Asking for directions in English
You’re walking around an unfamiliar neighborhood. Ask someone nearby how to get to the library.
Asking for directions
Find the library, ask how long it takes to walk and confirm the turn.
You’ll practice in English. Instructions, hints and feedback appear in the language you choose.
Conversation guide
Name the place and how you’re traveling
Tell the other person what you’re trying to find. If you’re walking, make that clear, since a route that works on foot may be different from one you would drive. You can also ask for an estimate in minutes, which is often easier to use than a distance you can’t picture.
Pair the action with a landmark
A direction usually gives you something to do and a place to do it. Listen for a turn and the landmark that goes with it, such as a bridge or a corner store. The order matters if you hear several landmarks. Repeat the turn and its landmark together to check that you heard both correctly.
Practice with a map you know
Pick a familiar destination and describe one turn using a landmark. Then ask someone to repeat it back. If they understand the action but choose a different corner, make your landmark more specific.
More conversations
Coffee shop
Order a small latte and ask for it to go.
Hotel check-in
Confirm your reservation, give your name and say how long you’re staying.
Meeting a friend
Agree on a day, a time and where to meet.
Buying a train ticket
Say where you’re going, pick a ticket and catch the next train.
Ordering at a restaurant
Order a meal and ask for the check when you’re done.
Shopping at a market
Ask for the produce you want and tell the vendor how you’ll pay.
At the pharmacy
Find a product, choose a pack and ask how much it costs.
Shopping for clothes
Ask for a color and size, then try the sweater on.
Returning a purchase
Explain the return, show your receipt and ask for a refund.
A little practice, wherever life takes you.
Explore more language lessons in the app.
