WorkIntermediate
Speaking up in a meeting in English
Everyday English for speaking up in a meeting. Key line: “Could I jump in for a second?”
Full script
Lin
Could I jump in for a second?
Them
Go ahead—I've been waiting for someone to say it.
Lin
I think we should try the simpler plan first.
Them
That makes sense; it saves time and keeps things clear.
Lin
And if it flops, you can all blame my coffee.
Them
Deal, but your coffee idea is weirdly convincing.
Lin
So, can we test it this week and check back?
Them
Works for me—and the coffee gets partial credit.
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
jump in
✓ Could I jump in for a second?Polite way to join in
Polite and natural
go ahead
✓ Go ahead.Ask them to continue
Common reply to let someone continue
makes sense
✓ That makes sense.Say you agree
More natural than just yes
check back
✓ check backCome back to it later
Confirm again later
Quick answers
jump in: what to say in English
Say “Could I jump in for a second?” — polite way to join in. Polite and natural.
go ahead: what to say in English
Say “Go ahead.” — ask them to continue. Common reply to let someone continue.
makes sense: what to say in English
Say “That makes sense.” — say you agree. More natural than just yes.
check back: what to say in English
Say “check back” — come back to it later. Confirm again later.