COLLOQUIAL ENGLISH

Colloquial omissions

 In informal, spoken English, we often omit unstressed words at the beginning of the sentence
(pronouns, articles, etc.) provided the meaning is clear. These words are not stressed in spoken
English when they are included in a sentence.
Articles
Why did you catch the bus?
(The) Trains aren't running today.
Possessive pronouns
Are you OK?
No. (My) Head hurts. I think I've got a migraine.
Subject pronouns
What did you say?
(I) Can't hear you! The music's too loud.
 Auxiliary verbs and personal pronouns at the beginning of questions
(Have you) Been to the cinema recently?
No. What's on?
(Do you) Need a lift?
 A negative form is sometimes replaced by not.
(There isn’t) Not a cloud in the sky.
How' s John? (He isn't) Not happy, I'm afraid.

Read the dialogue and cross out any words that you think could be omitted in normal,
colloquial speech. (You may have to make other minor changes as a result.)

Sam Are you on your way home?

Colin No. I'm just hanging around.
Sam Do you fancy a coffee?
Colin Sure.
Sam It's my turn to pay.
Colin Thanks. So, how are you?
Sam I'm good_ How are you?
Colin I can't grumble. Have you heard any good gossip recently?
Sam I have, as it happens.
Colin Well, go on then. Spill the beans!
Sam Well, apparently Ben and Molly have split up.
Colin You're kidding! Really?
Sam But they haven't told people yet. So don't say a word to anyone!
Colin I understand.
Sam Do you promise?
Colin Yes!
Sam OK. Would you like another coffee?
Colin No, thanks. I'd better make a move_
Sam OK. I'll see you later.
Colin Sure. It was nice talking to you.