Hi there. Welcome to Harry's World of Words and Phrases and English in a Minute.
We've been asked to explain or help people who are asking for directions.
They want to ask for directions in English. They're visiting a strange city
or a new city on holiday or work experience or even perhaps to visit the
UK to learn English. And they get lost and they need some directions. The most
important thing to remember is politeness. Particularly the English
people they always use please and thank you a lot. And they'd like to hear that
when people are asking them for help. And it's much more likely that you'll get
assistance if you use those simple words. Please could you help me? And then thank
you when you get the help. So let's give you a few phrases. So let's say you're in
London and you want to find the Tower of London
a very important historical site so you don't know which direction to take. You
stop somebody in the street and you say: "Please could you help me? I'd like to get
to the Tower of London". Or "I wonder if I could interrupt you for a few minutes?
Could you direct me or help me to find my way to the Tower of London?" "Sorry to
bother you but could you help me to find my way to the Tower of London, please?" And
then when they give you the directions and you may have to repeat them just to
make sure you understand them. And then say: "Thank you, that was very kind of you".
Or "I really appreciate it" or "You're very kind"
Okay. So we could also use some indirect questions. Could I interrupt you for a
few minutes? Would you mind helping me please? Where can I find? How do I get? So
all nice simple English phrases and expressions that will help you get to
where you want to go. Okay. So as always subscribe to our Channel and join us
again on www.englishlessonviaskype.com and we'll catch up with you soon