Inquiring about the time can be utilized as a conversation opener at any moment. It can serve as a form of small talk or simply a genuine inquiry.
Before delivering into deeper discussions, small talk such as asking for the time can be a useful tool to initiate a conversation.
Here are some examples of dialogues/conversations asking for the time or hour.
What Time Is It?
ANNA: James, what time is it? We’re going to be late!
JAMES: It’s a quarter after seven. We’re on time. Don’t panic.
ANNA: But I thought we had to be at the restaurant by 7:30 for the surprise party. We’ll never make it there with all this evening traffic.
JAMES: Sure we will. Rush hour is almost over. Anyway, the party starts at 8:00. There’s plenty of time.
ANNA: I hope you’re right. I don’t want to be the one who ruins the surprise for everyone.
JAMES: You won’t ruin anything. I have faith in our navigation skills and the GPS. But I do need help with directions. Can you call the restaurant and ask them where we should park our car?
ANNA: Sure, let me get my phone. (calls the restaurant) Hello, I’m calling to ask about parking for the surprise party tonight.
RESTAURANT: Of course, there’s a lot just across the street from us. You can park there for free for the duration of the party.
ANNA: Thank you. That’s very helpful.
JAMES: See, we’ve got this. And if all else fails, we’ll just grab a taxi.
ANNA: That’s a good plan. Thanks for being calm and collected, James.
JAMES: No problem. That’s what I’m here for. Now let’s get going. We don’t want to be late for the party of the year.
Arrival Time
John: Hey James, do you know what time Mother’s plane is due to arrive?
James: I’m not completely certain, but I believe it’s around 2:35. I’ll call the airline to double check.
John: That would be great. While you do that, I’m going to change into something more comfortable.
James: By the way, do you think Dick or Brenda would like to come with us to pick Mother up from the airport?
John: Hmm, I’m not sure. Why don’t we give them a call and see?
James: I already know that Dick has to work, but I think Brenda may be available to come with us.
John: Sure, give her a call first, then the airline. I’ll start getting ready in the meantime.
Airport Bus
John: Hi Han, I was wondering if you could help me out with something.
Han: Of course, what do you need help with?
John: I’m planning a trip to the airport and I was hoping to catch the bus, but I’m not sure what time it leaves. Do you know?
Han: I don’t know for sure, but it used to leave every half hour. However, I think the schedule might have been changed recently.
John: That’s a shame. Do you know the telephone number for the bus company? I want to call and confirm the schedule.
Han: It’s Enterprise 7-4700. At least, that’s what it used to be.
John: Thanks, I’ll try calling now. (Pause) They’re not answering.
Han: That’s not surprising. It’s still early in the morning and I don’t think they open until 9 o’clock.
John: That’s a bummer. Well, I guess I’ll have to plan my trip for a different time. Thanks for your help, Han.
Han: No problem, John. Let me know if there’s anything else I can help with.
Making a Date
Anna: Hey John, what’s up?
John: Not much, just getting ready for the graduation ceremony tomorrow. How about you?
Anna: I’m good, thanks for asking. Hey, speaking of tomorrow’s ceremony, what time are you leaving?
John: You mean to go to the graduation ceremony?
Anna: Yes, I’d like to go with you if I may.
John: I’d be delighted to take you. I plan to leave here about nine-thirty.
Anna: That’s great, I can be ready by then.
John: Okay, I’ll pick you up at your house.
Anna: Sounds good. By the way, have you seen any good movies lately?
John: Yeah, I just watched “Inception” again. It’s such a mind-bending film. Have you seen it?
Anna: No, I haven’t. But I’ve heard a lot of good things about it. Maybe we can watch it together sometime.
John: Definitely, let’s make a plan for that. So, I’ll see you tomorrow at nine-thirty then.
Anna: See you tomorrow, John. Looking forward to it.
Dental Appointment
Dental Assistant: Dr. Robert’s office. May I help you?
Anna: Yes, I’d like to make an appointment for a dental checkup.
Dental Assistant: Are you one of Dr. Robert’s regular patients?
Anna: No, I’m not. I recently moved to this area and a friend of mine recommended Dr. Robert.
Dental Assistant: I see. Dr. Robert can see you next Thursday. Do you prefer morning or afternoon?
Anna: Morning is best for me.
Dental Assistant: Would 10:30 be all right?
Anna: That would be fine.
Dental Assistant: And your name is?
Anna: I am Anna.
Dental Assistant: OK, Ms. Anna. We’ll expect you then at 10:30 on Thursday.
Anna: Thank you very much. By the way, what can I expect during a dental checkup with Dr. Robert?
Dental Assistant: During a typical checkup, Dr. Robert will examine your teeth and gums, check for any issues such as cavities or gum disease, and take X-rays if necessary. He’ll also clean your teeth and provide a fluoride treatment to help protect them from decay.
Anna: That sounds great. I’m looking forward to my appointment with Dr. Robert.
Dental Assistant: He’s a great dentist and you’re in good hands. We’ll see you next Thursday at 10:30.
Anna: Thank you. I’ll see you then.
Making Plans
Hanna: When shall we meet to discuss the party?
Alicia: Yes, we really need to plan better this time. The last party was quite a mess and we don’t want to repeat that.
Hanna: I completely agree. That’s why I thought it would be a good idea to meet tomorrow at my house to go over all the details. What do you think about 7:30?
Alicia: That works for me. I’ll call Jan and Judy and make sure they’re available too.
Hanna: Great, I’ll prepare some snacks and drinks for us. We have a lot to plan, from the guest list to the menu, decorations, and activities.
Alicia: And don’t forget the music. We want to make sure everyone has a good time and the party is a success.
Hanna: Exactly. I’m looking forward to getting started and making this party the best one yet.
Alicia: Me too. I’ll see you tomorrow at 7:30.
Catching Up After Class
Anna: Hey! How did your physics exam go yesterday?
Robert: It went okay, thanks for asking. I’m just relieved that it’s over now. How about your presentation? How did it go?
Anna: It went really well, thanks to your help. I couldn’t have done it without you.
Robert: No problem, I’m always here to help. So, do you feel like studying for our math exam tomorrow?
Anna: Absolutely! I think it’s important to stay ahead and be prepared for the exam. Why don’t you come over to my place around 10:00 after breakfast?
Robert: Sounds good to me. I’ll bring my notes and study materials, and we can go over the topics together.
Anna: Great. I think with a little bit of extra effort, we can ace the math exam. Let’s make sure we’re both prepared and ready for it.
At The Movies
John: Good afternoon, I’d like to purchase two tickets for the 3:30 show please.
Ticket Sales: Of course, here you are. Two tickets for the 3:30 show. Enjoy the movie!
[Inside the theater]
John: Excuse me, would you mind moving over one seat so that my friend and I can sit together?
Woman: Not at all. I’d be happy to make some room for you and your friend.
John: Thank you very much. Your kindness is greatly appreciated. I’m sure we’ll have a much better viewing experience sitting together.