B1English💼

Asking for Time Off

Use these phrases when you need to ask your boss for time off from work.

Key Phrases

Could I please take three days off next week because I need to visit my family?

💡 Use this polite phrase when you want to ask your manager for some days off.

I would like to request some annual leave from Monday to Wednesday for a personal matter.

💡 This is a formal way to ask for time off for private reasons.

I have already asked Sarah to cover my main tasks while I am away next week.

💡 It is helpful to show that you have arranged cover for your daily work.

If any urgent issues come up, Sarah will handle them for me.

💡 Use this to reassure your boss that work will continue smoothly.

Do I need to fill out a formal leave request form for these days?

💡 Ask this to find out if there is any official paperwork to complete.

I am calling to say that I cannot come to work today because I feel sick.

💡 Call your office early in the morning to report an unexpected illness.

I have caught a bad cold, so I might need to take a sick day today.

💡 Use this to explain why you are not able to work.

Please let me know if my request for time off is okay with you.

💡 This is a polite way to ask your manager for their final approval.

Practice Dialogue

Employee
Hello Mr. Davis, I would like to request some annual leave for next month.
Manager
That should be fine, but could you tell me the reason for your request?
Employee
My sister is getting married, so I need to take three days off to attend.
Manager
We have a lot of work then, so who will do your tasks while you are away?
Employee
I have already asked Sarah to cover my main tasks, and she has agreed to help.
Manager
That is perfect, so please write your request on the official leave form today.
Employee
I will fill out the form now and send it to you before I leave.
Manager
Thank you, and I hope that you have a wonderful time at the wedding.

More Work & Study (B1)

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