Scenario: Borrowing Office Stationery
Conversation : 1
BeginnerBest Practice
Employee 1: Hi, can I borrow a pen for a minute?
Employee 2: Sure, here you go!
Employee 1: Thanks! I’ll return it after the meeting.
Employee 2: No worries, take your time.
Employee 1: Really appreciate it!
Employee 2: Anytime!
Examples
1: borrow a pen
Meaning: To ask to use someone’s pen for a short time.
Sentences Using borrow a pen for better understanding
1 .Can I borrow a pen to sign this form?
2 .He borrowed a pen and forgot to return it.
3 .I need to borrow a pen quickly before the meeting starts.
2: return
Meaning: To give something back after using it.
Sentences Using return for better understanding
1 .I’ll return the notebook after I’m done.
2 .She always returns what she borrows.
3 .Don’t forget to return the stapler to the supply room.
Conversation : 2
IntermediateBest Practice
Employee 1: Do you happen to have a spare notebook I could borrow for the day?
Employee 2: Yeah, I have an extra one. Here you go.
Employee 1: Thanks! I’ll give it back by the end of the day.
Employee 2: No problem. Just drop it on my desk when you’re done.
Employee 1: Will do. Really appreciate the help.
Employee 2: Anytime, happy to help!
Examples
1: spare
Meaning: An extra item that is not currently being used.
Sentences Using spare for better understanding
1 .Do you have a spare pen I could use?
2 .She always keeps a spare notebook in her drawer.
3 .I brought a spare charger just in case.
2: drop it on my desk
Meaning: To place something on someone's desk, usually in a casual way.
Sentences Using drop it on my desk for better understanding
1 .Just drop the report on my desk when it’s ready.
2 .You can drop the files on my desk before lunch.
3 .He dropped the folder on her desk and left quickly.
Conversation : 3
ProBest Practice
Employee 1: Hey, would you mind if I borrow your highlighter for a bit? I left mine at home.
Employee 2: Not at all, go ahead. I’m not using it right now.
Employee 1: Perfect, thanks a lot. I’ll make sure to return it soon.
Employee 2: No rush. Let me know if you need anything else.
Employee 1: Will do. Appreciate the kindness!
Employee 2: Anytime. Glad to help!
Examples
1: would you mind
Meaning: A polite way to ask for permission to do something.
Sentences Using would you mind for better understanding
1 .Would you mind if I use your stapler?
2 .Would you mind helping me with this form?
3 .Would you mind lending me your notebook for a bit?
2: not at all
Meaning: A polite way of saying 'no problem' or 'go ahead.'
Sentences Using not at all for better understanding
1 .‘Can I use your pen?’ ‘Not at all!’
2 .‘Would you mind if I join you?’ ‘Not at all, please do!’
3 .She said 'not at all' when I asked to borrow her book.