Hi, this is Ana.
I’m scheduled to work at nine today.
English for Work · Help in Your Language
How to Call in Sick at Work in English
To call in sick to work, you can say: “Hi, this is Ana. I’m not feeling well, and I won’t be able to come in today” (Hi, it’s Ana. I’m not feeling well and can’t come to work today). Identify yourself, state which shift you can’t cover, and ask what the next step is.
English Phrases with Explanations in Your Language
These original examples help you practice the language. Adapt the message to your situation and your workplace's notification procedure.
I’m not feeling well.
I won’t be able to come in today.
I need to take a sick day.
Who else should I notify?
I’m not sure when I’ll be back.
I’ll update you tomorrow morning.
Could you say that again, please?
The line is noisy.
Dialogue for Practicing Out Loud
Read one role and then the other. The explanations help you understand; try repeating afterward without looking at them.
- Manager
Kettle & Cod. This is Vinnie.
- Employee
Hi Vinnie, this is Ana. I’m not feeling well, and I can’t come in for my shift today.
- Manager
Thanks for letting me know. Can you call me tomorrow morning?
- Employee
Yes. I’ll call you before eight. Is there anyone else I should notify?
How to Adapt Your Responses
- “Call in sick” means to notify work that you won’t be coming due to illness. It isn’t directly translated word for word.
- If you notify by message, include your name and shift: “Hi Vinnie, this is Ana. I’m sick and can’t work my 9 a.m. shift today. Please let me know what I should do next.”
- If you don’t know when you’ll return, say so. Practice “I’m not sure yet” (I don’t know yet) instead of promising a date.
Your Turn to Speak
Without reading, say your name, the shift you can’t attend, and when you’ll check back in. Then repeat the call with soft background noise and practice asking for repetition.
Explore the Call to the Manager at Kettle & Cod →
The scene card is in English. In the app, you can choose your language for instructions and help.
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