6.

DEMANDING EXPLANATIONS
6.1 Introduction
Sometimes, things happen in such a way that we have to explain the reasons. And at other times
we demand explanations for what has happened. For example, let us imagine you have just
bought a new computer and there is some problem with it. The shop assistant says that the
guarantee does not cover the problem. You demand an explanation to that extent. Study the
following dialogues and practise giving explanations and demanding explanations.
6.2 Sample

Dialogue I (Informal)

Rohan: Why are you so upset, mum?

Mother: Your school Principal had called me up. He said that you were
involved in a
fight with your juniors. I dont understand why you pick up quarrels
with
others!
Rohan: But mum, I didnt do anything. Im no way concerned with it.
Mother: Do you really expect me to believe this? I will talk to your friends as
well and
find out what has happened.

Rohan: Sure. I hope that would clear the misunderstanding.

Dialogue II (Informal)

Ankit: Im really sorry, guys! I would be busy this weekend.

You: Does this mean that you wouldnt be joining us for the weekend trip?
Ankit: Guess so.
You: Thats not fair. We have been eagerly looking forward to be with you.
Ankit: Well make it next time.

Dialogue III

You:
for

(Semi formal)

(in an angry tone) Yesterday I purchased a PC from your shop. I paid

speakers too. But when I went home and opened the packet, the
speakers are
missing. Can you tell me why this has happened?
Shopkeeper: Im terribly sorry, mam! If you can bring the necessary
documents I will
look into the matter immediately.
Dialogue IV

(Formal)

Executive Officer: Good morning, sir. How can I help you?

Rohan:
The outgoing calls of my mobile have been barred since 2 days. I
have been
repeatedly calling your office. I have paid all my bills. In spite of
paying the
bills can you explain why outgoing calls on my mobile have been
barred?
E.O:
Please give me five minutes. I will look into the matter.
Dialogue V

(Formal)

You:
Good morning, Mr. Shukla. Did you call me?
Shukla: Have a seat. Can you submit the report on the Project you have been
working on?
You:
Im finalizing it. Ill submit it after two days, sir.
Shukla: Why is it that it has taken you so long to complete a report? You have
been
working on it for a long time. I want it by this evening.
You:
Ill try to submit it today.
Shukla: Ok.

6.3 Key Vocabulary / Phrases

Can you tell me why...

I don't understand why...
Can you explain why..
Why is it that...
How come...
Does this mean...
Do you really expect me to believe...

6.4

Practise

Work in pairs. Complete the following conversation in a meaningful

manner. Then, practise with your partner.

6.4.1

Teacher: Tomorrow is the last date for submitting your projects. All the project
leaders will submit the report with out any extension.
You: Im sorry, mam! Our work is not ready yet.
Teacher: What? Do you .. that your work is not ready? Yours is the
best group in the class.

6.4.2

Ankit : How are you Rohan? Where have you been all these days?
You: I was here, in Chandigarh only.
Ankit: How come to my calls?
You : Im sorry. I was attending to my grand mother who was in the hospital.
Ankit: Oh. Thats the matter. I was really upset about your silence.
6.4.3

(At the railway reservation counter)

Customer: (in an irritated tone): Ive been waiting in the queue for the last two
hours. Yet my turn hasnt arrived. Can you ..
Clerk at the counter: Im sorry. There is a major problem at the main server. We are
unable to trace it till now.
Customer: Does .that there will be no reservations made today?
Clerk: We are trying to identify the problem and get it fixed soon, sir.
Customer: I dont necessary arrangements are not made
when you know that there will be terrible rush during the summer vacation?

6.4.5

(At the courier office)

A: I had booked a parcel to Hyderabad through your courier service last Wednesday.
Till today it hasnt reached them. Can you.?
B: Please give me the exact date and address. Ill verify it.
A:
B: It has been sent on the same day.
A: Its been ten days now. I dont .
B: Ill talk to our office at Hyderabad and let you know in a minute.
A: Ok.