English Learning Content for Beginners: Meeting New People

Current Situation

“Meeting new people” is a common and exciting part of life! It means getting to know someone you haven’t met before. This can happen anywhere: at school, work, a coffee shop, a party, or even online. It might feel a little scary at first, but it’s a great way to make new friends, learn new things, and expand your world. People often use simple questions like “What’s your name?” or “Where are you from?” to start a conversation. Sometimes, like in Bob’s story, an unexpected event can be the start of a new connection!

Key Phrases

• What’s up?
  Meaning: An informal way to ask “How are you?” or “What’s new?”
  Example: “Hey, John! What’s up? Long time no see!”
• I met someone.
  Meaning: You encountered and got to know a new person (past tense of “meet”).
  Example: “I met someone interesting at the park today.”
• Tell me everything!
  Meaning: An enthusiastic request for all the details about something.
  Example: “You went on vacation? Tell me everything!”
• Good luck with that.
  Meaning: A polite (sometimes slightly sarcastic or humorous) way to say you doubt someone will succeed, or to wish them well.
  Example: “I’m going to finish all my homework in one hour. Good luck with that!”
• Classic [name]!
  Meaning: Used when someone does something typical for them, often in a humorous or recognizable way.
  Example: “Oh, you forgot your keys again? Classic Sarah!”
• Off to a [adjective] start.
  Meaning: Describes how something has begun. The adjective (e.g., ‘good’, ‘bad’, ‘splashy’) tells you about the beginning.
  Example: “Our project is off to a great start!”
• Did you get her name?
  Meaning: Asking if you learned or asked for someone’s name.
  Example: “He was talking to a new student. Did you get her name?”
• That’s great!
  Meaning: An expression of positive approval, happiness, or enthusiasm.
  Example: “I got a new job! That’s great!”
• Ask someone out.
  Meaning: To invite someone on a date.
  Example: “He’s thinking about asking her out for coffee.”
• Good sign.
  Meaning: An indication or clue that something positive or successful might happen.
  Example: “She smiled when I said hello. That’s a good sign!”
• You never know.
  Meaning: Used to say that it’s impossible to predict what will happen, often implying that something unexpected might occur.
  Example: “Maybe it will rain later. You never know.”

Grammar Points