Английский язык в повседневной жизни. Базовые темы, живые выражения и задания

When I call them, they always say the same thing: «I’m almost there» or «I’ll be there in five minutes.» But in reality, it usually takes much longer. Because of this, I learned to bring something with me, like my phone or headphones, so I don’t feel bored while waiting.

At first, I felt annoyed because I don’t like being late. I think being on time is a sign of respect. But now I understand that my friend is not doing it on purpose. They are just slow in the morning and often lose track of time.

When my friend finally arrives, they always look a bit stressed and tired. They quickly say sorry, and we continue our plans. After a few minutes, everything becomes normal again, and we start enjoying our time together.

Even though my friend is always late, I still like spending time with them. They are funny, kind, and always have interesting stories to tell. When we meet, we laugh a lot and forget about the waiting time.

Sometimes I try to help my friend be on time. I tell them to set alarms or prepare things in advance. It works a little, but not always. So I just accept it as part of their personality.

I think everyone has small habits like this. Nobody is perfect. The most important thing is understanding and friendship. Even if my friend is late, I still value our time together.

Now I usually plan my own time better when I meet them. I bring something to do and don’t stress about waiting. It helps me stay calm and enjoy the meeting more.

Key Vocabulary and Expressions

be late — опаздывать

agree to meet — договориться встретиться

on time — вовремя

wait for someone — ждать кого-то

meeting place — место встречи

feel bored — скучать

feel annoyed — раздражаться

a sign of respect — знак уважения

lose track of time — терять ощущение времени

be stressed — быть в стрессе

say sorry — извиняться

continue plans — продолжать планы

spend time together — проводить время вместе

funny stories — смешные истории

set alarms — ставить будильники

prepare in advance — готовиться заранее

personality — характер

value time — ценить время

stay calm — оставаться спокойным

enjoy the meeting — наслаждаться встречей

Useful Patterns

My friend is always… — Мой друг всегда…

I usually wait for… — Я обычно жду…

At first, I felt… but now I… — Сначала я чувствовал…, но теперь я…

When they arrive, we… — Когда они приходят, мы…

I think it’s important to… — Я думаю, важно…

I try to… so that… — Я стараюсь…, чтобы…

It helps me… — Это помогает мне…

Even though…, I still… — Хотя…, я всё равно…

Practice: Answer the Questions

Do you have a friend who is always late?

How do you feel when someone is late?

What do you usually do while waiting for someone?

Do you prefer to be early, on time, or late? Why?

Is being late a big problem for you? Why or why not?

How do you help your friends be on time?

Do you think being late is a habit or a personality trait?

Model Answers

Yes, I have a friend who is always late. I usually wait for them at the meeting place.

I feel a little annoyed, but I try to stay calm. I don’t like waiting too much.

While waiting, I check my phone or listen to music. It helps me not feel bored.

I prefer to be on time because I think it is a sign of respect.

It is not a very big problem, but I don’t like it. I prefer people to be on time.

I remind my friends to set alarms and prepare in advance.

I think it is more of a habit, because people can learn to manage their time.

Expand Your Answer

Try to give a longer answer. Use at least 2—3 expressions from the vocabulary list and add one reason or example.

Example answer:

I have a friend who is always late. I usually wait for them and try to stay calm. For example, I listen to music or check my phone so I don’t feel bored while waiting.

Practice: Complete the Sentences

My friend is always __________ and never arrives on time.

I usually __________ for my friend at the meeting place.

While waiting, I listen to music so I don’t feel __________.

I try to __________ in advance so I am not late.