WorkIntermediate
Calling in sick in English
Everyday English for calling in sick. Key line: “Hi Sarah, can I call in sick today?”
Full script
Lin
Hi Sarah, can I call in sick today?
Them
Of course. What’s going on—are you feeling okay?
Lin
Not really. I’ve got a fever, and my voice is gone.
Them
Yikes. Please stay home and get some rest.
Lin
Thanks. I sound like a squeaky door right now.
Them
You really do. Do you need me to cover anything?
Lin
I’m okay. I just need sleep and maybe ten teas.
Them
Deal. Feel better soon—and oil that door tomorrow.
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
Leave
✓ call in sickCall to say you're sick
Often for a same-day sick call
Home
✓ stay homeAdvice to rest at home
A natural suggestion when sick
Cover
✓ cover anything?Offer to do something for them?
cover can mean do it for now
Kind wish
✓ Feel better soon.Say this to a sick person
Very common for someone sick
Quick answers
Leave: what to say in English
Say “call in sick” — call to say you're sick. Often for a same-day sick call.
Home: what to say in English
Say “stay home” — advice to rest at home. A natural suggestion when sick.
Cover: what to say in English
Say “cover anything?” — offer to do something for them. cover can mean do it for now.
Kind wish: what to say in English
Say “Feel better soon.” — say this to a sick person. Very common for someone sick.