Telephone Conversations

Telephone conversations can be formal or informal.  Conversations are formal when speaking to managers, council staff, bank managers.  Conversations with family and friends are informal. 

Phrases used in a formal conversation:

Good morning.

Could you hold on a moment, please?

I’m sorry, she is out of the Office today.

Thank you for calling.

May I ask who’s calling, please?

I’m trying to contact, please  wait…

I’m afraid my English not good, please…

I’m afraid he’s in a meeting.

He’s free in the afternoon after about two.

I would like to make a reservation, please. 

Phrases used in informal conversation:

Is … there?

Hello, George’s phone

Who is it?

l'll ask her to ring you when … gets back.

Hang on a second

I can’t hear you very well.

I’ll let … know that you rang.

Just a minute…

Okay, wait a moment please

Speak to you again soon