Travelling Overseas? Don't Just Say "This One, Please": A Few Simple English Phrases So What You're After Isn't Lost in Translation
Ever had one of these experiences?
You're buzzing to check out a beauty store overseas, only to be swarmed by enthusiastic shop assistants. You want to say "I'm just browsing", but you're tongue-tied for ages. In the end, you just awkwardly point and say "This one, this one".
Or perhaps you're really looking forward to a relaxing spa session, but the masseuse's pressure leaves you gritting your teeth in pain. You want to say "lighter", but you don't know how to express it, so your blissful indulgence turns into a bit of a torture session.
We always think our English isn't good enough, but that's not really the issue.
The Real Key Isn't Fluent English, But the "Key to the Experience"
Imagine this: every service scenario you encounter is like a locked door. Behind it lies the experience you truly want – snagging that perfect lipstick, or a massage so good you drift off to sleep.
And those moments where you're lost for words? They're simply because you don't have the "key" in your hand.
This "key" isn't about complex grammar or a massive vocabulary. It's just a few simple, precise phrases – your "magic words" to get straight to your destination. Today, I'm handing you these universal keys.
Key #1: Taking Control Gracefully at the Beauty Store
Walking into a dazzling beauty counter, the last thing you want is to be thrown off by overly enthusiastic sales assistants. You need a sense of control, not pressure.
Remember these three phrases, and you'll instantly go from passive to proactive.
1. When you just want to browse in peace:
"I'm just looking, thank you." (我只是随便看看，谢谢。)
This phrase is your "invisibility cloak." It clearly and politely creates a space for you to browse undisturbed. The staff will get the hint, and you can explore at your leisure.
2. When you have a specific goal in mind:
"I'm looking for a foundation." (我在找一款粉底。)
Swap foundation for anything you're looking for, like lipstick, sunscreen, or eye cream. It's like a GPS, guiding the staff straight to what you're after – efficient and spot-on.
3. When you want to try it out:
"Could I try this, please?" (请问可以试用一下这个吗？)
See something you like? Don't hesitate. This phrase lets you naturally try out the product, ensuring you don't miss out on the perfect one just because you felt a bit shy.
Key #2: Customising Your Ultimate Relaxation at the Spa
A massage is a conversation with your body, and you're the one leading it. Stop just saying "OK" and "Yes" to everything; take back the remote control of your experience.
1. The "magic switch" for pressure adjustment:
When the masseuse asks "How is the pressure?" (力道可以吗？), your answer determines the next hour of your experience.
- Too firm? Say: "Softer, please." (请轻一点。)
- Not firm enough? Say: "Stronger, please." (请重一点。)
Don't just grin and bear it! Your comfort is what matters most. A good masseuse will be more than happy to adjust for you.
2. The "precision missile" for those sore spots:
If there's a particular area that needs special attention, like sore shoulders or legs after a day of sightseeing.
"Could you focus on my shoulders, please?" (可以帮我重点按一下肩膀吗？)
You can even point to the spot while saying:
"Please focus on this area." (请帮我多按一下这个地方。)
A simple phrase like focus on can make all the difference.
The Ultimate Key: When You Need a "Universal Translator"
Remembering these "magic words" will sort out 90% of your problems. But what if you want to ask something more specific? Like, "Is this foundation suitable for sensitive skin?" or "What are the ingredients in this massage oil?"
That's when you need a more powerful tool.
Instead of clumsily typing away in a translation app, why not try an AI chat translation app like Intent? It's like having a real-time interpreter in your pocket, allowing you to chat naturally in your native language with anyone, whether it's a beauty consultant or a therapist. Just speak in Chinese, and it'll instantly translate into natural-sounding English, making communication a breeze.
Instead of letting language be a barrier to exploring the world, let it be a tool to unlock even better experiences.
Next time you head overseas, don't let feeling "awkward" or "tongue-tied" ruin your good vibes. Take these keys with you, express yourself with confidence, enjoy yourself to the fullest, and reclaim the fantastic experiences that should be all yours.
Click here to find out how Intent can be your ultimate travel mate