In this lesson, we will focus on asking and answering questions about availability at specific times, using the phrase "Are you free today at 4:15 p.m.?" Learning how to ask someone if they are free and discussing availability for appointments, meetings, or plans is an essential part of daily conversation.
Description:
"Are you free today at 4:15 p.m.?" is a common way to ask if someone is available at a specific time. This question is typically used when trying to schedule a meeting, a phone call, or even a social event. Understanding how to ask about time availability and respond is an important skill in both personal and professional contexts.
Grammar Focus: Asking About Availability at Specific Times
Present Simple for Timetables and Schedules:
- Example: "Are you free today at 4:15 p.m.?"
- Example: "I am free today at 4:15 p.m."
Preposition of Time "at" for Specific Times:
- Example: "Are you free at 4:15 p.m.?"
Present Continuous for Making Plans:
- Example: "What are you doing at 4:15 p.m. today?"
- Example: "I am meeting a friend at 4:15 p.m."
Vocabulary:
- Free: Available, not busy.
- Appointment: A scheduled meeting.
- Meeting: A gathering of people for a discussion or business.
- Schedule: A plan that lists when things will happen.
- Busy: Having lots of things to do, not available.
- Time slot: A specific time in a schedule.
- Postpone: To delay or move to a later time.
- Reschedule: To set a new time for an event or meeting.
Useful Expressions:
- "Are you free today at 4:15 p.m.?"
- "I’m busy at that time, but I can meet later."
- "I’m free at 4:15 p.m. Can we meet then?"
- "Sorry, I’m not free today at 4:15 p.m."
- "Let’s reschedule for 4:15 p.m."
- "Can we meet today at 4:15 p.m.?"
- "What time works best for you?"
Sentences:
- "I have an appointment at 4:15 p.m., so I won’t be free."
- "Are you free at 4:15 p.m. to discuss the project?"
- "Let’s meet today at 4:15 p.m. for coffee."
- "She is not available at 4:15 p.m., but she’s free after 5 p.m."
- "I’m free today at 4:15 p.m. for a quick call."
Questions and Answers:
- Q: Are you free today at 4:15 p.m.?
- A: Yes, I’m free at that time. What’s the plan?
- Q: Can we meet today at 4:15 p.m.?
- A: Sorry, I’m busy then. How about 5 p.m. instead?
- Q: What time are you available today?
- A: I’m available after 4:15 p.m. today.
- Q: Do you have time to talk at 4:15 p.m. today?
- A: Yes, I’ll be free. Let’s talk then.
- Q: Can we schedule the meeting for 4:15 p.m.?
- A: Sure! 4:15 p.m. works for me.
Conversation:
John: Hey, are you free today at 4:15 p.m. for a quick meeting?
Sara: Let me check... Yes, I’m free at 4:15 p.m.
John: Great! I want to go over the project details with you.
Sara: Sounds good. How long will the meeting be?
John: It should take around 30 minutes. Does that work for you?
Sara: Yes, 30 minutes is perfect. See you at 4:15!
Reading: "Making Time for Meetings"
In today’s busy world, finding time for meetings or appointments can be a challenge. Whether it’s for work or personal matters, scheduling conflicts often arise. People use specific phrases like "Are you free today at 4:15 p.m.?" to check someone’s availability. The key to effective scheduling is clear communication and flexibility.
When asking about someone’s availability, it’s important to be specific. For example, instead of asking, "Are you free today?" it’s better to ask, "Are you free at 4:15 p.m. today?" This makes it easier for the other person to check their schedule and give a clear answer.
If both parties are busy at the proposed time, rescheduling is the next step. It’s common to suggest a new time that works for both people, saying something like, "How about 5 p.m. instead?" or "Let’s reschedule for tomorrow." Being flexible with time can help ensure that meetings or plans happen smoothly.
Whether you’re planning a casual coffee catch-up or a formal business meeting, mastering how to ask about availability is a valuable skill that helps in managing your time and commitments effectively.
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