When you need this

Almost every set of directions is built from the same small words: turn, left, right, straight, on, next to, across from, around the corner. If you know these, you can follow directions in any English-speaking city, and give them too.

Notice the two kinds of "left." "Turn left" is an action: you change direction. "It's on your left" tells you where the place is when you arrive. Listen for "turn" to know you're moving and "on your" to know you're there.

Phrases

change direction

don't turn; keep walking the same way

where the place is when you pass it

at the point where two streets meet

very close, but you need to turn to see it

beside, touching or very close

facing it, with the street in between

with one thing on each side

at the back of something

continue; don't stop or turn yet

turn at the first street on your left

something friendly people say; it means it's very clear

Say it out loud

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

Practice · 3 min

Say the line that fits. Situation on the left, one natural line on the right.

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Say it today

Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.