Лекция: Asking about Health
When an Englishman asks you about your health, he is probably only doing so out of politeness. Unless he knows you have been ill, he is certainly not expecting a detailed medical report, and will be most surprised if you give him one.
A: How's your father keeping?
В: He's been off work for a day or two.
A: What's wrong with him?
B: He's gone down with a cold.
A: Tell him I hope he soon feels better.
В: That's very kind of you. I'll pass it on.
***
— Where's Tony this evening?
— He's not feeling very well.
— Really? What's the trouble?
— I think he must have eaten something.
— Give him my regards and tell him to take things easy.
— Thank you very much. I'll tell him what you said.
***
— How's your brother these days?
— He hasn't been too well just recently.
— I'm sorry to hear that.
— What's the matter?
— I think he's been overworking.
— I hope he soon gets over it.
— Thank you. He'll be pleased to hear you asked after him.
***
— I haven't seen Bob lately. How is he?
— As a matter of fact, he's laid up1.
—Oh dear! What's up with him?
— We don't know, but we're having the doctor in tomorrow.
— Let me know if there's anything I can do.
— Thanks very much. I'll tell him you inquired about him.
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1laid up: ill