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Phone Calls in English

Does answering the phone in English make your heart race? Here are the phrases to pick up, say who you are, transfer the call, and take a message — then practice them out loud.

Key phrases

Hello, this is Ana speaking.
On the phone, identify yourself with "this is…," not "I am…"
Who's calling, please?
The polite way to ask who's on the line.
Could you hold on a second, please?
"Hold on" = wait on the line for a moment.
I'll put you through.
"Put through" = transfer the call to another person.
I'm afraid she's not available right now.
"I'm afraid…" softens the bad news politely.
Can I take a message?
The key phrase for offering to take a message.
Could you spell that for me?
"Spell" = say it letter by letter — great for names and emails.
Could I speak to Mr. Silva, please?
The polite opener when you're the one calling.
I'm calling about my order.
“I'm calling about…” introduces any reason in one line.
Sorry, the line is bad — could you say that again?
Blame the line, not your English — everyone does it.
Could you speak a little slower, please?
Totally normal to ask — people happily slow down.
I'll call you back in five minutes.
You call someone back — no “to”: never “call to you”.

Tip: On the phone, don't say "I am Ana" — the natural way is "This is Ana" or "Ana speaking." And to ask who they want, say "Who would you like to speak to?"

🎙️ Now practice it yourself — the voice tutor listens to you speak and corrects your pronunciation on the spot.

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FAQ

How do I answer a phone call in English professionally?
"Hello, this is [name] speaking" — always "this is", never "I am". At work, add the company: "Good morning, [company], this is Ana."

What if I don't understand someone on the phone?
Blame the line: "Sorry, the line is bad — could you say that again?" Then ask for pace: "Could you speak a little slower, please?" Nobody minds.

How do I end a phone call politely in English?
"Thank you for calling — have a great day!" at work, or "Thanks for your help — goodbye!" anywhere else.

More situations in English: English for Tech Interviews · English for the Daily Standup · Giving a Presentation in English · English for Nurses