DIRECTIONS: Read the dialogues below in English, then translate them and read them in your primary language (if needed). You’re encouraged to read these dialogues with your teacher, tutor, colleagues, family, and friends to practice and improve your American English even further.
Topic: Asking Strangers for the Time
Dialogue 1
Joe: Excuse me, sir. Do you know what time it is?
Stranger: Sure thing, buddy. It’s ten past three.
Joe: Thank you so much. I appreciate it.
Stranger: No problem at all. Have a good day!
(Joe continues walking and sees another stranger)
Joe: Excuse me, ma’am. Can you tell me the time?
Stranger 2: Of course! It’s twenty-five to four.
Joe: Thanks a lot. I appreciate it.
Stranger 2: Not a problem. Anything else I can help you with?
Joe: No, that’s all. Thanks again!
(Stranger 2 walks away, and Joe keeps going until he sees a group of people on the corner)
Joe: Hi, guys. What time is it?
(strangers in the group look at their phones)
Stranger 3: It’s five past four.
Joe: Great, thank you very much!
Stranger 4: No worries, mate!
(Joe smiles and continues on his way)
Dialogue 2
Tom: Excuse me, do you know what time is it?
Stranger 1: Sorry, I don’t. My watch stopped working.
Tom: No worries. Thank you anyway.
Stranger 2: Hey, can I help you? Do you need to know the time?
Tom: Yes, please. Can you tell me the time?
Stranger 2: Sure thing. It’s five past twelve.
Tom: Great. Thanks a lot. I appreciate it.
Stranger 3: Wait, sorry to jump in. He just told you the wrong time. It’s fifteen minutes past twelve.
Tom: Oh. Well, thank you for letting me know.
Stranger 3: No problem. Have a good day!
Tom: You too!