Daily Conversations
Shopping, banking, doctor, travel scenarios
Introduction to Daily Conversations
Daily conversations in English are the foundation of practical communication skills. Whether you're ordering food at a restaurant, withdrawing money from an ATM, or asking for directions to the nearest metro station, knowing the right phrases makes life easier. In India, where English is widely used in urban areas and professional settings, mastering these everyday interactions opens doors to better opportunities and builds confidence.
The key to successful daily conversations is not perfect grammar but clear communication. Native speakers and fellow Indians alike appreciate when you speak simply and directly. This study material focuses on real situations you'll encounter in Indian cities and towns, from bargaining at street markets to speaking with doctors at clinics.
Fluency comes from practice, not perfection. Start with simple phrases, use them daily, and gradually build complexity. Even mixing Hindi and English (code-switching) is perfectly acceptable in informal Indian contexts.
- Essential phrases for shopping, banking, healthcare, and travel
- How to ask questions politely and get clear answers
- Common mistakes Indians make and how to avoid them
- Cultural tips for professional and casual conversations
- Confidence-building techniques for nervous speakers
Priya landed a job interview at TCS but struggled to order lunch in English at the office cafeteria. Simple conversations matter!
Amit missed his train because he couldn't understand the announcement at Delhi Junction. Travel scenarios need quick comprehension.
Shopping and Bargaining
Shopping in India ranges from air-conditioned malls with fixed prices to bustling street markets where bargaining is expected. Knowing how to ask about products, negotiate prices, and complete transactions in English helps you shop confidently anywhere. Whether you're at Big Bazaar, a local kirana store, or Sarojini Nagar Market in Delhi, these phrases work universally.
- Excuse me, where can I find [item]?
- How much does this cost? / What's the price?
- Do you have this in a different size/color?
- Can I try this on? (for clothes)
- Is there any discount available?
- That's too expensive. Can you give me a better price?
- I'll take it. / I'll buy this.
- Do you accept UPI/card/cash?
Customer: 'How much for this shirt?' Shopkeeper: 'Five hundred rupees.' Customer: 'Can you do ₹400?' Shopkeeper: 'Okay, ₹450 final price.'.
Customer: 'I'm looking for sports shoes.' Assistant: 'Which brand are you interested in?' Customer: 'Nike or Adidas, budget around ₹3000.'.
Avoid saying 'What is the rate?' (direct Hindi translation of 'rate kya hai'). Instead, say 'What's the price?' or 'How much does this cost?' Native speakers use 'price' for shopping, not 'rate.'
You want to buy a phone charger at a local electronics shop. Ask the shopkeeper.
Answer: Excuse me, do you have mobile chargers? I need one for Android. How much does it cost?
Start with 'Excuse me' for politeness, specify what you need clearly, then ask the price.
The vegetable vendor quotes ₹60 per kg for tomatoes. You think it's high. Negotiate.
Answer: That seems a bit high. The other shop is selling for ₹50. Can you match that price?
Mention competitor prices politely to justify your counter-offer. Don't just say 'too expensive.'.
Bank Transactions
conversations require formal language, clarity, and attention to detail. Whether opening an account, making a deposit, or resolving issues, use polite phrases, confirm all details verbally, and keep documents ready. Common scenarios include account opening, cash withdrawals/deposits, cheque deposits, loan inquiries, and resolving transaction errors.
- "I'd like to open a savings/current account."
- "Could you please check my account balance?"
- "I need to deposit/withdraw ₹[amount]."
- "Is there a minimum balance requirement?"
- "What documents do I need for account opening?"
- "I didn't receive the OTP for this transaction."
- "Can you help me activate mobile/net banking?"
- "There's an unauthorized transaction in my account."
Bank Officer: Good morning! How may I help you today? You: Good morning. I'd like to open a savings account. Officer: Certainly! Do you have an Aadhaar card, PAN card, and address proof? You: Yes, I have all three. I also have two passport-size photographs. Officer: Perfect. The minimum balance requirement is ₹5,000. You'll get a debit card, mobile, and internet within 7 days. Would you like to proceed? You: Yes, please. What's the interest rate? Officer: 4% per annum. Please fill this form and sign here.
Complete using correct grammar: The students ______ their homework yesterday.
Answer: completed / finished / did.
Use past tense for completed actions with time markers like "yesterday".
Identify error: She don't like coffee.
Answer: She doesn't like coffee. (doesn't, not don't).
Third person singular (she/he/it) uses "doesn't", not "don't".
Transform to negative: I speak Hindi.
Answer: I do not speak Hindi. / I don't speak Hindi.
Add "do not" before the base verb for negative form.
Make question: She works in Mumbai.
Answer: Does she work in Mumbai?
Use "Does" + subject + base verb for present simple questions with she/he/it.
Choose correct option: They (is/are/am) studying.
Answer: are (They are studying).
Subject "They" requires plural verb "are".
At the Doctor
Medical consultations require clear symptom descriptions, honest disclosure of medical history, and understanding prescriptions. Use specific terms for body parts and symptoms. Common scenarios include OPD visits, emergency consultations, follow-up appointments, and pharmacy visits. Always repeat dosage instructions to confirm understanding.
- "I've been experiencing [symptom] for [duration]."
- "The pain is sharp/dull/throbbing and occurs when I [activity]."
- "I have a fever—my temperature is 102°F."
- "I feel dizzy/nauseous/fatigued since yesterday."
- "I have a persistent cough with yellow/green phlegm."
- "I'm allergic to [medicine/food]."
- "I'm currently taking [medicine name] for [condition]."
Doctor: Good evening, Priya. What brings you here today? You: Good evening, doctor. I've had a severe headache for three days. It's mostly on the right side of my head. Doctor: Is it a throbbing pain or constant dull ache? You: It's throbbing, especially in the morning. I also feel nauseous sometimes. Doctor: Have you taken any medication? You: I took Paracetamol 500mg yesterday, but it didn't help much. Doctor: Any history of migraines in your family? You: Yes, my mother has migraines. Doctor: I see. I'm prescribing a stronger painkiller and an anti-nausea tablet. Take them twice daily after meals for three days. If it persists, we'll do a CT scan.
Complete using correct grammar: The students ______ their homework yesterday.
Answer: completed / finished / did.
Use past tense for completed actions with time markers like "yesterday".
Identify error: She don't like coffee.
Answer: She doesn't like coffee. (doesn't, not don't).
Third person singular (she/he/it) uses "doesn't", not "don't".
Transform to negative: I speak Hindi.
Answer: I do not speak Hindi. / I don't speak Hindi.
Add "do not" before the base verb for negative form.
Make question: She works in Mumbai.
Answer: Does she work in Mumbai?
Use "Does" + subject + base verb for present simple questions with she/he/it.
Choose correct option: They (is/are/am) studying.
Answer: are (They are studying).
Subject "They" requires plural verb "are".
Restaurant Orders
Restaurant conversations combine politeness with clear ordering. Whether dining in or ordering via Swiggy/Zomato calls, know how to request modifications, ask about ingredients (for allergies/preferences), and handle billing. Common scenarios include reservations, ordering food, requesting changes, and splitting bills. Use "Could I have." or "I'd like." instead of "Give me.".
- "Could I see the menu, please?"
- "I'd like to order the [dish name]."
- "Is this dish spicy? Can you make it mild/medium/extra spicy?"
- "Does this contain peanuts/dairy? I'm allergic."
- "What do you recommend for vegetarians?"
- "Could I have extra raita/chutney on the side?"
- "We'd like to split the bill, please."
- "There's an error in the bill—I was charged for 3 items, but we ordered only 2."
Waiter: Good evening! Welcome to Spice Route. Here's your menu. Can I get you something to drink? You: Good evening. I'll have a fresh lime soda, less sugar, please. Waiter: Certainly. Have you decided on food, or would you like a few minutes? You: I'd like the paneer butter masala and garlic naan. Is the paneer masala very spicy? Waiter: It's medium spicy. We can make it mild if you prefer. You: Medium is fine. Also, could I get extra naan instead of rice? Waiter: Sure! Anything else? You: That's all for now, thank you. Waiter: Great! Your order will be ready in 15 minutes.
Complete using correct grammar: The students ______ their homework yesterday.
Answer: completed / finished / did.
Use past tense for completed actions with time markers like "yesterday".
Identify error: She don't like coffee.
Answer: She doesn't like coffee. (doesn't, not don't).
Third person singular (she/he/it) uses "doesn't", not "don't".
Transform to negative: I speak Hindi.
Answer: I do not speak Hindi. / I don't speak Hindi.
Add "do not" before the base verb for negative form.
Make question: She works in Mumbai.
Answer: Does she work in Mumbai?
Use "Does" + subject + base verb for present simple questions with she/he/it.
Choose correct option: They (is/are/am) studying.
Answer: are (They are studying).
Subject "They" requires plural verb "are".
Asking for Directions
Navigating Indian cities requires asking locals for directions, especially in areas with limited GPS accuracy. Use polite openers, repeat the directions to confirm understanding, and thank the person. Common scenarios include finding metro stations, bus stops, landmarks, shops, and hospitals. Always ask 2-3 people to cross-verify directions.
- "Excuse me, could you tell me how to get to [place]?"
- "Is this the right way to the metro station?"
- "How far is [landmark] from here?"
- "Should I take a left or right at the next signal?"
- "Is there a bus that goes to [destination]?"
- "Can I walk to [place], or should I take an auto?"
- "Which platform for the train to [city]?"
- "Where's the nearest ATM/pharmacy/petrol pump?"
You: Excuse me, could you tell me how to reach Apollo Hospital from here? Local: Apollo? Yes, go straight for about 1 kilometer, then take a right at the big traffic signal near HDFC Bank. You: Right at the HDFC signal. Got it. How much further after that? Local: Walk for 5 minutes—you'll see the hospital on your left. Big blue building, can't miss it. You: So, straight 1 km, right at HDFC, then 5 minutes on foot. Thank you so much! Local: You're welcome. Take care!
Complete using correct grammar: The students ______ their homework yesterday.
Answer: completed / finished / did.
Use past tense for completed actions with time markers like "yesterday".
Identify error: She don't like coffee.
Answer: She doesn't like coffee. (doesn't, not don't).
Third person singular (she/he/it) uses "doesn't", not "don't".
Transform to negative: I speak Hindi.
Answer: I do not speak Hindi. / I don't speak Hindi.
Add "do not" before the base verb for negative form.
Make question: She works in Mumbai.
Answer: Does she work in Mumbai?
Use "Does" + subject + base verb for present simple questions with she/he/it.
Choose correct option: They (is/are/am) studying.
Answer: are (They are studying).
Subject "They" requires plural verb "are".
Public Transport
Using buses, metros, local trains, and autos in India requires knowing route numbers, ticket types, and payment methods. Be prepared for crowded conditions and always confirm the destination before boarding. Common scenarios include buying tickets, asking about routes, requesting stops, and negotiating auto fares. Keep small change handy for buses and autos.
- "Which bus goes to [destination]?"
- "One ticket to [station name], please."
- "Does this metro go to [line color/station]?"
- "Where should I get down for [landmark]?"
- "Is this the last metro/bus for today?"
- "How much to [destination] by auto? Please use the meter."
- "Can you drop me at the next bus stop, please?"
- "Which platform for the Rajdhani Express?"
You: (At ticket counter) One token to Rajiv Chowk, please. Officer: That'll be ₹40. You: Here you go. Which line do I take? Officer: Blue Line, Platform 2. Follow the signs. You: Thank you! (On the platform) You: (To a passenger) Excuse me, does this train go to Rajiv Chowk? Passenger: Yes, it's four stops from here. You: Great, thank you!
Complete using correct grammar: The students ______ their homework yesterday.
Answer: completed / finished / did.
Use past tense for completed actions with time markers like "yesterday".
Identify error: She don't like coffee.
Answer: She doesn't like coffee. (doesn't, not don't).
Third person singular (she/he/it) uses "doesn't", not "don't".
Transform to negative: I speak Hindi.
Answer: I do not speak Hindi. / I don't speak Hindi.
Add "do not" before the base verb for negative form.
Make question: She works in Mumbai.
Answer: Does she work in Mumbai?
Use "Does" + subject + base verb for present simple questions with she/he/it.
Choose correct option: They (is/are/am) studying.
Answer: are (They are studying).
Subject "They" requires plural verb "are".
Phone Conversations
Phone etiquette requires clear speech, active listening, and confirming details (spellings, numbers, dates). Common scenarios include customer service calls, booking appointments, following up on orders, and handling wrong numbers. Always state your purpose early, speak slowly in noisy environments, and repeat important information like names and numbers.
- Greeting: "Hello, this is [your name] calling from [company/purpose]."
- State Purpose: "I'm calling regarding [issue/inquiry]."
- Listen Actively: Let the other person finish before responding. Say "I see" or "Understood" to show you're listening.
- Confirm Details: "Let me confirm—your order number is ABC123, correct?"
- Closing: "Thank you for your help. Have a good day!"
- If No Answer: Leave a voicemail: "Hi, this is Raj. I called about [topic]. Please call me back at [number]. Thanks!"
Agent: Hello, Swiggy customer care. How can I assist you? You: Hi, my name is Amit. I placed an order 45 minutes ago, order ID SW12345, but it hasn't arrived yet. Agent: I'm sorry for the delay. Let me check. Can you please confirm your registered mobile number? You: It's 98765-43210. Agent: Thank you. I see your order is with the delivery partner, expected in 10 minutes. Would you like me to escalate this? You: Yes, please. I have a meeting at 2 PM, so I need it urgently. Agent: Noted. I've marked it urgent. You'll receive a call from the delivery partner within 5 minutes. You: Great, thank you so much! Agent: You're welcome. Anything else? You: No, that's all. Thanks!
Complete using correct grammar: The students ______ their homework yesterday.
Answer: completed / finished / did.
Use past tense for completed actions with time markers like "yesterday".
Identify error: She don't like coffee.
Answer: She doesn't like coffee. (doesn't, not don't).
Third person singular (she/he/it) uses "doesn't", not "don't".
Transform to negative: I speak Hindi.
Answer: I do not speak Hindi. / I don't speak Hindi.
Add "do not" before the base verb for negative form.
Make question: She works in Mumbai.
Answer: Does she work in Mumbai?
Use "Does" + subject + base verb for present simple questions with she/he/it.
Choose correct option: They (is/are/am) studying.
Answer: are (They are studying).
Subject "They" requires plural verb "are".
Common Phrases for All Situations
Master these universal phrases to handle any daily conversation with confidence. They work across shopping, travel, and social interactions. Memorizing 50-100 common phrases gives you 80% coverage for real-world English. Focus on polite starters, clarifying questions, and graceful closings.
- Greetings: Good morning/afternoon/evening | How are you? | Nice to meet you | Long time no see!
- At Shops: How much is this? | Do you have this in [size/color]? | Can I get a discount? | Do you accept cards?
- At Restaurants: I'd like to order... | Can I see the menu? | The bill, please | Could I have extra napkins?
- Directions: Excuse me, where is...? | How do I get to...? | Is it far from here? | Which way should I go?
- Phone Calls: May I speak to [name]? | Can I leave a message? | I'll call back later | Sorry, wrong number
- Emergencies: I need help! | Call an ambulance! | Where's the nearest hospital? | This is urgent
- Apologies: Sorry for being late | I didn't mean to... | It was my mistake | Won't happen again
- Gratitude: Thanks a lot! | I owe you one | That's very kind of you | Much appreciated
- Complaints (Polite): There seems to be a problem... | This isn't what I ordered | Could you please fix this?
- Goodbyes: Take care! | See you soon | Have a great day | Catch you later!
Complete using correct grammar: The students ______ their homework yesterday.
Answer: completed / finished / did.
Use past tense for completed actions with time markers like "yesterday".
Identify error: She don't like coffee.
Answer: She doesn't like coffee. (doesn't, not don't).
Third person singular (she/he/it) uses "doesn't", not "don't".
Transform to negative: I speak Hindi.
Answer: I do not speak Hindi. / I don't speak Hindi.
Add "do not" before the base verb for negative form.
Make question: She works in Mumbai.
Answer: Does she work in Mumbai?
Use "Does" + subject + base verb for present simple questions with she/he/it.
Choose correct option: They (is/are/am) studying.
Answer: are (They are studying).
Subject "They" requires plural verb "are".
Practice Dialogues
Role-play these 10 realistic scenarios with a partner or record yourself. Each scenario tests multiple skills: vocabulary, politeness, clarity, and problem-solving. Aim for 1-2 minutes per dialogue. After practicing, ask for feedback: Was I clear? Did I sound polite? Did I confirm details?
- Scenario 1 (Shopping): You're buying a saree at a local shop. Ask for a specific color, negotiate the price from ₹3,000 to ₹2,500, and ask if they deliver.
- Scenario 2 (Restaurant): Order biryani, ask if it contains nuts (you're allergic), request less spice, and later complain that it's too salty.
- Scenario 3 (Doctor): You have a sore throat and fever for 3 days. Describe symptoms, mention you took Dolo 650 but it didn't help, and ask about antibiotics.
- Scenario 4 (Bank): Open a savings account. Ask about minimum balance, interest rates, debit card delivery time, and mobile banking activation.
- Scenario 5 (Directions): You're at Bangalore's Majestic bus stand and need to reach Indiranagar. Ask a local how to get there (bus/metro options).
- Scenario 6 (Metro): Buy a token to Connaught Place, ask which line to take, and request someone to alert you 2 stops before your destination.
- Scenario 7 (Auto Negotiation): An auto driver quotes ₹150 for a 3 km trip. The meter shows ₹80. Negotiate or find another auto.
- Scenario 8 (Phone - Customer Care): Your Flipkart order (Order ID: FLP123) arrived damaged. Call customer care, explain the issue, and request a replacement.
- Scenario 9 (Phone - Appointment): Call Apollo Hospital to book a dentist appointment for next Monday at 4 PM. Confirm the doctor's name and ask about charges.
- Scenario 10 (Emergency): Your neighbor slipped and hurt their leg. Call an ambulance, give the address clearly (including landmark), and describe the injury.
You: Good morning, doctor. Doctor: Good morning! Please sit. What's troubling you? You: I've had a sore throat for three days, and I'm running a fever—it's around 101°F. I also feel weak and tired. Doctor: I see. Is the throat pain worse when you swallow? You: Yes, especially in the mornings. I also have a slight cough. Doctor: Have you taken any medication? You: I took Dolo 650 twice yesterday, but the fever came back after 6 hours. Doctor: Okay. Let me examine your throat. Say "Ahh." You: Ahh. Doctor: Your throat is inflamed. It looks like a bacterial infection. I'm prescribing an antibiotic—Azithromycin 500mg, one tablet daily for three days after meals. Also, continue Dolo 650 for fever. Gargle with warm salt water twice a day. You: Just to confirm—one antibiotic tablet daily for three days after meals, and I can continue Dolo as needed. Should I avoid any foods? Doctor: Correct. Avoid cold drinks and ice cream for now. Drink warm water and rest. You: Thank you so much, doctor! Doctor: You're welcome. Come back if it doesn't improve in 3 days.
Apply Daily Conversations in this sentence: ________________.
Answer: I go to school.
Follow the grammar rules from this topic.
Identify and correct the error.
Answer: He goes to school.
The error violates the rule covered.
Choose correct option: (A) / (B) / (C).
Answer: B.
This option follows correct grammar.
Transform as instructed.
Answer: He did not go.
Apply the transformation pattern.
Fill in blank with correct form.
Answer: goes.
Consider tense and subject agreement.
Practise Daily Conversations
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