Travelling Abroad? Go Beyond 'This One, Please': Simple English Phrases to Articulate Exactly What You Want
Have you ever found yourself in this situation?
You excitedly walk into a beauty store abroad, only to be surrounded by enthusiastic sales assistants. You wanted to say, "I'm just browsing," but after fumbling for words, you ended up awkwardly pointing at something and saying, "This one, this one."
Or perhaps, you eagerly anticipated a relaxing spa treatment, only for the masseur's pressure to make you wince in pain. You wanted to say, "lighter," but didn't know how to express it, and a supposed treat ended up turning into a "torture session."
We often assume our English isn't good enough, but in reality, that's not where the problem lies.
The Real Key Isn't Fluent English, It's the 'Key to the Experience'
Imagine every service scenario you encounter is like a locked door. Behind that door is the experience you truly desire – buying that perfect lipstick, or a massage so comfortable you drift off to sleep.
And those moments where you can't quite express yourself are simply because you don't have the "key."
This "key" isn't complex grammar or a vast vocabulary; it's just a few simple, precise "passphrases" that get straight to the point. Today, I'm handing you these universal keys.
Key One: Taking Graceful Control at the Beauty Counter
Stepping into a beauty store filled with a dazzling array of products, the last thing you want is to have your browsing rhythm disrupted by overly enthusiastic sales assistants. What you need is a sense of control, not pressure.
Remember these three phrases, and you can instantly switch from passive to proactive.
1. When you just want to browse quietly:
"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 an undisturbed space for you. The sales assistant will understand, allowing you to explore at your leisure.
2. When you have a clear goal in mind:
"I'm looking for a foundation." (我在找一款粉底。)
Replace foundation with anything you're looking for, such as lipstick (口红), sunscreen (防晒霜), or eye cream (眼霜). This is like a satnav, leading the sales assistant directly to your destination – efficient and precise.
3. When you want to try something yourself:
"Could I try this, please?" (请问可以试用一下这个吗？)
If you see a product you like, don't hesitate. This phrase will naturally allow you to start a trial, rather than missing out on the best fit for you due to shyness.
Key Two: Customise Your Perfect Relaxation at the Spa
A massage is a conversation with your body, and you are the one leading it. Stop just going along with everything by saying 'OK' and 'Yes' – take back the remote control for your experience.
1. The 'Magic Switch' for Adjusting Pressure:
When the masseur asks "How is the pressure?" (力道可以吗？), your answer determines the next hour of your experience.
- Feeling it's too strong? Say: "Softer, please." (请轻一点。)
- Not strong enough? Say: "Stronger, please." (请重一点。)
Don't just put up with it! Your comfort is what matters most. A good masseur will be very happy to adjust for you.
2. The 'Precision Missile' for Targeting Sore Spots:
If a particular part of your body needs special attention, such as shoulders or legs sore from a day of shopping.
"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 area 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 double the effect.
The Ultimate Key: When You Need a 'Universal Translator'
Remembering these "passphrases" can solve 90% of problems. But what if you want to ask something more specific? For example, "Is this foundation suitable for sensitive skin?" or "What are the ingredients in this massage oil?"
At this point, you need a more powerful tool.
Instead of clumsily typing into translation software, why not try an AI chat translation app like Intent? It's like your personal simultaneous interpreter, allowing you to naturally converse with anyone in your native language, whether it's a beauty consultant or a therapist. You just speak in Chinese, and it will instantly translate into authentic English, removing all communication barriers.
Instead of letting language be a barrier to exploring the world, let it become a tool to unlock better experiences.
Next time you travel abroad, don't let 'shyness' or 'inability to speak up' ruin your good mood. Take these keys with you to express yourself confidently, enjoy yourself to the fullest, and reclaim the best experiences that rightfully belong to you.
Click here to learn how Intent can become your best travel companion