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Everyday English

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
FREE PRACTICE
Choose one question from the Talking Picture and write your own answer to it. Paste your answer in the comments section or send it to your teacher.

