Words (Core Vocabulary)
- route / line / service – the path a bus/train follows.
- stop / station / platform / bay – where you board.
- inbound / outbound; eastbound / westbound – direction of travel.
- schedule / timetable / frequency / headway – how often service runs.
- fare / pass / concession – cost and discounted options.
- Compass Card / Compass Ticket / tap in / tap out / fare gate / validator (Metro Vancouver).
- transfer (n./v.) – change lines or buses on one fare.
- priority seating / courtesy seat – seats for seniors, disabled, pregnant.
- accessibility – ramp, kneeling bus, elevator.
- detour / delay / disruption / shuttle – service changes.
- real-time arrival / ETA / next bus – live info.
Phrases (From planning → riding → problems)
Planning & boarding
- Which platform is for the eastbound train?
- Does this bus go to [destination], or should I transfer?
- How do I load money on my Compass Card?
- Do I need to tap out on this line?
On board (polite & clear)
- Could you please move in to make room?
- Is this seat taken, or may I sit here?
- Would you mind if I open the window?
Problems & changes
- It looks like a delay—is there a shuttle or alternate route?
- The elevator is out—what’s the accessible route?
- My Compass didn’t tap properly—how can I fix the fare?
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Excuse me, does this bus stop near the community centre, or should I transfer at Broadway?
- Hi, where do I tap out when leaving the SkyTrain here?
- There’s a service disruption on the Expo Line—is there a shuttle bus running?
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
Using the system
- load a Compass Card
- tap in/out
- pass through a fare gate
- check real-time arrivals
- make a transfer
Wayfinding
- follow the signs
- wait at the platform/bay
- board the train/bus
- listen for stop announcements
Disruptions
- report an accessibility issue
- take a shuttle
- plan an alternate route
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Queueing is the norm; let riders exit before boarding.
- Offer priority seating to those who need it; a quick “Would you like this seat?” is appreciated.
- Many systems are proof-of-payment; keep your card/ticket ready for inspection.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Route check: “Does this bus go to Metrotown, or do I transfer at Joyce?”
- Tap question: “Do I need to tap out at this station, or is it tap-in only?”
- Disruption: “Is there a shuttle due to the signal issue, or what’s the best alternate?”