to make a person-to-person call to 212-836-1725.
A:And the name of the person you're calling, please?
B:Ed Cooper. That's C double O-P-E-R.
4.A:Operator.
B:Operator, I'd like to place a call to Winnipeg, Cananda. The number is 932-0806.
A:What's the name of the party you're calling?
B:I'm not sure of the name, but the extension is 211.
(14).Making a Telephone Call 打电话(2)
When using a public telephone, be sure to read the directions carefully before dialing.
1.A:Hello. Can I speak to Yolanda, please?
B:Hold on, please.
A:Thank you.
B:Sorry, but she's out.
A:Would you tell her Tom Gray called?
B:I'd be glad to.
2.A:Hello. Is Marie Ward there, please?
B:I'll see if she's in.
A:OK.
B:I'm afraid she's not here.
A:Could you give her a message, please?
B:Yes, of course.
3.A:Hello. Is Mrs. James in, please?
B:Hang on, please.
A:All right.
B:I'm sorry, but I think she's stepped out.
A:Would you ask her to call Larry Ruskin at 836-2550?
B:Certainly.
4.A:Hello. Could I please speak to Miss Davis?
B:Just a minute, please.
A:Thanks.
B:She's not at here desk right now.
A:Could you tell her to give Doug a call when she gets back? She has my number.
B:Sure.
(15).Asking for Directions 问路
People are usually helpful when you ask for directions. You should try to have the exact address and be as specific as possible. Telephone directories are the most common sourse of addresses. Remember that many cities and some towns are built in "blocks". People will often tell you, for example, to "go two blocks and turn right."
1.A:Excuse me, Can you tell me where Main Street is?
B:Turn left at the second light and then go straight for two blocks.
A:Is it far?
B:No. It's only a five-minute walk.
A:Thanks a lot.
B:You're welcome.
2.A:Excuse me. Could you please tell me how to get to the station?
B:Turn left at the first light. You can't miss it.
A:Will it take me long to get there?
B:No. It's not far at all.
A:Thank you.
B:Don't mention it.
3.A:Can you help me out? I'm trying to find a post office.
B:Go three block and make a right. It's right there.
A:Should I take the bus?
B:No. It'll only take about five minutes to walk.
A:Thank you very much.
B:Any time.
4.A:Pardon me. I wonder if you could tell me how to get to Mott Street?
B:Keep going straight for two blocks, then turn right o Elm Street and you'll run right into
it.
A:Is it too far to walk?
B:Nl. It's only a little ways.
A:Thanks.
B:Sure. Have a good day.
(25).At a Hotel 在旅馆
Hotel and motel rates vary considerably. In major cities and resort areas, it is advisable to have reservations.
1.A: Do you have any vacancies?
B: Yes, we have a nice room on the fourth floor.
A: How much is it?
B: .00 a night, plus t
ax.
A: Can I see it, please?
B: Certainly. Would you come with me?
2.A: Do you have a single room for two nights?
B: We only have a small suite.
A: What's the rate?
B: .00 a night, including breakfast.
A: Fine. Could you show it to me, please?
B: Of course. Just follow me.
3.A: Can I reserve a double room for next week?
B: You can have a room facing the ocean.
A: How much would it be?
B: .00, including tax.
A: Could I have a look at the room?
B: Sure. Come this way, please.
4.A: Do you have a double room with twin beds?
B: I can let you have a room in the new wing.
A: What's the daily rate?
B: .00 a night.
A: Could you show me something less expensive?
B: Yes, of course. Right this way, please.
(26).Finding a Room 找住房
In smaller cities and towns, it's usually quite easy to find a room to rent. This is especially true in towns where universities or college are located.
1.A: Do you take in students?
B: Yes. If you don't mind sharing room, there's one available.
A: How much is it?
B: .00 a week.
A: Do you think I could have a look at it, please?
B: I'm on my way out now. Couldyou come back in an hour?
2.A: I've been told you might have a vacant room.
B: Yes. I have a spare room.
A: How much are you asking?
B: .00 a night.
A: Could I see the room, please?
B: Sure. Come on in.
3.A: A friend told em I might find a room here.
B: Yes. I'll have a room free next week.
A: What do you charge?
B: .00 a week, but you can't have visitors.
A: Fine. Would It be OK to look at the room?
B: Could you come back later? We're right in the middle of dinner.
4.A: I wonder if you can help me. I'm looking for a room.
B: Yes. I've got a small room.
A: How much do you charge?
B: .00 a week, but don't allow smoking.
A: OK. Can I see the room now?
B: Would you mind waiting? I'm on the telephone.
(31).Planning an Evening Out (1) 计划晚间的外出活动
In the United States girls and boys usually begin to go out on "dates" when they are 14 or 15. Typical dates include going to the movies, going dancing or going to a party.
美国的男女孩子通常到十四,五岁时开始外出约会. 典型的约会是看电影,跳舞或参加社交聚会.
1.A: How would you like to go to a movie tonight?
B: Thanks for asking, but I don't think so.
A: Then what about trying that new Chinese restaurant?
B: No. I'd rather stay home and watch TV.
2.A: How about going to see Maria tonight?
B: Not tonight. Maybe another time.
A: Come on! It would do you good to get out.
B: No. I want to get to bed early tonight.
3.A: Let's go roller-skating.
B: I really don't feel like it tonight.
A: Well, would you like to do anything?
B: No. If you don't mind, I'm just going to stay home tonight.
4.A: Why don't we go dancing?
B: No. I'm really not in the mood.
A: Then why don't we just go out and get something to eat?
B: No. I want to stay home tonight for a change.
(32).Planning an Evening Out (2) 计划晚间的外出活动
It's OK to make plans with friends at the last minute. It's more polite, however, to make them ahead of time.
临时作出计划约请朋友是可以的,但是提前安排好计划则更为礼貌.
1.A: How about going to hear a country-and-western singer tonight?
B: I'd enjoyed that.
A: I' pick you up around 8:00.
B: OK. I'll see you then.
2.A: Do you feel like going to see Paul and Claire tonight?
B: I'd like that very much.
A: How does 7:30 sound?
B: Fine. See you late.
3.A: Would you like to go to a party tonight?
B: That sounds like a good idea?
A: Would 7:00 be OK?
B: That's fine. I'm looking forward to it.
4.A: Why don't you have dinner with me tonight?
B: I'd love to.
A: Let's say about 6:00?
B: That's OK with me.
(35).Sports 运动
Both team sports and individual sports are extremely popular in the United States. Don't be afraid to try a sport you haven't played before. People are usually willing to help beginners.
在美国，无论是集体的或个人的运动项目，人们都极其喜爱。对于你以前没有玩过的运动，你不妨试一试。人们通常都乐于帮助初学者。
1.A: Would you like to go running?
B: I'd enjoy that. Where would you like to go?
A: We could go to the park. There shouldn't be many people there now.
B: Good. Just let me change.
2.A: How about going for a bike ride?
B: Sure. Where?
A: Let's call Harry and ask him. He always knows the best places to go.
B: That's a good idea. I'll get ready.
3.A: Let's go swimming.
B: OK. Where should we go?
A: Why don't we go down to the lake? It's not too far from here.
B: Fine. I'll be ready in a minute.
4.A: How about going hiking with us?
B: Sounds good to me. Where do you want to go?
A: Let's go up to the mountains. It should be beautiful there.
B: OK. Just give me a few minutes to get ready.
(36).At Breakfast 吃早餐
Coffee shops are popular, reasonably priced restaurants for breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a snack.
咖啡馆是大众化的，价格公道的餐馆。在这里可以吃早餐，午餐和晚餐，也可以只吃点点心。
1.A: You're having coffee, aren't you?
B: Yes, I always have coffee in the morning.
A: What are you going to have to eat?
B: I'm going to order scrambled eggs and toast. What about you?
A: That sounds good to me. I'll have the same.
2.A: You'd like coffee, wouldn't you?
B: I think I'd rather have tea this morning.
A: What else are you going to have?
B: Just an English muffin. What are you going to have?
A: That sounds good. I'm going to order the same thing.
3.A: You're going to have coffee, aren't you?
B: Yes. I could use a cup of coffee.
A: Are you going to have anything to eat?
B: French toast sounds good. What are you going to order?
A: I'll have that too.
4.A: A cup of coffee sounds good, doesn't it?
B: Yes, but I think I'll have orange juice first.
A: Do you feel like having anything to eat?
B: Well, I think I'll try the pancakes. How about you?
A: Sounds great. That's just what I feel like having.
(37).At Lunch 吃午餐
Lunch is usually served between noon and 2:00. Sandwiches are a very popular quick lunch in both the United States and Canada.
午餐通常从中午供应到下午两点。 在美国和加拿大， 三明治是极大众化的午间快餐食品。
1.A: Please have another sandwich.
B: Thank you, but I really can't eat any more.
A: You're going to have dessert, aren't you?
B: Well, I'll join you if you're having something.
2.A: You'll finish the chicken, won't you?
B: No, thank you. I'm trying to cut down.
A: Aren't you going to have dessert?
B: No, thank you. I just can't eat any more.
3.A: Would you like some more soup?
B: No, thank you. It's delicious, but I've had enough.
A: Would you like soem dessert?
B: Well, maybe I'll have just a small piece of pie.
4.A: Can't you eat the rest of the salad?
B: No, thanks. I'm supposed to be on a diet.
A: Why don't we have something for dessert?
B: I really shouldn't, but I'll have a little ice cream.
(38).At Dinner 吃晚餐
Dinner time varies somewhat in the United States. In small towns it may be as early as 5:00, while in large cities it may be as late as 9:00. It's best to call for a reservation in expensive or well-known restaurants.
在美国吃晚餐的时间不尽相同。在小城镇可能早在下午五点就吃晚餐，而在大城市可能晚到九点才吃。如果上高级餐厅或有名的饭店去吃晚饭，最好是先打电话预定。
1.A: Would you like to order now?
B: Yes. I'll have the shrimp cocktail to start.
A: What would you like for your main course?
B: I'll have a sirloin steak, medium rare.
2.A: May I take your order?
B: Yes. I'd like a cup of onion soup.
A: And what would you like after that?
B: I'd like the roast chicken, please.
3.A: Are you ready to order?
B: Yes. I'll have the fresh fruit cocktail.
A: And for your entree?
B: I think I'll try the broiled sole.
4.A: Have you decided what you'd like?
B: Yes. First I'll have tomato juice.
A: And then?
B: I'll have the lamb chops, well-done, please.
(39).At Fast Food Restaurant 在快餐馆
Fast food restaurants are popular in the United States for quick, inexpensive meals or snacks. You order your food and take it to a table yourself. If you order your food "to go", you take it out of the restaurant. Tipping is not necessary in this kind of restaurant.
美国的快餐馆因快速供应便宜的饭菜和小吃而深受欢迎。 你得自己定购食品，自己端到餐桌上。 如果你定购“带走”的食品，你还可以拿出店外。在这种餐馆里无需付小费。
1.A: What would you like to eat?
B: I'd like a hamburger with lettuce and tomato.
A: How about something to drink?
B: A Coke, please.
A: OK. I'll see if I can get waited on.
2.A: What do you want?
B: I think I'll have a piece of apple pie.
A: Do you want something to drink?
B: Coffee would be fine.
A: OK. Sit down and I'll get it.
3.A: What are you going to have?
B: I'll try a steak sandwich.
A: Can I get you anything to drink?
B: Yes, I'd like a chocolate shake.
A: That sounds good. I think I'll have the same.
4.A: What can I get you?
B: A cheeseburger and an order of french fries would be great.
A: Would you like anything to drink?
B: I feel like having a Coke.
A: That's a good idea. I think I'll join you.
(40).At a Cocktail Party 在鸡尾酒会上
Cocktail parties are popular for both business and social functiongs. They may be casual or formal and are often held between 6:00 and 8:00 in the evening. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres or snacks are usually served.
为商务和社交的目的举行鸡尾酒会是很普遍的事。酒会可能是非正式的，也可能是正式的，而且经常在晚上六点至八点间举行。酒会上通常招待各种饮料和开胃小吃或点心。
1.A: Come in. It's nice to see you again.
B: It's nice to be here.
A: Would you care for a drink?
B: Just a club soda for me，please.
2.A: Hi! I'm happy you could make it.
B: Well, I've been looking forward to seeing you.
A: What can I get you?
B: I'd love a gin and tonic.
3.A: Good evening, I'm so happy you could come.
B: Thank you for inviting me.
A: What would you like to drink?
B: A glass of white wine would be fine, thank you.
4.A: Hello. It's a pleasure to see you again.
B: Thank you. I've been looking forward to your party.
A: You'll have a drink, won't you?
A: I think I'll have a beer, if you have any.
(41).Asking About Health 问候健康
People often ask about health out of politeness. This is a very common way to begin a conversation.
人们常常出于礼貌问候健康。这是开始交谈时常说的话题。
1.A: How's your father been?
B: He's been out of work for a couple of days.
A: What's wrong with him?
B: He has a bad cold.
A: Well, tell him to take it easy and that I hope he feels better.
B: Thanks. I'll tell him.
2.A: Where's Tony this evening?
B: He's a little under the weather.
A: Really! What's the matter with him?
B: He has the flu.
A: Tell him I was asking about him.
B: I will.
3.A: How's your brother doing?
B: As a matter of fact, he hasn't been feeling too well.
A: I'm sorry to hear that. What's the matter?
B: He has a slight fever.
A: Tell him I hope he's better soon.
B: I'll tell him. Thanks for asking about him.
4.A: I haven't seen Bob lately. How is he?
B: He's still pretty sick.
A: That's too bad. What does he have?
B: We don't know, but he's going to the doctor tomorrow.
A: Let me know if there's anything I can do.
B: Thanks a lot. I'll tell him.
