Speaking - Returning something you bought

Vocabulary

• Receipt: A piece of paper that proves you bought something.

• Example: Keep your receipt in case you need to return the shoes.

• Refund: Money given back to you when you return an item.

• Example: I would like to get a refund for this broken phone.

• Exchange: To give something back and get a different item instead.

• Example: The shirt is too small, so I want to exchange it for a larger size.

• Faulty: Not working correctly or damaged.

• Example: This toaster is faulty because it doesn't turn on.

• Tag: A small piece of paper attached to a new product with its price or details.

• Example: You cannot return the dress if you cut off the tag.

Useful Expressions

• I'd like to return this, please.
• Could I get a refund?
• It doesn't fit. / It's the wrong size.
• There seems to be a problem with...
• Can I exchange this for a different one?

Key Questions

• Have you ever returned a faulty item to a store? What was it?
• Sample Answer: Yes, I have. I once bought a faulty hairdryer. It didn't turn on, so I took it back to the store and said, "I'd like to return this, please."
• Do you usually keep the receipt and the tags on when you buy clothes? Why?
• Sample Answer: I usually keep the receipt and leave the tags on until I try the clothes at home. If it doesn't fit, it's much easier to get a refund or an exchange.
• Imagine you bought a jacket that is the wrong size. What would you say to the shop assistant?
• Sample Answer: I would say, "Hi, I bought this jacket yesterday, but it's the wrong size. Could I get an exchange for a medium, please?"

Activity

Imagine you are at a clothing store to return a jacket you bought last week. It is faulty (the zipper is broken). Speak for 1-2 minutes explaining the problem to the shop assistant. Be sure to:

• Mention when you bought it.
• Explain the problem.
• Tell them you have your receipt.
• Ask for a refund or an exchange.