Basic phrases that every ESL student should master

Aric
Nov 17, 2025
3 min read

Learning English becomes easier when you have ready-made phrases to use in your daily life. These expressions help you at work, at school, and at doctor's appointments. Furthermore, by learning them as complete sentences, your brain gets used to thinking directly in English. Below you'll find a practical list with simple pronunciations so you can practice them without fear.

Why these phrases are important

Complete sentences help you gain confidence and fluency. They also prevent you from having to translate word for word. When you memorize short sentences, your confidence increases and your communication becomes more natural. These phrases are based on real-life situations experienced by many immigrant families in the United States.

Useful phrases for work

Perfect for offices, restaurants, cleaning, construction and customer service.

Could you repeat that, please? (kud yu ripit dat plis)

To politely ask someone to repeat something.

I will take care of it (ay wil teik ker ov it)

Ideal phrase to show responsibility.

I need help with this (ay nid jelp wit dis)

To ask for support without sounding insecure.

When is the deadline (wen is ded lain)

Useful for confirming important dates.

I am still learning English. Please speak a little slower (ay am stil lernin english. plis espik a liril slo wer)

Perfect if you need them to speak more slowly.

Where should I put this (wer shud ay put dis)

Very practical in warehouses, kitchens and maintenance.

Useful phrases for school

They help you communicate with teachers, administrative staff, and school counselors.

I would like to schedule a meeting (ay wud laik your skedyul a midin)

To request a meeting without complications.

Can you send that information to me by email (kan yu send dat informéshon tu mi bay imeil)

To receive data in writing.

My child needs help with this assignment (mai chaild nids jelp wit dis asáiment)

Very useful for supporting your children.

What time does the event start (wuat taim das di ivent start)

Simple phrase to confirm schedules.

Is there anything else I should know (is der enithin els ay shud no)

Perfect for making sure you don't miss any details.

Thank you for your help (zank yu for yor jelp)

A friendly ending to any conversation.

Phrases for medical appointments

They give you clarity and confidence during consultations, exams, or quick visits.

I have an appointment today (ay jav an apóint ment tudei)

To announce your arrival.

I am here for a check up (ay am jir for a check op)

Common phrase in general inquiries.

I need an interpreter please (ay nid an interpreter plis)

Very important in clinics and hospitals.

Where do I sign in (wer du ay sain in)

Tie helps guide you when you arrive.

I am feeling pain here (ay am filin pein jir)

Direct phrase to explain symptoms.

Can you explain that again please (kan yu ek spléin dat egen plis)

Useful when you need more clarity.

How to practice these phrases at home

Repeat aloud for a few minutes each day.

Daily repetition improves your pronunciation faster than you imagine.

Listen first and repeat later

You can use videos or audio to imitate the natural rhythm of English.

Create flashcards

Seeing the phrase written down helps to remember it better.

Practice with someone you trust

Even if the other person doesn't speak English, repeating out loud is already progress.

These phrases can help you feel more confident and prepared in your daily life. Learning English takes time, but every sentence you master makes a difference. At Colegio de Sueños, we're ready to support you in your progress and give you real, effective tools.

Sign up for our English courses and start your journey to American citizenship 🇺🇸

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