Begin with the main request
“Could I have…?” gives you a polite way to make a request. Name what you want first, then add size and temperature. You do not need to deliver every detail in one memorized sentence; a follow-up question can help complete the order.
Keep a clarification phrase ready
If you miss something, say, “Could you say that again, please?” Practicing clarification keeps the exchange usable. Have a partner change one detail so you can confirm size, quantity, or whether the order is to go.
Make the request your own
The conversation is a complete example, not a fixed script. On a second round, replace coffee with tea, small with medium, or for here with to go. Learn which parts you can replace, then gradually look at the text less.
The conversation
Hi, could I have a small latte, please?你好，我可以要一杯小杯拿铁吗？
Of course. Hot or iced?当然，要热的还是冰的？
Hot, please.热的，谢谢。
For here or to go?在这里喝，还是带走？
To go. Could I also have a glass of water?带走。我还可以要一杯水吗？
Sure. Anything else?可以。还需要别的吗？
No, that’s all. Thank you.不用了，谢谢。
All right. I’ll get that ready for you.好的，马上为你准备。
Make it a small practice
- Read the request and the follow-up question.
- Replace the drink, size, and for-here or to-go choice.
- Try one round without the text, keeping a clarification phrase ready.
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