Buying a SIM card in English
How to buy a prepaid SIM card and ask if it works with your phone.
Full script
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
Use this to ask for a SIM
Not "phone card" (old calling card); use eSIM
Say your main need
data = mobile internet; unlimited data = no limit
Ask if your phone can use it
unlocked = can use other carriers' SIMs
Ask them to set it up
set up = get it ready; then: You're all set!
Quick answers
Say this at the store: what to say in English
Say “I'd like a prepaid SIM card.” — use this to ask for a SIM. Not "phone card" (old calling card); use eSIM.
Mostly for data: what to say in English
Say “I mostly need data.” — say your main need. data = mobile internet; unlimited data = no limit.
Ask first: what to say in English
Say “Does it work with my phone?” — ask if your phone can use it. unlocked = can use other carriers' SIMs.
Easiest option: what to say in English
Say “Could you help me set it up?” — ask them to set it up. set up = get it ready; then: You're all set!