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4 phrases from the storyLevel B1, about 1 min

Respecting Phone Privacy

Polite ways to set boundaries.

Phrase 1 of 4

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You say this when you want time or space without other people seeing or hearing your personal things. The tone is calm, clear, and not angry.

Examples

  • I need some privacy while I take this call.
  • She said she needed some privacy to think.

You can also say

  • Please give me some space with that.
  • That's private, so please stay out of it.

Good to knowPrivacy is uncountable, so say “some privacy,” not “a privacy.” “I need space” can mean time apart, which is different.

Phrase 2 of 4

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You say this to start a serious talk about what is okay and not okay in a relationship, job, or family. It sounds calm but important.

Examples

  • Before we move in together, can we talk about boundaries?
  • Can we talk about boundaries at work? I feel overwhelmed.

You can also say

  • Can we set some ground rules?
  • I'd like to talk about what's okay for us.

Good to knowIt sounds serious, so choose a calm moment. It works better before or after a problem than in the middle of an argument.

Phrase 3 of 4

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You say this to remind someone that certain things, like messages or photos, are only for you. The tone is firm and serious.

Examples

  • Those notes aren't for anyone else. Please don't share them.
  • Those are my private files. They aren't for anyone else.

You can also say

  • Those are just for me.
  • Nobody else should see those.

Good to know“Those” points to things already mentioned or far from you. Without “please,” it can sound cold, so soften it with a friendly voice.

Phrase 4 of 4

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say it out loud

You say this to ask someone to get your permission before they use or touch your things. It is short, polite, and still clear.

Examples

  • Ask first, please. I don't like people using my charger.
  • Please ask first before you post my photo online.

You can also say

  • Please check with me first.
  • Just ask me before you do that.

Good to knowWithout “please,” a short command like “Ask first” can sound sharp. “Ask me first” makes it clearer who must give permission.

Quick check

Pick the word that fits. You'll hear the phrase after each answer.

Question 1 of 4

Please knock first. I need some   when I change clothes.

Practice audioEach phrase twice, 0:37
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