How to say it in English?

[Anonymous]

Dear Sirs,

I am writing to ask some questions that I run into when I wanted to say it in English.

1. If I would like someone to use only half of the paper to do something. Is it okay to say "write down your idea on the first half of the paper?

2. Someone used to working overtime in order to catch up with his or her work. I am wondering if there is certain English word to describe this situation.

3. Is the "day off" different from holidays and vacations?

Thanks

Grace

 

[MikeNewYork]

Dear Sirs,

I am writing to ask some questions that I run into when I wanted to say it in English.

1. If I would like someone to use only half of the paper to do something. Is it okay to say "write down your idea on the first half of the paper?

Yes, but you might also tell them what you want to happen with the second half.

2. Someone used to working overtime in order to catch up with his or her work. I am wondering if there is certain English word to describe this situation.

"Working overtime" or "working late" sums it up nicely.

3. Is the "day off" different from holidays and vacations?

Thanks

Grace

Yes, in the USA. Normally, people work 5 days a week. Days off refer to the other 2 days. Holidays and vacation are different.

 

[izabela]

Hi,

In addition to Mike's response to your last question, you can also use the 'day off' if you do not come to work in the middle of the week for whatever reason. You would not say, "I am taking a vacation".

Iza

Dear Sirs,

I am writing to ask some questions that I run into when I wanted to say it in English.

1. If I would like someone to use only half of the paper to do something. Is it okay to say "write down your idea on the first half of the paper?

2. Someone used to working overtime in order to catch up with his or her work. I am wondering if there is certain English word to describe this situation.

3. Is the "day off" different from holidays and vacations?

Thanks

Grace

 

[Tdol]

A day off in British English would normally be for a reason other than illness. ;-)