How to ask someone to repeat something

Instructions
Do the preparation task first. Then watch the video and do the exercise. You can also read the transcript.

Preparation task
Match the definitions (a–f) with the vocabulary (1–6).

Vocabulary
1. …… accent
2. …… lisp
3. …… grumble
4. …… mumble
5. …… whisper
6. …… stutter

Definition
a. A speech problem where the sufferer says ‘s’ and ‘z’ like ‘th’
b. To complain about something when upset
c. To speak with difficulty, pausing and repeating the beginning of words
d. The way that people from different places pronounce things differently
e. To speak quietly and not clearly
f. To speak very quietly, only using your breath

Task 1
Choose the correct word to complete each sentence.

1. I’m sorry, I didn’t quite ............... that.
   a. make
   b. catch

2. Could you ............... that again?
a. say
b. speak

3. I’m sorry, I still didn't get ...............
a. this
b. that

4. ............... more time?
a. Once
b. One

5. Look! I can’t hear ................ you’re saying.
a. a word
b. the words

Discussion
What phrases do you know to ask someone to repeat something?

Transcript
Man: (Mumbling ‘Have you seen a green pen anywhere?’)
Woman: I’m sorry, I didn’t quite catch that.
Man: (Mumbling)
Woman: Could you say that again?
Man: (Mumbling ‘Green pen, see it anywhere?’)
Woman: I’m sorry … er I still didn’t get that.
Man: (Trying very hard but still mumbling)
Woman: Could you say that again?
Man: (Slightly frustrated and mumbling again)
Woman: One more time?
Man: (Mumbling)
Woman: No. Sorry. Nothing.
Man: (Mumbling)
Woman: Look! I can’t hear a word you’re saying.
Man: I said, ‘Have you seen a green … pen?’ Oh, there it is!

Answers

Preparation
1. d
2. a
3. b
4. e
5. f
6. c

Task 1
1. b
2. a
3. b
4. b
5. a