Everyday English Phrases

Here are some English phrases for everyday situations.

Expressing sympathy

Use the following phrases to express your sympathy.

The most common way to show that you are sad for someone is to use the phrase I’m sorry to hear that…

I’m sorry to hear that you’ve had an accident.

I’m sorry to hear that you are ill.

I’m sorry to hear that you’ve failed your exam.

I’m sorry to hear that you are getting divorced.

What a pity! / What a shame!   

The expressions What a pity! and What a shame! are used to say that something is too bad.

It’s a shame…

This phrase is used to express your disappointment at something bad that has happened.

It’s a shame that she didn’t pass the test.

It’s a shame that you couldn’t get the job.

It’s a shame that he can’t help us.

It’s a shame that we lost the match.

It’s shame that she didn’t recognize you.

It’s a shame that she is not here today.

It’s a shame that you have to work 14 hours a day.

It’s a shame that she doesn’t know how to behave.

Making suggestions

One way of telling people what they should do is to use the phrase I think you should…

I think you should get his permission.

I think you should buy a new car.

I think you should hire a specialist.

I think you should accept that job.

I think you should talk to her.