[English 101] DAILY COMMUTE - Talking about traffic, train schedules, and travel

Teaching Material

1. I always leave earlier to avoid the morning rush hour on the freeway.
• Rush hour (noun phrase) - A time of day when traffic and public transport are busiest, typically when people commute to or from work.
• Use it to describe high-traffic periods, usually early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays.
• Friend: “Why are you leaving so soon?” You: “I don’t want to get stuck in rush hour.”
• Peak hours - Use ‘peak hours’ similarly when talking about the most congested times to travel.
2. The city center was in gridlock after the accident.
• Gridlock (noun) - A complete standstill of traffic in all directions.
• Mention this when traffic barely moves. It often happens in major cities or after significant incidents on the road.
• You: “Why is everyone honking?” Friend: “We’re stuck in gridlock.”
• Standstill - Use when describing total halts due to heavy congestion or unexpected events.
3. Congestion on the main highway delayed my trip by an hour.
• Congestion (noun) - Overcrowding or blockage, often referring to traffic buildup on roads.
• Use it to talk about heavy traffic conditions. Common in city centers, especially during rush hour.
• Coworker: “Why are you late?” You: “Traffic congestion was terrible today.”
4. The lane closure created a bottleneck near the tunnel.
• Bottleneck (noun) - A narrow or restricted section causing traffic to slow or back up.
• Mention ‘bottleneck’ to identify a specific spot slowing traffic. Often happens where lanes merge or roads narrow.
• You: “Why’s traffic suddenly crawling?” Friend: “There’s a bottleneck by the construction zone.”
5. Allow extra time—roadworks on Elm Street could delay you.
• Roadworks (noun (plural)) - Construction or maintenance activities on the road causing disruptions.
• Use it when referring to ongoing repairs or construction that often create detours or lane closures.
• You: “Any idea why traffic’s backed up?” Friend: “Yes, they’ve started roadworks again.”
6. We had to take a detour through the suburbs to avoid the closed bridge.
• Detour (noun) - An alternate route used when the main route is unavailable or under repair.
• Essential for navigating unexpected closures. Listen to traffic reports or follow signs to find the best alternate path.
• You: “Why didn’t you take the highway?” Friend: “It was shut; I had to follow a detour.”
7. A lane closure on the interstate caused heavy congestion this morning.
• Lane closure (noun phrase) - When one or more lanes on a road or highway are blocked off.
• Often announced in traffic updates. Plan extra time or change routes to avoid major slowdowns.
• You: “Why’s it so slow?” Friend: “There’s a lane closure for resurfacing.”
8. Turn left at the next intersection to reach the station.
• Intersection (noun) - A place where two or more roads cross each other.
• Key term for giving directions. Observe signals and watch for pedestrians at busy intersections.
• GPS: “In 200 meters, turn right at the intersection.” You: “Got it.”
9. We started a carpool at work to split gas costs.
• Carpool (noun/verb) - Sharing a vehicle with others who have a similar route, to reduce individual driving.
• Ideal for cutting down traffic and expenses. Use dedicated carpool lanes if available for faster travel.
• Coworker: “Need a ride tomorrow?” You: “Yes, let’s carpool to save on parking.”
10. I take the expressway to get downtown in half the usual time.
• Expressway (noun) - A high-speed, multi-lane road designed for uninterrupted traffic flow.
• Refers to limited-access roads with higher speed limits. Ideal for quicker commutes if traffic isn’t heavy.
• Friend: “Which route are you taking?” You: “The expressway, to bypass local congestion.”
• Highway - Similar to expressway, though sometimes with more exits or local intersections.
11. I avoid the freeway during rush hour to skip bumper-to-bumper traffic.
• Freeway (noun) - A road designed for high-speed traffic, often with no tolls and multiple lanes.
• Term often used in the US. Typically has controlled access, making it a good choice except during peak congestion.
• You: “How do I reach the airport fastest?” Friend: “Take the freeway if it's clear.”
12. You’ll see an overpass ahead; stay in the right lane to exit.
• Overpass (noun) - A bridge that carries a road or walkway over another road or railway.
• Mention it when giving directions or describing landmarks. Often found on highways to maintain smooth traffic flow.
• GPS: “Go under the overpass and take the next exit.” You: “Alright, will do.”
13. Walk through the underpass to get to the other side of the station.
• Underpass (noun) - A passage or tunnel beneath a road or railway for vehicles or pedestrians.
• Highlights an alternative route below a busy road or track, often for safety or traffic flow.
• You: “How do I cross the main road safely?” Friend: “Use the underpass. It’s safer than crossing traffic.”
14. Keep change ready for the toll booth on Highway 5.
• Toll booth (noun phrase) - A place where drivers must pay a fee to use a road or bridge.
• Mention it if traveling on toll roads. Payment methods vary (cash, card, electronic pass). Speeds can slow near toll plazas.
• You: “Why are we stopping?” Driver: “This is the toll booth—gotta pay the fee.”
15. I took the turnpike to save time, but it cost me a few dollars.
• Turnpike (noun) - A major roadway that typically charges a toll for usage, especially in some U.S. states.
• Common in certain regions. Mention if you’re okay paying tolls to potentially reduce travel time.
• Friend: “Is there another route?” You: “Yes, but the turnpike is faster, though it’s tolled.”
16. We got stuck in a traffic jam for almost an hour.
• Traffic jam (noun phrase) - A large buildup of vehicles causing slow movement or stoppage on roads.
• Use it to describe big backups. Keep an eye on traffic apps or radio to avoid or navigate around them.
• You: “Why are we late?” Friend: “A huge traffic jam blocked the main route.”
17. I missed the train because I hit every red light on the way.
• Red light (noun phrase) - A traffic signal instructing vehicles to stop.
• Refers to traffic signals. Stop completely. Mention if you notice repeated red lights can cause delay.
• Driver: “Why are we stopping again?” Passenger: “Another red light, we’re unlucky today.”
18. Finally, we got a green light, so we can move on.
• Green light (noun phrase) - A traffic signal allowing vehicles to proceed.
• Means you can drive forward or turn as allowed. Still check for crossing pedestrians or oncoming traffic.
• Friend: “You can go now.” You: “Yes, it’s a green light!”
19. I slowed down at the yellow light instead of speeding through.
• Yellow light (noun phrase) - A traffic signal warning that it will soon turn red, prompting drivers to slow down or stop.
• A caution signal. Typically means prepare to stop unless unsafe. Mention it when discussing safe driving habits.
• You: “Should I rush it?” Friend: “Better not; the yellow light’s nearly red.”
20. He got a ticket for a traffic violation in the school zone.
• Traffic violation (noun phrase) - Breaking road rules, such as running a red light or speeding.
• Be aware of local regulations. Violations can lead to fines, penalties, or higher insurance costs.
• You: “Why did the police pull him over?” Friend: “He committed a traffic violation.”
21. I waited at the bus stop for 20 minutes this morning.
• Bus stop (noun phrase) - A designated place where buses pick up and drop off passengers.
• Common in public transport. Check timetables posted or use a transit app for arrival times.
• You: “Which bus stop do I get off at?” Friend: “The one right after the library.”
22. The new bus route passes near my apartment now.
• Bus route (noun phrase) - The path or line that a bus follows, with designated stops.
• Use to plan or discuss which line to catch. Know your route number and approximate times for reliability.
• Coworker: “Which bus route do you take to work?” You: “Route 45—it’s direct and fast.”
23. I bought a monthly transit pass to save on bus fares.
• Transit pass (noun phrase) - A card or ticket allowing unlimited or multiple rides on public transport within a certain period.
• Handy if you commute daily. Usually more cost-effective than separate tickets. Keep it topped up or valid.
• You: “Should I pay single fare every time?” Friend: “No, a transit pass is cheaper if you ride often.”
24. The fare increased to $2.50 per ride this year.
• Fare (noun) - The money paid for transportation, like a bus or train ticket.
• Common term for ticket cost. Always have exact change or a transit card if needed to speed up boarding.
• You: “How much is the fare?” Friend: “Two dollars for a single trip.”
25. I need to transfer at Central Station to catch the express train.
• Transfer (verb/noun) - Switching from one transport line or mode to another during a journey.
• Often used in cities with interconnected routes. Check if your fare or pass covers transfers within a time limit.
• You: “Does this bus go straight there?” Friend: “No, you’ll have to transfer to route 10.”
26. Wait on platform 2; that’s where the northbound train arrives.
• Platform (noun) - The area where passengers stand to board or exit trains or subways.
• A key landmark in train or subway stations. Always check signage or announcements to ensure correct platform usage.
• You: “Which platform is the express on?” Station staff: “Platform 3, departing in five minutes.”
27. I checked the train schedule online before leaving home.
• Train schedule (noun phrase) - A timetable listing departure and arrival times of trains.
• Crucial for planning your commute. Keep an eye on any last-minute changes or delays.
• You: “When is the next train?” Friend: “According to the train schedule, it’s at 7:45 AM.”
28. I caught the express train to arrive faster this morning.
• Express train (noun phrase) - A faster service that skips certain stops, reducing travel time.
• Perfect for longer distances with fewer stops. Check if it requires a higher fare or special ticket.
• Coworker: “How’d you get here so quickly?” You: “I took the express train—skips half the stops!”
29. I missed the express, so I had to take the local train with more stops.
• Local train (noun phrase) - A train that stops at all or most stations along its route.
• Often slower but may drop you closer to your destination. Great for short distances or intermediate stops.
• Friend: “Is it direct?” You: “No, it’s a local train, so we’ll stop a lot.”
30. The 8:00 AM train is delayed by 15 minutes.
• Delayed (adjective) - Running behind schedule, arriving or departing later than planned.
• Key for indicating schedule disruptions. Keep track of official announcements or apps to re-plan your journey.
• Announcement: “We apologize; the service is delayed.” Passenger: “I hope it comes soon.”
31. My usual bus was cancelled, so I had to take a taxi.
• Cancelled (adjective) - A service that will not run at all, previously scheduled but now removed.
• Mention if a ride won’t appear at all. Always check for the next available option or alternative routes.
• You: “Why isn’t the 7:30 here?” Friend: “It’s cancelled due to mechanical issues.”
32. The commuter line runs every 20 minutes during rush hour.
• Commuter line (noun phrase) - A rail service primarily for daily travel between suburbs and city centers.
• Used by people traveling for work or school. Typically busier in morning and evening peak times.
• Friend: “Which train do you take?” You: “I take the commuter line from my neighborhood.”
33. I used the ticket machine to purchase a round-trip pass.
• Ticket machine (noun phrase) - An automated kiosk where passengers buy travel tickets.
• Mention it when instructing someone to buy or top up their pass. Often accepts cash, cards, or contactless payments.
• You: “Where do I get my ticket?” Friend: “Over there at the ticket machine, near the entrance.”
34. Scan your metro card at the turnstile to enter the station.
• Turnstile (noun) - A gate that allows one person at a time to pass after validating a ticket or fare card.
• Common in subways and bus terminals. Ensure your pass is valid to avoid being locked out.
• You: “How do I get in?” Staff: “Tap your card on the turnstile.”
35. The conductor punched my ticket just after we left the station.
• Conductor (noun) - A person who checks tickets on trains and assists passengers.
• Mention them for any help or to verify if you have the right ticket. They can provide route updates too.
• You: “Where’s the restroom?” Conductor: “It’s in the next car, to your right.”
36. A ticket inspector boarded the train to check everyone’s pass.
• Ticket inspector (noun phrase) - An official who verifies passengers have valid tickets, often on buses or trains.
• Carry your valid ticket or pass to avoid fines. They may appear unexpectedly, so always be prepared.
• You: “Why is everyone showing their tickets?” Friend: “There’s a ticket inspector making the rounds.”
37. During peak hours, it’s difficult to find a seat on the train.
• Peak hours (noun phrase) - The same idea as rush hour: times when roads or transport are most crowded.
• Synonymous with rush hour. Expect long lines, congested roads, and fewer available seats.
• Coworker: “Why not leave at 8 AM?” You: “That’s peak hours—too packed!”
38. I prefer off-peak travel to avoid crowds and save on fares.
• Off-peak (adjective) - Times when fewer people travel, often mid-day or late evening.
• Great for cheaper tickets or quieter commutes. Plan off-peak if your schedule allows more flexible travel times.
• You: “When’s the train less crowded?” Friend: “Mid-morning is off-peak, so it’s better then.”
39. City Central is the main transfer station for multiple train routes.
• Transfer station (noun phrase) - A station where you can switch from one train or bus line to another.
• Key for multi-leg journeys. Check maps carefully to know where lines intersect for your next connection.
• You: “How do I get to the airport line?” Friend: “Change at the transfer station downtown.”
40. All long-distance buses depart from the main terminal.
• Terminal (noun) - The end point or central station for transport lines, like a bus or train terminal.
• Often large hubs with multiple services. Mentions ticket offices, restrooms, waiting areas, and sometimes shops.
• You: “Where does this train end?” Staff: “Its terminal is Grand Station.”
41. A single ticket to Central Station costs $2.
• Single ticket (noun phrase) - A one-way fare for one journey on public transport.
• Good for occasional riders. Consider other options like round-trip or day passes if you travel frequently.
• Friend: “Do I need a return pass?” You: “If you only need one trip, get a single ticket.”
42. I rely on a monthly pass to commute daily without extra costs.
• Monthly pass (noun phrase) - A transit pass valid for unlimited travel within a month.
• Ideal for regular commuters. Usually cheaper in the long run than daily tickets. Keep track of expiry dates.
• Coworker: “Why don’t you buy single fares?” You: “The monthly pass saves me money overall.”
43. He bought a season ticket for the train to get a bigger discount.
• Season ticket (noun phrase) - A long-term pass, often multiple months or a year, for frequent travel on a specific route or network.
• Great for daily or weekly travelers. Usually offers the best per-day rate, but requires a larger initial payment.
• Friend: “Is that expensive upfront?” You: “Yes, but a season ticket is cheaper over time.”
44. I have a five-minute connection in Maple Town to catch the local bus.
• Connection (noun) - Linking one part of a journey to another, such as a train meeting a bus.
• Essential for multi-mode trips. Always check if you have enough time to catch the connecting service.
• You: “Are you worried about missing the bus?” Friend: “Yes, my connection is super tight.”
45. The bus timetable shows a 15-minute gap between each departure.
• Timetable (noun) - A schedule listing departure and arrival times of transport services.
• Often found online or at stops. Vital for planning commutes to ensure punctuality and reduce wait times.
• You: “When’s the next train?” Friend: “Let’s check the timetable posted at the station.”
46. The morning train is always overcrowded during rush hour.
• Overcrowded (adjective) - Exceedingly full with people, beyond comfortable capacity.
• Common in high-demand routes. Consider leaving earlier or later to avoid cramped conditions.
• You: “Could you find a seat?” Friend: “No, it was overcrowded. I had to stand.”
47. By the time I boarded, there was only standing room left.
• Standing room (noun phrase) - Space available only for standing when seats are fully occupied.
• Typical during peak hours or popular routes. You might stand near doors or aisles, so hold onto a rail or strap.
• Conductor: “All seats are taken.” Passenger: “Okay, I’ll manage in standing room.”
48. Please give up the priority seat if someone in need boards.
• Priority seat (noun phrase) - Seating designated for elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers.
• Be mindful. If you’re able-bodied and someone in need comes along, offer your seat. It's respectful and often required by rules.
• Announcement: “Kindly free the priority seat for those who need it.” Passenger: “Sure, no problem.”
49. He found his reserved seat in coach B, row 12.
• Reserved seat (noun phrase) - A seat booked or allocated beforehand, not open for general seating.
• Common on long-distance trains or buses. Always check your ticket details to claim the correct spot.
• You: “That seat is free?” Traveler: “No, it’s a reserved seat—my name’s on the ticket.”
50. The announcement said the next train would be 10 minutes late.
• Announcement (noun) - A public message given via speaker or display, often about delays or arrival information.
• Listen or watch for official announcements in stations or on board for the latest updates on your journey.
• You: “Did you hear the announcement?” Friend: “Yes, we have a slight delay.”
51. Our destination is the last stop on the bus route.
• Destination (noun) - The final place or station where a journey ends.
• Key in directions or route planning. Always verify your bus or train is headed to your desired destination.
• You: “Which stop is your destination?” Friend: “City Center Station, please.”
52. Check the departure time on the app to avoid missing the train.
• Departure time (noun phrase) - The scheduled moment when a bus, train, or flight leaves a station or stop.
• Essential for punctual travel. Arrive a few minutes early to handle unforeseen delays or gate changes.
• You: “What’s the departure time for the 7:00 AM bus?” Friend: “It’s actually 6:55, so we better hurry.”
53. Our arrival time at Grand Station should be 8:15 AM.
• Arrival time (noun phrase) - The scheduled moment a service is due to reach its destination or station.
• Use it to let people know when you’ll show up. Expect minor variations if there's traffic or train delays.
• Colleague: “When do you get here?” You: “Arrival time is around 8 AM each day.”
54. Due to maintenance, there’s a platform change for the 9:00 AM service.
• Platform change (noun phrase) - An alteration of the track or spot where a train will arrive, different from the original announcement.
• Keep an ear out for last-minute announcements. Quickly relocate to the new platform to avoid missing your train.
• Staff: “Attention please, platform change for the northbound train.” Commuter: “We need to move to platform 5 now.”
55. Check the lost property office if you left your umbrella on the bus.
• Lost property (noun phrase) - Items left behind on public transport, often stored in a designated office for retrieval.
• If you lose something, contact customer service. Provide details (time, route) for a better chance of retrieval.
• You: “Where can I find my missing bag?” Staff: “Try lost property in the station’s main lobby.”
56. Officials are improving passenger flow by adding more turnstiles.
• Passenger flow (noun phrase) - The movement of people through transport systems, stations, or vehicles.
• Used when discussing how crowds move, especially in busy stations. Infrastructure changes can optimize passenger flow.
• You: “Why is it less crowded now?” Friend: “They managed the passenger flow better.”
57. I saw a delay notice online before leaving the house.
• Delay notice (noun phrase) - An announcement or sign indicating a service will be late.
• Check official websites or apps. Minimizes wasted waiting time at stations. Plan alternative routes if needed.
• You: “Why are you still home?” Friend: “The train posted a delay notice, so I have extra time.”
58. Once onboard, the conductor will check your ticket.
• Onboard (adverb/adjective) - Being inside or on a vehicle, such as a bus or train, once you have boarded.
• Useful when describing your current travel status. Also indicates services available while traveling, like Wi-Fi onboard.
• Friend: “Where are you now?” You: “I’m onboard the subway—should reach soon.”
59. This line has a 10-minute headway during peak hours.
• Headway (noun) - The time interval between vehicles running on the same route, like buses or trains.
• Crucial in public transit planning. Short headways mean more frequent services, helpful for flexible travel times.
• You: “How frequent are the trains?” Staff: “Headway is about every 6 minutes right now.”
60. A power failure led to a major service disruption on the main line.
• Service disruption (noun phrase) - An event or condition causing part of the transport service to be halted or altered.
• Often found in official bulletins. Plan an alternative or wait for normal operations to resume.
• Announcement: “We apologize for the service disruption.” Passenger: “We might need another route.”
61. A replacement bus runs this weekend since the rail line is closed.
• Replacement bus (noun phrase) - A bus service provided when train or subway service is interrupted, especially for planned maintenance.
• Check routes and times carefully. The bus may not mirror every stop but helps continue your trip.
• You: “Is the train still running?” Staff: “No, but there's a replacement bus at the main entrance.”
62. Track maintenance will shut down trains overnight next week.
• Maintenance (noun) - Scheduled or emergency work to keep transport facilities and vehicles in good condition.
• Often causes off-peak or weekend closures. Look for official schedules or announcements to plan around it.
• You: “Why is the station closed?” Friend: “They’re doing maintenance on the tracks.”
63. A road closure on Main Street forced me to take a detour.
• Road closure (noun phrase) - Blocking a road entirely, preventing vehicle access, often for repairs or events.
• Causes major disruptions. Watch signs or local news for updates to avoid dead ends or wasted time.
• You: “Why is traffic rerouted?” Police: “There’s a road closure for emergency repairs.”
64. I listened to the radio’s traffic update before picking a route.
• Traffic update (noun phrase) - Current information on road conditions, accidents, or congestion levels.
• Useful for adjusting your commute in real-time. Apps, radio, or official websites can provide quick updates.
• You: “Did you hear the traffic update?” Friend: “Yes, let’s avoid the freeway.”
65. I always check my navigation app to choose the quickest way to work.
• Navigation app (noun phrase) - A mobile application like Google Maps or Waze offering route guidance and live traffic information.
• Essential for modern commuters. Keep it updated, watch for alternate routes, and listen to recalculations if traffic changes.
• Coworker: “How did you avoid the jam?” You: “My navigation app suggested a better route.”
66. I feel safer commuting in a bike lane away from cars.
• Bike lane (noun phrase) - A dedicated lane on the road for cyclists only.
• For cyclists seeking safer routes. Respect the lane if driving or walking; it’s for bikes only.
• You: “Why do you cycle?” Friend: “We have a bike lane all the way downtown, so it’s convenient.”
67. I used scooter sharing to zip through downtown traffic easily.
• Scooter sharing (noun phrase) - A service renting electric scooters for short trips, often in urban areas.
• Check local laws for riding and parking. Handy for last-mile solutions when public transport doesn't go door-to-door.
• You: “Is that your scooter?” Friend: “No, I picked it up from a scooter sharing station.”
68. Take the second exit at the traffic circle to reach the station.
• Traffic circle (noun phrase) - A circular intersection where drivers travel counterclockwise around a central island.
• Also called a roundabout. Yield to cars already in the circle. Helps reduce accidents and keep traffic moving.
• GPS: “Enter the traffic circle and exit at the second turn.” You: “Will do.”
• Roundabout - Used interchangeably in many regions to describe the same structure.
69. She was nearly hit by a car while jaywalking in heavy traffic.
• Jaywalking (noun/gerund) - Crossing the street illegally or in an unsafe manner outside designated crossings.
• Mention to highlight risky pedestrian behavior. Check local laws; you may get fined for it in some cities.
• You: “Why did the officer stop her?” Friend: “She was jaywalking across four lanes.”
70. Always use the pedestrian crossing to avoid accidents.
• Pedestrian crossing (noun phrase) - A designated area for people to walk across the road safely, often marked by stripes or signals.
• Crucial for safe foot travel. Drivers usually must yield, so mention it if crossing busy roads on foot.
• You: “Where can I cross safely?” Friend: “At the pedestrian crossing by the traffic light.”
71. Cars must stop if you're on the zebra crossing.
• Zebra crossing (noun phrase) - A pedestrian crosswalk marked with white stripes on the road surface.
• Common in many countries. Pedestrians have right of way, but ensure cars actually stop before crossing.
• You: “Is there a signal?” Friend: “No, but it’s a zebra crossing, so cars should yield.”
72. As a commuter, I spend two hours each day in transit.
• Commuter (noun) - A person who travels regularly between home and work or school.
• Use this term to describe anyone traveling habitually. Big focus for traffic planning or public transport design.
• Coworker: “Are you a daily commuter?” You: “Yes, I take the train every morning.”
73. The suburban train is packed at 7 AM with office workers.
• Suburban train (noun phrase) - A rail service connecting suburbs to a central city, often with frequent stops.
• Mention if you live outside the city center. Typically used for mid-range distances with moderate travel times.
• You: “Does it go out of the city?” Friend: “Yes, it’s a suburban train that serves many townships.”
74. The city’s new metro line has cut my commute in half.
• Metro (noun) - A rapid transit system in urban areas, usually an underground or elevated train.
• Refers to city subways or rapid transit. Often has frequent trains and multiple lines covering major districts.
• You: “How do you get downtown?” Friend: “I hop on the metro—it’s fast and frequent.”
75. I prefer the underground during winter because it’s heated and avoids snow delays.
• Underground (noun/adjective) - A subway or metro system operating mostly below street level.
• Commonly used in the UK. Good for escaping surface traffic. Pay attention to station signs and route maps.
• Coworker: “Which line do you take?” You: “The blue underground line to the city center.”
76. Taking the subway during rush hour can be cramped, but it’s usually reliable.
• Subway (noun) - An underground urban rail system, especially in North America.
• Synonymous with ‘metro’ or ‘underground’ in many places. Handy for quick inner-city trips. Watch for line changes or closures.
• You: “How’d you arrive so fast?” Friend: “The subway runs every 5 minutes.”
77. The light rail system connects the airport to the downtown area.
• Light rail (noun phrase) - A modern tram or streetcar system running on tracks, often partially separated from traffic.
• Mention it in cities with advanced tram networks. Usually quieter and less polluting than buses, good for mid-distance travel.
• You: “Is that a train?” Friend: “It’s the light rail—sort of a fast tram.”
78. I used ride-sharing when the buses stopped running late at night.
• Ride-sharing (noun/gerund) - Services like Uber or Lyft, where you use an app to get a car ride with a driver.
• Convenient for flexible door-to-door service. Be mindful of surge pricing or busy times that inflate costs.
• Friend: “How did you get home so quickly?” You: “Ride-sharing is faster than waiting for a taxi.”
79. London’s congestion charge discourages drivers from using central roads at peak times.
• Congestion charge (noun phrase) - A fee imposed on vehicles entering certain city areas to reduce traffic and pollution.
• Used in some major cities. Check local rules; you might save money by using public transport or carpooling instead.
• You: “Why not drive downtown?” Friend: “The congestion charge is too high.”
80. He found a parking ticket on his windshield after parking in a no-stopping zone.
• Parking ticket (noun phrase) - A fine issued for illegal or improper parking.
• Mention if you inadvertently park incorrectly. Follow local signage to avoid fines or towing.
• You: “Why are you upset?” Friend: “I just got a parking ticket—totally forgot the sign.”
81. I left my car in a parking garage near the office.
• Parking garage (noun phrase) - A multi-level structure where drivers can park vehicles, usually for a fee.
• Often easier but more expensive than street parking. Remember your level or bay to find your car later.
• You: “Where do I park downtown?” Friend: “Try the big parking garage on 4th Street.”
82. I use the park-and-ride to take the bus downtown and avoid traffic.
• Park-and-ride (noun phrase) - A facility where drivers park their cars and transfer to public transport for the rest of the journey.
• Good way to reduce congestion in city centers. Often cheaper or subsidized if you continue by bus or train.
• You: “Why not drive all the way?” Friend: “Parking downtown is too costly; park-and-ride is cheaper.”
83. I returned to find my car was towed from the loading zone.
• Towed (verb/adjective) - When a vehicle is removed by an official tow truck, usually for illegal parking or breakdowns.
• Check local rules. If your car is missing, confirm if it’s been towed or stolen. Towing fees can be high.
• You: “Where’s your car?” Friend: “It got towed; I parked illegally.”
84. A car breakdown on the highway caused a traffic jam in the right lane.
• Car breakdown (noun phrase) - When a car stops functioning due to mechanical issues.
• If you experience one, move to a safe spot and call roadside assistance. Mention it if you see a stopped car impacting traffic.
• Radio: “Expect delays; there’s a car breakdown near Exit 14.” Driver: “We’ll have to slow down there.”
85. He called a breakdown service after his engine overheated.
• Breakdown service (noun phrase) - Professional help (like AAA) that assists drivers when their vehicle breaks down.
• Useful for towing or on-the-spot repairs. Keep their phone number or membership card with you for emergencies.
• You: “Do you have coverage?” Friend: “Yes, I pay for a yearly breakdown service.”
86. I got a puncture from a nail on the road.
• Puncture (noun) - A small hole in a tire causing it to lose air.
• Check your spare tire or call assistance. A quick fix might be possible if you carry a repair kit or foam sealer.
• Friend: “Why’s your tire flat?” You: “A puncture—must’ve run over something sharp.”
87. The flat tire made me pull over on the shoulder.
• Flat tire (noun phrase) - When a tire has lost all or most of its air pressure.
• Common occurrence if you hit debris. Always have a jack, spare tire, or know how to call for help.
• You: “Why are we stopping?” Driver: “We’ve got a flat tire; I’ll have to change it.”
88. My roadside assistance arrived quickly to fix the flat tire.
• Roadside assistance (noun phrase) - A service helping drivers with vehicle issues while traveling, like towing or minor repairs.
• Often included in auto insurance or motor club memberships. Keep a phone number handy for unexpected breakdowns.
• You: “Stranded?” Friend: “Yes, but roadside assistance is on the way.”
89. My e-scooter showed a low battery, so I had to find a charging station.
• Low battery (noun phrase) - When an electric vehicle or device’s power runs dangerously short, risking shutdown.
• Mention for EVs or scooters. Plan charging stops in advance to avoid getting stuck mid-commute.
• You: “Why are you stopping?” Friend: “I’ve got low battery on the scooter; it won’t last.”
90. E-scooter rentals have become popular in my neighborhood.
• E-scooter (noun) - An electric scooter often used for short urban trips, either personal or rented.
• Follow local rules for e-scooter usage and parking. A convenient option for quick errands or bridging short distances.
• Coworker: “How did you arrive so fast?” You: “I hopped on an e-scooter outside my building.”
91. My rideshare driver took a shortcut that saved me 10 minutes.
• Rideshare driver (noun phrase) - A driver who works for a ride-sharing service, transporting passengers via app-based requests.
• Be courteous and check your driver’s details for safety. Tipping or rating often helps maintain good service quality.
• Friend: “Who drove you here?” You: “A rideshare driver from an app.”
92. Surge pricing doubled my usual fare after the big concert.
• Surge pricing (noun phrase) - Higher ride-sharing or taxi fees applied during peak demand times.
• Check the app before confirming rides. If surge pricing is high, consider waiting or using public transport.
• You: “Why was your trip so expensive?” Friend: “They had surge pricing during rush hour.”
93. The traffic sign indicated a sharp turn ahead.
• Traffic sign (noun phrase) - A board or symbol giving instructions or warnings to road users.
• Vital for safe driving or walking. Pay attention to warnings, speed limits, or directional signs along your route.
• You: “Why did you slow down?” Driver: “The traffic sign said ‘Caution: Curve.’”
94. Always buckle your seatbelt before the car starts moving.
• Seatbelt (noun) - A safety strap in vehicles that secures a person against sudden movement or collisions.
• Legally required in most places. Essential for safety in case of a crash or abrupt stop. Encourage everyone to wear it.
• Driver: “Is your seatbelt on?” Passenger: “Yes, I’m all set.”
95. I can use the carpool lane because I have three passengers.
• Carpool lane (noun phrase) - A dedicated highway lane for vehicles carrying multiple occupants (HOV lane).
• In some areas, high-occupancy vehicles can access it, reducing travel times. Check local rules for minimum passenger requirements.
• You: “How did you bypass traffic?” Friend: “Carpool lane saved us a lot of time.”
96. With my toll pass, I cruise through toll plazas quickly.
• Toll pass (noun phrase) - An electronic device or sticker allowing drivers to pay tolls automatically without stopping.
• Helps avoid cash transactions and speeds up passing toll booths. Keep funds loaded or linked for auto payment.
• Friend: “Didn’t you stop to pay?” You: “No, the toll pass handles it.”
97. I got a multi-ride ticket for 10 trips on the local bus line.
• Multi-ride ticket (noun phrase) - A pass allowing several journeys, often cheaper than buying individual tickets each time.
• Great if you know you’ll use the service multiple times. Validity periods vary, so confirm before purchase.
• You: “Why not single fares?” Friend: “Multi-ride ticket costs less per ride if you travel often.”
98. Good route planning saved me from traffic jams today.
• Route planning (noun phrase) - Deciding which roads or transport lines to take to reach a destination efficiently.
• Essential for daily commutes. Use apps or maps to choose the best path, factoring in traffic patterns and schedules.
• Coworker: “How’d you beat rush hour?” You: “I did some route planning last night.”
99. I had to backtrack after I missed my stop on the subway.
• Missed stop (noun phrase) - When a passenger fails to get off at the correct station or bus stop.
• Stay alert, especially on unfamiliar routes. Set alarms or watch station signs to avoid overshooting your destination.
• You: “Why are you late?” Friend: “I missed my stop and had to ride back one station.”
100. The bus was canceled, leading to overcrowding on the next one.
• Overcrowding (noun) - Excessive crowd in a vehicle or station, surpassing comfortable capacity.
• Be patient and considerate. Overcrowding often happens in peak hours or service disruptions.
• Announcement: “Please move down the aisle to reduce overcrowding.” Passenger: “I’ll try, but it’s really packed!”
101. I took the scenic route through the park to enjoy the morning sunshine.
• Scenic route (noun phrase) - A path chosen for its pleasant or beautiful view, even if it’s not the fastest way.
• Nice for relaxed or weekend commutes. Good for de-stressing, though not ideal if you’re in a hurry.
• You: “Is this the shortest way?” Friend: “No, but it’s the scenic route—worth the extra 10 minutes.”