Buying a train ticket in English
You’re at the ticket window with time to spare. Tell the clerk where you’re headed and which ticket you need.
Buying a train ticket
Buy one one-way ticket to Brighton for the next train.
You’ll practice in English. Instructions, hints and feedback appear in the language you choose.
Conversation guide
Give the destination first
At a ticket window, say where you’re going before you explain when you want to leave. If a city has more than one station, use the station name shown on your itinerary. That helps the clerk find the right service, especially if two stops have similar names or one is outside the city center.
Listen for ticket type and departure
A clerk may ask whether you need a ticket for the trip back, then ask about your departure. The next train and the last train can sound similar in a noisy station, but they send you on very different trips. If you miss the time, ask the clerk to repeat it and compare it with the departure board.
Try a later departure
After the exercise, pick another destination and imagine you can’t leave until after lunch. Practice saying the destination and your preferred departure time as separate pieces of information.
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.
Ordering at a restaurant
Order a meal and ask for the check when you’re done.
Asking for directions
Find the library on foot and double-check where to turn.
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.
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