Your appointment was at nine and it’s already nine fifteen. A brief apology, a request for another time and a clear confirmation can get the conversation back on track.
The Big Idea
APPOINTMENT → PROBLEM → NEW TIME → CONFIRM
Ten useful phrases
1. I’m sorry, I’m running late.
Say how late you expect to be: “I think I’ll be ten minutes late.”
2. I missed my appointment.
Use this after the appointment time has passed.
3. Can I still come today?
Ask whether there is still an opening later the same day.
4. Could we reschedule?
“Reschedule” means change the appointment to another time.
5. What times are available?
Let the receptionist offer the available choices.
6. Would tomorrow morning work?
Offer a time you could actually attend.
7. Is there a cancellation fee?
Ask whether the change or missed appointment carries a charge.
8. Can you confirm the new time?
Repeat both the date and time to avoid another mix-up.
9. Do I need to bring anything?
Ask about documents or anything else you should bring.
10. Thank you for your understanding.
Close politely once the new arrangement is clear.
Real-world conversation
Client: “I’m sorry, I missed my appointment.”
Receptionist: “Would you like to reschedule?”
Client: “Yes, please. Is tomorrow morning available?”
Receptionist: “We have an opening at ten.”
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
Appointment and cancellation rules vary. Ask whether a missed-appointment fee applies before confirming.
Stop memorizing English. Start using it.
Learn it. Prepare for it. Go use it.
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