Introduction
how many common English phrases do you know? Do you want to speak English more naturally and confidently? You’re not alone! Many of my students ask me, “Teacher, what are the most useful phrases in English?”
So today, I’m sharing over 50 common English phrases you can use every day. These are simple, real-life expressions used in greetings, shopping, small talk, and more.
1. Greetings You’ll Hear Every Day
We use greetings all the time — when we meet friends, classmates, or strangers. These are easy but powerful!
• Hello
• Hi
• Good morning
• Good afternoon
• Good evening
• How are you?
• Nice to meet you
• Long time no see
• How’s it going?
• What’s up?
Example Conversation:
A: Hi, how are you?
B: I’m fine, thank you. And you?
2. How to Ask Questions Politely
English speakers often use polite expressions, especially when talking to someone new or older than you.
• Can I ask you something?
• Do you have a moment?
• May I help you?
• Could you please explain that?
• What does this mean?
Example:
“Could you please tell me where the bus stop is?”
3. Useful Phrases for Shopping
Next time you go to the store or market, try using these phrases:
• How much is this?
• I’m just looking, thank you.
• Do you have this in a different size?
• I’ll take this one.
• Can I pay by card?
Example:
“I’ll take this shirt. Can I pay with my card?”
4. Phrases You’ll Need at a Restaurant
Ordering food? Here’s what you’ll need to say:
• I’d like to order, please.
• Could I see the menu?
• I’ll have the chicken, please.
• Can I have the bill?
• The food was delicious!
Example:
“I’d like to order the spaghetti, please.”
5. Making Small Talk (Light Conversations)
These phrases help you start or continue a friendly chat:
• It’s a beautiful day, isn’t it?
• What do you do?
• Where are you from?
• That’s interesting!
• Really? Tell me more.
Example:
“So, what do you do for work?”
6. How to Ask for Help in English
Sometimes we get lost, confused, or need help. These phrases can really help in emergencies or daily life:
• Excuse me, can you help me?
• I’m lost.
• Where is the nearest pharmacy?
• I don’t understand.
• Could you speak more slowly?
Example:
“Excuse me, I don’t understand. Can you repeat that?”
7. Phrases to Say Goodbye
Don’t forget — how you end a conversation matters too. Here are simple ways to say goodbye:
• Goodbye
• Bye
• See you later
• Take care
• Have a nice day!
Example:
“Thanks for your help. Take care!”
8.How to Say Hello in English
Saying hello is the first thing you do when you meet someone. The most common ways to say hello in English are:
• Hello
• Hi
• Hey (informal)
• Good morning (before 12 PM)
• Good afternoon (12 PM to 5 PM)
• Good evening (after 5 PM)
Examples:
• Hello, my name is Ahmed.
• Hi! How are you?
• Good morning, teacher!
Tip: Use “Hello” or “Hi” for everyone. “Hey” is mostly for friends.
9. How to Say Thank You in English
Being polite is very important in English-speaking countries. Say thank you to show respect.
• Thank you
• Thanks
• Thanks a lot
• Thank you very much
• I really appreciate it
Examples:
• Thank you for your help.
• Thanks for the gift!
• I really appreciate your support.
Tip: Use “Thanks” for casual situations. Use “Thank you very much” for formal or serious situations.
10. How to Say Sorry in English
Everyone makes mistakes. Learning how to say sorry helps you show you care.
• Sorry
• I’m sorry
• I’m very sorry
• I apologize
Examples:
• I’m sorry I’m late.
• Sorry, I didn’t see your message.
• I apologize for the mistake.
Tip: Say it sincerely. Smile or look calm when you say sorry.
11. How to Say I Love You in English
This is a strong phrase used with family, close friends, or partners.
• I love you
• I really like you (less strong)
• I care about you
• I have feelings for you (romantic)
Examples:
• I love you, Mom.
• I really like spending time with you.
Tip: Use “I love you” only when you mean it deeply.
12. How to Say I Don’t Understand in English
If you don’t understand something, it’s okay to say it. People will help you.
• I don’t understand
• Can you repeat that, please?
• Sorry, I didn’t get that
• What do you mean?
Examples:
• I don’t understand this word.
• Can you say that again, please?
• What do you mean by “assignment”?
Tip: Ask politely. Most people are happy to explain.
13. How to Say Please in English
“Please” is a magic word in English. It shows manners and respect.
• Please (used before or after a request)
Examples:
• Can you help me, please?
• Please sit down.
• Pass me the pen, please.
Tip: Always say “please” when you ask for something.
14. How to Say Yes and No in English
Simple but very important words!
• Yes
• Yeah (informal)
• No
• Nope (informal)
Examples:
• Yes, I want some water.
• No, thank you.
• Yeah, that’s great!
Tip: “Yes” and “No” can be made more polite by adding “please” or “thank you.”
15. How to Say Good Luck in English
Wishing someone well is kind.
• Good luck
• Best of luck
• All the best
• You got this! (informal)
Examples:
• Good luck on your exam!
• All the best in your new job.
Tip: Say it before someone does something important.
16. How to Say Congratulations in English
Use this when someone succeeds.
• Congratulations!
• Congrats! (informal)
• Well done!
• I’m proud of you
Examples:
• Congratulations on your graduation!
• Well done, you did it!
Tip: You can also add a smile or even give a handshake.
Final Tips from Me as Your Teacher
• Use these phrases in your daily life. Practice with a friend or even speak to yourself.
• Don’t worry about mistakes — they are part of learning.
• Listen to native speakers on YouTube or in podcasts.
• Repeat out loud — your mouth needs to learn English too!
• Write your own mini-dialogues using the phrases above.
Your Turn!
Now it’s your turn — which phrase will you try today?
Read also
Pingback: How to Start a Conversation with Your Crush in English - Dirir Academy
Pingback: List of Prepositions in English with Examples - Dirir Academy