Words (Core Vocabulary)
- inbox / thread / subject line / signature
- CC / BCC / reply / reply-all / forward
- attachment / link / shared drive
- OOO (out of office) / autoresponder
- mention / @tag / emoji reaction / DM (direct message)
- call / extension / voicemail / callback / caller ID
- spam / junk / phishing (be cautious)
Phrases (Plan → send → follow up)
Subject lines
- Action needed: [task] by [date]
- Quick question: [topic]
- Update: [project] – week of [date]
Email body
- Hi [Name], thanks for the update. Here’s what I need: [1–2 bullets].
- Attaching the PDF and linking the folder here.
- Moving [Name] to BCC for future replies.
DM etiquette
- Do you have a minute for a quick question?
- Following up on the ticket—any blockers?
- Let’s switch to email for details/attachments.
Phone & voicemail
- Hi, this is [Name]—calling about [topic]. My number is [###].
- Could you call me back after 3 p.m.? Thank you.
- I’m returning your call—is now a good time?
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Email: Subject: Quick question – invoice date → Could you confirm the due date and send a PDF?
- DM: Got a sec to review the draft? Two small points.
- Voicemail: Hi, Mahdie here—calling about tomorrow’s appointment; please call back at 604-555-0123.
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
- set a clear subject
- attach files
- link a folder
- cc/bcc stakeholders
- send a polite close (“Thanks, …”)
DM
- ask a quick question
- confirm a status
- share a snippet/screenshot
- move to email for details
Phone
- leave a voicemail
- request a callback
- confirm an extension
- note a good time to reach you
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Keep emails short and specific; use please/thanks generously.
- Reply-all only when necessary; BCC when moving people off a thread.
- If you miss a call, a quick text or email to reschedule is appreciated.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Attachment nudge: “Attaching the signed PDF—please confirm receipt.”
- DM opener: “Got a minute to look at the draft?”
- Voicemail: “Hi, this is [Name]—call back at [###]; I’m available after 3 p.m.”