Asking for directions in English is an important part of the holiday experience. It helps you navigate new cities, find landmarks and get to your destination. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to ask for and understand directions in English.
Start with a greeting and ask for help. Here are a few ways::
"Excuse me, could you help me find…?"
"Hi, I'm a bit lost. Can you tell me how to get to…?"
"Sorry to bother you, am I near…?"
"Excuse me, do you know where… is?"
Examples:
"Sorry to bother you, could you help me find the tube station?"
"Hi, I'm a bit lost. Am I near Big Ben?"
Being clear about your destination is important. Use a popular place or landmark nearby:
"Could you tell me how to get to the Tate Gallery?"
"How do I get to Oxford Street from here?"
"I’m looking for the nearest pharmacy. Can you point me in the right direction?"
If you’re unsure of the exact name or location, you can describe it:
Examples:
"I’m trying to find a cosy restaurant nearby. Can you offer any?"
"Is there a Bus station nearby?"
When you ask for directions, you might want to know specific details about the route:
"Which is the quickest way to get to the museum?"
"Is it within walking distance, or should I take a bus?"
"Could you tell me which direction I should go?"
"Are there any landmarks or signs I should look for?"
Examples:
"What is the quickest way to get to town?"
"Am I in walking distance to the shopping centre, or do I need a bus?"
When someone gives you directions, they use common phrases. What might they say:
"Go straight ahead": Continue in the same direction.
"Turn left" or "Turn right": Change direction by turning at a corner or intersection.
"Take the first/second/third left/right": Turn at the first, second, or third possible turn.
"It’s on your left/right": The destination will be on the left or right side of the street.
"Cross the street": Go to the other side of the road.
"You’ll see it ahead/on the corner/your left": You will see it on your left.
Examples:
"Go straight ahead for two roads, then turn right. The museum will be on your left."
"Take the second left, then walk for about five minutes. The park entrance is straight ahead."
If you’re not sure you understood, make sure you double-check. :
"I’m sorry, I didn’t catch that?"
"Did you say to turn left after the chemist?"
"Can you repeat that, please?"
"Just to be sure, I go straight on and turn right?"
Examples:
"I’m sorry, could you repeat that? Did you say the train station is after the third traffic light?"
"Just to confirm, do I need to take the second left after the supermarket?"
You might want to know how long it will take to reach your destination:
"How far is it?"
"Will it take long to walk there?"
"Is it a short walk, or should I get a lift?"
"How many minutes does it take to get there?"
Examples:
"How far is it from here? Will it take long?"
"Is the zoo a short walk from this bus stop?"
You can also use technology:
"I’m using Google Maps, but I’m still confused. Could you help me?"
"I have this address. Can you help me find it using my GPS?"
"I tried following the map, but I think I took a wrong turn. Could you guide me?"
Always show your appreciation:
"Thank you so much for your help!"
"I appreciate your time."
"Thanks for the directions. Have a lovely day!"
Examples:
"Thank you so much for your help. I appreciate it!"
"Thanks for the directions. You’ve been very kind."
By using these phrases and strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to ask for and understand directions in English, making your travel experience stress-free and more time to look at things you came for.
You are at the red spot. What directions might someone give you to get to the bakery?
(Straight) (Turn) (Follow) (Cross) (Go)
1.) ………… straight on and turn left.
2.) Keep ………… and turn at the Chemist.
3.) Walk up to the Flower Shop and ************ the street.
4.) :::::::::::::::::: the street to the Toy store.
5.) Straight on and …….. right.
What phrase would you use to check the distance?
Can you help using my GPS
Is it far?
Did you say to turn left?
How long will it take, should I get the bus?
Can you repeat that, please?
Go past the cafe and cross the road. Straight ahead two roads and turn left after the third.
Go
Straight
Cross
Follow
Turn
How long will it take?
Is it far?
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