Vanessa teaches twenty practical expressions for everyday conversations, online meetings, and work situations. She groups them by what the speaker is trying to do: ask for information, check understanding, interrupt politely, and agree or disagree. The lesson’s central idea is that useful conversation often depends not only on what you say, but on how directly or politely you say it. Many of the expressions are indirect forms that sound softer than a bare question or command.
To ask for information, Vanessa models “Do you happen to know…?”, “Do you have any idea if…?”, “I’d like to know if…,” and “I’m wondering if….” They can introduce a question without sounding demanding. For example, a colleague might say, “I’m wondering if those reports will be done by three.” Although it is phrased as a statement, the speaker is asking about status. The indirect wording is useful in many work settings, but a more direct question may be better when time is critical.
The next group checks whether the listener understands. “Do you know what I mean?” can ask whether someone understands a point or shares a feeling. “Are you following?” works during a complicated explanation, while “Got it?” is shorter and more casual. “Are we on the same page?” checks that people share an understanding or plan; it can be used with a partner or a project team. These expressions help speakers pause and repair confusion before a conversation goes too far.
For interruptions, Vanessa offers “Excuse me, may I have a word?”, “Do you mind if I jump in here?”, “Sorry, I didn’t catch that,” and “Do you mind if I interrupt you?” The first asks for a brief chance to speak; “jump in” means enter the conversation; and “I didn’t catch that” politely asks for a repeat. Even a polite phrase works best when the interruption is relevant and timed with care.
The final group helps learners manage agreement. “Totally,” “Absolutely,” and “Right” show strong agreement. “I see your point, but…” acknowledges another view before adding a different one, while “I’m not so sure about that” expresses doubt more indirectly. “I don’t agree” and “I don’t think so” are clearer forms of disagreement. Learners can practise choosing a phrase that matches their intention—requesting information, confirming understanding, taking a turn, or expressing a view—and then adjust the wording to fit the relationship and situation.