Asking for Directions

Learn how to ask someone for directions on public transport. This lesson provides simple, clear phrases to use when you are lost or need to confirm your route, helping you feel more confident and independent while traveling.

SpeakItGo• FEATURED• 5 min

BEGINNER

You:

Excuse me, am I on the right bus for the museum?

Stranger:

Yes, you are. It's the next stop.

You:

Oh, thank you!

Stranger:

You're welcome. The museum is a big building on the left.

You:

On the left. Got it. Thank you so much!

Stranger:

No problem. Have a good day.

You:

You too. Goodbye.

Stranger:

Goodbye.

You:

I'm glad we talked.

Stranger:

Me too.

Vocabulary

directions

Instructions on how to get from one place to another.

I need to ask for directions.
Can you give me directions to the park?
I followed the directions on the map.

on the right/left

Located on the right or left side of something.

The museum is on the left.
The bus stop is on the right.
The library is on the left side of the street.

Grammar Tip: Using 'Am I...?'

The phrase 'Am I...?' 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 'Am I in the bus?'

✅ The correct form is 'Am I on the bus?'

In English, we use 'on' for public transport like a bus or train, not 'in.' This is a common prepositional error for new English learners.

❌ Not stating your destination clearly.

✅ Always state your destination clearly and concisely. For example, say 'Am I on the right bus for the museum?'

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.'
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 main square. Is this the right direction?

Stranger:

Yes, you're on the right track. The main square is about three stops away. You'll see a large statue in the middle of it.

You:

That's a huge help. I appreciate the information. 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.

You:

I'll see you later.

Stranger:

See you later.

Vocabulary

right track

Going in the correct direction; doing something correctly.

You're on the right track to the city.
I think we're on the right track with this plan.
She is on the right track to success.

main square

The main public space or plaza in a town or city.

I'm trying to get to the main square.
The bus stops at the main square.
The main square is always busy.

Grammar Tip: Using 'Is this the right direction...?'

The phrase 'Is this the right direction...?' 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 main square. Is this the right direction?' 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 'Is this the right direction...?'
Listen for more specific questions and be prepared to give a detailed answer.
Remember to use more descriptive words like 'main square' and 'right track.'

ADVANCED

You:

Good morning. I apologize for the interruption, but I seem to be disoriented. Could you possibly direct me to the correct platform for the city hall?

Stranger:

Certainly. You'll want the express train from Platform 4. It's the most efficient route and it's scheduled to arrive in about five minutes.

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 you...?' and is perfect for professional or more detailed conversations, especially when you are ordering a specific or unusual item.

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 'Good morning.'
Be ready to use and understand specific terms like 'disoriented,' 'platform,' and 'invaluable.'
Acknowledge the employee'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.