At the station, you reach for your phone and find an empty pocket. Start with where you last saw it. Then ask the right person to help with the next step.
The Big Idea
PHONE → LOCATION → SECURITY → NEXT STEP
Ten useful phrases
1. I’ve lost my phone.
Start with this sentence at the information desk.
2. I last saw it at the café.
Give the last place you remember. If you are unsure, say “I think I left it at the café.”
3. Could you check the lost-and-found?
Ask staff to check whether anyone handed it in.
4. Can I use your phone to call mine?
Ask permission before borrowing someone else’s phone.
5. I need to lock my phone remotely.
Use this when explaining why you need access to another device.
6. How do I report it missing?
Ask staff about the local reporting process.
7. Could you help me contact my mobile provider?
“Mobile provider” means the company that supplies your phone service.
8. I need to protect my bank accounts.
Tell a bank representative why you are calling.
9. Can I get a report reference number?
Repeat the number back and write it down.
10. Where should I check for updates?
Ask whether to follow up at the desk, by phone, or online.
Real-world conversation
Traveler: “I’ve lost my phone. I last saw it at the café.”
Staff: “Have you checked the lost-and-found desk?”
Traveler: “Not yet. Could you tell me where it is?”
Staff: “It’s next to the information counter.”
Four Finger Rule
WANT TO: State your goal.
HAVE TO: Explain the important facts.
NEED TO: Ask for a specific action or answer.
MIGHT: Prepare for a delay, mistake, or clarification.
Before You Go — Mission
Practise the dialogue with a partner. Change one detail and ask them to repeat the next step. Finish by saying: “Just to confirm…”
Practical tip
Keep passwords and verification codes private; use your device’s official find/lock tools and contact your carrier or bank as needed.
Stop memorizing English. Start using it.
Learn it. Prepare for it. Go use it.
Keep practising
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