Introduction
Do you want to improve your English conversation skills? You’re not alone. Many English learners feel nervous when speaking, especially at the beginning. But the good news is: with simple phrases, common questions, and regular practice — you can start speaking English confidently.
In this guide, I will teach you the most useful phrases and questions you need for basic English conversations.
These examples are used in real life and will help you understand and respond naturally.
1. Common English Greetings
Starting a conversation begins with a greeting. Here are the most common ones:
• Hello
• Hi
• Good morning
• Good afternoon
• Good evening
• How are you?
• Nice to meet you
• How’s it going?
• What’s up?
Example:
Hey there!
Long time no see.
How have you been?
What’s new?
It’s great to see you!
2. English Questions to Start a Conversation
Questions are very important in English conversation. They help you start talking and show interest in the other person.
Here are some simple ones:
• What’s your name?
• Where are you from?
• What do you do?
• Do you speak English?
• What are your hobbies?
Examples:
How long have you been learning English?
What do you like to do in your free time?
Have you traveled to other countries?
What kind of music do you like?
Do you have any pets?
3. How to Introduce Yourself in English
When you meet someone new, you need to introduce yourself clearly and simply.
Here’s a good format:
• Hi, my name is [Your Name].
• I’m from [Country/City].
• I’m a [Job/Student].
• I’m learning English because…
Examples:
Hello, I’m Ahmed. I’m from Nairobi. I work as an engineer
Hi, I’m Sara. I live in London and I’m a teacher.
My name is John. I’m studying English to improve my career.
I’m Fatima. I enjoy learning English because I want to travel.
I’m Michael, and I’m new here. I’m excited to meet everyone.
4. Simple Phrases for Daily Conversations
Here are some easy sentences to use in any situation:
• Excuse me
• I’m sorry
• Thank you
• You’re welcome
• I don’t understand
• Can you repeat that, please?
• Can you help me?
Example:
“Excuse me, can you help me find this place?”
5. English Conversation in a Restaurant
If you go to a restaurant or café, try these:
• I’d like to order, please.
• Can I see the menu?
• I’ll have the chicken.
• Can I get the bill?
• The food is great!
Examples:
Could you recommend a dish?
Is this dish vegetarian?
I have a food allergy.
Could I have some water, please?
Everything tastes delicious!
6. Asking for Directions in English
These are very useful when traveling:
• Excuse me, where is the bus stop?
• How do I get to the hospital?
• Is this the right way to the market?
• Thank you for your help!
Example:
“Excuse me, how do I get to the train station?”
7. English Conversation at Work or School
If you’re talking to coworkers or classmates:
• What time is the meeting?
• Do you need any help?
• Can you explain this again?
• Let’s work together on this.
Example:
“Let’s finish this project together.”
8. Ending a Conversation Politely
It’s good to end your conversations in a polite way:
• Goodbye
• See you later
• Take care
• Have a nice day
• Talk to you soon
Example:
“Okay, I have to go. Take care!”
Extra Tips to Improve Your English Conversation
Here are some easy steps to get better every day:
• Practice every day, even for 5 minutes.
• Speak out loud — don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
• Watch English videos and repeat what they say.
• Learn in small parts — start with greetings, then questions, and so on.
• Use the mirror method — talk to yourself in English.
Final Words
You don’t need perfect grammar to have a good English conversation. You only need confidence and practice. Start with greetings and questions, and soon, you’ll be able to speak English in real situations.
Now You Try:
Write a short self-introduction using the examples in this post. You can post it in the comments or practice it with a friend.
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