Talking about presents

Talking about presents

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Zespół The Blue Tree

Talking about presents
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THE BLUE TREE

Everyday English

CEF B1

CEFR B1

Intermediate

part one

Go through the flashcards with some useful vocabulary related to talking about gifts and giving.

part two

Answer the questions. Move your mouse over the icons to see the questions.

part three

QUESTION #1

Do you prefer giving or receiving presents?

“I’d say I much prefer giving presents to receiving them. There’s something incredibly rewarding about putting thought and effort into choosing or even creating a gift that feels just right for someone. It’s not just about the item itself but the thought behind it. When you see the surprise or genuine appreciation on their face, it’s a moment that stays with you. It’s as though you’ve managed to brighten their day in a way that words alone might not achieve.

Of course, receiving presents has its charm too. It’s lovely to be on the receiving end of someone else’s
thoughtfulness, especially when the gift shows they’ve really paid attention to what makes you happy or what you’ve been wanting for a while. But personally, I find the process of giving much more
fulfilling.

I think what makes giving so special is the opportunity to strengthen relationships. It’s not just about the material aspect—it’s a way to show appreciation, love, or gratitude. So while receiving gifts is enjoyable,
giving feels like a much richer experience for me. It’s about creating meaningful connections and making others feel valued.”

niezwykle satysfakcjonujący

szczera wdzięczność / prawdziwe docenienie

to tak, jakby

też ma swój urok

troskliwość / uważność wobec innych

dający spełnienie

wzmacniać relacje

przyjemny

wartościowe / głębokie relacje

czuć się docenionym

Question #2

How do you feel about giving presents without a special occasion?

“I really enjoy giving presents without waiting for a special occasion. In fact, I think it makes the
gesture even more meaningful. When there’s no expectation or obligation, it feels like a genuine act of thoughtfulness. It’s a way of saying, “I was thinking about you,” without needing a specific reason to do so.

What I love most about giving surprise gifts is the element of spontaneity. Whether it’s a small token,
like their favorite snack, or something more personal, it often catches people off guard in the best way possible. It can turn an ordinary day into something memorable for both of you.

That being said, I try to strike a balance. I don’t think it’s about the frequency of giving but rather the
sincerity behind it. A well-timed, unexpected gift can say so much more than something given just because it’s expected. So, I’m definitely in favour of gifting without an occasion—it’s a simple yet powerful way to show you care.”

specjalna okazja

w rzeczywistości / tak naprawdę

gest

spontaniczność

drobny upominek / mały gest

zaskakuje ludzi (znienacka)

zwykły dzień

skoro tak / to powiedziawszy / z drugiej strony

znaleźć równowagę

szczerość

dobrze dobrany w czasie

być za czymś / popierać

QUESTION #3

Do you prefer to offer presents which are practical or pure fun?

I’d say I usually go for practical presents, but it really depends on the person. I like giving things people can actually use every day, like a backpack, a thermos, or something for their room. Even a small token can mean a lot if it’s chosen well. When I buy a gift, I try not to rush it — I think about what the person really needs or likes.

That said, I also enjoy giving fun presents from time to time. A funny game, a cool T-shirt, or a little surprise can really make someone’s day. Sometimes I even go the extra mile with the wrapping or a personal note, just to make it more special.

In the end, I like to mix both. What matters most to me is that the person feels happy and feels valued. If they smile when they open the present, I know I picked the right thing.

drobny upominek / mały gest

nie spieszyć się z czymś

sprawić komuś ogromną radość / uprzyjemnić komuś dzień

postarać się bardziej niż zwykle / zrobić coś ponad standard

pakowanie (prezentu), opakowanie

czuć się docenionym

wybrałem / wybrałam

QUESTION #4

How do you feel about giving or receiving cash as a gift?

When it comes to giving cash as a gift, I have mixed feelings. On the one hand, it’s really practical. If you’re not sure what someone is into, giving money is a safe option because they can just pick out something they truly want. It also helps you avoid the pressure of choosing the “perfect” present.

On the other hand, cash can feel a bit impersonal. For me, a gift isn’t only about the thing itself, but about the thought that goes into it. Even a small present that’s chosen with care can mean a lot and feel warmer than just handing over an envelope with money. That said, for things like weddings, graduations, or when someone is saving up for something important, giving cash really makes sense.

As for receiving cash, I’m fine with it, especially if it comes with a nice note, like “This is for that thing you were talking about.” Then it feels less like a transaction and more like a kind gesture. So yes, money does the job — but I still think personal gifts usually stick in your memory longer.

mieć mieszane uczucia

bezpieczna opcja / bezpieczny wybór

bezosobowy

bardzo dużo znaczyć

zakończenia szkoły / rozdania dyplomów

nie mam z tym problemu / jest mi z tym OK

miły gest

spełnia swoją rolę / wystarcza

zapadać w pamięć

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FREE PRACTICE

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