Cross-language communication
Translate questions about a restaurant reservation
State the desired date, time and party size clearly, then ask whether a table is available and how the restaurant confirms a reservation. The factual setup can be a statement. Keep the booking status as a request until the restaurant confirms the details.
A text to start with
I want to ask a restaurant in [language] about a table. The date is [date, month spelled out], the time is [time] and the party size is [number]. I also want to ask [specific question, such as whether they take reservations]. Translate the factual setup and questions politely. Ask about availability and how they confirm, without implying that a table is held. Give a back-translation.
Example request. Change the details to fit your situation.Reservation question worksheet
Restaurant and language: [ ] Date (month as a word): [ ] Time: [ ] Party size: [ ] Question about availability: [ ] Question about how they confirm: [ ] Translation checked by: [ ] Status: [asked / confirmed by restaurant on ___ ] Date, time and size from their reply: [ ] Name on booking: [ ] Dietary needs to raise directly with staff: [ ] Arrival or change instructions: [ ]
Numbers, dates and dietary needs
Check that the day and month are in the order the restaurant expects, since numeric formats vary, and write the month as a word if you can. Confirm the time uses their clock style and that party size is a number that cannot be misread. If anyone has a food allergy or dietary need, do not rely on a translated phrase to settle it. Ask to speak with staff directly and have them confirm the details themselves. Make sure nothing reads as a confirmed booking.
Ask another agent to check the result
Compare the date, time and party size with the original, including month and day order. Check that availability is requested and no wording implies an existing reservation. Keep factual setup statements where useful. Flag dietary details that need direct confirmation with restaurant staff.
Send it and confirm in their words
Send the questions yourself through the restaurant's usual contact method. When they reply, read the confirmation closely: date, time, name on the booking and number of guests. If anything differs from what you asked, ask again before relying on it. Save their reply and note any instructions about arrival time or changes.