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Learn everyday English for a day out in Toronto

Living in an English-speaking country can be tough if English isn't your first language. You'll need to talk in English to do basic things like ordering food and asking for directions. That's why it's important to learn everyday English to make your day-to-day life easier. At English Path, we can help you learn common words, phrases, and sentences to communicate in English for your daily activities. Today, we'll talk you through a fun day out in Toronto, where English is the primary mode of communication and teach you useful English phrases so that you can have an amazing experience in Toronto. Let's get started! 

1. Common greetings for a day out in Toronto

On your day out in Toronto, it's always useful to know some common greetings beforehand so that you can start a simple conversation with someone. Just like in any language, there are basic ways to greet or approach people, which always work well. Whether you're meeting someone for the first time or seeing an old friend, these simple greetings can help you connect with others. Below are some basic greetings to help you use everyday English. 

  • Hello/Hey!
  • Hi there
  • Nice to meet you
  • How are you?
  • How was your day?

So, don’t be afraid to start a conversation. Just say hello! 

2. Ordering breakfast at a local café

Start your day in Toronto by going to a local café to have a delicious breakfast. You can practise speaking English as you order your food by asking questions about prices or directions to the facilities. For example: 

  • Ordering breakfast: Good morning! Can I have a coffee, please?
  • Asking about prices politely: How much is this?
  • Finding the facilities: Do you have a restroom?

Always remember to leave a good impression by thanking the staff and saying: "Thank you, have a nice day!" 

3. Using the city’s public transport system

The best way to get around Toronto is to use the city's excellent public transport system. This means you'll need to learn everyday English to use buses, subways, and streetcars. This will also be good for when you need to ask for directions and get on the right bus or train. For example: 

  • Asking for directions: Excuse me, can you tell me how to get to [your destination]?
  • Buying a ticket: How much is a one-way ticket?
  • Checking the schedule: What time does the next bus/subway arrive?
  • Boarding the bus/subway: Is this the right bus/subway for [name your destination]?
  • Getting off the bus/subway: Is this my stop?

Remember to say "Excuse me" and "Thank you" when getting on the bus or subway. If you need help, don't be afraid to ask your fellow passengers! 

4. Exploring the city 

Now that you can get around Toronto easily, it's time to explore the city! Toronto has many famous attractions and great sightseeing spots. As you walk around, you can use these English phrases to make the most of your trip and create lasting memories. 

  • Asking for directions: Excuse me, where is the CN Tower?
  • Requesting a photo: Can you please take my photo here?
  • Finding some shops: What are some popular shops around here?
  • Practising small talk: How do you like living in this city?
  • Exploring the local food scene: Do you have any recommendations for a good restaurant?

Talking to locals and sharing your thoughts will not only help you improve your English skills but also create some good memories during your day out in Toronto

5. Ordering lunch at a restaurant

When it's time to eat lunch, find a comfortable and welcoming restaurant where you can use everyday English phrases. You can use everyday English to order food and have basic conversations with restaurant staff. Here are some simple English phrases you can practise.

  • Asking for options: Is there a vegetarian option available?
  • Ordering the dish: I'll have the (name of the dish), please.
  • Ordering your beverage of choice: Can I have some/a bottle of (name of drink), please?
  • Giving compliments to the chef: The food is delicious, thank you!
  • Asking for the check politely: Can I have the bill, please?

Learn these common English phrases to have a delicious meal on your day out in Toronto

6. Shopping for souvenirs

A trip to a new destination is incomplete without shopping for some souvenirs (tokens of your trip) for your family and friends. You can check out the local shops and practise your bargaining skills. You can use the following phrases to do so: 

  • Exploring the shop: Can you show me around the shop?
  • Asking about different options: Are there other designs available?
  • Expressing interest in the item: Can you tell me more about (name of the souvenir)?
  • Asking for the price: How much does this cost?
  • Negotiating a good price: Could you give me a discount, please?

Learn everyday English phrases to shop for souvenirs, and don't miss the opportunity to make your day out in Toronto even more special. Happy shopping! 

7. Saying goodbyes

When you're out and about in Toronto, chances are you'll talk with people – like the barista at the café, a friendly lady who helped you find the right bus, or the staff at a restaurant you went to. It's always nice to say thank you and goodbye to them before you leave. You can use one of these phrases, depending on the situation: 

  • Ending a friendly conversation: I enjoyed your company. Thank you for your time!
  • Show your appreciation to the barista: Thanks for the coffee. Have a nice day!
  • Leaving a restaurant: The food was fantastic! Thank you and goodbye!
  • Exiting a shop: Thanks for the recommendations. Goodbye and enjoy your day!
  • Wrapping up a casual chat: It was nice talking to you. Take care and goodbye!

Remember, one of the best ways to learn everyday English is to practise it in real-life situations. You can use the phrases you learned today during your day out in Toronto. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; everyone does in the beginning, that’s how we all learn. Just smile, keep trying and you’ll keep on getting better over time. If you need more help in improving your English, join English Path! Our wide range of courses, taught by experienced teachers, are here to support you on your language-learning journey. Happy exploring! 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about how to learn everyday English for a day out in Toronto

A1. If you learn everyday English words and phrases, it will help you to move around the city quickly and easily. You will be able to see the best spots and enjoy your day out to the fullest. 

A2. You can explore the most famous and iconic places like the CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium, and the Royal Ontario Museum for a memorable day out in Toronto! 

A3. Yes, photography is allowed at almost every public place in Toronto. But if you're not sure, just ask someone politely, "Can I take a photo here?" 

A4. The Canadians are friendly people and are always ready to help. You can simply ask them for directions by saying: "Excuse me, can you help me find [your destination]?" If you want to learn more English phrases and improve your language skills, join us at English Path. 

A5. Toronto is a very safe city. You don't need to be afraid to walk around the city at any time of the day or night. Just be careful and pay attention to your surroundings. Stick to well-lit areas where you feel safe and secure.