WorkIntermediate
Asking IT for help in English
Everyday English for asking IT for help. Key line: “Could you take a look at my computer? It keeps freezing.”
Full script
Lin
Could you take a look at my computer? It keeps freezing.
Them
Sure. Did it freeze during work, or during cat videos again?
Lin
Honestly, both. I even restarted it and gave it a pep talk.
Them
That's nice emotional support, but let's check the power cable first.
Lin
Oh wow, it was loose. So my speech was totally unnecessary?
Them
Not totally. The computer seems moved by your words now.
Lin
Thanks. Next time I'll call you before I start motivational speaking.
Them
Please do. I'm good with computers; you're good with dramatic speeches.
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
take a look
✓ take a lookAsk someone to check it
Natural when asking for help with a problem
keeps freezing
✓ It keeps freezing.It freezes repeatedly.
keeps + ing = happens again and again
restart
✓ restart itTurn it off and on again
Used for computers and phones
The cable that gives power
✓ power cableThe cable that gives power
Often checked first in IT support
Quick answers
take a look: what to say in English
Say “take a look” — ask someone to check it. Natural when asking for help with a problem.
keeps freezing: what to say in English
Say “It keeps freezing.” — it freezes repeatedly. keeps + ing = happens again and again.
restart: what to say in English
Say “restart it” — turn it off and on again. Used for computers and phones.
The cable that gives power: what to say in English
Say “power cable” — the cable that gives power. Often checked first in IT support.