54. It servers you right - 3. Responding Gambits

Conversation Gambits - Eric Keller, Sylvia T Warner 1988

54. It servers you right
3. Responding Gambits

Usually when we hear bad news, we are sympathetic Sometimes, however, it is difficult to be sympathetic if we feel that the person deserved' what happened — for example, if they never lock their car and it is stolen.

Example dialogue:

I’ve just had my car stolen!

— It serves you right. You should have locked it.

I’ve just been thrown out of my flat!

— What did you expect? You shouldn't have had so many wild parties.

Work in pairs, taking turns to react. Use these ideas and the phrases in the list.

1. lost your job

— late most days

2. lost your driving licence

— always speeding

3. got an electric shock

— didn't switch off the electricity before trying to mend the light

4. went to sleep during the exam

— went to a party till 4 in the morning

5. had a fight with Pete

— rude to him

6. didn't get the £50 back from Bill

— warned you

7. got lost in Paris

— told you to take a map

Make up your own responses to the following

8. I've just got a parking ticket.

9. I was ill last night.

10. I was late for the train

11. There’s something wrong with my alarm clock.

12. I've just been ignored by Mary.

Discussion

Can you name a misfortune which you deserved'.

It serves you right.

It’s your own fault.

What did you expect?

Perhaps that’ll teach you.