Functional Language For A2 Elementary & Pre-Intermediate
Page 2
Ready to move beyond the basics? This A2 Functional Language guide focuses on routine interactions and social politeness. You will learn how to make plans, give directions, and tell simple stories about the past. Use the Table of Contents below to find the specific function you need, or use the links to jump ahead to Page 1 and Page 3 for the rest of the list.
Jump to a section:
Giving Clarification
- What I meant was...
- Actually, it is...
- Let me explain.
- No, not exactly.
Example Context
Boss:
So, the project is finished?
Staff:
No, not exactly. We finished the first part, but not the second.
Boss:
I thought you said it was done.
Staff:
Sorry. What I meant was the planning is done.
Apologising
- I am really sorry about...
- I apologise for...
- It was my fault.
- Please forgive me.
Example Context
Mum:
Did you break this plate?
Son:
Yes. It was my fault. I dropped it.
Mum:
Be more careful next time.
Son:
I will. I am really sorry about it.
Accepting Apologies
- That's alright.
- Don't worry about it.
- It doesn't matter.
- No harm done.
Example Context
John:
I forgot to call you yesterday. I am sorry.
Mary:
That's alright. I was busy too.
John:
I felt bad about it.
Mary:
Honestly, don't worry about it.
Making Requests
- Could you possibly...?
- Do you mind...? (+ ing)
- Would you mind...? (+ ing)
- Can you do me a favour?
Example Context
Guest:
It is very hot in here.
Host:
I can open a window.
Guest:
Would you mind opening the door too?
Host:
Not at all. I will do it now.
Responding to Requests
- I'd be happy to.
- I'm afraid I can't.
- Certainly.
- Not at all. (Response to "Do you mind?")
Example Context
Boss:
Could you finish this report by 5pm?
Staff:
I'm afraid I can't. I have a meeting at 4pm.
Boss:
Okay. Can you do it tomorrow morning?
Staff:
Yes, I'd be happy to.
Expressing Preferences
- I prefer X to Y.
- I'd rather...
- I like... better than...
- My favourite... is...
Example Context
Tom:
Do you want to go to the beach or the mountains?
Sue:
I prefer the beach to the mountains.
Tom:
Really? It is too hot at the beach.
Sue:
Well, I'd rather be hot than cold!
Describing People
- He has got... (curly hair / a beard)
- She is quite... (shy / funny / clever)
- He looks like... (his father / a famous actor)
- She is roughly... (thirty / tall)
Example Context
Tina:
Have you met the new teacher?
Ben:
No. What is she like?
Tina:
She is quite strict, but very clever.
Ben:
And what does she look like?
Tina:
She has got short red hair.
Describing Places and Things
- It is more... than... (comparatives)
- It is famous for...
- It is situated in...
- It is made of... (wood / plastic)
Example Context
Guide:
This is the oldest building in the city.
Tourist:
Is it a church?
Guide:
It used to be. It is famous for its beautiful windows.
Tourist:
It is more modern than I expected.
Interrupting
- Sorry to interrupt, but...
- Can I just say something?
- Just a moment...
- Hang on a minute. (Informal)
Example Context
Boss:
We need to increase sales by 50% next year...
Mark:
Sorry to interrupt, but that is impossible.
Boss:
Why do you say that?
Mark:
We don't have enough staff.
Expressing Feelings
- I feel a bit... (down / stressed)
- I am really excited about...
- It is really... (annoying / confusing)
- I am nervous.
Example Context
Ana:
You have an exam tomorrow. How do you feel?
Bob:
To be honest, I am nervous.
Ana:
You studied hard. You will be fine.
Bob:
I know, but maths is really confusing for me.
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