Dialogue 3-11: Giving Advice

LAYLA: Thanks for meeting with me during your lunch hour. I appreciate it.
MONICA: No problem. I’m happy to help. What’s going on?
LAYLA: Oh you know, the usual. Should I take this new job? Or do I stick with my current one?
MONICA: Well, I think it’s time for a change, don’t you? They pay you late and you are unhappy.
LAYLA: Do you really think so?
MONICA: I know so. And I’ve been listening to you complain for over a year now. Trust me. Take the job. What do you have to lose?

Language Notes

• In formal conversation, giving advice is often suggested through modals: ought to/ should / could / If I were you. In informal conversations people tend to use words such as I think that/ I feel that/ in my opinion.
• Listen for the emphasis on I know so and Trust me. These common phrases can be used to convey both positive and negative emotions. “I know so” conveys a deep belief or certainty. “To know” shows more certainty than “to think.”
• Notice the use of command forms: Take the job. /Trust me./ Go for it! The command form can be used to gently persuade someone.

Practice Speaking

1. Play the audio and take the role of the missing speaker.
2. Speak your lines aloud, just like in the conversation.

MONICA

LAYLA