Dealing with common problems (lost item, complaint, etc.) in English

Conversation: Reporting a Lost Item

Situation: Tom lost his phone in a restaurant and is asking for help.

Tom: Excuse me, I think I lost my phone here earlier. Have you seen it?

Waitress: I’m sorry to hear that. Where did you last see it?

Tom: I was sitting at that table near the window. I remember placing it on the table before I left.

Waitress: Let me check with my manager. Can you describe your phone?

Tom: Yes, it’s a black smartphone with a blue case.

Waitress: Thank you. Please wait a moment while I check.

(After a few minutes)

Waitress: We found a phone matching your description! Can you unlock it to confirm it’s yours?

Tom: Yes! Thank you so much for your help.

Waitress: You’re welcome! Be careful next time.

Key Phrases and Expressions

Here are some useful phrases when dealing with common problems:

Reporting a Lost Item

  • I lost my [item]. Have you seen it?

  • I think I left it [place].

  • Can you help me find it?

  • It’s a [description of the item].

  • Where did you last see it?

  • Please wait while I check.

Making a Complaint

  • Excuse me, I’d like to make a complaint.

  • I’m not happy with [the problem].

  • There seems to be a mistake.

  • Could you please fix this?

  • Can I speak to the manager?

  • I expect a solution as soon as possible.

Asking for Help

  • Excuse me, can you help me?

  • I need assistance with [the problem].

  • Who should I talk to about this?

  • What should I do now?

  • Thank you for your help.

Practice Exercise

Fill in the blanks with the correct phrases:

  1. Excuse me, I think I ______ my wallet. Have you seen it?

  2. I’m sorry, but there is a problem with my order. I’d like to ______.

  3. Can you ______ my bag? It’s black with a red stripe.

  4. I need assistance. ______ I left my keys in the hotel room.

  5. This product is broken. Can I ______ a refund?

Answer: 1. lost / 2. make a complain / 3. help me find / 4. I think / 5. get

Try practicing these phrases in different situations. The more you use them, the more confident you will become!

Comments