Artsun Akopyan
© Artsun Akopyan, 2019
ISBN 978-5-0050-7012-8
Created with Ridero smart publishing system
Introduction
This book presents 137 interconnected mini-dialogues that include numerous word combinations used by native English speakers in everyday conversations. Learn how to call or flag down a taxi, how to book a taxi on your smartphone, how to speak with a taxi driver, how to rent a car, how to use car controls, and how to start and drive an automatic, manual or electric car – all in English.
The book is for learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) / English as a second language (ESL).
All of the images used in this book are released under the Pixabay License / Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license.
How to take a taxi
A: How can I get to the airport?
B: Take a cab.
(cab = taxi / taxicab)
A: How can I take a cab?
B: You can call a cab or order one online.
(online = on the Internet)
A: How can I take a taxi if I don’t have a phone?
B: You can flag a taxicab down or hail one in the street.
A: How do I flag down a cab?
B: Wave your arm to the drivers!
A: How do I hail a cab?
B: Stand on the curb of a street and raise your arm. Don’t wave your arm!
A: How do I call a taxi?
B: Find a taxi company in your phone book and dial their phone number.
How to speak with a dispatch operator
A: Hello! Can I get a taxi to the airport?
B: Yes, you can.
B: Where are you located?
A: I am at Grand Hotel.
B: What’s the address?
A: 11 Central Park.
B: What is your phone number?
A: My phone number is 123-11-11.
B: What is your destination?
A: The airport.
B: Do you have any luggage?
A: Yes, just one suitcase.
(luggage = baggage)
B: What time would you like to be picked up?
A: As soon as possible.
A: When will the taxi arrive?
B: Your taxi will arrive in 5 minutes.
A: What is the fare?
B: The flat fee to the airport is 65 dollars.
(flat fee / flat rate / flat fee rate = fixed price)
A: Are there any tolls to pay along the way to the airport?
B: Yes, they are included in the fare.
(road toll = a fee for use of certain roads)
How to book a taxi on the Internet
A: How can I order a taxi on my smartphone?
B: First, download and install a taxi application.
A: Where can I download it from on my iPhone?
B: Use the App Store.
A: Where can I download it from on my Android device?
B: Use the Google Play Store.
A: How can I order a cab using the application?
B: Create an account and follow onscreen instructions.
A: What must I do to create an account?
B: Type in your name, email address, and phone number, and create a password.
A: How can I pay for a cab ordered on the Internet?
B: You can pay online or in cash when the cab arrives.
How to speak with a taxi driver
A: Is this taxi free?
B: Yes. Get in!
B: Where to?
A: The railway station.
(Where to? = Where are you heading? / Where are you going?)
A: How much will the ride cost?
B: Ten to fifteen dollars. The meter calculates the fare.
(meter = taximeter / taxicab meter)
A: What does the price depend on?
B: The distance and time of the trip.
A: Do you accept cash or credit cards?
B: I accept both.
A: How long will it take to get to the station?
B: Twenty to thirty minutes depending on the traffic.
B: Are you in a hurry?
A: Yes, I am. Let’s go!
B: I’ll take the quickest route. Could you buckle up, please?
A: Sure.
(buckle up = fasten your seat belt)
A: (some time later) Why have we stopped?
B: We’ve arrived at your destination. This is the drop-off location.
A: How much do I owe you?
B: That’ll be thirteen dollars and fifty cents, please.
(that’ll = that will)
A: That was a great trip. Do you accept tips?
B: Yes, I do.
A: Here’s fifteen dollars. Keep the change!
B: Thanks!
(here’s = here is)
How to rent a car
A: Where can I hire a car for a few days?
B: At a car rental company.
A: Where can I find it?
B: At an airport or train station. Look for the «car rental» sign.