Quick Get Well
Choose a reply · Understand the tone
Replying when a client is unwell
Practise a kind reply that keeps promises realistic.
The situation
A client emails that they are unwell and may reply slowly this week. Your usual emails are brief and friendly. They have not requested new dates, and you cannot authorize deadline changes.
Why the wording matters
Read the choices in context.
Keep a caring reply separate from an unconfirmed project decision. Check what you can offer before promising changed dates.
Option 1
This invites personal details and expresses strong concern. That might fit a close relationship, but it goes beyond this client's brief notice.
Option 2 — best fit here
This matches the friendly exchange, acknowledges the news, and adds a kind wish without requesting details or changing project arrangements.
Option 3
This could reassure someone if the changes were agreed. Here, you would be promising an arrangement you cannot authorize.
Acknowledge the news, add a kind wish, and promise only what you can arrange.
Sources and how this exercise was written
The sources below help identify the communication task. The scenario, choices, and example messages were written for this exercise; they are not quotations or endorsements by the sources.
- EnglishLearning: replying to a sick client
A learner's question inspired the situation; the choices and explanations are our practice material.