Telephone Language
Here are some typical phrases that you can use in a telephone conversation.
Answering the phoneHello? (informal) Thank you for calling Boyz Autobody. Jody speaking. How can I help you? Doctor's office. Introducing yourselfHey George. It's Lisa calling. (informal) Hello, this is Julie Madison calling. Hi, it's Gerry from the dentist's office here. This is she.* Speaking.*
*The person answering says this if the caller does not recognize their voice.
Asking to speak with someoneIs Fred in? (informal) Is Jackson there, please? (informal) Can I talk to your sister? (informal) May I speak with Mr. Green, please? Would the doctor be in/available? Connecting someone Just a sec. I'll get him. (informal) Hang on one second. (informal) Please hold and I'll put you through to his office. One moment please. All of our operators are busy at this time. Please hold for the next available person. Making special requestsCould you please repeat that? Would you mind spelling that for me? Could you speak up a little please? Can you speak a little slower please. My English isn't very strong. Can you call me back? I think we have a bad connection. Can you please hold for a minute? I have another call. Taking a message for someoneSammy's not in. Who's this? (informal) I'm sorry, Lisa's not here at the moment. Can I ask who's calling? I'm afraid he's stepped out. Would you like to leave a message? He's on lunch right 's calling please? He's busy right now. Can you call again later? I'll let him know you called. I'll make sure she gets the message. Leaving a message with someoneYes, can you tell him his wife called, please. No, that's okay, I'll call back later. Yes, it's James from CompInc. here. When do you expect her back in the office? Thanks, could you ask him to call Brian when he gets in? Do you have a pen handy. I don't think he has my number. Thanks. My number is 222-3456, extension 12. Confirming information Okay, I've got it all down. Let me repeat that just to make sure. Did you say 555 Charles St.? You said your name was John, right? I'll make sure he gets the message. Listening to an answering machineHello. You've reached 222-6789. Please leave a detailed message after the k you. Hi, this is Elizabeth. I'm sorry I'm not available to take your call at this time. Leave me a message and I'll get back to you as soon as I can. Thank you for calling Dr. Mindin's office. Our hours
