Words (Core Vocabulary)
- request / favor / help / lend / borrow
- would you mind / could you possibly / if it’s not too much trouble
- happy to / glad to / I can / let me
- deadline / timing / pickup / drop-off
- return the favor / repay / owe you one
- no pressure / totally fine if not / when you have a moment
Phrases (Request → offer → accept/decline → close)
Requesting (soft & clear)
- Would you mind watching my bag for two minutes?
- Could you possibly share the file by tomorrow morning?
- If it’s not too much trouble, could you sign this form?
Offering help
- I can grab that for you—need a hand?
- Happy to drive if you need a ride.
- I’m heading to Costco— want me to pick up anything?
Accepting/declining
- That would be great, thank you.
- I appreciate the offer, but I’m all set.
- Thanks for asking— I can’t help this time, sorry.
Closing the loop
- Thanks again—I’ll return the favor next time.
- All set now—really appreciate your help.
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Neighbour text: Any chance you could water the plants this weekend? No worries if not.
- At the door: I’ve got it— let me hold the elevator.
- Follow-up: Thanks for the lift—coffee on me next time.
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
- make a polite request
- offer assistance
- set a timeline
- accept/decline graciously
- follow up with thanks
- return the favor
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Softeners (“Would you mind…,” “Could you…”) are common and friendly.
- A quick thank-you (text or small treat) for a favor is typical.
- It’s okay to set boundaries; a brief “Sorry, I can’t” is respected.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Ask: “Would you mind sending the slides by 3 p.m.? Thanks either way.”
- Offer: “I’m at the store— need anything while I’m here?”
- Decline: “Thanks for thinking of me—I can’t this week.”