Good social behavior helps you build strong relationships and make a positive impression. Whether you are meeting someone for the first time, visiting a friend, or talking to strangers, using polite words and showing respect makes every conversation smoother and more enjoyable.
Pro Tip: Good etiquette is not about using difficult English. Simple words like please, thank you, excuse me, and sorry can make you sound polite, friendly, and confident.
Useful Expressions
- Nice to meet you.
- Please go ahead.
- After you.
- Thank you very much.
- You’re welcome.
- Excuse me.
- I’m sorry.
- May I ask you something?
- Would you mind helping me?
- I really appreciate it.
- That’s very kind of you.
- It was my pleasure.
- Have a wonderful day.
- Take care.
- See you again soon.
Questions & Answers
1. What should you say when you meet someone for the first time?
Answer: Nice to meet you.
2. What do you say when someone helps you?
Answer: Thank you very much.
3. How do you politely get someone’s attention?
Answer: Excuse me.
4. What should you say if you accidentally step on someone’s foot?
Answer: I’m sorry.
5. How do you politely ask for help?
Answer: Would you mind helping me?
6. What do you say when someone thanks you?
Answer: You’re welcome.
7. How do you let another person enter first?
Answer: After you.
8. How do you ask permission politely?
Answer: May I ask you something?
9. What can you say before leaving?
Answer: Have a wonderful day.
10. What do you say when saying goodbye to a friend?
Answer: See you again soon.
Conversation
Emma: Good morning.
Daniel: Good morning! How are you?
Emma: I’m doing well, thank you.
Daniel: Nice to see you.
Emma: Nice to see you too.
Daniel: Please, have a seat.
Emma: Thank you.
Daniel: Would you like some coffee?
Emma: Yes, please.
Daniel: Here you are.
Emma: That’s very kind of you.
Daniel: You’re welcome.
Real-Life Conversation
Riya: Excuse me, is this seat free?
John: Yes, please have a seat.
Riya: Thank you very much.
John: You’re welcome.
Riya: My name is Riya.
John: Nice to meet you, Riya. I’m John.
Riya: Nice to meet you too.
John: Is this your first time here?
Riya: Yes, it is.
John: Welcome! I hope you enjoy the event.
Riya: Thank you. Everyone seems very friendly.
John: They are. Feel free to ask questions.
Riya: That’s good to know.
John: Would you like something to drink?
Riya: Yes, please. A glass of water would be great.
John: I’ll get one for you.
Riya: I really appreciate it.
John: My pleasure.
Riya: Oh, I’m sorry. I almost dropped my bag.
John: No problem. It happens.
Riya: Thank you for understanding.
John: You’re welcome.
Riya: It was nice talking with you.
John: Likewise. Have a wonderful day.
Riya: You too. Goodbye!
Quick Practice
Change the Words
Replace the highlighted word with a polite expression.
- Hey, can you help me? → __________
- Thanks → ____________________
- Bye → _______________________
- Move → ______________________
- What? → _____________________
Answer the Questions
- What do you say when someone opens the door for you?
- How do you apologize politely?
- What expression do you use before asking a question?
- What do you say when someone thanks you?
- How do you end a conversation politely?
Complete the Sentences
- _________, may I sit here?
- Thank you _________.
- You’re _________.
- Nice to _________ you.
- Have a wonderful _________.
Speaking Challenge
Imagine you are attending a community event where you don’t know anyone.
Speak for 1–2 minutes and include these expressions naturally:
- Nice to meet you.
- Excuse me.
- May I ask you something?
- Thank you very much.
- You’re welcome.
- Have a wonderful day.
Try to introduce yourself, ask a simple question, thank someone for their help, and end the conversation politely.
Common Mistakes
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| Give me your pen. | Could you please lend me your pen? |
| What? | Sorry, could you repeat that? |
| I want water. | May I have some water, please? |
| Move. | Excuse me, may I get through? |
| Thanks. | Thank you very much. |
Lesson Summary
- Nice to meet you.
- Please go ahead.
- After you.
- Excuse me.
- Thank you very much.
- You’re welcome.
- I’m sorry.
- May I ask you something?
- Would you mind helping me?
- I really appreciate it.
- Have a wonderful day.
- See you again soon.
