A2English

Asking for Help

Use these phrases when you need help, are lost, or do not understand someone in an emergency.

Key Phrases

Voice
Asking for help · 2 ways to say it

Excuse me, can you help me?

neutral

Use this to stop someone on the street.

I need some help, please.

polite

Use this with police or staff.

Saying you are lost · 2 ways to say it

I am lost. Where is the train station?

neutral

A simple way to ask for directions.

I'm lost. Can you show me on the map?

casual

Use this when you have a map on your phone.

Not understanding · 2 ways to say it

Sorry, I don't understand.

casual

Use this when someone speaks too fast.

I am sorry, but I do not understand.

polite

A formal way to say you do not know what they mean.

Asking to repeat · 2 ways to say it

Sorry, what did you say?

casual

Use this with friends or friendly strangers.

Can you repeat that, please?

neutral

A polite way to hear something again.

Asking to speak slowly · 2 ways to say it

Can you speak slowly, please?

neutral

Use this when the person is speaking too fast.

Could you speak more slowly, please?

polite

Very polite, good for talking to police or staff.

Asking for emergency services · 2 ways to say it

Please call 911!

neutral

US - Use this to get police, fire, or an ambulance.

Please call 999!

neutral

UK - Use this to get police, fire, or an ambulance.

Practice Dialogue

Traveler
Excuse me, can you help me?
Local
Sure. What's wrong?
Traveler
I'm lost. Where is the Main Street station?
Local
Oh, it's far. You should take a bus.
Traveler
Sorry, I don't understand. Can you speak slowly, please?
Local
Right. The station is far. Take the bus.
Traveler
Take a bus. Where is the bus stop?
Local
It is right there, across the street.
Traveler
Okay, I see it. Thank you so much!
Local
No problem. Stay safe.

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