In a Taxi – Giving Your Destination
Welcome to Hello English! Hailing a taxi in a US city is easy—but knowing how to clearly give your destination in English ensures you get where you need to go without confusion. This lesson gives you a realistic conversation and essential vocabulary for one of the most common travel interactions.
Watch this short, realistic conversation between a passenger and a taxi driver. Perfect for listening practice!
Taxi Conversation
Characters:
• Nina – the passenger
• Carlos – the taxi driver
Nina: Hi!
Carlos: Hey! Where to?
Nina: Downtown, please.
Carlos: Sure. Any specific address?
Nina: Yes, 320 Main Street.
Carlos: Got it. Near City Hall?
Nina: Exactly.
Carlos: Should take about 15 minutes.
Nina: Great.
Carlos: Meter’s running—$3.50 base fare.
Nina: Okay.
Carlos: Can I take the highway?
Nina: Yes, that’s fine.
Carlos: We’re here!
Nina: Thank you!
💡 This dialogue is perfect for audio or video practice! It’s set in a real US taxi ride and uses short, clear sentences with practical terms like “downtown,” “320 Main Street,” and “meter’s running.” The rhythm is natural and easy for beginners to follow and repeat.
Essential Taxi Vocabulary
Learn these key terms to communicate your destination clearly:
- Where to? – the driver’s common first question
- Downtown – the central area of a city
- 320 Main Street – a full street address (number + street name)
- Near City Hall – a landmark to help with location
- Meter’s running – the fare is being calculated automatically
- Base fare – the starting price (e.g., $3.50)
- Highway – a fast road (may cost more due to tolls)
Other Useful Phrases
- “How much will it cost?”
- “Can you drop me at the corner?”
- “Is there a flat rate to the airport?”
- “Do you take card or cash only?”
Practice Tip
Practice saying “Downtown, please” and “320 Main Street”—these are the two most common ways to give your destination in a US taxi!
Why This Matters
Whether you’re:
• Arriving at an airport and heading to your hotel
• Going to a meeting or event in the city
• Traveling without a car in a new place
…this conversation helps you get to your destination smoothly and safely.
Now you’re ready to give your destination in a taxi in English—clearly and confidently! Bookmark this guide, or try our interactive quiz to test your travel vocabulary.
Safe rides and happy learning! 🚕
