This lesson provides a comprehensive set of phrases for making, confirming, and adjusting appointments in both neutral and informal settings. Whether you’re arranging a business meeting or coordinating a coffee date with a friend, these phrases will help you with the process.
Previous Conversation Tip Lesson
Conversation Tips for Giving Personal info
How to Make Appointments in English
Use neutral phrases for most work and formal situations, and informal phrases for close friends, family, and colleagues. Many phrases can be used in multiple situations. Pay attention to how others speak to you and adapt your language accordingly.
Asking To Meet
Neutral phrases
- Are you available on the 20th?
- Would Saturday suit you?
- Is next Monday convenient for you?
- Can we meet on the 19th?
- How does the 1st sound to you? (also with friends and colleagues)
- Are you free next week? (also with friends and colleagues)
Informal phrases
- What about sometime next week?
- What are you doing next weekend?
- Fancy coming out tomorrow evening?
Agreeing on a Date
Neutral phrases
- Yes, Monday is fine. (also with friends and colleagues)
- Saturday suits me.
- Wednesday would be perfect.
Informal phrases
- Yes, Monday’s great for me.
- Yes, it sounds good to me.
Suggesting a Different Date
Neutral phrases
- I’m sorry, I won’t be able to make it on Saturday. Could we meet on Monday instead?
- Ah, Tuesday is going to be a little difficult. I’d much prefer Wednesday, if that’s alright with you.
- I’m afraid I can’t on the 4th. What about the 10th? (also with friends / colleagues)
- I really don’t think I can on the 20th. Can we meet up on the 24th? (also with friends / colleagues)
Informal phrases
- No – that’s no good for me. What are you doing Tuesday?
Setting a Time
Neutral phrases
- What sort of time would suit you?
- Is 5pm a good time for you?
- If possible, I’d like to meet in the evening.
- How does 4pm sound to you?
Informal phrases
- OK. Let’s say at around 3.
- Cool. Let’s make it at 3.
Changing the Arrangement
Neutral phrases
- I’m very sorry, but something urgent has come up and I won’t be able to meet you.
- I’m afraid that I’m not going to be able to meet you after all. Can we fix it another time?
- Something has just cropped up and I won’t be able to meet you this morning. Can we make another time?
Informal phrases
- Look, I’m sorry to do this to you, but I can’t meet up tomorrow.
Conclusion
Making appointments require using appropriate language to express your availability, preferences, and any necessary changes. With this lesson, you can confidently schedule your appointments while ensuring clear communication and mutual understanding. Remember the key is to be polite and flexible when arranging your schedule with others.
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Conversation Tips for Saying You are Happy or Sad
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