Paying by card in English
What to say when you want to pay by card, tap, and try another card.
Full script
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
Ask if cards are OK.
Cash: Can I pay in cash? Phone: Do you take mobile pay?
Say you want to tap.
tap = tap card, insert = put in, swipe = use stripe
I'll try another card.
declined = rejected; enable overseas use first
Polite: ask for a bag too.
In many places, bags cost extra. Staff may ask Is a small fee OK?
Quick answers
Ask before paying: what to say in English
Say “Can I pay by card?” — ask if cards are OK. Cash: Can I pay in cash? Phone: Do you take mobile pay?
Staff asks “Tap or insert”: what to say in English
Say “Tap, please.” — say you want to tap. tap = tap card, insert = put in, swipe = use stripe.
Staff says “It says declined”: what to say in English
Say “Let me try another card.” — i'll try another card. declined = rejected; enable overseas use first.
After paying: what to say in English
Say “Could I get a bag, too?” — polite: ask for a bag too. In many places, bags cost extra. Staff may ask Is a small fee OK?