B1English

At the Optician

Use these phrases when you visit the optician or eye doctor for an exam, to check your vision, or to buy new glasses.

Key Phrases

Voice
Booking an appointment · 2 ways to say it

I'd like to schedule an eye exam, please.

neutral

US — in the UK, people usually say 'book an eye test'.

Could I book an eye test?

polite

UK — in the US, people usually say 'schedule an eye exam'.

Describing a problem · 2 ways to say it

My vision has been a bit blurry lately.

neutral

I can't see things that are far away very well.

casual

A simple and common way to describe being nearsighted.

Comparing lenses · 2 ways to say it

The first one is much clearer than the second one.

neutral

Use this when the doctor asks 'Which is better, one or two?'

They both look exactly the same to me.

casual
Asking for the prescription · 2 ways to say it

Could I have a copy of my prescription, please?

polite

Can I just get my prescription to take with me?

casual

Use if you want to buy your glasses at a different store.

Shopping for glasses · 2 ways to say it

I'm looking for some new frames.

neutral

Could you help me choose a pair that suits my face?

polite
Asking about lenses

Do these lenses come with an anti-glare coating?

neutral
Asking about contacts

I'd like to try wearing contact lenses.

neutral
Asking the price · 2 ways to say it

How much will the frames and lenses cost together?

neutral

How much are these frames?

casual
Asking when ready · 2 ways to say it

When can I pick them up?

casual

US — in the UK, you might ask when you can 'collect' them.

How long until I can collect them?

neutral

UK — in the US, you would ask when you can 'pick them up'.

Practice Dialogue

Staff
So, your prescription hasn't changed much. Are you looking for new frames today?
Patient
Yeah, I'm looking for some new frames. How much are these ones?
Staff
Those are a hundred and fifty. They're very popular right now.
Patient
They're nice. Do the lenses come with an anti-glare coating?
Staff
Yes, that's included in the price for that pair.
Patient
Great. I'd also like to try wearing contact lenses. Is that possible?
Staff
We'd need to do a quick fitting for contacts. Do you have time now?
Patient
Sure. If I order the glasses today, when can I pick them up?
Staff
They should be ready in about a week. We'll call you.
Patient
Perfect. And could I have a copy of my prescription, please?
Staff
Of course. I'll print that out for you right now.

More Health & Pharmacy (B1)

← All English survival phrases