Everyone needs help sometimes. Asking for help in English can feel scary. You might worry about using wrong words. This guide will teach you simple and polite ways to ask for help.
Asking for Help in a Shop
When you are in a shop, you need to be clear and polite.
Start with: "Excuse me"
Then say: "Can you help me find...?" or "I am looking for..."
Example: "Excuse me, can you help me find the milk?"
If you do not understand, say: "Sorry, I do not understand. Can you repeat, please?"
Asking for Help on the Street
If you are lost, you need to ask for directions.
Start with: "Excuse me"
Then ask: "Where is...?" or "How can I get to...?"
Example: "Excuse me, where is the train station?"
When someone helps you, say: "Thank you very much."
Asking for Help at Work or School
At work or school, you need to be extra polite.
Use: "Could you please help me with...?"
Example: "Could you please help me with this report?"
If someone is busy, ask: "Are you free now? I need some help."
When You Do Not Understand
It is okay to say you do not understand. Use these phrases:
- "Sorry, I did not catch that."
- "Can you speak slower, please?"
- "What does [word] mean?"
Example: "Sorry, I did not catch that. Can you speak slower, please?"
Summary
Remember these key points:
- Always start with "Excuse me"
- Use "Can you help me...?" or "Could you please...?"
- Say "Thank you" after getting help
- It is okay to ask people to repeat or speak slower
Practice these phrases. Soon, asking for help will feel easy and natural.