Asking About Bus Timings

Learn how to ask a stranger or a bus driver for information about bus timings. This lesson provides simple, clear phrases to use, helping you feel more confident while waiting for a bus.

SpeakItGo• NEW• 3 min

BEGINNER

You:

Excuse me, when is the next bus?

Stranger:

It should be here in 5 minutes.

You:

Thank you!

Stranger:

You're welcome.

You:

Is this the bus to the mall?

Stranger:

Yes, it is.

You:

Okay, thank you so much!

Stranger:

No problem. Have a good day.

You:

You too. Goodbye.

Stranger:

Goodbye.

Vocabulary

timings

The planned time of an event.

What are the bus timings?
The train timings are on the board.
Please check the timings before you leave.

arrive

To reach a destination.

When will the next bus arrive?
The train will arrive at 10 AM.
We will arrive at the hotel soon.

Grammar Tip: Using 'When is...?'

The phrase 'When is...?' is a polite way to ask for a request. It shows respect to the person you are speaking with. It's a common phrase in a public setting and shows that you are a polite and respectful person.

Common Mistakes

❌ Using 'When the bus come?'

✅ The correct form is 'When is the next bus?' or 'When will the bus arrive?'

In English, we often use 'is' or 'will' to form a question about future events. This structure is a key part of asking a clear question.

❌ Not saying 'Excuse me' before asking.

✅ Always start with a polite phrase like 'Excuse me' to get someone's attention.

This is a simple social cue. It shows that you are being polite and respectful when you speak to a stranger.

Notes for Learners

Be ready to make a simple request in a formal setting.
Practice using phrases like 'Excuse me' and 'Thank you so much.'
Listen for the person's answers and respond with a simple 'Thank you.'
Remember to give a reason for your request to show that you are being honest and respectful.

INTERMEDIATE

You:

Pardon me. I'm trying to get to the library. Do you know how long I'll have to wait for the next bus?

Stranger:

You'll need the number 15 bus. According to the schedule, it should be arriving in about ten minutes.

You:

That's a huge help. I appreciate the information. Is this a frequent service?

Stranger:

Yes, it runs every 15 minutes during the day. You shouldn't have to wait long.

You:

Perfect. Thank you for your guidance. I was a bit lost.

Stranger:

No problem at all. Happy to assist.

You:

Thanks again. Have a good day.

Stranger:

You too. Goodbye.

You:

I'm glad we talked.

Stranger:

Me too.

Vocabulary

schedule

A plan for carrying out a process or procedure, giving a list of intended events and times.

According to the schedule, the bus is on time.
The bus schedule is posted at the stop.
I'm checking the train schedule.

frequent

Happening or done often.

Is this a frequent service?
He is a frequent visitor to the library.
This bus is a frequent service.

Grammar Tip: Using 'Do you know...?'

The phrase 'Do you know...?' is a very polite and indirect way to ask a question. It's a great way to make a request without sounding demanding.

Common Mistakes

❌ Just saying 'Help.'

✅ Add more detail to your sentence, like 'Pardon me. I'm trying to get to the library. Do you know how long I'll have to wait for the next bus?' This is more polite and shows respect.

Adding more information makes your speech sound more natural and engaging. It's a key part of an intermediate-level conversation.

❌ Not providing a reason.

✅ Give a more valid reason like 'I was a bit lost.'

This shows you are an engaged student and makes the conversation more personal and practical. A good excuse shows that you are responsible.

Notes for Learners

Be ready to make a polite request with more detail.
Practice using a conversational tag like 'Do you know...?'
Listen for more specific questions and be prepared to give a detailed answer.
Remember to use more descriptive words like 'schedule' and 'frequent.'

ADVANCED

You:

Pardon me. I apologize for the interruption, but I'm trying to ascertain the timetable for the next service to the city hall. Could you possibly provide that information?

Stranger:

Certainly. The bus you're looking for is the express service, number 7. It's scheduled to arrive in approximately ten minutes, and the arrival is quite punctual.

You:

I see. Thank you for the clarification. It's a great relief to receive such a clear explanation.

Stranger:

My pleasure. I understand how challenging navigating an unfamiliar city can be. Is there anything else I can assist you with?

You:

No, that's everything. Your assistance has been invaluable. Thank you once again.

Stranger:

You're most welcome. Have a pleasant journey.

You:

You too. Thank you again.

Stranger:

You're welcome.

You:

Goodbye.

Stranger:

Goodbye.

Vocabulary

ascertain

To find (something) out for certain; to make sure of.

I'm trying to ascertain the timetable for the next service.
We need to ascertain the cause of the problem.
The police are trying to ascertain the facts.

punctual

Happening or doing something at the agreed or proper time; on time.

The arrival is quite punctual.
She is always punctual for her appointments.
The train was punctual today.

Grammar Tip: Using the phrase 'Could you possibly...?'

This phrase is a formal and very polite way to ask for a request. It is more sophisticated and less demanding than 'Can I...?' It shows that you are listening carefully and value the other person's opinion.

Common Mistakes

❌ Using simple language like 'When is the bus?'

✅ Use more descriptive and formal phrases like 'I'm trying to ascertain the timetable for the next service.'

Advanced English is about choosing the right tone and vocabulary. Using words like 'ascertain' and 'invaluable' shows a high level of fluency and a precise understanding of the situation.

❌ Not providing a clear and specific plan.

✅ Provide a clear and specific plan, e.g., 'I will be sure to be more mindful in the future. Good luck with your examination.'

This shows you are an informed person and helps the other person understand your goals more quickly and professionally. It's a key part of advanced communication.

Notes for Learners

Open the conversation with a formal phrase like 'Pardon me.'
Be ready to use and understand specific terms like 'ascertain,' 'timetable,' and 'punctual.'
Acknowledge the person's help with a phrase like 'Your assistance has been invaluable' and end the conversation professionally.
Remember that maintaining a calm and respectful demeanor is key, even when you are frustrated.