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Giving a holiday gift in English (advanced)
Advanced English for giving a holiday gift. Key line: “Hey, before you head out, can I give you your holiday gift?”
Full script
Lin
Hey, before you head out, can I give you your holiday gift?
Them
Of course—wait, is this why you've been acting mysterious all week?
Lin
Maybe. I wrapped it myself, so please ignore the crooked bow.
Them
Now I'm curious—should I be excited or a little concerned?
Lin
Definitely excited. The wrapping looks dramatic, but the gift is actually useful.
Them
That's reassuring. Last year my cousin gave me a scarf for my plant.
Lin
Okay, go on—open it. If the bow falls off, that's part of the experience.
Them
Oh, nice—this is perfect. And honestly, the crooked bow really completes it.
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
leaving
✓ before you head outbefore they go
More natural than before you leave
mysterious
✓ acting mysterioussomeone seems secretive
Can be playful or teasing
ignore
✓ please ignore...Please ignore...
Polite way to soften a small mistake
just right
✓ this is perfectThis is perfect
Natural and sincere for a gift
Quick answers
leaving: what to say in English
Say “before you head out” — before they go. More natural than before you leave.
mysterious: what to say in English
Say “acting mysterious” — someone seems secretive. Can be playful or teasing.
ignore: what to say in English
Say “please ignore...” — please ignore. Polite way to soften a small mistake.
just right: what to say in English
Say “this is perfect” — this is perfect. Natural and sincere for a gift.