Clearing up after dinner

Phrases

Let me help.

a firm, polite offer after the meal

That was great. Let me help, at least with the plates.

clear the table

take the plates and dishes away after eating

Could you two clear the table while I make coffee?

do the dishes

wash the plates, glasses and pans

You cooked, so I'll do the dishes tonight.

Leave it, I'll do it later.

a host's way of refusing help

Oh, leave it, I'll do it later. Sit down and relax.

Are you sure? It's no trouble.

pushing back gently on a refusal

Are you sure? It's no trouble, and it'll only take five minutes.

leftovers

food that wasn't eaten and can be saved

There are plenty of leftovers if you want some for lunch tomorrow.

put it in the fridge

store food in the refrigerator

Put the rest of the rice in the fridge before it goes bad.

Does this go in the dishwasher?

checking before you ruin a pan or a good glass

Does this bowl go in the dishwasher, or should I wash it by hand?

wipe down the counter

clean the kitchen surface with a cloth

Can you wipe down the counter? It's sticky from the sauce.

take out the trash

carry the garbage bag outside

It's full. Whose turn is it to take out the trash?

soak it

leave a dirty pan in water so it's easier to clean

The pan's really dirty. Let's soak it overnight.

It's my turn.

admitting a shared job is yours this time

No, it's my turn. You did them last night.

Say it out loud

Tap a sentence to hear it. Say it after the voice.

1. Sophia, you've done enough tonight. I'll finish up in here.
2. Where does this big plate go? I don't want to put it in the wrong cupboard.
3. Should I throw the rest of the salad out, or are you keeping it?
4. Nobody's taken out the recycling since Monday, and it's starting to smell.
5. Thanks for helping. It goes much faster with two people.