Talking About Habits (Smoking)

Smoking is a common topic in everyday conversations. You may talk about your own habits, ask someone if they smoke, or discuss why people smoke or quit. This lesson helps you understand and use natural English in these real-life situations.

Pro Tip: When talking about smoking, stay polite and avoid sounding judgmental. Instead of criticizing someone, ask questions, listen carefully, and express your opinion respectfully.

Useful Expressions

• Do you smoke?
• I don’t smoke.
• I smoke occasionally.
• I’m trying to quit.
• I’ve never smoked.
• I quit a few years ago.
• Smoking is a bad habit.
• It’s hard to quit.
• I smoke only when I’m stressed.
• I don’t like the smell of cigarettes.
• How long have you been smoking?
• Have you ever tried to quit?
• My doctor told me to stop smoking.
• It’s better to stay healthy.
• I prefer a smoke-free environment.

Questions & Answers

1. Do you smoke?
No, I don’t smoke.

2. Have you ever smoked?
No, I’ve never smoked.

3. Why do some people smoke?
Some people smoke because of stress or habit.

4. Is smoking popular in your country?
Yes, some people smoke, but many are trying to quit.

5. Do you think smoking is harmful?
Yes, it can cause serious health problems.

6. Have you ever tried to quit smoking?
Yes, I tried once, and now I’m smoke-free.

7. Do your friends smoke?
Some of them do, but most don’t.

8. What do you do when you’re stressed?
I usually go for a walk or listen to music.

9. How do you feel about smoking in public places?
I think it should be limited to smoking areas.

10. Would you encourage someone to quit smoking?
Yes, because it’s better for their health.

Conversation

Emma: Do you smoke?

Ryan: No, I don’t. What about you?

Emma: I used to, but I quit last year.

Ryan: That’s great. Was it difficult?

Emma: Yes, especially during the first few weeks.

Ryan: What helped you quit?

Emma: Exercise and support from my family.

Ryan: Do you feel healthier now?

Emma: Definitely. I breathe better and have more energy.

Ryan: That’s inspiring. I’m happy for you.

Real-Life Conversation

Neha: Hi, Rahul. Can I ask you something?

Rahul: Sure. What’s up?

Neha: Do you smoke?

Rahul: Yes, but only a few cigarettes a day.

Neha: How long have you been smoking?

Rahul: About five years.

Neha: Have you ever thought about quitting?

Rahul: Yes, many times.

Neha: What’s stopping you?

Rahul: I usually smoke when I’m stressed.

Neha: I understand. Stress can be difficult.

Rahul: Exactly. It’s become a habit.

Neha: Have you tried nicotine gum or other methods?

Rahul: I tried gum once, but I didn’t continue.

Neha: Maybe you need more support.

Rahul: You’re probably right.

Neha: My brother quit by exercising every morning.

Rahul: Really? That’s interesting.

Neha: He also avoided friends who smoked for a while.

Rahul: That sounds like a smart idea.

Neha: Small changes can make a big difference.

Rahul: I’ll try again next month.

Neha: That’s good. Don’t give up.

Rahul: Thanks for encouraging me.

Neha: You’re welcome. I believe you can do it.

Quick Practice

A. Change the words

Replace the underlined word with your own idea.

1. I smoke occasionally. → ____________________
2. I quit last year. → ____________________
3. Smoking is a bad habit. → ____________________
4. I feel healthier now. → ____________________
5. I smoke when I’m stressed. → ____________________

B. Answer the questions

1. Do you smoke? Why or why not?
2. What healthy habits do you have?
3. Why do some people find it difficult to quit smoking?
4. What advice would you give to a smoker?
5. How do you relax when you feel stressed?

C. Complete the sentences

1. I have never ________________________.
2. My family thinks ________________________.
3. I want to stay ________________________.
4. It is easier to quit when ________________________.
5. A healthy lifestyle includes ________________________.

Speaking Challenge

Speak for 1–2 minutes without reading.

Talk about these points:

• Do you smoke or not?
• What are your healthy habits?
• Why do some people smoke?
• Why is quitting difficult?
• What advice would you give to someone who wants to quit?
• What healthy habit would you like to develop?

Try to use at least five expressions from today’s lesson.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect	Correct
I am smoking since five years.	I have been smoking for five years.
He don’t smoke.	He doesn’t smoke.
I stopped to smoke last year.	I stopped smoking last year.
Smoking make people sick.	Smoking makes people sick.
I am quit smoking.	I have quit smoking.

Lesson Summary

Key Expressions

• Do you smoke?
• I don’t smoke.
• I smoke occasionally.
• I’m trying to quit.
• I’ve never smoked.
• I quit last year.
• Smoking is a bad habit.
• It’s hard to quit.
• I don’t like the smell of cigarettes.
• Have you ever tried to quit?
• It’s better to stay healthy.
• I prefer a smoke-free environment.