CELPIP phrases for Speaking and Writing

I think {subject} will {action} because {evidence}.

Example: I think the cyclist will stop because the traffic light is red.

When to use it: Use when a visible clue supports what you think will happen next.

Links a prediction to clear evidence instead of making an unsupported guess.

{subject} is getting ready to {action}.

Example: The woman is getting ready to board the bus.

When to use it: Use when a person is clearly preparing for an immediate action.

Identifies an action in progress and predicts the logical next step clearly.

First, {first event} will happen, and then {subject} will {next action}.

Example: First, the bus will arrive, and then the passengers will get on.

When to use it: Use when two events are likely to happen in a clear order.

Organizes future events logically and makes the sequence easy to follow.

Based on {evidence}, it is likely that {subject} will {action}.

Example: Based on the dark clouds, it is likely that the players will leave the field.

When to use it: Use when you can point to a specific clue before predicting an outcome.

Uses precise likelihood language and connects the outcome to visual evidence.

{subject} appears to be preparing to {action}, as {evidence}.

Example: The customer appears to be preparing to pay, as she is reaching for her wallet.

When to use it: Use when body language or an object shows that an action is about to happen.

Uses cautious interpretation and supporting detail to make the prediction precise.

After {first event}, {subject} will probably {next action}.

Example: After the server brings the bill, the couple will probably pay and leave.

When to use it: Use when one visible event is likely to trigger the next action.

Uses a subordinate time clause and appropriate probability language.

Judging by {evidence}, I would expect {subject} to {action} before long.

Example: Judging by the long checkout line, I would expect another cashier to open a register before long.

When to use it: Use when several details make one near-future outcome reasonably predictable.

Combines natural hedging, evidence and a clear time reference with fluent control.

With {evidence}, {subject} seems poised to {action}.

Example: With his suitcase beside him and ticket in hand, the traveller seems poised to board the train.

When to use it: Use when several details show that someone is ready to act immediately.

Expresses an imminent action concisely while integrating multiple visual clues.

Once {first event} occurs, {next event} is likely to follow.

Example: Once the rain begins, the outdoor concert is likely to be moved inside.

When to use it: Use when the second outcome depends directly on the first event.

Shows a clear conditional sequence with concise, natural prediction language.

I think {option} is the better choice.

Example: I think expanding the bus service is the better choice.

When to use it: Use when you need to state your position clearly at the beginning.

Gives a direct, easy-to-identify position with correct sentence structure.

{option} is more practical because {reason}.

Example: Online registration is more practical because people can complete it at home.

When to use it: Use when convenience, feasibility or ease of use is your main criterion.

Evaluates an option using a clear practical reason.

I prefer {option} because it costs less.

Example: I prefer repairing the playground because it costs less.

When to use it: Use when affordability is the main reason for your opinion.

States a clear preference and supports it with a relevant cost reason.

In my view, {option} is the better choice because {reason}.

Example: In my view, expanding the bus service is the better choice because it would reduce traffic.

When to use it: Use when you want to state a position and immediately support it.

Combines a clear opinion with a focused reason using a precise connector.

From a practical point of view, {option} makes more sense because {reason}.

Example: From a practical point of view, online registration makes more sense because it reduces waiting time.

When to use it: Use when you want to judge an option by how easily it can be implemented.

Frames the opinion around a specific criterion and supports it logically.

I would choose {option}, since it offers better value for the cost.

Example: I would choose repairing the playground, since it offers better value for the cost.

When to use it: Use when an option provides stronger benefits for the money spent.

Uses value-based reasoning rather than focusing only on the lowest price.

On balance, I would favour {option}, largely because {reason}.

Example: On balance, I would favour expanding the bus service, largely because it would improve access across the city.

When to use it: Use after considering more than one side but choosing a clear position.

Signals balanced judgment and supports the final position with nuanced reasoning.

When practicality is the main consideration, {option} stands out because {reason}.

Example: When practicality is the main consideration, online registration stands out because it is faster and easier to manage.

When to use it: Use when practical implementation is more important than other advantages.

Prioritizes a criterion explicitly and delivers a focused comparative judgment.

From a financial standpoint, {option} is the more sensible choice because {reason}.

Example: From a financial standpoint, repairing the playground is the more sensible choice because it would serve families without requiring a major new investment.

When to use it: Use when you want to weigh cost against the expected benefit.

Applies a financial criterion and explains the judgment with precise reasoning.

{idea} is important because {reason}.

Example: Flexible work hours are important because employees have different family responsibilities.

When to use it: Use when giving one direct reason for an opinion or recommendation.

Connects a main idea to a relevant supporting reason.

The main reason is {reason}.

Example: The main reason is that the new location is easier to reach.

When to use it: Use when identifying the strongest reason among several possibilities.

Signals which supporting point should receive the most attention.

{subject} could {result} because {cause}.

Example: Someone could fall because the sidewalk is covered with ice.

When to use it: Use when explaining a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

Shows logical connection between a condition and its likely result.

One reason {idea} matters is that this approach {benefit}.

Example: One reason flexible work hours matter is that this approach helps employees manage family responsibilities.

When to use it: Use when developing a position with one focused supporting point.

Introduces a reason clearly and explains its practical benefit.

The most important reason to {action} is that {benefit}.

Example: The most important reason to choose the new location is that more residents can reach it by public transit.

When to use it: Use when ranking one reason above the others.

Prioritizes the argument and connects an action to a specific benefit.

{cause} could lead to {result}, which is why {action} is necessary.

Example: The icy sidewalk could lead to a serious fall, which is why immediate salting is necessary.

When to use it: Use when a consequence supports a recommendation or prediction.

Builds a complete reasoning chain from cause to consequence to action.

The main rationale for {idea} is that this approach enables {group} to {benefit}.

Example: The main rationale for flexible work hours is that this approach enables employees to manage family responsibilities without sacrificing productivity.

When to use it: Use when presenting the central justification for a position.

Uses precise justification language and links the idea to a concrete outcome.

What makes {action} particularly worthwhile is its ability to {benefit}.

Example: What makes choosing the new location particularly worthwhile is its ability to serve residents who depend on public transit.

When to use it: Use when emphasizing why one benefit is especially significant.

Highlights the decisive value of an action through natural emphasis.

Given that {cause} could result in {consequence}, there is a strong case for {action}.

Example: Given that the icy sidewalk could result in a serious injury, there is a strong case for salting it immediately.

When to use it: Use when a possible consequence provides strong justification for action.

Uses conditional cause and formal justification to support a response.

For example, I once {experience}, and it {result}.

Example: For example, I once joined a carpool, and it reduced my travel costs.

When to use it: Use when a personal experience directly supports your point.

Adds relevant first-hand support instead of leaving the opinion unexplained.

For example, if {situation}, {result} could happen.

Example: For example, if a city adds more bus routes, fewer people could need to drive.

When to use it: Use when a realistic imagined situation can clarify your opinion.

Shows the practical effect of an idea through a relevant hypothetical example.

For example, {action} can lead to {first result} and then {second result}.

Example: For example, offering flexible hours can reduce stress and then improve attendance.

When to use it: Use when showing two connected consequences of an action.

Explains how one decision can produce a logical sequence of results.

A good example from my own experience is when I {experience}; as a result, {result}.

Example: A good example from my own experience is when I joined a carpool; as a result, my travel costs dropped significantly.

When to use it: Use when connecting a personal example to a clear outcome.

Uses a specific experience and an explicit result to strengthen the argument.

Consider a situation in which {situation}; in that case, {result}.

Example: Consider a situation in which a city adds more bus routes; in that case, fewer residents may need to drive.

When to use it: Use when illustrating a likely consequence without claiming it has already happened.

Develops the argument through a controlled hypothetical scenario and consequence.

For instance, when {action}, it can {first result}, which may then {second result}.

Example: For instance, when employers offer flexible hours, it can reduce stress, which may then improve attendance.

When to use it: Use when explaining how one consequence creates another.

Uses a relative clause to develop a clear cause-and-effect chain.

My own experience illustrates this well: after I {experience}, I found that {result}.

Example: My own experience illustrates this well: after I joined a carpool, I found that my monthly travel costs fell substantially.

When to use it: Use when introducing concise personal evidence in a polished way.

Integrates first-hand evidence and its significance with fluent sentence control.

To illustrate, imagine that {situation}; the likely outcome would be {result}.

Example: To illustrate, imagine that a city adds frequent bus routes to underserved areas; the likely outcome would be reduced dependence on private vehicles.

When to use it: Use when a carefully framed hypothetical example strengthens a broader argument.

Uses precise hypothetical reasoning while avoiding unsupported factual claims.

For instance, {action} may initially {first result}; over time, this can translate into {second result}.

Example: For instance, offering flexible hours may initially reduce employee stress; over time, this can translate into more consistent attendance.

When to use it: Use when distinguishing an immediate effect from a longer-term outcome.

Shows temporal progression and develops consequences with precise, natural phrasing.

{option one} is better than {option two} because {reason}.

Example: The train is better than the bus because it is faster.

When to use it: Use when choosing between two options and giving one clear reason.

Makes a direct comparison and supports the preferred choice with a relevant reason.

Both {item one} and {item two} have {shared feature}.

Example: Both the downtown apartment and the suburban apartment have large windows.

When to use it: Use when identifying an important similarity before discussing differences.

Shows accurate comparison by identifying a feature shared by both choices.

{option one} costs less than {option two}.

Example: The monthly transit pass costs less than driving to work every day.

When to use it: Use when price is the clearest difference between two options.

States a clear comparative fact using accurate cost language.

Compared with {option two}, {option one} is a better choice because it {benefit}.

Example: Compared with the bus, the train is a better choice because it reduces travel time.

When to use it: Use when highlighting the main advantage of your preferred option.

Uses an explicit comparison and connects the advantage to a practical benefit.

Although {item one} and {item two} both {shared feature}, {item one} differs because it {difference}.

Example: Although the downtown apartment and the suburban apartment both receive plenty of natural light, the downtown apartment differs because it includes a balcony.

When to use it: Use when moving from a shared feature to one meaningful difference.

Combines similarity and contrast in one controlled complex sentence.

While {option two} may offer {advantage}, {option one} is more affordable and still provides {benefit}.

Example: While driving may offer more privacy, a transit pass is more affordable and still provides reliable transportation.

When to use it: Use when the cheaper choice still meets the main need.

Acknowledges the rival option while comparing affordability and practical value.

When the two options are weighed against each other, {option one} has the edge because it {benefit}.

Example: When the two options are weighed against each other, the train has the edge because it offers a faster and more predictable commute.

When to use it: Use when presenting a confident overall comparison after considering both choices.

Synthesizes both options and delivers a precise, evidence-based preference.

The two {items} are similar in that they both {shared feature}; however, {item one} stands apart because it {difference}.

Example: The two apartments are similar in that they both receive ample daylight; however, the first stands apart because it includes private outdoor space.

When to use it: Use when making a nuanced comparison that begins with common ground.

Balances similarity and contrast while emphasizing a distinguishing feature.

From a cost-benefit perspective, {option one} offers better value than {option two}, since it {benefit} at a lower cost.

Example: From a cost-benefit perspective, a transit pass offers better value than driving, since it provides dependable transportation at a lower monthly cost.

When to use it: Use when comparing the value received for the money spent.

Evaluates both cost and benefit, producing a more sophisticated comparison.

You should {action} because {reason}.

Example: You should speak to your supervisor because the schedule is affecting your classes.

When to use it: Use when giving clear, direct advice supported by one reason.

Provides an actionable recommendation and explains why it is appropriate.

First, you should {action}.

Example: First, you should write down the dates when the problem happened.

When to use it: Use when the listener needs a clear starting point.

Organizes the advice and identifies an immediate action.

If {condition}, you should {action}.

Example: If the landlord does not reply, you should send a written follow-up.

When to use it: Use when the advice depends on a possible future condition.

Uses a correct conditional to match the recommendation to the situation.

I would recommend {action}, since it would {benefit}.

Example: I would recommend speaking to your supervisor, since it would give you a chance to explain the scheduling conflict.

When to use it: Use when offering supportive advice and identifying the expected benefit.

Uses a polite recommendation form and links it to a practical outcome.

As a first step, I suggest {action} so that {benefit}.

Example: As a first step, I suggest writing down the dates so that you have a clear record of the problem.

When to use it: Use when the first action creates information, proof or preparation.

Sequences the advice and explains the purpose of the initial step.

If {condition}, it may be best to {action}.

Example: If the landlord does not reply within two days, it may be best to contact the property manager.

When to use it: Use when suggesting a next step without sounding too forceful.

Combines a realistic condition with appropriately softened advice.

Given {situation}, the most effective course of action would be to {action}.

Example: Given the repeated scheduling conflict, the most effective course of action would be to request a permanent adjustment.

When to use it: Use when the situation clearly calls for one strong, practical response.

Evaluates the situation and presents a precise, professional course of action.

Before making any further decisions, it would be wise to {action}, as this would {benefit}.

Example: Before making any further decisions, it would be wise to document each incident, as this would support a formal complaint if necessary.

When to use it: Use when careful preparation should come before a larger decision.

Uses sequencing, cautious advice and forward planning in one controlled sentence.

Should {condition} arise, I would recommend {action} to {benefit}.

Example: Should another delay arise, I would recommend contacting the property manager to prevent the issue from continuing.

When to use it: Use when presenting a polished contingency plan.

Uses an advanced conditional inversion and states the intended outcome precisely.

Could you please {action}?

Example: Could you please lower the music after 10 p.m.?

When to use it: Use when making a clear and respectful request.

Uses an appropriate modal and polite marker for a direct request.

I would appreciate it if you could {action}.

Example: I would appreciate it if you could send me the corrected invoice.

When to use it: Use when making a professional request in speech or writing.

Expresses courtesy while stating the desired action clearly.

Could you please {action} by {time}?

Example: Could you please confirm the appointment by Friday?

When to use it: Use when the requested action must be completed by a specific time.

States both the action and deadline clearly while remaining courteous.

Would you be able to {action} when {condition}?

Example: Would you be able to lower the music when it gets late?

When to use it: Use when making a request while referring to a relevant condition.

Softens the request and connects it to the situation that created the need.

I would greatly appreciate it if you could {action} as soon as possible.

Example: I would greatly appreciate it if you could send me the corrected invoice as soon as possible.

When to use it: Use when requesting action soon without imposing a strict deadline.

Combines appreciation with a tactful indication of timing.

If possible, could you {action} by {time} so that {benefit}?

Example: If possible, could you confirm the appointment by Friday so that I can arrange transportation?

When to use it: Use when giving a deadline and explaining why it matters.

Softens the deadline and supports it with a practical reason.

I was hoping you might be willing to {action}, particularly when {condition}.

Example: I was hoping you might be willing to lower the music, particularly when it gets late on weeknights.

When to use it: Use when making a sensitive request that requires a diplomatic tone.

Uses layered softening while keeping the requested action specific.

I would be grateful if you could arrange to {action}, as this would {benefit}.

Example: I would be grateful if you could arrange to send the corrected invoice, as this would allow me to complete the payment promptly.

When to use it: Use when a professional request benefits from a brief explanation of its purpose.

Pairs diplomatic language with a clear outcome, making the request easier to justify.

If it can be accommodated, I would appreciate confirmation of {detail} by {time}, which would allow me to {benefit}.

Example: If it can be accommodated, I would appreciate confirmation of the appointment by Friday, which would allow me to arrange transportation in advance.

When to use it: Use when requesting time-sensitive confirmation in a formal context.

Combines conditional politeness, a precise deadline, and a clear logistical reason.

I understand your opinion, but I disagree because {reason}.

Example: I understand your opinion, but I disagree because the proposal would be too expensive.

When to use it: Use when disagreeing clearly while remaining respectful.

States a different position and supports it with a relevant reason.

I do not think that idea will work because {practical problem}.

Example: I do not think that idea will work because many residents do not have cars.

When to use it: Use when an idea seems unrealistic in practice.

Evaluates feasibility and gives a concrete obstacle.

I see the situation differently because {alternative reason}.

Example: I see the situation differently because the decline may be caused by higher prices.

When to use it: Use when offering another explanation for the same situation.

Introduces a distinct interpretation and supports it with a plausible reason.

I understand that point; however, I disagree because {reason}.

Example: I understand that point; however, I disagree because the proposal would place too much pressure on the budget.

When to use it: Use when acknowledging another view before presenting your objection.

Uses respectful acknowledgement and a formal contrast connector to organize disagreement.

That idea may sound reasonable, but it would be difficult to implement because {practical problem}.

Example: That idea may sound reasonable, but it would be difficult to implement because many residents do not have access to a car.

When to use it: Use when distinguishing an attractive idea from its practical limitations.

Uses concession and feasibility language to explain why the proposal may fail.

I would interpret the situation differently, since {alternative reason}.

Example: I would interpret the situation differently, since the decline may be linked to higher prices rather than lower interest.

When to use it: Use when proposing a more convincing explanation than the one given.

Uses cautious causal language to present an alternative interpretation.

Although I can see the reasoning behind that view, I would challenge it on the grounds that {reason}.

Example: Although I can see the reasoning behind that view, I would challenge it on the grounds that the proposal would place an unreasonable burden on the budget.

When to use it: Use when disagreeing firmly with the logic behind a position.

Balances diplomacy with a precise, evidence-oriented objection.

While the proposal is appealing in principle, its practicality is questionable given that {practical problem}.

Example: While the proposal is appealing in principle, its practicality is questionable given that many residents lack reliable access to a car.

When to use it: Use when evaluating the gap between a proposal’s intention and its feasibility.

Shows nuanced evaluation by contrasting principle with real-world implementation.

I am not convinced that this is the best interpretation; an equally plausible explanation is that {alternative reason}.

Example: I am not convinced that declining attendance reflects lower interest; an equally plausible explanation is that higher prices have discouraged participation.

When to use it: Use when questioning a conclusion and replacing it with a credible alternative.

Challenges an inference carefully and advances a logically developed explanation.

In the foreground, {person or object} is {action or position}.

Example: In the foreground, a young boy is holding a red balloon.

When to use it: Use when identifying the most noticeable person or object closest to the viewer.

Uses clear location language to organize a scene description for the listener.

{person one} is {action one}, and {person two} is {action two}.

Example: A cashier is scanning groceries, and a customer is placing bags in a cart.

When to use it: Use when describing two actions happening at the same time.

Reports multiple visible actions clearly with correct coordination.

{person} is wearing {clothing} and carrying {object}.

Example: The woman is wearing a blue raincoat and carrying an umbrella.

When to use it: Use when clothing or an object helps identify a person in the picture.

Selects concrete visual details that make the description easy to follow.

In the foreground, {person or object} is {action}, while {background detail} can be seen behind them.

Example: In the foreground, a young boy is holding a red balloon, while several families can be seen behind him.

When to use it: Use when connecting the main foreground action with an important background detail.

Organizes two visual details with accurate spatial language and a controlled complex sentence.

While {person one} is {action one}, {person two} is {action two}.

Example: While a cashier is scanning groceries, a customer is placing bags in a cart.

When to use it: Use when showing that two related actions are happening simultaneously.

Uses a time clause to connect concurrent actions smoothly.

{person}, who is dressed in {clothing}, is carrying {object}.

Example: The woman, who is dressed in a blue raincoat, is carrying an umbrella.

When to use it: Use when adding appearance details without interrupting the main description.

Uses a relative clause to integrate identifying details naturally.

Dominating the foreground is {person or object}, while {background activity} unfolds in the distance.

Example: Dominating the foreground is a young boy holding a red balloon, while a community fair unfolds in the distance.

When to use it: Use when giving the listener a polished overview of the scene from front to back.

Creates a fluent visual hierarchy and varies sentence structure without losing clarity.

As {person one} {action one}, {person two} appears to be {action two}, suggesting that {interpretation}.

Example: As the cashier scans the groceries, the customer appears to be arranging the bags, suggesting that they are nearly finished shopping.

When to use it: Use when describing simultaneous actions and adding a reasonable interpretation.

Combines observation and cautious interpretation in a fluent, well-controlled sentence.

Dressed in {clothing} and carrying {object}, {person} stands out because {distinctive detail}.

Example: Dressed in a blue raincoat and carrying an umbrella, the woman stands out because everyone else is wearing summer clothes.

When to use it: Use when a person’s appearance is especially noticeable or unusual.

Fronts descriptive detail and explains its significance with natural sentence variety.

I know that {drawback}, but {main point}.

Example: I know that public transit can be crowded, but it is still cheaper than driving.

When to use it: Use when recognizing a disadvantage before maintaining your position.

Shows balance and keeps the main argument clear.

{other option} has the advantage of {benefit}, but {preferred option} is better because {reason}.

Example: Working from home has the advantage of convenience, but working in the office is better because communication is easier.

When to use it: Use when the opposing option has a real benefit that does not outweigh your reason.

Recognizes a competing advantage and then justifies the preferred choice.

This may be true when {condition}, but not when {different condition}.

Example: This may be true when traffic is light, but not when roads are congested.

When to use it: Use when a claim is valid only under certain conditions.

Limits an overgeneralization by distinguishing two situations.

Although {drawback}, {main point}.

Example: Although public transit can be crowded, it remains a more affordable option than driving.

When to use it: Use when conceding a limitation in a concise, controlled sentence.

Uses a concession clause to present a balanced but decisive position.

While {other option} does offer {benefit}, I still favour {preferred option} because {reason}.

Example: While working from home does offer greater convenience, I still favour office work because it allows faster collaboration.

When to use it: Use when acknowledging the strongest benefit of the alternative.

Creates a fair comparison and clearly explains why the preferred option remains stronger.

That may be true in cases where {condition}; however, it does not apply when {different condition}.

Example: That may be true in cases where traffic is light; however, it does not apply when roads are heavily congested.

When to use it: Use when accepting a narrow exception but rejecting a broad claim.

Defines the limits of an argument with precise conditional contrast.

Admittedly, {drawback}; nevertheless, {main point}.

Example: Admittedly, public transit can be crowded during peak hours; nevertheless, it remains substantially more affordable than driving.

When to use it: Use when openly accepting a weakness before reaffirming the stronger argument.

Combines explicit concession with a precise transition back to the main position.

There is no denying that {other option} offers {benefit}; even so, {preferred option} is more compelling because {reason}.

Example: There is no denying that remote work offers greater convenience; even so, office work is more compelling because it supports faster collaboration.

When to use it: Use when granting a significant opposing advantage while defending your conclusion.

Signals intellectual fairness and returns decisively to the stronger criterion.

The point is valid under {condition}, but its relevance diminishes considerably when {different condition}.

Example: The point is valid under light traffic conditions, but its relevance diminishes considerably when the roads are heavily congested.

When to use it: Use when explaining why an argument depends heavily on context.

Qualifies the claim by evaluating how changing conditions affect its strength.

In the end, I learned that {lesson}.

Example: In the end, I learned that asking for help early can prevent bigger problems.

When to use it: Use when ending a personal experience with the lesson you gained.

Gives the narrative a clear purpose and a complete ending.

Finally, {result}, and I felt {emotion}.

Example: Finally, we solved the problem, and I felt relieved.

When to use it: Use when ending a story with the final outcome and your reaction.

Completes the event sequence and communicates personal response.

I hope you can {requested action} as soon as possible.

Example: I hope you can arrange the repair as soon as possible.

When to use it: Use when ending an email by restating the action you need.

Leaves the reader with a clear and relevant requested resolution.

Looking back, the experience taught me that {lesson}.

Example: Looking back, the experience taught me that asking for help early can prevent a problem from becoming worse.

When to use it: Use when reflecting on the meaning of a past experience.

Adds reflective closure and clearly communicates the lesson learned.

Eventually, {result}, which left me feeling {emotion}.

Example: Eventually, we solved the problem, which left me feeling extremely relieved.

When to use it: Use when closing a personal account with a result and emotional effect.

Uses a relative clause to connect the outcome naturally to the speaker’s reaction.

I would appreciate it if you could {requested action} within the next few days.

Example: I would appreciate it if you could arrange the repair within the next few days.

When to use it: Use when closing a professional request politely.

Uses appropriate formal register and states the desired next step clearly.

In retrospect, the experience reinforced the importance of {lesson}.

Example: In retrospect, the experience reinforced the importance of seeking help before a manageable problem becomes a serious one.

When to use it: Use when concluding a personal story with a mature reflection.

Ends the narrative with concise insight and sophisticated reflective language.

Ultimately, {result}; more than anything, the outcome left me feeling {emotion}.

Example: Ultimately, we resolved the problem before the deadline; more than anything, the outcome left me feeling deeply relieved.

When to use it: Use when giving the story a decisive result and emphasizing its personal impact.

Provides controlled narrative closure and highlights the significance of the outcome.

I would be grateful if you could {requested action} and confirm {follow-up detail}.

Example: I would be grateful if you could arrange the repair and confirm the expected service date.

When to use it: Use when the email requires both action and written confirmation.

Specifies the resolution and follow-up information needed for an efficient response.