CELPIP Writing Task 1 vocabulary

The words and phrases

I'm writing about

Opens an email by naming its topic straight away; suits semi-formal messages to landlords or companies.
Example: I'm writing about the heater in my apartment, which has not worked since last Tuesday.

I'm reaching out to

A polite opening that states why you are contacting someone; works for managers and companies.
Example: I'm reaching out to ask whether the community centre still has space in its Saturday swimming class.

I hope this message finds you well

A warm, polite first line before the main point of a semi-formal email.
Example: Dear Ms. Tremblay, I hope this message finds you well after your trip to the East Coast.

just a quick note to

An informal opening for a short, friendly message.
Example: Just a quick note to say thanks for the lovely dinner on Saturday.

I'd like to bring to your attention

Formally points out a problem the reader may not know about; good for complaints to managers.
Example: I'd like to bring to your attention that the back door of our building no longer locks properly.

could you please

A polite, direct way to ask for something; fits almost any email.
Example: Could you please send a technician before Friday, since the forecast says it will drop to minus twenty?

I would be grateful if you could

A very polite, formal request, best for a manager, landlord or company.
Example: I would be grateful if you could give me Thursday off so I can attend my daughter's graduation.

would it be possible to

Asks whether something can be arranged; softer and more flexible than a direct request.
Example: Would it be possible to move my appointment to next week, since I'll be out of town?

I would like to request

States a formal request clearly; useful for time off, repairs or official changes.
Example: I would like to request a parking spot closer to the entrance while my knee heals.

I'm afraid I have to complain about

Opens a complaint politely but firmly, showing you are reluctant but serious.
Example: I'm afraid I have to complain about the loud music coming from the unit above mine every night.

I was disappointed to find that

Expresses dissatisfaction with something you discovered; a calm tone for semi-formal complaints.
Example: I was disappointed to find that the sofa I ordered arrived with a large tear in the cushion.

this has caused

Explains how a problem has affected you; makes a complaint more convincing.
Example: This has caused me to miss two early shifts, because my alarm clock keeps losing power.

the reason I'm asking is that

Introduces the explanation behind your request so the reader understands it.
Example: The reason I'm asking is that my mother is visiting from Manila and I'd like to show her around.

due to

Gives the cause of a situation; slightly more formal than 'because of'.
Example: Due to the snowstorm, I was unable to reach the office on Monday morning.

I sincerely apologize for

A formal, serious apology for a mistake or inconvenience you caused.
Example: I sincerely apologize for missing the team meeting yesterday without letting anyone know.

I'm really sorry about

A friendly, informal apology to a friend or neighbour.
Example: I'm really sorry about the noise on Saturday night; the party went on much longer than planned.

it was never my intention to

Explains that the harm you caused was accidental; softens an apology.
Example: It was never my intention to block your driveway, and I've moved my car to the street.

to make up for it

Offers something to repair a mistake or disappointment after apologizing.
Example: To make up for it, I'd love to take you out for dinner at that new place downtown.

perhaps we could

Gently suggests a solution without sounding pushy; works for formal and friendly emails.
Example: Perhaps we could agree on quiet hours after ten so everyone in the building can sleep.

how about we

An informal, friendly way to suggest a plan to a friend.
Example: How about we meet at the farmers' market on Sunday and grab lunch afterwards?

one option would be to

Proposes a possible solution in a neutral, semi-formal way, leaving room for others.
Example: One option would be to install a second recycling bin near the side entrance.

please let me know if

Invites a reply about a specific condition; common just before the closing.
Example: Please let me know if Tuesday afternoon works for the inspection of the apartment.

thank you for your understanding

A polite closing line when you are asking the reader for patience or flexibility.
Example: Thank you for your understanding while I sort out my childcare situation this week.

thanks again for

Repeats your thanks at the end of an email; friendly and suitable for most readers.
Example: Thanks again for watering my plants while I was away at the cottage.

kind regards

A standard semi-formal sign-off before your name, for managers, landlords and companies.
Example: I appreciate your help with this matter. Kind regards, Daniel Okafor.

can't wait to

Shows excitement about a future plan; informal, for friends and family.
Example: I can't wait to see your new place and meet your puppy next weekend.

take care

A warm, informal closing for a friend or relative.
Example: Say hello to your parents for me. Take care, Sofia.

talk soon

A casual sign-off to a friend, suggesting you will be in touch again shortly.
Example: I'll call you once I know my schedule for the long weekend. Talk soon!

Put them to work on Task 1

Practise Task 1 on the test screen, or see how Task 1 works.