Do you know what the problem is, but struggle to explain it clearly in English?
Maybe your internet isn't working, you can't log into an account, your order is wrong, a delivery is missing, or you've run into a problem at work.
In this episode of 5-Minute English Talk, Chris and Jane teach you simple, natural expressions for explaining problems clearly and confidently in everyday situations.
You'll learn an easy three-step method:
Problem + Detail + What You Need
Instead of simply saying:
“It doesn't work.”
You can explain exactly what's happening:
“I'm having trouble with my laptop. For some reason, it keeps shutting down while I'm working. Could you take a look?”
“I'm having trouble with…”
A natural and polite way to introduce a problem.
“There seems to be a problem with…”
A softer way to tell someone that something isn't working correctly.
“It keeps disconnecting every few minutes.”
Use “it keeps…” when something happens repeatedly.
“For some reason, I can't log in.”
Use this when you know what's happening but don't know why.
“I think there might be a mistake with my order.”
A polite way to explain that something is incorrect.
“I received the package, but one of the items is missing.”
A clear way to describe a delivery problem.
“I've run into a problem with the report.”
A useful expression when you unexpectedly experience a difficulty.
“The issue is, I don't have the final numbers yet.”
Use “the issue is…” to explain what's preventing you from moving forward.
“Could you help me with this?”
A simple and polite request for help.
“Could you take a look?”
A natural way to ask someone to check a problem.
Think of a common problem and explain it using:
Problem + Detail + What You Need
For example:
“I'm having trouble with my internet connection. It keeps disconnecting every few minutes. Could you take a look?”
Try the same method with a delivery problem, an incorrect order, a technical issue, or a problem at work.
Remember: clear English doesn't mean more English. You simply need the right information in the right order.
Follow 5-Minute English Talk for practical everyday English, natural conversations, useful expressions, and simple speaking practice to help you become a more confident English speaker.