[English 101] ERRAND LIST - Common tasks like post office, pharmacy, etc.

Errand List,

Lesson Introduction

Errand List

Welcome to “Common Tasks Like Post Office, Pharmacy, etc.” This lesson equips you with 101 practical words and phrases to streamline your daily errands. You’ll learn how to reference postal services, banking processes, and medication needs—all essential for day-to-day life. Knowing these terms helps you navigate tasks like mailing parcels, refilling prescriptions, or dropping off donations efficiently. By mastering this vocabulary, you can quickly handle conversations about appointments, lines, and store policies, making your errands smoother. Elevate your daily interactions with the right phrases, and confidently manage tasks from picking up groceries to scheduling car maintenance.

Teaching Material

This lesson focuses on critical vocabulary for running everyday errands—visiting the bank, pharmacy, post office, and more. Dive in and discover the essential terms that make daily tasks more manageable.
  1. I have a few errands to run before dinner.
    • Errand (noun) - A short trip or task performed outside the home
    • Use “errand” to describe quick tasks like picking up groceries or mailing letters. Great for everyday conversation about short trips for specific purposes.
    • “Where are you heading?” “I’m off to run some errands at the bank and post office.”
  2. I need to go to the post office to mail this package.
    • Post office (noun) - A place where mail is sent, received, or processed
    • Mention “post office” when referring to mailing letters, sending parcels, or buying stamps for domestic and international shipping.
    • “Where’s the nearest post office?” “Just two blocks away, on Main Street.”
  3. I have to visit the pharmacy to refill my prescription.
    • Pharmacy (noun) - A store or department where medicines are dispensed and sold
    • Use “pharmacy” for places that provide over-the-counter medications, prescription refills, and health-related products. Ideal for discussing healthcare errands.
    • “Which pharmacy do you go to?” “I usually go to the one inside the supermarket.”
  4. I received a parcel from my cousin today.
    • Parcel (noun) - A package that can be sent or delivered
    • Use “parcel” to specify a wrapped or boxed item for shipping or receiving. Great for describing online purchases or gifts sent by mail.
    • “Did you pick up the parcel from the post office?” “Yes, it’s in the trunk.”
  5. Don’t forget to put a stamp on the envelope before mailing it.
    • Stamp (noun) - A small adhesive label used to pay for mail delivery
    • Use “stamp” when talking about mailing letters or packages. Essential for postal transactions, often purchased at post offices or convenience stores.
    • “Do you sell postage stamps here?” “Yes, at the front counter.”
  6. I need to return this shirt; it doesn’t fit me.
    • Return (verb) - To take back or send back an item, often for a refund or exchange
    • Use “return” to discuss bringing an item back to a store or sending it back to an online seller for refunds, exchanges, or store credit.
    • “Where’s the returns counter?” “It’s at the back, next to customer service.”
  7. I have a package to send to my friend in Europe.
    • Package (noun) - An object or group of objects wrapped or boxed for transport or delivery
    • Use “package” as a general term for mailed boxes or parcels. Commonly used when shipping items or expecting deliveries.
    • “How big is the package?” “It’s a medium-sized box, should fit on the scale.”
  8. The pharmacist asked if I had my prescription ready.
    • Prescription (noun) - A written order for medicine from a doctor
    • Use “prescription” to talk about doctor-authorized medication. Important when discussing healthcare errands or pharmacist interactions.
    • “Did you get your prescription filled?” “Yes, I picked it up today.”
  9. I need to drop off these letters at the post office.
    • Drop off (phrasal verb) - To deliver or leave something at a particular place
    • Use “drop off” when you need to leave or deliver items somewhere, like documents, parcels, or laundry, usually without staying long.
    • “Where should I drop off the dry cleaning?” “There’s a place two blocks down.”
  10. I need to pick up my prescription from the pharmacy.
    • Pick up (phrasal verb) - To collect or retrieve something
    • Use “pick up” for retrieving items or people, commonly for errands like collecting orders, parcels, or groceries.
    • “Could you pick up the groceries on your way home?” “Sure, text me the list.”
  11. I’ll stop by the grocery store to grab some vegetables.
    • Grocery store (noun) - A retail store selling food and household goods
    • Use “grocery store” to refer to supermarkets where you buy daily food items and household essentials.
    • “Do you need anything from the grocery store?” “Yes, please get some fruit and milk.”
  12. Make a shopping list so we don’t forget anything.
    • Shopping list (noun) - A written record of items to purchase
    • Use “shopping list” when organizing the items you need before going out, ensuring a more efficient trip.
    • “Could you add eggs to the shopping list?” “Sure, anything else?”
  13. I have to stop by the bank to deposit my paycheck.
    • Bank (noun) - A financial institution where people deposit, withdraw, or manage money
    • Use “bank” when talking about money-related errands like deposits, withdrawals, or in-person account services.
    • “Is the bank still open?” “They close in an hour, so you have time.”
  14. I need to deposit this check before paying my bills.
    • Deposit (verb) - To place or put money into a bank account
    • Use “deposit” when discussing putting money, checks, or funds into your account at the bank or through an ATM.
    • “How do I deposit a check?” “Fill out a deposit slip and hand it to the teller.”
  15. I plan to withdraw some cash for the weekend.
    • Withdraw (verb) - To remove or take out money from a bank account
    • Use “withdraw” when you need cash from an ATM or inside the bank. Common in daily financial transactions.
    • “Are you withdrawing money?” “Yes, I need some cash for groceries.”
  16. I’ll stop by the ATM to get cash for the farmers’ market.
    • ATM (noun) - Automated Teller Machine where people withdraw or deposit money
    • Use “ATM” to refer to machines where you can quickly access your bank account for withdrawals, deposits, or balance checks.
    • “Is there an ATM around here?” “Yes, there’s one at the corner store.”
  17. Let me check my account balance before shopping.
    • Balance (noun) - The amount of money currently in an account
    • Use “balance” when discussing how much money is available in a bank account. Often checked to plan expenses.
    • “What’s your balance like?” “I’m not sure; I’ll check at the ATM.”
  18. Keep your receipt in case you need a refund.
    • Receipt (noun) - A document acknowledging payment or transaction
    • Use “receipt” to confirm proof of purchase or payment, important for returns or expense tracking.
    • “Did they give you a receipt?” “Yes, it’s in the bag.”
  19. I went to customer service to exchange a damaged product.
    • Customer service (noun) - Department that handles inquiries, returns, and complaints
    • Use “customer service” when referring to the help desk in stores, banks, or other establishments for assistance with transactions or issues.
    • “Where’s customer service?” “It’s at the front of the store.”
  20. There’s always a long queue at the post office on Mondays.
    • Queue (noun) - A line of people waiting for something
    • Use “queue” (common in British English) for orderly lines. In American English, “line” is more common but they’re interchangeable.
    • “How long is the queue?” “About five people ahead of us.”
    • Line - Use “line” in American English to refer to people waiting their turn.
  21. I have a doctor’s appointment this afternoon.
    • Appointment (noun) - A scheduled meeting or arrangement
    • Use “appointment” to talk about scheduled commitments like doctor visits, interviews, or other planned errands.
    • “Can I set an appointment for a haircut?” “Yes, we have a 3 PM slot open.”
  22. Let’s schedule a time to drop off that donation.
    • Schedule (verb) - To arrange or plan for a future event
    • Use “schedule” when you need to plan a specific time for tasks or appointments, helpful in busy routines.
    • “Can we schedule a meeting next week?” “Sure, what day works best?”
  23. I’m picking up my medication, but I need my insurance card.
    • Insurance (noun) - A service providing financial protection against risks or losses
    • Use “insurance” in errands involving health, vehicle, or home coverage. Key for pharmacy or medical tasks.
    • “Do you have insurance coverage for that?” “Yes, my health insurance should cover part of the cost.”
  24. They asked for my ID when I picked up the package.
    • ID (noun) - Identification document, such as a driver’s license
    • Use “ID” to reference proof of identity, often required for banking, picking up parcels, or age-restricted purchases.
    • “Do you have your ID?” “Yes, it’s in my wallet.”
  25. The pharmacist explained how to take the medication safely.
    • Pharmacist (noun) - A professional who dispenses medicines and provides health advice
    • Use “pharmacist” when you need medical guidance on prescriptions or over-the-counter meds during pharmacy errands.
    • “Can I speak to the pharmacist about side effects?” “Sure, they’re available at the counter.”
  26. You can buy pain relievers over-the-counter at any pharmacy.
    • Over-the-counter (adjective) - Medications available without a doctor’s prescription
    • Use “over-the-counter” when referring to treatments that don’t require a doctor’s authorization. Common in daily pharmacy shopping.
    • “Is this medicine prescription-only?” “No, it’s over-the-counter.”
  27. The cashier scanned my items and bagged them.
    • Cashier (noun) - A person responsible for handling payments and receipts in a store
    • Use “cashier” when paying for groceries or other purchases, typically the employee at the checkout counter.
    • “Where’s the cashier?” “Over by the front register.”
  28. We’re out of milk; I’ll grab some at the grocery store.
    • Milk (noun) - A common grocery item, dairy liquid produced by cows or other mammals
    • Use “milk” when discussing a staple grocery item, often on the must-buy list for household errands.
    • “Can you pick up milk on your way home?” “Sure, any specific brand?”
  29. Don’t forget to add bread to the shopping list.
    • Bread (noun) - A staple food made from dough of flour and water
    • Use “bread” to refer to this essential carbohydrate in grocery trips; commonly purchased fresh or pre-packaged.
    • “We’re out of bread.” “I’ll pick up a fresh loaf today.”
  30. I used a coupon to get half off my laundry detergent.
    • Coupon (noun) - A voucher entitling the holder to a discount
    • Use “coupon” to talk about discounts or promos. Often applied to groceries, pharmacy items, or home goods.
    • “Do you have any coupons for this store?” “Yes, I’ve got a digital one on my phone.”
  31. I paid by credit to earn reward points.
    • Credit (noun) - A payment method using a credit card or borrowed funds
    • Use “credit” when referring to credit card transactions. Common in daily errands for convenience or rewards.
    • “Will you pay in cash or credit?” “Credit, please.”
  32. I prefer using my debit card to avoid interest charges.
    • Debit (noun) - A payment method using funds directly from a bank account
    • Use “debit” when referencing immediate payment from your checking account, often at the grocery store or gas station.
    • Debit or credit?” “Debit, please.”
  33. She used a money order to pay her rent.
    • Money order (noun) - A prepaid certificate used to send payment safely
    • Use “money order” for secure transactions when checks or electronic methods aren’t an option. Common at post offices or banks.
    • “Where can I buy a money order?” “You can get one at the post office or bank.”
  34. The pharmacy offers home delivery for prescriptions.
    • Delivery (noun) - The act of transporting goods or items to a recipient
    • Use “delivery” to discuss items being brought to your home or office, useful for grocery, pharmacy, or online orders.
    • “Is there a delivery fee?” “Yes, it’s an extra $5.”
  35. They have a pick-up window so you don’t have to go inside.
    • Pick-up window (noun) - A designated place to collect orders or items you’ve requested in advance
    • Use “pick-up window” when referencing curbside or drive-through collection points for prescriptions, food, or parcels.
    • “Is there a pick-up window for pharmacy orders?” “Yes, just pull your car up to the drive-through lane.”
  36. I spent an hour filling out forms at the DMV.
    • Filling out forms (phrase) - Completing documents with required information
    • Use “filling out forms” when describing the process of completing paperwork for official errands, e.g., bank or post office forms.
    • “Do I need help filling out forms?” “Yes, they’re a bit lengthy.”
  37. I paid extra for express shipping so it arrives tomorrow.
    • Express shipping (noun) - A faster mailing option for quicker delivery
    • Use “express shipping” when you need a parcel delivered quickly. Common in post office or courier discussions.
    • “Do you want standard or express shipping?” “Express, please—I need it urgently.”
  38. Priority mail usually arrives within two to three days.
    • Priority mail (noun) - A postal service with faster delivery than standard mail
    • Use “priority mail” when discussing postal services that offer quicker than normal delivery, often used for important documents or gifts.
    • “Should I use priority mail?” “Yes, if you need it there sooner.”
  39. Don’t forget to include the correct postal code on the envelope.
    • Postal code (noun) - A series of letters and/or digits used to sort mail geographically
    • Use “postal code” (or “zip code” in the US) to ensure mail is delivered correctly. Essential for any shipping or mailing tasks.
    • “What’s the postal code for this address?” “It’s 75000.”
  40. The postmark proves it was sent before the deadline.
    • Postmark (noun) - An official stamp on mail showing date and place of sending
    • Use “postmark” to verify the date and origin of mailed items, crucial for deadlines or legal proofs.
    • “Check the postmark to see when it was mailed.” “It’s dated last Tuesday.”
  41. Drop the letters in the mailbox outside.
    • Mailbox (noun) - A box where mail is collected or delivered
    • Use “mailbox” for either a public post box to send letters or a private box where you receive mail at home.
    • “Where’s the nearest mailbox?” “There’s one at the corner of Main and Pine.”
  42. I checked the tracking number to see if my package was out for delivery.
    • Tracking number (noun) - A unique code to monitor the progress of a shipped parcel
    • Use “tracking number” to follow a parcel’s route from shipment to delivery, commonly used in online purchases.
    • “Can I track my shipment?” “Yes, here’s the tracking number.”
  43. I called to inquire about my loan application.
    • Inquire (verb) - To ask for information
    • Use “inquire” for formal or polite requests for information at customer service or official offices.
    • “Should I inquire about the delivery delay?” “Yes, ask them for an update.”
  44. I need a refill on my allergy medication.
    • Refill (verb) - To fill a prescription again; to replenish supplies
    • Use “refill” when you need more of a prescribed medication or want to top up something like ink or supplies.
    • “Could you refill my prescription?” “Sure, it will be ready by noon.”
  45. Make sure the shipping label is clearly visible on the box.
    • Label (noun) - A piece of paper or material attached to an object giving information about it
    • Use “label” in mailing or retail contexts for addresses, product info, or instructions.
    • “Do I need a label for this return?” “Yes, print and stick it on top.”
  46. I must mail these documents before the deadline.
    • Deadline (noun) - The latest time or date by which something should be completed
    • Use “deadline” when discussing time-sensitive tasks like bill payments, applications, or mailing documents.
    • “What’s the deadline for tax returns?” “April 15th this year.”
  47. I have to pay my electricity bill today.
    • Bill (noun) - A statement of charges for goods or services
    • Use “bill” to reference an invoice or statement that requires payment, commonly associated with utilities or services.
    • “Did you see this month’s bill?” “Yes, it’s higher than usual.”
  48. I’ll pay my credit card bill online.
    • Pay (verb) - To give money in exchange for goods or services
    • Use “pay” for settling transactions, whether at a store, online, or handling monthly bills and fees.
    • “How would you like to pay?” “I’ll use my debit card.”
  49. The credit card payment’s due date is next Friday.
    • Due date (noun) - A date by which payment or a task is expected
    • Use “due date” for tasks, bills, or library books that must be returned or paid by a specific time.
    • “When is the library book’s due date?” “It’s next Monday.”
  50. I had to pay a late fee because I missed the due date.
    • Late fee (noun) - A charge imposed for not meeting a payment deadline
    • Use “late fee” when referencing extra charges for overdue bills, rentals, or library books.
    • “How much is the late fee?” “It’s $10 after the first week.”
  51. I need to drop off my suit for dry cleaning before the conference.
    • Dry cleaning (noun) - A cleaning process for clothing using chemicals instead of water
    • Use “dry cleaning” when you have special clothes requiring professional cleaning, like suits or delicate fabrics.
    • “Where do you get your dry cleaning done?” “At that shop near the bank.”
  52. I do my laundry at the local laundromat every Sunday.
    • Laundromat (noun) - A self-service laundry facility with coin-operated washing machines and dryers
    • Use “laundromat” when referencing places to wash and dry clothes outside the home, especially in urban areas.
    • “Where’s the closest laundromat?” “There’s one two blocks away on Elm Street.”
  53. Don’t forget to add fabric softener in the final rinse.
    • Fabric softener (noun) - A laundry product that makes clothes softer and reduces static
    • Use “fabric softener” to discuss laundry supplies, particularly for fresh-smelling, static-free clothes.
    • “Do we have any fabric softener left?” “No, pick some up on your errand run.”
  54. I ran out of laundry detergent yesterday.
    • Detergent (noun) - A cleaning agent used for washing clothes and dishes
    • Use “detergent” to talk about cleaning agents for laundry or dishwashing. Essential item on household errand lists.
    • “Which detergent do you prefer?” “I like the one for sensitive skin.”
  55. Make sure to feed the parking meter, or we’ll get a ticket.
    • Parking meter (noun) - A device that collects money for use of a parking spot
    • Use “parking meter” to discuss street parking in cities, ensuring you pay for the right amount of time.
    • “How long did you pay for on the parking meter?” “Just an hour; we should hurry.”
  56. I need some change for the vending machine.
    • Change (noun) - Coins returned after paying more than the required amount; also means loose coins
    • Use “change” for leftover coins after a purchase, or as small currency needed for parking meters, vending machines, or laundromats.
    • “Do you have any change?” “Yes, I have a couple of quarters.”
  57. Don’t forget to leave a tip for the delivery driver.
    • Tip (noun) - A sum of money given to reward good service
    • Use “tip” when you give extra money for services like restaurant servers, hairdressers, or delivery personnel.
    • “How much should I tip the barber?” “Usually 15-20% is standard.”
  58. The pharmacy has a convenient drive-through window.
    • Drive-through (noun) - A facility where services are provided without leaving the car
    • Use “drive-through” for errand stops like banks, pharmacies, or fast-food places offering service from your car.
    • “Are we going inside or using the drive-through?” “Let’s use the drive-through; it’s faster.”
  59. I waited at the pharmacy counter for my medication.
    • Pharmacy counter (noun) - The section in a store or pharmacy where prescriptions are dispensed
    • Use “pharmacy counter” when referencing the specific place in a store where you pick up or drop off prescriptions.
    • “Excuse me, is there a separate pharmacy counter here?” “Yes, to the left of the main entrance.”
  60. Be sure to take your medication with food.
    • Medication (noun) - A substance used for medical treatment, especially a medicine or drug
    • Use “medication” for both prescription and over-the-counter drugs, especially when discussing health errands or doctor instructions.
    • “Did you pick up your medication?” “Yes, I got it from the pharmacy counter.”
  61. Always read the prescription label before taking your pills.
    • Prescription label (noun) - The sticker on medication packaging with usage directions and patient info
    • Use “prescription label” to highlight essential instructions and dosage. Vital for safe medication use.
    • “What does the prescription label say?” “Take one tablet twice a day with water.”
  62. Some antibiotics have side effects like nausea or dizziness.
    • Side effects (noun) - Unintended reactions or results from medication
    • Use “side effects” to discuss possible negative or unexpected outcomes from certain medicines or treatments.
    • “Any side effects I should watch out for?” “Yes, headaches and drowsiness are possible.”
  63. I had a consultation with the pharmacist about my new prescription.
    • Consultation (noun) - A meeting or discussion to get advice, usually professional or medical
    • Use “consultation” when talking about seeking expert advice, such as with a pharmacist, doctor, or specialist.
    • “Do you want a consultation?” “Yes, I need to understand these directions better.”
  64. I asked the clerk to gift wrap the birthday present.
    • Gift wrap (noun) - Decorative wrapping paper and ribbon for presents
    • Use “gift wrap” when discussing wrapping presents at a store or doing it yourself at home for special occasions.
    • “Do you offer gift wrap services?” “Yes, it’s $2 extra per item.”
  65. I need to buy a birthday card for my brother.
    • Birthday card (noun) - A card given to someone on their birthday expressing goodwill
    • Use “birthday card” for celebrating someone’s special day. Often found near gift wrap or stationery sections.
    • “Can you pick up a birthday card?” “Sure, I’ll check the greeting card aisle.”
  66. I picked up a greeting card to say thanks to my neighbor.
    • Greeting card (noun) - A card expressing sentiments like congratulations, sympathy, or gratitude
    • Use “greeting card” generally for any occasion—birthday, holiday, or just thoughtful messages.
    • “Which greeting card fits best for a thank-you note?” “Try the ones with flowers on the cover.”
  67. I took my car to the car wash after it rained all week.
    • Car wash (noun) - A place or service for cleaning the exterior (and sometimes interior) of vehicles
    • Use “car wash” for errands involving vehicle cleaning services, either automated or hand wash.
    • “Do you want a basic or deluxe car wash?” “I’ll go with the deluxe today.”
  68. I need to stop at the gas station before hitting the highway.
    • Gas station (noun) - A facility selling fuel and lubricants for motor vehicles
    • Use “gas station” for fueling your car or buying minor convenience items on the go.
    • “Which gas station do you prefer?” “The one with lower prices, about a mile away.”
  69. I’ll fill up before our road trip so we don’t run low on gas.
    • Fill up (phrasal verb) - To put fuel in a vehicle’s tank until it’s full
    • Use “fill up” when discussing fueling your car completely at a gas station, often part of driving errands.
    • “Should I fill up here?” “Yes, we won’t see another station for miles.”
  70. My car is overdue for an oil change.
    • Oil change (noun) - Replacing a vehicle’s old engine oil with new oil
    • Use “oil change” to talk about essential car maintenance, typically done every few thousand miles.
    • “Can you handle the oil change, or should I take it to the shop?” “I’ll take it to the shop.”
  71. Scheduling regular car maintenance prevents major issues later.
    • Car maintenance (noun) - Regular checks and repairs to keep a vehicle in good condition
    • Use “car maintenance” to reference all upkeep tasks—oil changes, tune-ups, tire rotations—ensuring vehicle reliability.
    • “Where do you go for car maintenance?” “I use the service center near my office.”
  72. I need to check my tire pressure for safety.
    • Tire pressure (noun) - The amount of air in a vehicle’s tires, measured in PSI
    • Use “tire pressure” to discuss regular car checks, helping avoid flat tires and improving fuel efficiency.
    • “What’s the recommended tire pressure?” “About 35 PSI for these tires.”
  73. I’m going to the library to return some books.
    • Library (noun) - A place where books, media, and resources are available to borrow
    • Use “library” for errands involving borrowing or returning books, DVDs, and accessing community resources.
    • “Any new arrivals at the library?” “Yes, they just added some new bestsellers.”
  74. My library book is overdue by three days.
    • Overdue (adjective) - Not returned or done by the assigned time
    • Use “overdue” for tasks, bills, or library items not completed or returned on time, often carrying penalties.
    • “Are the DVDs overdue?” “Yes, we have to pay a fine now.”
  75. I paid a small fine for returning the book late.
    • Fine (noun) - A monetary penalty imposed as punishment for an offense
    • Use “fine” to refer to fees for overdue library items, parking infractions, or late bill payments.
    • “What’s the fine for overdue items?” “It’s 25 cents per day per book.”
  76. I’ll renew my library books online before they’re overdue.
    • Renew (verb) - To extend or continue a subscription, agreement, or loan period
    • Use “renew” to talk about extending the validity of a loan, membership, document, or prescription.
    • “Can you renew my prescription?” “Sure, I’ll call the pharmacy.”
  77. You can reserve a book at the library if it’s currently checked out.
    • Reserve (verb) - To arrange for something to be held for future use
    • Use “reserve” when you want to secure or set aside items or services in advance—like library books or restaurant tables.
    • “Should I reserve a table at the restaurant?” “Yes, it’ll be busy tonight.”
  78. I’ll check out these books at the library desk.
    • Check out (phrasal verb) - To borrow or pay for items; also to finalize an item from a system
    • Use “check out” when borrowing library items or finishing a purchase at a store. Commonly used in many errands.
    • “Ready to check out?” “Yes, I’ve got everything on my list.”
  79. I’m dropping off the cans at the recycling center.
    • Recycling (noun) - The process of converting waste into reusable material
    • Use “recycling” for errands involving disposing of plastic, paper, or metal responsibly at centers or bins.
    • “Do they have recycling bins here?” “Yes, out back behind the store.”
  80. I’m making a donation of old clothes at the thrift store.
    • Donation (noun) - A contribution or gift given for a charitable cause
    • Use “donation” when giving items or money to charities, thrift stores, or community drives. Common for decluttering errands.
    • “Should we donate these items?” “Yes, they’re still in good condition.”
  81. I found a vintage jacket at the thrift store.
    • Thrift store (noun) - A shop selling second-hand goods at discounted prices
    • Use “thrift store” for second-hand shopping or donating used items, often part of budget-friendly errands.
    • “Where did you get that awesome coat?” “The thrift store near my house.”
  82. I need to go to the home improvement store for paint and a new hammer.
    • Home improvement store (noun) - A retail space selling building materials, tools, and household equipment
    • Use “home improvement store” for errands involving DIY projects, repairs, or maintenance around the house.
    • “Which home improvement store do you prefer?” “I like the one with better lumber prices.”
  83. I need some hardware like nails and screws for the shelf project.
    • Hardware (noun) - Tools, equipment, or devices used in construction or repairs
    • Use “hardware” when discussing small metal items or tools needed for household repairs or construction.
    • “Where can I find hardware for hanging pictures?” “Aisle 5 in the home improvement store.”
  84. We’re out of light bulbs, so I’ll grab a pack at the store.
    • Light bulbs (noun) - Electric lamps used to provide light in fixtures
    • Use “light bulbs” when referring to common household items that need periodic replacement. Handy for quick errands.
    • “What wattage do we need for the living room?” “60-watt bulbs should be fine.”
  85. We’re running low on batteries for the TV remote.
    • Batteries (noun) - Portable energy sources for devices and equipment
    • Use “batteries” to talk about powering electronic devices. Often on shopping lists for everyday household errands.
    • “Could you buy some AA batteries?” “Yes, I’ll add them to the list.”
  86. Make sure to pay the correct postage for international mail.
    • Postage (noun) - The fee for sending mail, usually paid by stamps or metered labels
    • Use “postage” when referencing the cost or form of payment required to send letters or parcels.
    • “How much postage do I need for this letter?” “One international stamp should suffice.”
  87. The package slip says the item should arrive by Tuesday.
    • Package slip (noun) - A document included with a parcel detailing its contents or shipping information
    • Use “package slip” to confirm item details, shipping methods, or return instructions inside a shipped package.
    • “Is there a package slip in the box?” “Yes, it’s under the bubble wrap.”
  88. I asked for $20 cash back at the grocery store register.
    • Cash back (noun) - Money returned to you as part of a transaction, often when paying by debit
    • Use “cash back” to refer to receiving physical money during a purchase, or as a credit card reward type.
    • “Do you need any cash back?” “Yes, please give me an extra ten dollars.”
  89. I placed an online order for my vitamins.
    • Online order (noun) - Goods or services purchased through the internet
    • Use “online order” to specify items bought over the internet, often requiring pickup or home delivery.
    • “When will the online order arrive?” “It’s scheduled for delivery on Wednesday.”
  90. My online order is waiting at the pickup location near the entrance.
    • Pickup location (noun) - The designated place to collect an item or package ordered in advance
    • Use “pickup location” when referencing where you retrieve something you’ve reserved, such as groceries or packages.
    • “What’s the pickup location for grocery orders?” “They have curbside pickup behind the store.”
  91. They issued me a refund after I returned the defective item.
    • Refund (noun) - Money returned to a customer if a product or service is unsatisfactory
    • Use “refund” when discussing money paid back to you for returned or unsatisfactory goods, often credited to your card or account.
    • “How long does it take to process a refund?” “Usually 3-5 business days.”
  92. I did an exchange because the shirt was too small.
    • Exchange (noun) - The act of swapping an item for another, often due to size or preference
    • Use “exchange” when you want a different item or size rather than a refund, common in retail store policies.
    • “Can I exchange this for a larger size?” “Certainly, let’s process that at customer service.”
  93. The store does a receipt check at the door for electronics.
    • Receipt check (noun) - A procedure where staff review purchased items against a receipt, often at store exits
    • Use “receipt check” to describe exit procedures ensuring items match the paid receipt, common in large retailers.
    • “They’re doing a receipt check?” “Yes, show them your proof of purchase.”
  94. You’ll find cold remedies in the pharmacy aisle.
    • Pharmacy aisle (noun) - The section in a store where over-the-counter medicines and health products are displayed
    • Use “pharmacy aisle” for referencing shelves of basic health products, especially in supermarkets or big-box stores.
    • “Do they stock allergy pills in the pharmacy aisle?” “Yes, near the pain relievers.”
  95. The pharmacist handed me a prescription bag with my name on it.
    • Prescription bag (noun) - The sealed bag containing your prescribed medication when collected
    • Use “prescription bag” for the package holding your pharmacy meds. Often labeled with patient and dosage info.
    • “What’s in the prescription bag?” “My new blood pressure medication.”
  96. I need to grab my allergy meds before spring season starts.
    • Allergy meds (noun) - Medications to reduce or relieve allergic reactions
    • Use “allergy meds” for common over-the-counter or prescription solutions to combat seasonal or environmental allergies.
    • “Which allergy meds do you recommend?” “Try a non-drowsy antihistamine.”
  97. I always buy my daily vitamins at the pharmacy.
    • Vitamins (noun) - Essential nutrients typically sold as supplements
    • Use “vitamins” when referring to health supplements like multivitamins or specific nutrient tablets often found in pharmacies.
    • “Where are the vitamins located?” “In the health supplements aisle.”
  98. I picked up an energy drink to stay awake on my long drive.
    • Energy drink (noun) - A beverage containing caffeine and other stimulants for an energy boost
    • Use “energy drink” to discuss caffeinated beverages commonly purchased at convenience stores or gas stations during errands.
    • “Do you want an energy drink?” “No, I’ll stick to coffee today.”
  99. I mapped out my errand route to save time.
    • Errand route (noun) - A planned path or itinerary for completing multiple tasks
    • Use “errand route” when organizing your stops to maximize efficiency. Great for planning your day’s tasks.
    • “What’s your errand route today?” “First the bank, then the post office, and finally the grocery store.”
  100. Go to the service desk if you need a refund or exchange.
    • Service desk (noun) - A station in a store where customers receive help or process returns
    • Use “service desk” for general help in a store: returns, exchanges, or questions about products and policies.
    • “Where’s the service desk?” “Right by the entrance.”
  101. I booked a time slot for my car’s oil change on Saturday.
    • Time slot (noun) - A specific appointment or period allocated for an activity
    • Use “time slot” to refer to reserved periods for appointments, deliveries, or services during your daily errands.
    • “Did you get a time slot for the vaccination?” “Yes, I’m scheduled for 2 PM tomorrow.”

Lesson Summary

In this “Errand List” lesson, you’ve encountered 101 essential words and phrases tailored to everyday tasks. From the post office to the pharmacy, these terms clarify how to mail packages, pick up prescriptions, and handle returns or refunds. You’ve learned about scheduling appointments, navigating lines, and using cash or cards for payments. You also discovered key concepts like ‘drop off,’ ‘pick up,’ and checking your ‘balance’—all crucial for smart and efficient errand runs. Whether you’re topping up groceries, renewing library books, or dealing with vehicle maintenance, these expressions will help you communicate needs smoothly. By revisiting these terms, you’ll build confidence in completing daily chores and discussing them clearly with service providers. Enjoy the ease of managing your routine with this robust vocabulary in hand.

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