Speaking guide
Talk to a doctor in English
At the doctor's, details matter and there is little time. Saying where it hurts, since when, and what makes it better or worse in a few clear sentences gets you a better appointment. This is language practice, not medical advice.
A sample to rehearse
Hi, doctor. I've had a pain in my lower back for about two weeks. It started after I moved some furniture.
It's worse in the morning and when I sit for a long time, and it gets a bit better when I walk. I've taken paracetamol, which helps for a few hours.
I don't have any other problems, and I'm not taking any other medicine. Should I be worried about it?
Change the details to your own, then practise your version out loud.
How to practise it
- Write it firstPut what you want to say into short sentences. Write what the problem is, when it started, what makes it better or worse, and anything you have already taken.
- Say it out loud and record itSay it out loud, or to the camera. Notice where you stop in the first take; it should sound like talking, not reading.
- Listen back, then try againListen to your take and try the same script once more. A third take is usually much smoother than the first.
Common mistakes
Instead of I have pain in my back since two weeks.
say I've had a pain in my back for two weeks.
Present perfect, and “for” with a length of time.
Instead of My stomach is hurting me very much.
say I have a bad stomach ache. / My stomach really hurts.
Shorter and more natural.
Instead of Saying the medicine's brand name only.
say I've been taking paracetamol, 500 milligrams, twice a day.
Name, dose and how often is what the doctor needs.
Useful phrases
- I've had … for … days.
- It hurts when I …
- It gets worse when … / better when …
- I'm allergic to …
- Is there anything I should avoid?