5 Speaking Rules you need to know!

1.Don't study grammar too much

it is one of the most important rules. If you want to pass
examinations, then study grammar. However, if you want to
become fluent in English, then you should try to learn English
without studying the grammar.
Studying grammar will only slow you down and confuse you. You
will think about the rules when creating sentences instead of
naturally saying a sentence like a native.

2. Learn and study phrases

Don't translate
Many students learn vocabulary and try to put many words
together to create a proper sentence. It amazes me how many
words some of my students know, but they cannot create a
proper sentence. The reason is because they didn't study phrases.
When children learn a language, they learn both words and
phrases together. Likewise, you need to study and learn phrases.
When you want to create an English sentence, do not translate
the words from your Mother tongue. The order of words is
probably completely different and you will be both slow and
incorrect by doing this. Instead, learn phrases and sentences so
you don't have to think about the words you are saying. It should
be automatic.
Another problem with translating is that you will be trying to
incorporate grammar rules that you have learned. Translating and
thinking about the grammar to create English sentences is
incorrect and should be avoided.

3. Reading and Listening is NOT enough. Practice

Speaking what you hear!
Reading, listening, and speaking are the most important aspects
of any language. The same is true for English. However, speaking
is the only requirement to be fluent. It is normal for babies and
children to learn speaking first, become fluent, then start reading,
then writing. So the natural order is listening, speaking, reading,
then writing.

4. Submerge yourself
This was achieved by being around that language at all times. In
your country, you hear and speak your language constantly. You
will notice that many people who are good English speakers are
the ones who studied in an English speaking school. They can
speak English not because they went to an English speaking
school, but because they had an environment where they can be
around English speaking people constantly.
There are also some people who study abroad and learn very
little. That is because they went to an English speaking school,
but found friends from their own country and didn't practice
English.
You don't have to go anywhere to become a fluent English
speaker. You only need to surround yourself with English. You can
do this by making rules with your existing friends that you will
only speak English.

5. Study correct material

A common phrase that is incorrect is, "Practice makes perfect."
This is far from the truth. Practice only makes what you are
practicing permanent. If you practice the incorrect sentence, you
will have perfected saying the sentence incorrectly. Therefore, it is
important that you study material that is commonly used by most
people.

ENGLISH SPEAKING BASICS I

1. Basic usage of 'I'm'

I'm
I'm' is an abbreviation for the word 'I AM.' It is used in combination
with other words to tell someone about yourself or to describe
something you are doing.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

so tired."
confused."
happy."
twenty three years old."
hungry."
nervous."
excited."
leaving work."
thirsty."
from Seattle."

You can also add descriptive words with 'I'm' such as:
"I'm extremely tired."
"I'm very happy."
"I'm terribly hungry."
"I am super excited."
"I'm very nervous."

I'm in/at/on
Describes an action you are doing.
Most commonly, you would use the word 'in' when entering a physical

location such as a room or a building.

Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

in
in
in
in
in

the shower."
the lobby."
a car."
a house."
a school."

Using the word 'at' helps tell someone where you currently are. The
difference between 'at' and 'in' is that the physical location is general.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

at
at
at
at
at

the
the
the
the
the

grocery."
mall."
doctor's office."
park."
airport."

However, in some cases you can use 'at' and 'in' interchangeably.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

at the mall."
in the mall."
at the park."
in the park."
at the grocery."
in the grocery."

Using the word 'on' is referring to a non physical location such as your
time being utilized by something else.
Here are some examples:
"I'm on the phone."

"I'm on my computer."
"I'm on a bus."

I'm good at
Again, 'I'm' is used here as 'I am.' 'Good at' informs someone what
you excel at and are comfortable doing.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

good
good
good
good
good
good
good
good
good
good

at
at
at
at
at
at
at
at
at
at

drawing."
video games."
swimming."
driving."
reading."
sports."
writing."
math."
dancing."
chess."

I'm + (verb)
I'm' is a contraction of the words 'I am.' By adding a verb to 'I'm' this
lets you express an action or occurrence about yourself.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

eating lunch."
brushing my teeth."
scared."
driving to work."
crying."
typing an email."
cooking dinner."
combing my hair."
hanging a picture."

"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

am
am
am
am
am
am

texting."
dancing."
interested in the job."
exercising."
sad."
learning."

I'm getting
When combining the words 'I am' and 'getting' you are telling someone
'you' are gaining possession, being affected by or have plans to seek
out and obtain a particular thing.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

getting
getting
getting
getting
getting
getting
getting
getting
getting
getting

better."
ready for bed."
a tooth ache."
a cold."
married."
tired."
good at reading."
a new car."
a job."
a puppy."

I'm trying + (verb)

I am trying' informs someone that you are attempting to accomplish
something using bodily, mental, or spiritual strength. By adding a verb
to 'I'm trying' you are pointing out exactly what it is you are
attempting to do.
Here are some examples:
"I'm trying to get a job."
"I'm trying to call my family."

"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

trying
trying
trying
trying
trying
trying

to enjoy my dinner."
to educate myself."
to explain myself."
new food."
to eat healthy."
to understand."

You may also hear the word 'trying' used to express a way someone is
feeling. In this manner, it expresses strain or distress.
Here are some examples:
"Learning new things can be trying on you."
"That marathon was very trying on me."

I'm gonna + (verb)

The word 'gonna' is incorrect grammatically. The equivalent in proper
grammar would be 'going to.' When using the word 'gonna' you are
telling someone what you are planning to do at that moment or in the
near future.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

gonna
gonna
gonna
gonna
gonna
gonna
gonna
gonna
gonna
gonna

have some coffee."

go to work."
eat some cake."
send out my resume."
run a marathon."
ask her out for dinner."
stop smoking."
help my friends."
take swim lessons."
read a book."

I have + (noun)

By using the words 'I have' you are informing someone of something
you have possession of or have acquired.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

have
have
have
have
have

a
a
a
a
a

cat."
nice car."
house."
computer."
headache."

You may hear the words 'cannot' and 'won't' used with 'I have.' By
adding these you can express what you will not put up with or allow.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I

cannot have that behavior in my house."

cannot have you over tonight."
won't have anything to do with that."
won't have it any other way."

I have + (past participle)

Again, 'I have' shows possession or something acquired. By adding a
past participle you are informing someone of a past or completed
action done by you.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

have
have
have
have
have
have
have
have

done it."
heard that before."
driven a car."
forgotten the words."
read that book."
eaten at that restaurant before."
flown in an airplane."
forgiven you."

"I have seen you before."

"I have written a letter."

I used to + (verb)
Used to' expresses something that was done in the past, and is not
usually done now.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

used
used
used
used
used
used
used
used
used
used

to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to

develop websites."
jog every day."
paint."
smoke."
work from home."
live in California."
go to the beach every day."
sing in a choir."
like vegetables."
start work at 6 o'clock."

I have to + (verb)
The words 'have to' describe something that needs to take place soon.
It expresses certainty, necessity, or obligation.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

have
have
have
have
have

to
to
to
to
to

switch schools."
use the telephone."
go to the bathroom."
leave."
unpack my bags."

You can also add the word 'don't' to suggest that someone is not
required to do something.

"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

don't
don't
don't
don't
don't

have
have
have
have
have

to
to
to
to
to

switch schools."
use the telephone."
go to the bathroom."
leave."
unpack my bags."

I wanna + (verb)
The word 'wanna' is incorrect grammatically. It is equivalent to 'want
to.' When combined with the word 'I' it helps communicate something
you want to do.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

wanna
wanna
wanna
wanna
wanna

talk."
search for a job."
order some food."
marry her."
listen to that song."

By adding the word 'don't' you can change the meaning of what you
are saying to something you 'want' to do to something you 'do not'
want to do.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

don't
don't
don't
don't
don't

wanna
wanna
wanna
wanna
wanna

talk."
search for a job."
marry her."
listen to that song."
order some food."

I gotta + (verb)

I gotta' is grammatically incorrect. It is more of a spoken form. If you

want to say this with proper grammar, the equivalent would be, 'I have
got to' or 'I've got to'. In the spoken form, 'got to' is shortened to
'gotta' and the word 'have' is dropped.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

gotta
gotta
gotta
gotta
gotta

manage my money."
obey the laws."
move to a bigger house."
impress my boss."
brush my teeth."

By adding the word 'have' you can change what you are saying to
express something that needs to be done in the near future.
Here are some examples:
"I have got to be on time to work."
"I've gotta try harder at school."
"I've gotta tell my wife I'll be late."
"I've gotta learn more about the laws."
"I've gotta clean my house today."

I would like to + (verb)

This sentence lets someone know what you would be interested in
doing. This can be a physical, mental or verbal action.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

would
would
would
would
would
would

like
like
like
like
like
like

to
to
to
to
to
to

answer that question."

compete in a cooking contest."
explain myself."
invite you over."
practice."
become a doctor."

"I would like to see you more often."

"I would like to thank you."
"I would like to learn about animals."
"I would like to meet the President."

I plan to + (verb)
Plan to' describes something that you would like to do in the near
future.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

plan
plan
plan
plan
plan
plan
plan
plan
plan
plan

to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to

find a new apartment."

relax on vacation."
surprise my parents."
wash my car."
adopt a child."
impress my boss."
watch a movie."
save more money."
read a book."
learn new things."

I've decided to + (verb)

I've' is short for 'I have' and including the word 'decided' you are
stating that you have made a decision or come to a conclusion.
Here are some examples:
"I've
"I've
"I've
"I've
"I've
"I've
"I've

decided
decided
decided
decided
decided
decided
decided

to
to
to
to
to
to
to

accept the job."

complete my degree."
change my bad habits."
extend my membership at the gym."
form a chess club."
hand over my responsibilities."
help you move."

"I've decided to interview for the job."

"I've decided to increase my work load."
"I've decided to manage a store."

I was about to + (verb)

When stating 'I was about to' you are informing someone that you
were going to do something, but another event prevented you from
doing it. It is similar to 'I am about to' but the difference is that you
will not do it any longer. Since you will not do it any longer, it becomes
a past event. That is why we use 'was' instead of 'am'
Here is an example conversionsation to help you understand.
A: Hi Mike. I need to ask you a favor.
B: Hey Bob. what do you need?
A: Can you drive me to the convenient store? My car is in the shop
and we really need to get milk.
B: Sure. I can do that.
A: Were you in the middle of something? I don't want to bother you.
B: I was about to watch a movie, but that can wait.
In this case, he cannot say, "I am about to watch a movie" because he
will not be watching it because he has to drive his friend. You use "I
was about to" when you will not be doing something immediately
because of some other event.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

was
was
was
was
was
was
was
was

about
about
about
about
about
about
about
about

to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to

go out."
go to dinner."
go to bed."
go to work."
say the same thing."
call you."
send you an email."
mow my grass."

"I was about to order us some drinks."

"I was about to watch television."

I didn't mean to + (verb)

The word 'didn't' is a contraction of the words 'did not'. When using it
in a sentence with the words 'mean to' you are informing someone
that you did something you regret or are sorry for. This could have
been a physical, mental or verbal action.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

didn't mean to hurt your feelings."

didn't mean to call you so late."
didn't mean to lie about what happened."
didn't mean to embarrass you."
didn't mean to stay out so late."
did not mean to say those things."
did not mean to leave you out."
did not mean to make you confused."
did not mean to think you were involved."
did not mean to cause trouble."

I don't have time to + (verb)

The word 'don't' is a contraction of the words 'do not.' When adding
'have time to' you are simply stating that you have other obligations
and all other things considered must wait.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

don't
don't
don't
don't
don't

have
have
have
have
have

time
time
time
time
time

to
to
to
to
to

explain."
eat."
exercise."
watch my favorite TV show."
talk."

You can also use the phrase 'I don't' to express things you do not like,
things you do not understand, or things you do not do.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

don't eat meat."

don't like the rain."
don't understand Spanish."
do not understand what you are saying."
do not like scary movies."
do not like sports."

I don't have time to + (verb)

The word 'don't' is a contraction of the words 'do not.' When adding
'have time to' you are simply stating that you have other obligations
and all other things considered must wait.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

don't
don't
don't
don't
don't

have
have
have
have
have

time
time
time
time
time

to
to
to
to
to

explain."
eat."
exercise."
watch my favorite TV show."
talk."

You can also use the phrase 'I don't' to express things you do not like,
things you do not understand, or things you do not do.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I

don't eat meat."

don't like the rain."
don't understand Spanish."
do not understand what you are saying."

"I do not like scary movies."

"I do not like sports."

I don't have time to + (verb)

The word 'don't' is a contraction of the words 'do not.' When adding
'have time to' you are simply stating that you have other obligations
and all other things considered must wait.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

don't
don't
don't
don't
don't

have
have
have
have
have

time
time
time
time
time

to
to
to
to
to

explain."
eat."
exercise."
watch my favorite TV show."
talk."

You can also use the phrase 'I don't' to express things you do not like,
things you do not understand, or things you do not do.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

don't eat meat."

don't like the rain."
don't understand Spanish."
do not understand what you are saying."
do not like scary movies."
do not like sports."

I promise not to + (verb)

When using the word 'promise' you are giving your word that what you
are saying is true. You might also be assuring someone a guarantee
that you will follow thru on what you are saying to them.
When using 'promise not to' you are stating you will not do a particular

thing.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

promise
promise
promise
promise
promise

not
not
not
not
not

to
to
to
to
to

tell."
leave without you."
be so late."
hurt your feelings."
wake you up."

You can also just use the word 'promise' to assure someone of your
intentions.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

promise
promise
promise
promise
promise

I am telling the truth."

to practice my math."
to call you."
I will tell you."
I will come to your party."

I'd rather + (verb)

I'd' is a contraction of the words 'I had' or 'I would.'
When using it with the word 'rather' you are suggesting you would like
to do or prefer one thing more than another.
Here are some examples:
"I'd rather talk about this later."
"I'd like to eat at home than go get fast food."
"I'd rather ski than snowboard."
"I'd rather stay late than come in early tomorrow."
"I'd rather handle the problem myself."
"I had rather go home than stay out too late."
"I had rather listen to my parents or get in trouble."
"I would rather exercise than sit on the couch all day."

"I would rather complete my task early."

"I would rather know the answer."

I feel like + (verb-ing)

Here you are expressing to someone something you would enjoy
doing.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

feel
feel
feel
feel
feel
feel
feel

like
like
like
like
like
like
like

going for a bike ride."

going to the beach."
having a snack."
talking."
dancing."
having friends over to my house."
watching TV."

By adding 'don't' or 'do not' you can change what you are saying to
express something you would not enjoy or express a concern about
something.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

don't feel like leaving yet."

don't feel like explaining."
don't feel like going to bed."
do not feel comfortable talking about it."
do not feel like we are going in the right direction."

I feel like + (verb-ing)

Here you are expressing to someone something you would enjoy doing.
Here are some examples:
"I feel like going for a bike ride."

"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

feel
feel
feel
feel
feel
feel

like
like
like
like
like
like

going to the beach."

having a snack."
talking."
dancing."
having friends over to my house."
watching TV."

By adding 'don't' or 'do not' you can change what you are saying to express
something you would not enjoy or express a concern about something.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

don't feel like leaving yet."

don't feel like explaining."
don't feel like going to bed."
do not feel comfortable talking about it."
do not feel like we are going in the right direction."

I can't help + (verb-ing)

The word 'can't' is contraction for 'cannot.' Combined with 'help' you are
communicating something you are unable to control or having a hard time gaining a
grasp for. This can be a physical or mental action.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

can't help thinking about it."

can't help shopping so much."
can't help working all the time."
can't help smiling when I see her."
can't help eating so much."
can't help loving you."
can not help biting my nails when I am nervous."
can not help smoking when I have been drinking."
cannot help feeling so sad."
cannot help remembering the things you did."

I was busy + (verb-ing)

When using the word 'was', you are referring to something in a past tense, or
something that happened before. Combining it with the word 'busy' you can express
something that was occupying you in a past time.
Here are some examples:

"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

was
was
was
was
was
was
was
was
was
was

busy
busy
busy
busy
busy
busy
busy
busy
busy
busy

thinking."
working."
cooking dinner."
talking on the phone."
cleaning the house."
studying for my test."
thinking of ideas for our website."
entertaining our neighbors."
completing my housework."
learning new things."

By changing 'was' to 'am' you change your message from past tense to present tense
and refer to something you are doing 'now.'
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

am
am
am
am
am

busy
busy
busy
busy
busy

working."
cooking dinner."
studying for my test."
completing housework."
talking on the phone."

I'm not used to + (verb-ing)

Here you are using 'not used to' to inform someone that you are unfamiliar or
uncomfortable with a topic at hand.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

not
not
not
not
not
not
not
not
not

used
used
used
used
used
used
used
used
used

to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to

talking English."
studying so much."
being around new people."
talking in front of groups of people."
having so much stress."
traveling so much."
working so early."
having so much responsibility."
drinking so much."

I want you to + (verb)

I want you to' is telling someone that you have a desire or would like for them to
do something.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

want
want
want
want
want

you
you
you
you
you

to
to
to
to
to

clean the dishes."

come home right after school."
call once you get there."
explain yourself to me."
educate me."

By using the word 'need' instead of 'want' you are expressing something that is
required or wanted.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

need
need
need
need
need

you to study harder in school."

you to stop and listen to me."
you to greet our guests."
you to introduce me to your family."
to request a refund."

I'm here to + (verb)

You are informing someone that you are at a particular place to accomplish
something.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

here
here
here
here
here
here
here
here
here
here

to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to

apply for the job."

take a test."
receive my gift."
support all your decisions."
watch a movie."
work on your computer."
welcome you to the neighborhood."
raise awareness for cancer."
start the job."
receive the award."

I have something + (verb)

When using the expression 'I have something' you are communicating that you
possess something or need to do something that is unspecified or undetermined.
Here are some examples:
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I
"I

have
have
have
have
have
have
have
have
have
have
have

something
something
something
something
something
something
something
something
something
something
something

to complete."
to share with you."
important to tell you."
to encourage you."
to explain to you."
special planned for your birthday."
else to consider."
to apologize about."
to attend tonight."
to ask you."
fun for us to do."

I'm looking forward to

When telling someone that you are 'looking forward to' you are saying that you are
waiting or hoping for something, especially with pleasure.
Here are some examples:
"I'm looking forward to meeting you."
"I'm looking forward to talking with you."
"I'm looking forward to going on vacation."
"I'm looking forward to spending time with my family."
"I'm looking forward to learning the English language."
"I am looking forward to visiting another country."
"I am looking forward to having a family."
"I am looking forward to graduating from college."
"I am looking forward to watching the baseball game."
"I am looking forward to running in a race."

ENGLISH SPEAKING BASICS II

I'm calling to + (verb)

When using the words 'I'm calling' you are stating that you are actually using the
phone to call and relay information.
Here are some examples:

"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

calling
calling
calling
calling
calling
calling
calling
calling
calling
calling

to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to

tell you about my day."

accept your invitation."
answer your question."
book a reservation at your restaurant."
complain about something."
thank you."
support your decision."
remind you of our dinner plans."
report a lost wallet."
receive my prize."

I'm working on + (noun)

I'm' is a contraction for the words 'I am.' The phrase 'working on' relays a physical or
mental effort towards an accomplishment.
Here are some examples:
"I'm working on a big project."
"I'm working on training my dog."
"I'm working on making new friends."
"I'm working on educating myself."
"I'm working on my homework."
"I am working on painting a house."
"I am working on a new idea."
"I am working on my computer."
"I'm working on my website."

I'm sorry to + (verb)

Saying you are 'sorry to' expresses a feeling of sympathy or regret.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

sorry
sorry
sorry
sorry
sorry
sorry
sorry

to
to
to
to
to
to
to

be so late."
hear about your sick mother."
waste your time."
make you feel so sad."
frighten you."
disagree with your decision."
call so late."

"I'm sorry to admit what I did."

"I'm sorry to end this relationship."

I'm thinking of + (verb-ing)

Thinking' refers to a process of thought, forming an opinion or
judgment. When expressing 'I am thinking of' you are letting someone
know what you are personally thinking.
Here are some examples:
"I'm thinking of checking out the new movie."
"I'm thinking of filming my vacation."
"I'm thinking of following a healthy diet."
"I'm thinking of handing out flyers describing our business."
"I'm thinking of increasing my work load."
"I am thinking of introducing myself to him."
"I am thinking of launching a new website."
"I am thinking of moving to a new city."
"I am thinking of offering her the position."
"I am thinking of opening up a store."

I'll help you + (verb)

This lets you inform someone that you are willing to provide
assistance. This could refer to something physical or mental, like
helping someone to 'think' or 'remember' something.
Here are some examples:
"I'll help you cook dinner tonight."
"I'll help you raise money for your charity."
"I'll help you register for your class online."
"I'll help you move to your new house."
"I'll help you prevent that from happening again."
"I will help you park your car."
"I will help you provide all the information you need."
"I will help you realize your potential."

"I will help you stop smoking."

"I will help you shop for groceries."

I'm dying to + (verb)

When using the word 'dying' in this manner you are referring to
wanting or desiring something greatly.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

dying
dying
dying
dying
dying
dying
dying
dying
dying
dying

to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to
to

relax on the beach."

pick some fresh fruit."
order some desserts."
find out if I got the job."
move to a bigger house."
look at all the work you've done."
learn more about you."
introduce you to my parents."
expand my business."
check my score on the test."

It's my turn to + (verb)

The word 'It's' is a contraction of the words 'it is.' When stating 'my turn' you
are telling someone that it is time to change position or position focuses on
to you.
Here are some examples:
"It's my turn to walk you home."
"It's my turn to do laundry."
"It's my turn to work late."
"It's my turn to take out the trash."
"It's my turn to choose where we eat."
"It is my turn to pay for dinner."
"It is my turn to roll the dice."
"It is my turn to provide an answer."
"It is my turn to try and play the game."
"It is my turn to attempt solving the problem."

I'm having a hard time + (verb-ing)

By stating you are having a hard time you are letting someone
know you are having difficulty with something. This could be
something physical or mental and something that could be
overcome with effort.
Here are some examples:
"I'm having a hard
"I'm having a hard
"I'm having a hard
"I'm having a hard
"I'm having a hard

time writing."
time understanding you."
time answering your question."
time downloading songs to my iPod. "
time agreeing to the terms."

I'm having a hard time + (verb-ing)

By stating you are having a hard time you are letting someone know
you are having difficulty with something. This could be something
physical or mental and something that could be overcome with effort.
Here are some examples:
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

having
having
having
having
having

a
a
a
a
a

hard
hard
hard
hard
hard

time
time
time
time
time

writing."
understanding you."
answering your question."
downloading songs to my iPod."
agreeing to the terms."

With the addition of an adverb you can express in more detail just how
difficult something is for you.

Here are some examples:

"I'm
"I'm
"I'm
"I'm

having
having
having
having

an extremely hard time trusting you."

an extremely hard time with my wife."
a very hard time finding a job."
a very hard time finding parts for my car."

I think I should + (verb)

Here you are telling someone that you feel strongly about doing a
particular action. Here are some examples:
"I think I should
"I think I should
"I think I should
"I think I should
"I think I should

practice my reading."
join a study group."
handle this as soon as possible. "
earn my degree."
explain myself."

By adding the word 'don't' you have changed what you are
conveying from something you are thinking of doing, to
something you are against.
Here are some examples:
"I do
"I do
"I do
"I do
"I do

not think I should complain so much."

not think I should attend that event."
not think I should borrow more money."
not think I should doubt you."
not think I should decide until later."

I've heard that + (subject + verb)

You are letting someone know that you are aware of something
or that you have been informed of something that is taking place.
This could be something that has already happened or something
happening in the near future. 'I've' is a contraction of the words
'I have.'
Here are some examples:
"I've heard that you got a new job."
"I've heard that you want to leave your job."
"I've heard that you got a new car."
"I've heard that you like to jog."
"I've heard that you fix computers."
"I've heard that you've never been to Canada."
"I've heard that you like to shop."
"I've heard that you and your boss don't get along."
"I've heard that there is no school next week."
"I've heard that your wife is a yoga instructor."

It occurred to me that (subject + verb)

The word 'occurred' informs someone that something has come
to mind or has been found. You are letting someone know that
you suddenly have thought or remembered about something.
Here are some examples:
"It occurred
"It occurred
"It occurred
"It occurred
"It occurred

to me that I forgot your birthday."

to me that we both belong to the same gym. "
to me that we enjoy a lot of the same things. "
to me the price for homes are more expensive here. "
to me that eating healthy makes me feel better."

Using the word 'had' or 'has' can change what you are saying to

represent something remembered in a past time.

Here are some examples:
"It had occurred to me that I forgot something at the grocery."
"It had occurred to me I might need to change my email address. "
"It has occurred to me I forgot my mom's birthday."
"It has occurred to me before."

Let me + (verb)
Let me' is suggesting that you are asking for permission or an
opportunity to do something.
Here are some examples:
"Let me
"Let me
"Let me
"Let me
"Let me
"Let me
"Let me
"Let me
"Let me
"Let me

make my own decisions."

offer to help you."
open the door for you."
pause and think about what we are doing."
welcome you to the neighborhood."
save you the trouble."
make a suggestion."
try and fix your car."
taste the soup before you add more spices."
treat you to some ice cream."

Thank you for

Saying 'thank you' is telling someone you appreciate what they
have done. This can either be something they did for you or for
someone else.

Here are some examples:

"Thank you
"Thank you
"Thank you
"Thank you
"Thank you
"Thank you
"Thank you
"Thank you
"Thank you
"Thank you

for inviting me."

for helping me move."
for informing me about the job opening."
for mailing that package for me."
for working so hard."
for stopping by to visit."
for replying to my email."
for providing me with the answers. "
for heating up dinner."
for hurrying to get here."

Can I + (verb)
When ending a sentence with a question mark (?) you are asking
the person or people you are talking to a question for which you
would like an answer. Here you are asking permission to do a
particular action.
Here are some examples:
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can

I answer your question?"

I attend the event?"
I move to another spot?"
I call you tomorrow?"
I complete this later?"
I explain myself? "
I help you with your homework?"
I include you in our plans?"
I introduce you to my co-workers?"
I inform you of some bad news?"

Can I get + (noun)

The phrase 'Can I get' can be used in a couple different ways.
You can use it to ask a question.
Here are some examples:
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can

I get a cup of water?"

I get a dog?"
I get lunch?"
I get sugar in my coffee?"
I get popcorn at the movie?"

You can also use it when offering to help someone or do

something for them.
Here are some examples:
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can
"Can

I get you another drink?"

I help you move that?"
I recommend a good place to eat?"
I take you home?"
I help you finish your project?"

I'm not sure if (subject + verb)

I'm not sure' expresses a feeling of uncertainty or lack of
confidence on a particular matter.
Here are some examples:
"I am not sure if they will offer me the job."
"I'm not sure if she'll return my call."
"I'm not sure if my wife will understand."
"I'm not sure if we will go out tonight."

"I'm not sure if I understand your question."

"I am not sure if I can handle it."
"I am not sure if it will happen."
"I am not sure if it will matter."
"I am not sure if my mom will notice."
"I am not sure if they will permit us to park there."

I'm not sure if (subject + verb)

I'm not sure' expresses a feeling of uncertainty or lack of
confidence on a particular matter.
Here are some examples:
"I am not sure if they will offer me the job."
"I'm not sure if she'll return my call."
"I'm not sure if my wife will understand."
"I'm not sure if we will go out tonight."
"I'm not sure if I understand your question."
"I am not sure if I can handle it."
"I am not sure if it will happen."
"I am not sure if it will matter."
"I am not sure if my mom will notice."
"I am not sure if they will permit us to park there."

Do you mind if I + (verb)

You are asking someone in present tense if they object to
something you are asking.
Here are some examples:

"Do
"Do
"Do
"Do
"Do

you mind if I excuse myself? "

you mind if we left early?"
you mind if I take a nap?"
you mind if I ask your mom?"
you mind if it snows?"

You could also use the word 'would'

Here are some examples:
"Would
"Would
"Would
"Would
"Would

you mind if we went out to eat?"

you mind if I opened the window?"
you mind telling me what you're doing?"
you mind being quiet for a minute?"
you mind if I changed the channel?"

I don't know what to + (verb)

You are letting someone know that you are not sure about what
is being asked. You may also have no knowledge or opinion on a
topic.
Here are some examples:
"I don't know what to eat for dinner."
"I don't know what to buy you for your birthday."
"I don't know what to say."
"I don't know what to do with my spare time."
"I don't know what to do for vacation."
"I do not know what to do to make you happy."
"I do not know what to do to help you understand."
"I do not know what to think."
"I do not know what to do to prevent this."
"I do not know what to order."

I should have + (past participle)

Should' is the past tense of the word 'shall.' When using the words 'should
have' you are talking about something in the past that you 'ought to' or
'might have' done.
Here are some examples:
"I should have gone with you."
"I should have studied more for my test."
"I should have read the directions before starting."
"I should have eaten breakfast this morning."
"I should have listened to your advice."
"I should have married her when I had the chance."
'Shall' is something that will take place or exist in the future.
Here are some examples:
"I shall leave tomorrow."
"I shall finish the job next week."
"I shall see it tomorrow."
"I shall go outside if it's nice out."
"I shall pay for this later."

I wish I could + (verb)

You are expressing a desire to do something.
Here are some examples:

"I wish
"I wish
"I wish
"I wish
"I wish
"I wish
"I wish
"I wish
"I wish
"I wish

I could sing better."

I could settle the argument."
I could sail around the world."
I could remain calm during all of this."
I could remember his name."
I could replace my old car with a new one."
I could play outside."
I could go to the game with you."
I could write better."
I could own my own business."

You're supposed to + (verb)

You're' is a contraction of the words 'you are.' When using
'You're' with the words 'supposed to' you are making a
suggestion that something you strongly believe ought to happen.
Here are some examples:
"You're supposed to keep that secret."
"You're supposed to let me know when you leave."
"You're supposed to stop when at a red light."
"You're supposed to unpack once you get there."
"You're supposed to return the movies you rent on time."
"You are supposed to remain calm."
"You are supposed to fasten your seat belt."
"You are supposed to invite all your friends."
"You are supposed to encourage one another."
"You are supposed to decide before next Thursday."

You seem + (adjective)

When stating 'you seem' you're referring to the person you are talking to and
expressing that they are giving the impression of or appear to be.
Here are some examples:
"You
"You
"You
"You
"You
"You
"You
"You
"You
"You

seem
seem
seem
seem
seem
seem
seem
seem
seem
seem

bored."
unhappy with the results."
eager to begin."
easy to get along with."
elated to hear the good news."
deeply in love."
afraid of roller coasters."
confused about the rules of the game."
embarrassed about what happened."
decisive about your choice."

You'd better + (verb)

You'd' is a contraction of 'you had' or 'you would.' You are making
a suggestion to someone for a particular action.
Here are some examples:
"You'd better exercise."
"You'd better help out."
"You'd better invite your brother."
"You'd better impress the judges."
"You'd better listen to your parents."
"You had better not come home late."
"You had better hope for the best."
"You had better change your attitude."
"You would be good at teaching."
"You would do well at math."

Are you into + (noun)

Here you are asking a question about an interest they might
have or something they might enjoy doing.
Here are some examples:
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are

you into soccer?"

you into trying new things?"
you into wine tasting?"
you into working out at home or at the gym?"
you into scary movies?"
you into playing games?"
you into jogging?"
you into painting?"
you into traveling?"
you into fixing cars?"

Are you trying to + (verb)

You are asking someone if they are attempting to do something.
This can be something mentally or physically.
Here are some examples:
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are
"Are

you trying to ignore me?"

you trying to manage your money?"
you trying to memorize that song?"
you trying to offer your help?"
you trying to program your new phone?"
you trying to pretend like it never happened?"
you trying to remain calm?"
you trying to remember her name?"

"Are you trying to reflect on the past?"

"Are you trying to switch flights?"

Please + (verb)
Please' is generally used in a polite request when asking
someone to do something.
Here are some examples:
"Please pass me the salt."
"Please order me the steak and potatoes."
"Please stop bothering me."
"Please wash your hands before dinner."
"Please wait outside until we are ready."
"Please zip up your coat before you go outside."
"Please stand back."
The word 'please' can also mean to give enjoyment or
satisfaction to.
Here are some examples:
"The smell of the flowers was very pleasing."
"May it please the court to admit this into evidence?"
"I was very pleased with how the children behaved in class."
"You cannot please everyone all the time."
"She was pleased with the dress."

Don't + (verb)
The word 'don't' is a contraction of the words 'do not.' It is said to convey a
message of what NOT should be done.
Here are some examples:
"Don't try and fool me."
"Don't allow this to happen."
"Don't watch scary movies before you go to bed."
"Don't cause any more trouble."
"Don't chew gum in class."
"Do not concern yourself with other people's problems."
"Do not behave that way."
"Do not announce your decision until you're ready."
"Do not argue with me."
"Do not arrive late for your meeting."

Do you like
With this question you are asking someone what they prefer or
enjoy.
Here are some examples:
"Do
"Do
"Do
"Do
"Do
"Do
"Do
"Do

you like traveling on a plane?"

you like watching baseball on TV?"
you like skiing or snowboarding?"
you like going to bed early?"
you like spending time with me?"
you like repeating the class?"
you like playing video games?"
you like listening to music?"

"Do you like practicing playing the piano?"

"Do you like jogging with me?"
ENGLISH SPEAKING BASICS III