Making a mild complaint

To make a mild complaint you cansay that: unfortunately, something is wrong.

e.g. ‘Unfortunately, we have not yet received the filing cabinets.’

Аnd then, using the phrases you learnt before request some action:

e.g. ‘Please could you …’

‘We would be grateful if you could …’

‘We would appreciate it if you could …’

1. Match sentences (a) – (d) together with sentences (e) – (h) to make four separate complaints.

a) Unfortunately, one of the machines you sent us was damaged.

b) Unfortunately, we have not yet received your payment.

c) Unfortunately, your driver took the goods to the wrong place.

d) Unfortunately, you forgot to mention the cost of your products.

e) Please could you send us your cheque before 30 June.

f) We would be grateful if you could send us a replacement.

g) We would appreciate it if you could collect them and bring them to our offices.

h) Please could you send your price list as soon as possible.

2. What would you write in these situations? In each case, decide what action you want the company or organisation to take. Follow the example.

a) A company has sent you a bill for the wrong goods.

Unfortunately you sent us a bill for the wrong goods. Please could you send us a correct bill as soon as possible.

b) Your new photocopier has broken down. You have to write to the company who sold it to you.

c) A temporary secretary does not speak English. You have to write to the agency who sent her to you.

d) You keep receiving letters for someone else. You have to write to the post office.

Letter practice

The accountant in your office has just passed you the invoice.

Write a full letter to Minachi, complaining about the typewriter. Remember to:

– say what you are writing about (use a heading)

– say what is wrong

– request some action (you decide!)