4

Let’s say that you owe someone $15. Using Australian currency, the most efficient way of expressing this amount of money is with a $10 note and a $5 note. If you gave that person a $10 note and 10 50c coins, how would you apologise? Would you say:

Sorry I can’t express this amount of money with a smaller number of notes or coins

Just roles off the tongue doesn’t it? Maybe this:

Sorry I don’t have smaller change

But that sounds wrong. That’s what I would say if I paid for my coffee with a $100 note.

Sorry I can’t pay you more efficiently

Is “efficient” the word I’m looking for? I feel like there’s a better way to structure this sentence.

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
3

Sorry, I don't have any larger bills

Sorry, I ran out of $5 bills or couldn't find a five.

Where note could be substituted for bill -- whatever is common speak for paper money.

Improve this answer
1
  • 1
    Agreed. The person lending you the money probably doesn't want a long-winded explanation. Being brief, honest and apologize for the inconvenience is more than enough. +1.
    – VTH
    Jul 30, 2018 at 7:11

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.