Business English Phone-Absence Response

QUIZ

Minami Aoyama who works for ABC Co., Ltd.
One afternoon, when I answered the incoming call, the other person spoke English.

The other party wants Smith to replace him, but Smith seems to be a little out of his seat. As Mr. Aoyama's reply in this case, please select the most suitable one from A to D.

• A.I am sorry, but Mr. Smith is in the restroom.
• B.I am sorry, but Mr. Smith is having a break right now.
• C.I am sorry, but Mr. Smith is away from his desk at the moment.
• D.I am sorry, but Mr. Smith is too busy to talk to you.

Correct answer C

The translation is "Sorry. Smith is currently out of the seat", which is a general response in this case. Please note that "seat" is used in Japanese, but "desk" is used instead of "seat" in English as the expression for "seat".

<Point>

Following C's answer, it's a good idea to check if you need to keep your message as follows.

• Would you like to leave a message?
• Could I take a message?

Explanation of other options

If you're just out of your seat, you don't have to give a specific reason.

• A: This information, even if it is, does not need to be communicated in general.
• B: It is not necessary to tell the recipient that it is a break, as it may give an unpleasant impression to the recipient depending on the situation and time of day.
• D: It's common on a daily basis that your work is busy and it's difficult to answer the phone, but you don't have to tell the other person about that situation.