ChinaAdvanced
Getting a taxi in China with a friend in English (advanced)
Advanced English for getting a taxi in China with a friend. Key line: “Hey, could you tell me if taxis usually pull over here?”
Full script
Lin
Hey, could you tell me if taxis usually pull over here?
Them
Mostly, yeah, but they can be picky at rush hour.
Lin
Got it, my friend's suitcase looks tiny, but it's weirdly heavy.
Them
Then stand a bit farther out and wave like you mean it.
Lin
If one slows down, should I call out the destination, or just hop in?
Them
Say the destination first; some drivers won't do cross-river trips.
Lin
Perfect. And if my friend tries balancing it on his lap, please stop us.
Them
Deal, I'd rather flag a taxi than watch that suitcase win again.
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
to the side
✓ pull overA car stops by you
Used when a car stops at the side near you
wave
✓ wave like you mean itWave clearly
Don't wave too softly or look unsure
destination
✓ call out the destinationSay the destination first
Often said to confirm the destination
get in
✓ hop inget in
More casual than get in
Quick answers
to the side: what to say in English
Say “pull over” — a car stops by you. Used when a car stops at the side near you.
wave: what to say in English
Say “wave like you mean it” — wave clearly. Don't wave too softly or look unsure.
destination: what to say in English
Say “call out the destination” — say the destination first. Often said to confirm the destination.
get in: what to say in English
Say “hop in” — get in. More casual than get in.