Asking for the Bus Number

Learn how to ask a stranger for a bus number to get to a specific destination. This lesson provides simple, clear phrases to use, helping you feel more confident and independent while using public transport.

SpeakItGo• TRENDING• 4 min

BEGINNER

You:

Excuse me, does this bus go to the city center?

Stranger:

No, it doesn't. You need bus number 12.

You:

Oh, thank you!

Stranger:

You're welcome.

You:

Where can I find bus number 12?

Stranger:

It stops across the street.

You:

Across the street. Okay, thank you so much!

Stranger:

No problem. Have a good day.

You:

You too. Goodbye.

Stranger:

Goodbye.

Vocabulary

bus number

A number that identifies a specific bus route.

You need bus number 12.
What bus number goes to the mall?
Bus number 45 stops here.

city center

The main or central part of a city.

Does this bus go to the city center?
I work in the city center.
The bus goes to the city center.

Grammar Tip: Using 'Does this bus go...?'

The phrase 'Does this bus go...?' is a polite way to ask for a request. It shows respect to the person you are speaking with. It's a common phrase in a public setting and shows that you are a polite and respectful person.

Common Mistakes

❌ Using 'What bus I need?'

✅ The correct form is 'What bus number do I need?' or 'Which bus goes to...?'

In English, we often use 'do' or 'does' to form a question with a verb. This structure is a key part of asking a direct question.

❌ Not saying 'Excuse me' before asking.

✅ Always start with a polite phrase like 'Excuse me' to get someone's attention.

This is a simple social cue. It shows that you are being polite and respectful when you speak to a stranger.

Notes for Learners

Be ready to make a simple request in a formal setting.
Practice using phrases like 'Excuse me' and 'Thank you so much.'
Listen for the person's answers and respond with a simple 'Thank you.'
Remember to give a reason for your request to show that you are being honest and respectful.

INTERMEDIATE

You:

Pardon me. I'm trying to get to the museum. Do you know which bus I should take from here?

Stranger:

Yes, you'll need the number 25 bus. It stops right here. The next one should be arriving in about ten minutes.

You:

That's a huge help. I appreciate the information. Is the fare paid on the bus?

Stranger:

Yes, you can pay with cash or a travel card when you get on.

You:

Perfect. Thank you for your guidance. I was a bit lost.

Stranger:

No problem at all. Happy to assist.

You:

Thanks again. Have a good day.

Stranger:

You too. Goodbye.

You:

I'm glad we talked.

Stranger:

Me too.

Vocabulary

fare

The price charged for transport.

Is the fare paid on the bus?
The bus fare is $2.
The train fare is very expensive.

guidance

Advice or information aimed at resolving a problem or difficulty.

Thank you for your guidance.
I need some guidance on this project.
She gave me some good guidance.

Grammar Tip: Using 'Do you know...?'

The phrase 'Do you know...?' is a very polite and indirect way to ask a question. It's a great way to make a request without sounding demanding.

Common Mistakes

❌ Just saying 'Help.'

✅ Add more detail to your sentence, like 'Pardon me. I'm trying to get to the museum. Do you know which bus I should take from here?' This is more polite and shows respect.

Adding more information makes your speech sound more natural and engaging. It's a key part of an intermediate-level conversation.

❌ Not providing a reason.

✅ Give a more valid reason like 'I was a bit lost.'

This shows you are an engaged student and makes the conversation more personal and practical. A good excuse shows that you are responsible.

Notes for Learners

Be ready to make a polite request with more detail.
Practice using a conversational tag like 'Do you know...?'
Listen for more specific questions and be prepared to give a detailed answer.
Remember to use more descriptive words like 'fare' and 'guidance.'

ADVANCED

You:

Pardon me. I apologize for the interruption, but I seem to be disoriented. Could you possibly direct me to the correct bus for the city library?

Stranger:

Of course. You'll want the number 52, which departs from the stop adjacent to this one. It's quite a frequent service.

You:

I see. Thank you for the clarification. It's a great relief to receive such a clear explanation.

Stranger:

My pleasure. I understand how challenging navigating an unfamiliar city can be. Is there anything else I can assist you with?

You:

No, that's everything. Your assistance has been invaluable. Thank you once again.

Stranger:

You're most welcome. Have a pleasant journey.

You:

You too. Thank you again.

Stranger:

You're welcome.

You:

Goodbye.

Stranger:

Goodbye.

Vocabulary

disoriented

Having lost one's sense of direction.

I seem to be disoriented.
He was disoriented by the bright lights.
She felt disoriented after the long flight.

invaluable

Extremely useful; indispensable.

Your assistance has been invaluable.
His advice was invaluable.
She is an invaluable member of the team.

Grammar Tip: Using the phrase 'Could you possibly...?'

This phrase is a formal and very polite way to ask for a request. It is more sophisticated and less demanding than 'Can I...?' It shows that you are listening carefully and value the other person's opinion.

Common Mistakes

❌ Using simple language like 'I'm lost.'

✅ Use more descriptive and formal phrases like 'I seem to be disoriented.'

Advanced English is about choosing the right tone and vocabulary. Using words like 'disoriented' and 'invaluable' shows a high level of fluency and a precise understanding of the situation.

❌ Not providing a clear and specific plan.

✅ Provide a clear and specific plan, e.g., 'I will be sure to be more mindful in the future. Good luck with your examination.'

This shows you are an informed person and helps the other person understand your goals more quickly and professionally. It's a key part of advanced communication.

Notes for Learners

Open the conversation with a formal phrase like 'Pardon me.'
Be ready to use and understand specific terms like 'disoriented,' 'adjacent,' and 'invaluable.'
Acknowledge the person's help with a phrase like 'Your assistance has been invaluable' and end the conversation professionally.
Remember that maintaining a calm and respectful demeanor is key, even when you are frustrated.