Voyage with Words: Mastering Travel English in 30 Days – Day 6
Welcome to our 6th installment of “Voyage with Words,” where we embark on a shopping spree through the English language. Whether you’re browsing local markets, negotiating at street stalls, or indulging in retail therapy at high-end malls, knowing how to communicate effectively can make your shopping experience smoother and more enjoyable. Today, we’ll cover essential vocabulary related to shopping, from inquiring about prices to understanding sizes.
Vocabulary List:
- Shop (ʃɒp) – A place where goods or services are sold.
- Example: I found a quaint little shop that sells handmade jewelry.
- Price (praɪs) – The amount of money expected, required, or given in payment for something.
- Example: Can you tell me the price of this scarf?
- Discount (ˈdɪskaʊnt) – A reduction in the usual price.
- Example: They’re offering a 20% discount on all footwear today.
- Size (saɪz) – The overall dimensions or magnitude of something.
- Example: Do you have this dress in a smaller size?
- Receipt (rɪˈsiːt) – A written acknowledgment that something has been paid for or that goods have been received.
- Example: Please keep your receipt in case you need to return anything.
- Bargain (ˈbɑːrgɪn) – An agreement between two or more parties as to what each will do for the other; a thing bought or offered for sale much more cheaply than is usual or expected.
- Example: I got this bag at a real bargain; it was half off!
- Refund (rɪˈfʌnd) – The act of returning money to a customer for a product or service that is unsatisfactory.
- Example: If the shoes don’t fit, you can ask for a refund.
- Exchange (ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ) – An act of giving one thing and receiving another (especially of the same kind) in return.
- Example: You can exchange the shirt for a different colour within 30 days.
- Fitting Room (ˈfɪtɪŋ ruːm) – A room in a shop where you can try on clothes.
- Example: The fitting room is over there, by the women’s section.
- Cashier (kæˈʃɪər) – A person handling payments and receipts in a shop, bank, or business.
- Example: You can pay the cashier on your way out.
- Sale (seɪl) – A period during which a retailer sells goods at reduced prices.
- Example: They have an end-of-season sale going on with great discounts.
- Checkout (ˈtʃɛkaʊt) – The place where you pay for goods in a store.
- Example: The checkout lines are quite long today.
- Currency (ˈkʌrənsi) – The system or type of money in general use in a particular country.
- Example: Can I pay in local currency or do I need to use dollars?
- Warranty (ˈwɔːrənti) – A written guarantee promising to repair or replace an article if necessary within a specified period.
- Example: This laptop comes with a two-year warranty.
Sample Conversation:
Jordan: Excuse me, could you tell me the price of this leather jacket?
Shop Assistant: Of course, that jacket is currently on sale for $120, down from $150. It’s quite the bargain.
Jordan: That sounds like a good deal. Do you have it in a larger size?
Shop Assistant: Let me check… Yes, we do. Would you like to try it on in the fitting room?
Jordan: Yes, please.
After trying on the jacket
Jordan: It fits perfectly. I’ll take it. Also, these sunglasses, how much are they with the discount?
Shop Assistant: Those are 25% off, so they’re now $75.
Jordan: Great, I’ll add them to my purchase. Can I get a refund or an exchange if I change my mind?
Shop Assistant: Yes, refunds and exchanges are allowed within 30 days with the receipt.
Jordan: Perfect. I’ll pay in cash if that’s alright.
Shop Assistant: That’s fine. You can proceed to the checkout. Our cashier will help you there.
Jordan: Thank you for your assistance.
Shop Assistant: You’re welcome! Enjoy your new purchases.
Cultural Tips:
Shopping abroad can be a thrilling experience, offering insights into local crafts, cuisine, and culture. Remember, negotiating or haggling is common in many markets worldwide, but it’s important to do so respectfully. Knowing a few key phrases in English can help you navigate these interactions with ease and ensure you’re getting a good bargain.
As we wrap up Day 6 of our journey through “Voyage with Words,” you’re now equipped with the essential vocabulary to tackle any shopping adventure that comes your way. Whether it’s finding the perfect souvenir, navigating through bustling markets, or making savvy purchases, these new terms will help you shop confidently and efficiently. Remember, every transaction is an opportunity to practice your English and engage with local cultures more deeply.
Shopping isn’t just about acquiring things; it’s a vibrant part of the travel experience that offers insights into local traditions, craftsmanship, and the economy. With the vocabulary you’ve learned today, you’re ready to explore this aspect of your travels more fully, from bargaining for the best deals to ensuring your purchases meet your expectations.
Embrace these moments of interaction as chances to enhance your language skills and cultural understanding. And as you continue on your language learning voyage, remember that each day builds on the last, preparing you for a wide array of travel experiences.
On Day 7, we will delve into handling emergency situations, a crucial set of skills for any traveller. Equipping yourself with the right words can make all the difference in navigating unexpected challenges safely and effectively. Let’s continue to expand our travel English toolkit, ensuring you’re prepared for every aspect of your journey.
Happy shopping, and may your bags be filled with delightful finds and your heart with new words and experiences! Before you leave, leave a comment to talk about the most recent item you have bought, and be sure to try today’s quiz below.
#1. What is essential to keep if you want to return a product?
#2. What is a period called when goods are sold at reduced prices?
#3. Where do you pay for your goods in a store?
#4. What guarantees the repair or replacement of an item within a certain period?
#5. What do you call a reduction in the usual price?
#6. If something is sold much more cheaply than usual, it is called a_______?
#7. Where can you try on clothes in a store?
#8. What describes the overall dimensions of an item?
#9. What term refers to a person handling payments in a store?
#10. If a product is unsatisfactory, what might you ask for?
Results
