Key words and phrases

After all
Look
Look here
No doubt
I think we should let her go on holiday alone. After all, she is sixteen – she is not a child anymore.
Look is more strongly persuasive.

You can’t go there tomorrow. Look, the trains aren’t running.
Look here! is an angry exclamation. It means ‘You can’t say/do that!’

Look here! What are you doing with my suitcase?
No doubt can be used to persuade people politely to do things.

No doubt you will be paying your rent soon?

Some polite phrases to use if you failed to turn up on a specified date or at a specified time

I am sorry, I couldn’t make it that day.
I am sorry, I got a little late.
I am sorry, I couldn’t make it in time.
Some polite phrases to use if you did something wrong or offended somebody

I am very sorry.
It was my mistake. Please excuse me.
I beg your pardon.
Sorry to have disturbed you.

Some polite phrases to use if you need a favour

May I have your attention please?
Will you please permit me to speak?
Will you please move a bit?
Will you mind my smoking?
Will you mind if I smoke?
Could you speak a bit louder?