Making and accepting invitations

Conversation

Situation: Lisa and Tom are friends. Lisa invites Tom to her birthday party.

Lisa: Hi Tom! I’m having a birthday party this Saturday. Would you like to come?

Tom: That sounds great! What time does it start?

Lisa: It starts at 6 p.m. at my house. Can you make it?

Tom: Yes, I’d love to come! Thanks for inviting me.

Lisa: You’re welcome! Let me know if you need the address.

Tom: I think I remember, but I’ll ask if I get lost. Should I bring anything?

Lisa: No, just yourself! I’m looking forward to it.

Tom: Me too! See you on Saturday.

Key phrases

Here are some useful phrases for making and accepting invitations:

Making an invitation

• Would you like to come to…?
• Do you want to join us for…?
• I’m having a [party/dinner/get-together]. Would you like to come?
• How about coming to…?
• Can you make it to…?

Accepting an invitation

• Yes, I’d love to!
• That sounds great!
• I’d be happy to come.
• Sure! What time?
• I’ll be there!

Asking for details

• What time does it start?
• Where is it?
• Should I bring anything?
• Who else is coming?

Politely declining an invitation

Sometimes, you may need to say no to an invitation. Here are some polite ways to do it:

• I’d love to, but I already have plans.
• Thanks for inviting me, but I can’t make it.
• I really wish I could, but I’m busy that day.
• Maybe next time!

Practice

Try these exercises to improve your skills:

1. Fill in the blanks:
A: Hey, I’m going to the movies on Friday. _____?
B: That sounds fun! _____?
A: At 7 p.m. at City Mall.
B: Great! _____!

2. Role-play:
Practice with a friend. One person invites, and the other accepts or declines politely.

3. Writing practice:
Write a short conversation where you invite someone to an event. Try to use at least three key phrases.

Conclusion

Inviting someone and responding politely is an important skill in English. Practice these phrases to feel more confident when making plans with friends.