I'd Like to Make a Reservation: Phrase Meaning & Usage

Meaning 1：reserve in advance (I'd like to make a reservation)

I'd like to make a reservation 🔊

/aɪd laɪk tə meɪk ə ˌrez.ərˈveɪ.ʃən/

phr.

To arrange for something like a table, room, or ticket to be kept for you to use at a future time.

Person making a reservation on phone at restaurant counter

reserve in advance 🔊

➕

/rɪˈzɜːv ɪn ədˈvæns/

phr.

The act of arranging for a service or item to be held for your use at a later time, typically by contacting a business in advance.

📁 Category：Transportation & Travel 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

The phrase combines 'make' (to perform) and 'reservation' (from Latin 'reservare' meaning to keep back, with 're-' back and 'servare' keep).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 're-serve' — serve your needs in advance by reserving. Remember: 'Reserve' = re (again) + serve (keep) to secure a spot.

📖 Example

I'd like to make a reservation for dinner tonight at 7:00 PM for four people. 🔊 I would like to make a reservation for dinner tonight at 7:00 PM for four people.

🔗 Collocations

make a reservation – To officially book a service (table, room, etc.) in advance

reservation number – The confirmation code given after booking

cancel a reservation – To void a previous booking

🔄 Synonyms

booking (n.) – An arrangement to have something (e.g., a seat, room) held for you at a future time

advanced booking (n.) – A reservation made well ahead of the intended use

pre-booking (n.) – A reservation made before the standard booking period

🚫 Antonyms

cancellation (n.) – The act of voiding a reservation or booking

walk-in (n./adj.) – A customer who arrives without a prior reservation

no-show (n.) – A person who fails to honor a reservation without canceling

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'reservation' originates from Latin 'reservare' ('re-' back + 'servare' keep). In modern English, it is widely used for booking services like tables, rooms, or tickets, reflecting organized hospitality and early planning.