Learning English Conversations

Learning English Conversations

BBC Radio

Everyday expressions and real English conversations to help make your everyday conversations easier. Find more at bbclearningenglish.comFollow us at bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus

The English We Speak: Skedaddle

The English We Speak: Skedaddle

Do you need to skedaddle? Leave somewhere in a hurry? Learn this expression.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250224FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podc

Feb 25, • 2:34

My Song, My Home: Adam in Ipswich

My Song, My Home: Adam in Ipswich

Welcome to our new music series My Song, My Home. In each episode we meet a new musician who tells us about their home town and performs a song to help you learn.Today, we meet musician Adam, who performs for us in Ipswich town centre.WATCH ADAM PERFORM: Find a video of Adam's song on our website https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/my-song-my-home/episode5-videoWORKSHEET: Find a full transcript, song lyrics and test what you’ve learned https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/fea

Feb 18, • 11:12

The English We Speak: Main character moment

The English We Speak: Main character moment

Look at her - she's having such a main character moment on the dance floor! Learn this internet phrase TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250217FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersLIKE PODCASTS? Try som

Feb 17, • 3:30

My Song, My Home: Alice in Leeds

My Song, My Home: Alice in Leeds

Welcome to our new music series My Song, My Home. In each episode we meet a new musician who tells us about their home town and performs a song to help you learn.Today, we meet musician Alice, who performs for us in Leeds city centre.WATCH ALICE PERFORM: Find a video of Alice’s song on our website https://bbc.in/4h8W7UE WORKSHEET: Find a full transcript, song lyrics and test what you’ve learned https://bbc.in/4hbYRR5 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/le

Feb 11, • 10:47

The English We Speak: Fall on stony ground

The English We Speak: Fall on stony ground

We hope our advice doesn't fall on stony ground. Learn a new expressionTRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250210FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcast

Feb 10, • 2:55

My Song, My Home: Grace in Liverpool

My Song, My Home: Grace in Liverpool

Welcome to our new music series My Song, My Home. In each episode we meet a new musician who tells us about their home town and performs a song to help you learn.Today, we meet Grace, who performs for us in a library in Liverpool.With thanks to the University of Liverpool.WATCH GRACE PERFORM: Find a video of Grace’s song on our website https://bbc.in/4fVYkkZ WORKSHEET: Find a full transcript, song lyrics and test what you’ve learned https://bbc.in/3PmHwsI FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit o

Feb 4, • 10:35

The English We Speak: Make a rod for your own back

The English We Speak: Make a rod for your own back

An expression that means you are doing something that will cause you future problems.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250203FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other pop

Feb 3, • 2:10

My Song, My Home: Josh in London

My Song, My Home: Josh in London

Welcome to our new music series My Song, My Home. In each episode we meet a new musician who tells us about their home town and performs a song to help you learn.Learn vocabulary from song lyrics and hear natural English speakers.In this episode, we meet musician Josh who sings for us at the BBC.WATCH JOSH PERFORM: Find a video of Josh’s song on our website https://bbc.in/4jleE1w WORKSHEET: Find a full transcript, song lyrics and test what you’ve learned https://bbc.in/4gDtyPf FIND BBC LEARNING

Jan 28, • 10:55

The English We Speak: Ship

The English We Speak: Ship

A word that means you want two people to be in a relationship.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250127 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newsletters LIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts i

Jan 27, • 3:07

My Song, My Home: Bailey in St Ives

My Song, My Home: Bailey in St Ives

Welcome to our new music series My Song, My Home. In each episode we meet a new musician who tells us about their home town and performs a song to help you learn.Learn vocabulary from song lyrics and hear natural English speakers.In this episode, we meet musician Bailey who sings for us by the sea.WATCH BAILEY PERFORM: See St Ives and watch Bailey’s song https://bbc.in/3PD6Omr WORKSHEET: Find a full transcript, song lyrics and test what you’ve learned https://bbc.in/3DqYkfn FIND BBC LEARNING ENG

Jan 21, • 11:59

The English We Speak: Twig

The English We Speak: Twig

A word for when you suddenly realise or understand something. Learn it here TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250120FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podc

Jan 20, • 3:29

The English We Speak: Mooch

The English We Speak: Mooch

An informal British English word that means to wander or stroll around casually.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250113FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular

Jan 14, • 2:46

The English We Speak: By the book

The English We Speak: By the book

This expression is all about following the rules.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-250106FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ Learning

Jan 7, • 2:23

The English We Speak: Turn over a new leaf

The English We Speak: Turn over a new leaf

Many of us hope to turn over a new leaf when a new year starts.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241230FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts incl

Dec 31, 2024 • 3:37

The English We Speak: You can't go wrong with

The English We Speak: You can't go wrong with

If you 'can't go wrong' with a suggestion, you can't fail if you use it.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241223 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslett

Dec 24, 2024 • 2:26

The English We Speak: The flip side

The English We Speak: The flip side

An expression to change someone's perspective. Learn it hereTRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241216FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersLIKE PODCASTS?

Dec 17, 2024 • 3:28

The English We Speak: In my travel era

The English We Speak: In my travel era

An expression that means you're focused on one thing at a particular period of lifeTRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241209FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish

Dec 10, 2024 • 3:07

The English We Speak: Give it some welly!

The English We Speak: Give it some welly!

Say this if you want to encourage someone to put some more effort into an activity. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241202FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/n

Dec 3, 2024 • 2:32

The English We Speak: Shoehorn something in

The English We Speak: Shoehorn something in

Learn an expression that means force something in somewhere that it doesn't quite fit. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241125FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglis

Nov 26, 2024 • 2:53

The English We Speak: On the fly

The English We Speak: On the fly

Should you cook on the fly, or follow a recipe? Learn a phrase to talk about improvising.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241118FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningengl

Nov 19, 2024 • 2:19

The English We Speak: That's on you

The English We Speak: That's on you

When someone tells you 'that's on you', they're telling you that it's your fault.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241111 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish

Nov 12, 2024 • 2:40

The English We Speak: Warts and all

The English We Speak: Warts and all

An expression that means including all your imperfections.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241104 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newsletters LIKE PODC

Nov 5, 2024 • 3:15

The English We Speak: Off the scale

The English We Speak: Off the scale

An expression that means goes far beyond what is expected.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241028 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newsletters LIKE PODC

Oct 29, 2024 • 2:35

The English We Speak: Throw one's toys out the pram

The English We Speak: Throw one's toys out the pram

Here's an expression for someone's dramatic reaction when they don't get what they want.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241022FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusSUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningengli

Oct 22, 2024 • 3:10

The English We Speak: Makes my skin crawl

The English We Speak: Makes my skin crawl

Here's an expression for when you're incredibly disgusted by something.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241014FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newsletters

Oct 15, 2024 • 2:50

The English We Speak: An uphill task

The English We Speak: An uphill task

This is a phrase about something that needs energy and determination. [Image: Getty] Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-241007 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus LIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minut

Oct 8, 2024 • 3:03

The English We Speak: Bide someone's time

The English We Speak: Bide someone's time

Here's an expression about waiting patiently for an opportunity.[Image: Getty]Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240930FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔️

Sep 30, 2024 • 2:37

The English We Speak: From the get-go

The English We Speak: From the get-go

Here's an expression that means 'from the beginning'. [Image: Getty] Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240923 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus LIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔️ Le

Sep 24, 2024 • 2:54

The English We Speak: Stomping ground

The English We Speak: Stomping ground

Here's an expression you can use about somewhere you live or visit very often.Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240916FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔

Sep 17, 2024 • 2:47

The English We Speak: Tug at the heartstrings

The English We Speak: Tug at the heartstrings

Here's an expression for when something makes you feel strong emotions. [Image: Getty] Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240909 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus LIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Mi

Sep 10, 2024 • 3:13

The English We Speak: Clutch at straws

The English We Speak: Clutch at straws

Here's an expression you can use when you're in a desperate situation. [Image: Getty] Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240902 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus LIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute

Sep 3, 2024 • 3:01

The English We Speak: Crank up

The English We Speak: Crank up

Here's an expression about increasing intensity.[Image: Getty]Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240826FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglishFollow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔️ Learning English

Aug 27, 2024 • 2:32

The English We Speak: Find your groove

The English We Speak: Find your groove

Learn an expression that means getting used to something.An expression that means something is very high quality.[Image: Getty]Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240819FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglishFollow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other pop

Aug 20, 2024 • 3:14

The English We Speak: Top-notch

The English We Speak: Top-notch

An expression that means something is very high quality.[Image: Getty]For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comFind a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240812FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglishFollow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some o

Aug 13, 2024 • 3:30

The English We Speak: Off the cuff

The English We Speak: Off the cuff

An expression that means you say something without preparing first. Learn it here.[Image: Getty]For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comFind a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240805FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglishFollow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followu

Aug 6, 2024 • 3:21

The English We Speak: Take the wheel

The English We Speak: Take the wheel

This expression is all about being in control.[Image: Getty]For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comFind a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240729FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglishFollow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our othe

Jul 30, 2024 • 3:03

The English We Speak: The works

The English We Speak: The works

Learn a phrase that means 'everything'![Image: Getty]For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comFind a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240722FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglishFollow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popul

Jul 23, 2024 • 3:24

The English We Speak: Dip your toe into

The English We Speak: Dip your toe into

Here's an expression about trying something new. [Image: Getty] For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240716 FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus LIKE PODCASTS? Try some o

Jul 16, 2024 • 3:35

The English We Speak: Ham-fisted

The English We Speak: Ham-fisted

Here's an expression about clumsiness. [Image: Getty] For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240708FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus LIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other

Jul 9, 2024 • 3:33

The English We Speak: Second nature

The English We Speak: Second nature

Here's an expression that means you can do something without having to think about it, because it's so familiar to you. [Image: Getty] For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240701FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ h

Jul 2, 2024 • 3:20

The English we speak: Take the plunge

The English we speak: Take the plunge

For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com (Image: Getty)Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240624FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus LIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6

Jun 25, 2024 • 3:10

The English We Speak: Peaks and troughs

The English We Speak: Peaks and troughs

Ever felt like you’re on the rollercoaster of life and you don’t know a good way to say it?(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240617FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podca

Jun 18, 2024 • 3:16

The English We Speak: Heavy lifting

The English We Speak: Heavy lifting

Heavy lifting isn’t about the gym. Learn this expression here.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240610FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute En

Jun 11, 2024 • 3:14

The English We Speak: Stir the pot

The English We Speak: Stir the pot

Some people just love causing trouble. This expression is about them!(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240603FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Mi

Jun 4, 2024 • 2:25

The English We Speak: Wishy-washy

The English We Speak: Wishy-washy

Here's an expression to use when things are just too vague.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240527FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute Engli

May 28, 2024 • 2:18

The English We Speak: Shook

The English We Speak: Shook

A word to express surprise or shock.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240520FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔️ News Review ✔️ Of

May 21, 2024 • 2:12

The English We Speak: Let loose

The English We Speak: Let loose

An expression that means relax and celebrate.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240513FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔️ News Rev

May 14, 2024 • 1:53

IMPORTANT: This podcast is changing its name

IMPORTANT: This podcast is changing its name

This podcast is changing its name! Don’t worry, you will still be able to learn new expressions with The English We Speak. And we’ll also have some new programmes with authentic English conversation to help you learn. Make sure you follow this podcast: ‘Learning English Conversations’ on your podcast app to get all the latest episodes.Or find all our podcasts on our website https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/podcasts

May 13, 2024 • 0:37

Zing

Zing

Zing is that special something that's hard to describe, but makes things more exciting.

May 7, 2024 • 2:11

Do the trick

Do the trick

Here's an expression that describes something solving a problem.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240429.FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute

Apr 30, 2024 • 2:13

Beige flag

Beige flag

An expression that describes a habit you find strange, but doesn't make you not like someone. (Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240422.FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular p

Apr 23, 2024 • 2:24

Lay it on thick

Lay it on thick

An expression about exaggerating or praising someone too much.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240416.FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute E

Apr 16, 2024 • 2:02

Telling porkies

Telling porkies

Here's a light-hearted expression about not telling the truth.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240409.FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus LIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minu

Apr 9, 2024 • 2:08

In on it

In on it

We have an phrase which means to know about something or to be involved in it.

Apr 2, 2024 • 2:08

Walk someone through

Walk someone through

TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240325FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including:✔️6 Minute English ✔️ News Review ✔️Office English They're all available by searching in yo

Mar 26, 2024 • 2:15

Brick by brick

Brick by brick

TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240318.FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus LIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including: ✔️ 6 Minute English ✔️ News Review ✔️ Office English They're all available by searchi

Mar 19, 2024 • 2:24

Read the room

Read the room

Here’s a phrase that means to work out how people feel. Learn how to use it!

Mar 13, 2024 • 2:06

Cook up an idea

Cook up an idea

Here’s a phrase that means to come up with an idea carefully. Learn how to use it here For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com (Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240311FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE: Visit our website ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish Follow us ✔️https://www.bbc.co.uk/learni

Mar 12, 2024 • 2:12

Rinse repeat

Rinse repeat

Beth and Feifei explain how to use this expression to describe repetitive tiresome actions. Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/the-english-we-speak_2024/ep-240226FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE:Visit our website ✔️https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglishFollow us ✔️https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followusLIKE PODCASTS? Try some of our other popular podcasts including:✔️6 Minute English✔️6

Feb 27, 2024 • 2:00

A million to one

A million to one

Here's an expression to say something is extremely unlikely

Feb 20, 2024 • 2:14

Cash in on something

Cash in on something

Learn a phrase about making money.

Feb 13, 2024 • 1:55

Make your hair stand on end

Make your hair stand on end

Here’s a phrase about things that scare you. Learn how to use it in this programme.

Feb 6, 2024 • 2:54

On the go

On the go

A phrase to describe how busy you are

Jan 30, 2024 • 2:19

A blow

A blow

What a blow! It's so disappointing. Learn how to use this with us

Jan 22, 2024 • 2:27

Rears its head

Rears its head

Want to talk about problems? Here's a useful phrase

Jan 16, 2024 • 1:55

Elbow grease

Elbow grease

Some things just need a little elbow grease. Learn what that is in this programme.

Jan 8, 2024 • 2:24

Bring something to the party

Bring something to the party

You want to say that you can offer a lot. Learn a phrase for this.

Jan 2, 2024 • 2:14

Light up like a Christmas tree

Light up like a Christmas tree

Has something suddenly made you look very happy? Learn an expression for this.

Dec 26, 2023 • 2:34

I don't buy it

I don't buy it

Here's an expression you can use to say 'I don't believe you'

Dec 19, 2023 • 1:59

Touch grass

Touch grass

Do you spend too much time online? Here's an expression you can use to say 'take a break'.

Dec 12, 2023 • 2:30

I'm out

I'm out

Sometimes you need to say you don't have anything left. Learn 'I'm out'.

Dec 5, 2023 • 2:10

Plan b

Plan b

If you need an alternative option, you need to know this phrase. Learn how to use it.

Nov 28, 2023 • 2:15

Sound out

Sound out

Sometimes you just want to find out what someone else thinks.

Nov 21, 2023 • 2:29

Fly by night

Fly by night

When companies or people can't be trusted, use this expression.

Nov 14, 2023 • 2:11

One-up

One-up

Do you want to beat your friends by saying what you have done that is better than them?

Nov 14, 2023 • 2:03

Tread on someone's toes

Tread on someone's toes

It can be annoying when someone does something you were supposed to do.

Oct 31, 2023 • 2:34

Mental gymnastics

Mental gymnastics

How do we talk about complicated tasks done by your brain?

Oct 24, 2023 • 2:30

Call dibs

Call dibs

If you want to get the last slice of pizza, what can you say?

Oct 17, 2023 • 2:14

Run for the hills

Run for the hills

What makes you want to run for the hills?

Oct 10, 2023 • 2:03

Each to their own

Each to their own

How do you feel when someone does something that you would never do, but it's OK?

Sep 26, 2023 • 1:40

Fill your boots

Fill your boots

If you are presented with an opportunity, how can you tell some to take advantage?

Sep 19, 2023 • 1:57

Join the club

Join the club

How to tell someone that the bad situation they are experiencing is the same as yours.

Sep 12, 2023 • 2:01

Go with the flow

Go with the flow

Learn a phrase to say that you are happy to do what other want to do

Sep 5, 2023 • 2:16

Cakeism

Cakeism

Learn a phrase about wanting to have two good things at the same time.

Aug 29, 2023 • 2:07

Drip feed

Drip feed

Learn a phrase about giving information little by little.

Aug 22, 2023 • 2:02

Scatterbrain

Scatterbrain

Learn about this word that describes someone disorganised or forgetful.

Aug 15, 2023 • 1:56

Be in with a shout

Be in with a shout

Learn a phrase for winning!

Aug 8, 2023 • 2:24

On point

On point

A phrase all about being perfect!

Aug 8, 2023 • 1:49

Kiss something goodbye

Kiss something goodbye

An expression with 'kiss' that's not about kissing!

Jul 25, 2023 • 1:56

Productivity theatre

Productivity theatre

Learn a phrase about pretending to work.

Jul 18, 2023 • 2:26

Pet hate

Pet hate

Learn how to describe your annoyance

Jul 11, 2023 • 2:37

On the table

On the table

Learn a phrase often used in business.

Jul 4, 2023 • 2:03

Jump through hoops

Jump through hoops

Learn a phrase about the challenge of getting something done.

Jun 27, 2023 • 2:35

It happens to the best of us

It happens to the best of us

When someone makes a mistake, learn what to say to make them feel better.

Jun 20, 2023 • 2:01

Famous last words

Famous last words

A phrase about telling someone they'll be wrong.

Jun 13, 2023 • 2:38

Hard pass

Hard pass

Learn a phrase about saying 'no' firmly.

Jun 6, 2023 • 1:58

Level up

Level up

'Level up' your English and learn a new word!

May 30, 2023 • 2:13

Get with the programme

Get with the programme

Learn an idiom used to encourage someone to accept new ideas or techniques.

May 23, 2023 • 2:05

Shout-out

Shout-out

Learn how to praise or thank someone publicly.

May 16, 2023 • 2:03

Fitspiration

Fitspiration

Get fit with this new word!

May 9, 2023 • 2:23

Hats off

Hats off

Learn a phrase about impressing people.

May 2, 2023 • 2:10

Under your breath

Under your breath

Make sure you're heard with this expression.

Apr 25, 2023 • 2:44

Be at a loss

Be at a loss

Learn an expression for when you're not sure what to say or do in a certain situation.

Apr 18, 2023 • 2:08

Go off on one

Go off on one

Learn an informal expression about becoming suddenly very angry.

Apr 11, 2023 • 1:52

Wiggle room

Wiggle room

Learn a phrase for when you need to change a budget to do something else.

Apr 4, 2023 • 1:54

(It's the) story of my life

(It's the) story of my life

Learn a phrase you can use to describe a bad situation.

Mar 28, 2023 • 2:10

No ifs or buts

No ifs or buts

Stop making excuses and learn this expression!

Mar 21, 2023 • 2:06

Caught red-handed

Caught red-handed

Learn an expression about being caught doing something wrong.

Mar 14, 2023 • 1:59

Rabbit on

Rabbit on

Learn a phrase about talking too much.

Mar 7, 2023 • 1:55

Thanks a bunch

Thanks a bunch

When does ‘thanks’ not mean ‘thanks’? Find out about an ironic English phrase.

Feb 28, 2023 • 2:12

Slow walk

Slow walk

How do you describe something making slow progress?

Feb 21, 2023 • 1:55

Take something to heart

Take something to heart

Learn a phrase about taking advice or criticism personally and very seriously.

Feb 14, 2023 • 2:07

Take something to heart

Take something to heart

If someone takes something to heart, what does it mean?

Feb 13, 2023 • 2:07

Know the score

Know the score

Learn a phrase about understanding the situation.

Feb 7, 2023 • 2:16

Jog your memory

Jog your memory

Learn a phrase about remembering.

Jan 31, 2023 • 2:08

A flying start

A flying start

Learn an expression we use to say a new task is going very well.

Jan 24, 2023 • 2:13

Steal someone's thunder

Steal someone's thunder

If you get more attention than someone else, what are you doing? Here's a useful phrase!

Jan 17, 2023 • 2:07

Call it a day

Call it a day

A phrase about doing enough

Jan 9, 2023 • 2:10

Off the top of my head

Off the top of my head

When you don’t have the facts and figures at hand, you have to make a quick guess.

Jan 3, 2023 • 2:09

Change for the better

Change for the better

Do you want to make a positive change for 2023? We have an expression for you to learn.

Dec 23, 2022 • 2:17

The gift that keeps on giving

The gift that keeps on giving

Learn a phrase about receiving presents.

Dec 20, 2022 • 2:25

Quiet quitting

Quiet quitting

Learn a phrase about just doing enough.

Dec 13, 2022 • 2:20

Hang in there

Hang in there

Times can be challenging but don’t give up. We have a phrase to spur you on.

Dec 6, 2022 • 2:17

Bite your tongue

Bite your tongue

What does ‘bite your tongue’ mean?

Nov 29, 2022 • 2:11

Win hands down

Win hands down

An easy phrase for an easy win!

Nov 22, 2022 • 2:11

Fever pitch

Fever pitch

The men’s football World Cup is coming, and excitement has reached fever pitch!

Nov 15, 2022 • 1:44

Twiddle your thumbs

Twiddle your thumbs

A phrase for boring times.

Nov 8, 2022 • 1:44

Get your act together

Get your act together

A phrase about good organisation.

Nov 8, 2022 • 2:15

Dog's dinner

Dog's dinner

Learn this phrase to describe a complete mess.

Oct 25, 2022 • 2:01

Sitting pretty

Sitting pretty

Learn a phrase to describe a good situation.

Oct 18, 2022 • 2:16

Feast your eyes

Feast your eyes

Sometimes you can be amazed at what you see. Learn an expression for these moments.

Oct 11, 2022 • 2:11

Put the brakes on

Put the brakes on

Learn a phrase about stopping or slowing down an activity.

Oct 4, 2022 • 2:02

Second-guess

Second-guess

If you don't know what's going to happen next, you have to guess.

Sep 26, 2022 • 1:56

Ins and outs

Ins and outs

Learn about a new expression and why Feifei gets a shock!

Sep 20, 2022 • 2:13

Yes and no

Yes and no

Not all answers in life are 'yes' or 'no'. Learn why with this phrase.

Sep 13, 2022 • 2:10

Eat your words

Eat your words

Learn a phrase about being wrong.

Sep 13, 2022 • 2:29

Bug someone

Bug someone

Sometimes people or things just annoy you. Learn a phrase about this.

Sep 13, 2022 • 2:14

Willy-nilly

Willy-nilly

Learn an informal expression about doing things without planning.

Aug 23, 2022 • 2:19

Willy-nilly

Willy-nilly

A random phrase

Aug 22, 2022 • 2:19

Gnarly

Gnarly

Do you find something disgusting? Use this word to describe it.

Aug 16, 2022 • 2:06

Smash it

Smash it

Learn a phrase to give encouragement

Aug 9, 2022 • 2:20

A doddle

A doddle

Is this phrase easy to learn?

Aug 2, 2022 • 1:38

It’s now or never

It’s now or never

Learn how to use ‘it’s now or never’

Jul 26, 2022 • 2:04

Happy days

Happy days

Learn a phrase to use when you hear good news.

Jul 19, 2022 • 2:06

Double down

Double down

Learn a phrase about extra effort.

Jul 12, 2022 • 2:00

Game face

Game face

Learn an expression about determination.

Jul 5, 2022 • 2:10

Bitten by the bug

Bitten by the bug

Learn a phrase about becoming interested and excited in doing something.

Jun 28, 2022 • 2:09

It escapes me

It escapes me

A phrase about forgetting something

Jun 21, 2022 • 2:07

Onboarding

Onboarding

Starting a new job means becoming familiar with new duties!

Jun 13, 2022 • 1:53

Thereby hangs a tale

Thereby hangs a tale

When there is more to say....

Jun 6, 2022 • 2:12

The royal treatment

The royal treatment

Are you ready to feel like a king or a queen?

May 31, 2022 • 2:14

Tell me about it

Tell me about it

Sometimes people say something that you can’t help but agree with. Learn a new phrase.

May 24, 2022 • 2:53

Creatively bankrupt

Creatively bankrupt

Do you ever feel like your creativity just vanishes? Here's a phrase for that situation.

May 17, 2022 • 2:58

As if

As if

A phrase to use when someone says something that is ridiculous or blatantly untrue.

May 10, 2022 • 3:03

Bad hair day

Bad hair day

How are you looking today? Could you be having a bad hair day?

May 4, 2022 • 1:54

'Ish' - The English We Speak

'Ish' - The English We Speak

Make the English you speak sound more natural

May 3, 2022 • 2:46

Promises, promises

Promises, promises

Learn a new expression about not believing someone’s promises.

Apr 19, 2022 • 2:12

Not see hide nor hair

Not see hide nor hair

Sometimes it’s impossible to find someone. Here's a phrase to use in this situation.

Apr 12, 2022 • 2:07

A curate's egg

A curate's egg

Learn an odd expression which means something is a little good but mainly bad

Apr 5, 2022 • 2:19

That'll be the day

That'll be the day

Learn a phrase about things that are unlikely to happen.

Mar 29, 2022 • 2:29

Gathering dust

Gathering dust

What’s gathering dust in your house?

Mar 22, 2022 • 2:28

Easier said than done

Easier said than done

Talking about doing things can be easy, but doing them can be a bit more complicated.

Mar 15, 2022 • 2:12

The plot thickens

The plot thickens

A phrase for when a situation becomes more mysterious.

Mar 8, 2022 • 2:15

All at sea

All at sea

Discover more about this nautical phrase in The English We Speak.

Mar 1, 2022 • 2:09

Don't mind me

Don't mind me

If you want tell someone to ignore what you’re doing, what can you say?

Feb 22, 2022 • 2:02

Cramp my style

Cramp my style

Who’s cramping your style?

Feb 15, 2022 • 2:26

You couldn't make it up

You couldn't make it up

Learn an expression for unbelievable events.

Feb 8, 2022 • 2:06

Cool cat

Cool cat

Do you know someone who is really hip and trendy?

Feb 1, 2022 • 2:43

There's nothing to it

There's nothing to it

Sometimes we do things that are simple. Learn an 'easy' phrase to describe this.

Jan 25, 2022 • 2:13

As sick as a parrot

As sick as a parrot

Learn a phrase about disappointment.

Jan 18, 2022 • 1:49

Eke out

Eke out

We have the perfect phrase to describe making the most of what you’ve got left.

Jan 13, 2022 • 1:50

Say no more

Say no more

Learn a phrase about understanding someone.

Jan 4, 2022 • 1:56

Scrub up well

Scrub up well

Learn a phrase about making a special effort to dress smartly.

Dec 28, 2021 • 1:54

You shouldn't have

You shouldn't have

Learn a phrase to show surprise when receiving a gift

Dec 21, 2021 • 2:05

Not looking too clever

Not looking too clever

If someone’s 'not looking too clever', are we doubting their intelligence?

Dec 14, 2021 • 2:05

Not like the sound of something

Not like the sound of something

Don't like what you hear? Say it with this expression!

Dec 7, 2021 • 1:55

I'll give you that

I'll give you that

Learn what to say when you agree with someone about some or all of what they said.

Nov 30, 2021 • 2:00

Another string to your bow

Another string to your bow

Learn a phrase about having an additional skill.

Nov 23, 2021 • 2:23

Clap back

Clap back

When someone criticises something you’ve done, what do you do?

Nov 16, 2021 • 1:58

Talk through your hat

Talk through your hat

Learn a phrase about talking nonsense.

Nov 9, 2021 • 1:53

Quote ... unquote

Quote ... unquote

An expression for when we want to repeat exactly what someone has said.

Nov 2, 2021 • 2:27

Not a patch on something

Not a patch on something

Learn an expression for when something is far worse than something else.

Oct 26, 2021 • 2:10

No cap

No cap

Do you know someone who always tells the truth?

Oct 19, 2021 • 2:18

Moreish

Moreish

An expression you can use to talk food you can't resist.

Oct 12, 2021 • 2:38

A legend in one's lifetime

A legend in one's lifetime

Do you know a famous living person? Here’s a phrase to describe them.

Oct 4, 2021 • 2:18

Live rent-free in one's head

Live rent-free in one's head

What or who do you think about all the time?

Sep 28, 2021 • 2:23

Now you're talking

Now you're talking

Learn how to show that you like someone’s idea.

Sep 21, 2021 • 2:23

Hits different

Hits different

Here’s the expression you can use to talk about something special.

Sep 14, 2021 • 2:22

Extra

Extra

Learn an expression to describe how exaggerated some people are.

Sep 7, 2021 • 2:24

Zhuzh

Zhuzh

Do you want to make something more interesting by changing it slightly?

Aug 31, 2021 • 2:08

Lo and behold

Lo and behold

Learn an expression to introduce a surprising part of a story.

Aug 24, 2021 • 2:28

Bigwig

Bigwig

Here’s an expression to describe an important and powerful person.

Aug 17, 2021 • 2:04

Cringe

Cringe

A word for when you want to say that something is really embarrassing.

Aug 10, 2021 • 2:46

It’s the … for me

It’s the … for me

Learn an expression to talk about why you love or hate something.

Aug 5, 2021 • 2:24

Obvs

Obvs

Some things are obvious but maybe this word isn’t. Listen to the programme.

Jul 27, 2021 • 1:40

Down / Up for something

Down / Up for something

If there is something you are interested in doing now, we have an expression for you.

Jul 20, 2021 • 2:15

Savage

Savage

Learn a new meaning of the word 'savage'.

Jul 13, 2021 • 2:06

Lit

Lit

Learn an informal word to say something is amazing.

Jul 6, 2021 • 2:19

Yikes!

Yikes!

Learn an informal word to express shock.

Jun 29, 2021 • 2:11

YOLO

YOLO

Do you live for the moment?

Jun 22, 2021 • 2:32

Vibe

Vibe

If you want to say something has a good aura, we have an expression you can use.

Jun 15, 2021 • 2:46

Noob

Noob

Do you know what to call someone who’s new to something or very inexperienced?

Jun 8, 2021 • 2:41

Adulting

Adulting

Learn a word to describe behaving like an adult.

Jun 1, 2021 • 2:19

Push back

Push back

Learn a phrase about delaying things.

May 18, 2021 • 2:17

The CEO of

The CEO of

If you want to say you’re the best at something, you could use this expression!

May 11, 2021 • 2:46

Zip it!

Zip it!

We all like to talk, but some people don’t know when to stop.

May 4, 2021 • 2:33

Botch job

Botch job

What do you call a job badly done?

Apr 27, 2021 • 2:17

It slaps!

It slaps!

What do you think is absolutely amazing?

Apr 20, 2021 • 2:33

Have a lot of plates spinning

Have a lot of plates spinning

A phrase about having a lot of things to do.

Apr 13, 2021 • 2:29

Pizzazz

Pizzazz

Do a lot of people remark on how glamorous you are?

Apr 6, 2021 • 2:53

Oomph

Oomph

A word to describe someone with charm and energy!

Mar 30, 2021 • 2:53

Snap up

Snap up

If you snap up something, you get it quickly or immediately and usually with enthusiasm.

Mar 23, 2021 • 2:21

Nothingburger

Nothingburger

Describing something insignificant

Mar 16, 2021 • 2:34

Awesomesauce

Awesomesauce

Learn a new informal word to describe something amazing.

Mar 9, 2021 • 2:22

Clout

Clout

Learn an expression about having influence.

Mar 2, 2021 • 2:28

GOAT

GOAT

'GOAT' is used to talk about things or people that we think are the best.

Feb 23, 2021 • 2:34

Workation

Workation

'Workation' is a combination of the words 'work' and 'vacation'.

Feb 16, 2021 • 2:59

Moonshot

Moonshot

Learn an expression used to describe an experimental project.

Feb 9, 2021 • 2:57

Slap-bang

Slap-bang

Learn a phrase to describe an exact position.

Feb 2, 2021 • 2:27

Sadfishing

Sadfishing

A word used when someone exaggerates their emotional problems to get attention.

Jan 26, 2021 • 2:50

Mic drop

Mic drop

Roy and Feifei teach you a new English expression.

Jan 19, 2021 • 2:17

Tone deaf

Tone deaf

Learn when 'tone deaf' has nothing to do with music...

Jan 12, 2021 • 2:54

'A' game

'A' game

Sometimes people need to be on top form and do their best work.

Jan 5, 2021 • 2:39

Frontliner

Frontliner

We describe nurses and doctors who have been working on the frontline

Dec 28, 2020 • 2:34

On fleek

On fleek

From eyebrows to clothes, when they look good we like to say so.

Dec 15, 2020 • 2:29

Contact tracing

Contact tracing

Learn vocabulary related to the coronavirus pandemic.

Dec 8, 2020 • 2:30

Key worker

Key worker

Someone who has become more important than ever during the coronavirus pandemic.

Dec 1, 2020 • 2:45

Sharenting

Sharenting

Don't share too many photos of your children!

Nov 24, 2020 • 2:57

Plastic footprint

Plastic footprint

It's similar to 'carbon footprint', but this focuses on your plastic usage.

Nov 17, 2020 • 2:51

Spoiler alert!

Spoiler alert!

A warning when we're going to reveal part of the story of a film, book or TV series.

Nov 10, 2020 • 2:35

Listicle

Listicle

Find out more about a portmanteau that combines the words 'list' and 'article'.

Nov 2, 2020 • 3:02

Doomscrolling

Doomscrolling

Learn a word about the addiction to looking at depressing news on social media.

Oct 27, 2020 • 2:34

Crowdsourcing

Crowdsourcing

Learn a word that might be useful when you’re developing an idea and need help.

Oct 20, 2020 • 2:34

One step at a time

One step at a time

When you’re trying something new, it’s best not to rush.

Oct 13, 2020 • 2:28

Bog-standard

Bog-standard

How do you describe something that is standard, ordinary and nothing special?

Oct 6, 2020 • 2:22

A wake-up call

A wake-up call

Learn this expression: it's a warning sign!

Sep 29, 2020 • 2:50

Climate emergency

Climate emergency

Find out more about this expression and learn things you can do to help the planet.

Sep 22, 2020 • 2:41

Thirsty

Thirsty

A word for social media attention-seekers!

Sep 15, 2020 • 2:36

Vanilla

Vanilla

Learn a word that can be used to describe something that is basic or bland.

Sep 8, 2020 • 2:36

Roast

Roast

Learn the other meaning of the word 'roast'.

Sep 1, 2020 • 2:40

Sticking point

Sticking point

A 'sticking point' is an issue or a problem in a negotiation that blocks an agreement.

Aug 25, 2020 • 2:51

Flatten the curve

Flatten the curve

Learn language to talk about the coronavirus pandemic.

Aug 18, 2020 • 2:23

Living in a bubble

Living in a bubble

Do you know someone who's a bit sheltered from the problems of the world?

Aug 11, 2020 • 2:18

Cancelled

Cancelled

Learn the new meaning of the word 'cancelled'.

Aug 4, 2020 • 2:32

New normal

New normal

Learn a new expression that describes our new way of life.

Jul 28, 2020 • 2:24

Slippery slope

Slippery slope

Learn how to describe a situation that is getting worse and might end in disaster.

Jul 21, 2020 • 2:25

Throw shade

Throw shade

Learn an expression about criticism.

Jul 14, 2020 • 2:32

Bite the bullet

Bite the bullet

Learn an English expression with bite!

Jul 7, 2020 • 2:36

Blended working

Blended working

A mix of home and office working has led to a new English expression.

Jun 30, 2020 • 2:28

JOMO

JOMO

Have you ever felt like turning off your phone and not doing something social?

Jun 23, 2020 • 2:31

Furlough

Furlough

Not a new word, but it’s more commonly used recently due to the coronavirus crisis.

Jun 16, 2020 • 2:58

Spill the tea

Spill the tea

Are you a gossip? You'll love this expression.

Jun 9, 2020 • 2:27

Flexing

Flexing

What word can you use to describe people who show off? Find out with Roy and Feifei.

Jun 2, 2020 • 3:08

Salty

Salty

Why are people saying 'salty'? Find out with Feifei and Roy.

May 26, 2020 • 3:42

Skeleton crew

Skeleton crew

An expression for when there aren't many people working.

May 19, 2020 • 3:05

Lowkey

Lowkey

A word used to describe something you love doing, but are embarrassed to tell people.

May 12, 2020 • 3:38

Live for something

Live for something

Learn a phrase for things that excite you!

May 5, 2020 • 3:37

Cabin fever

Cabin fever

Some people suffer from this experience.Find out what it means.

Apr 28, 2020 • 4:06

Bang on about something

Bang on about something

Do you know someone who talks about something so much that it gets annoying?

Apr 21, 2020 • 3:08

Fire

Fire

Everyone knows what fire is, don't they? Think again! Roy and Feifei teach a new meaning.

Apr 14, 2020 • 2:48

Running on fumes

Running on fumes

What can you say when you have no energy? Learn a new English expression!

Apr 7, 2020 • 2:56

Sheeple

Sheeple

Follow the crowd and learn a new English expression!

Mar 31, 2020 • 2:25

Hater

Hater

Learn a phrase to describe a negative attitude.

Mar 17, 2020 • 2:30

Talk shop

Talk shop

If you have to talk about work even when you’re not doing it, this is the phrase for you!

Mar 10, 2020 • 2:31

Snackable

Snackable

Learn an expression to describe short online content that you can snack on!

Mar 3, 2020 • 2:38

A memory like a sieve

A memory like a sieve

Are you forgetful? This expression is for you!

Feb 25, 2020 • 3:06

Nomophobia

Nomophobia

Got a fear of not using your mobile phone? Here's how to describe your condition.

Feb 18, 2020 • 2:47

Peacocking

Peacocking

Rob and Feifei explain the true meaning of this animal-related phrase.

Feb 11, 2020 • 2:44

Kick into the long grass

Kick into the long grass

If you want to delay doing something, where do you kick it?! We have the answer here.

Feb 4, 2020 • 2:53

Rat race

Rat race

The Year of the Rat is here – so Neil has decided to dedicate his life to work.

Jan 28, 2020 • 2:22

Microworker

Microworker

What's a 'microworker'? May be you are one!

Jan 21, 2020 • 2:27

Serial returner

Serial returner

Learn a phrase about exchanging clothes.

Jan 14, 2020 • 2:55

Talk the talk

Talk the talk

Neil can talk the talk, but does he know what he's talking about?

Jan 7, 2020 • 2:46

Out with the old, in with the new

Out with the old, in with the new

As 2020 approaches, learn a phrase to describe what you can do at this time of year.

Dec 30, 2019 • 2:53

The more the merrier

The more the merrier

It’s Christmas and time to party. Learn a phrase that means more people equals more fun!

Dec 23, 2019 • 3:26

Take one for the team

Take one for the team

Are you the kind of person who makes sacrifices for others?

Dec 17, 2019 • 2:13

Mind your Ps and Qs

Mind your Ps and Qs

Learn an English expression about being polite.

Dec 10, 2019 • 2:35

Dad dancing

Dad dancing

Swing those arms, shake those hips! Is this the latest dance trend?

Dec 3, 2019 • 2:38

Big data

Big data

‘Big data’ is a hot term these days, but do you know what it means? Learn here.

Nov 26, 2019 • 3:09

Punch above your weight

Punch above your weight

It sounds violent, but this phrase might surprise you!

Nov 19, 2019 • 2:41

Social media influencer

Social media influencer

You know all about social media, but ... what is a social media influencer? Learn here.

Nov 12, 2019 • 2:58

Goldilocks

Goldilocks

A fairy tale with a new meaning

Nov 5, 2019 • 3:02

Ghosting

Ghosting

Is someone ignoring all of your calls and messages? Maybe you are being ghosted!

Oct 29, 2019 • 2:52

Slow TV

Slow TV

Learn about the TV trend that urges you to relax, slow down and chill out.

Oct 22, 2019 • 3:00

Tiger mother

Tiger mother

Trying to help your kids succeed in life? These mothers have a strong idea of what to do!

Oct 15, 2019 • 2:49

Buzzkill

Buzzkill

A phrase for when something spoils your fun.

Oct 8, 2019 • 3:06

Buyer's remorse

Buyer's remorse

Have you ever regretted an expensive purchase? This is the phrase for you!

Oct 1, 2019 • 2:51

Freecycle

Freecycle

When you don't want to sell, freecycle! Learn what it means.

Sep 24, 2019 • 2:49

Carbon footprint

Carbon footprint

Love to travel but worried about the environment? Here's a phrase for you to use.

Sep 17, 2019 • 2:52

To cough up

To cough up

When is a cough not a cough? We teach you a money-related phrase.

Sep 10, 2019 • 3:01

Brain fade

Brain fade

We teach you a phrase that's worth remembering!

Sep 3, 2019 • 2:37

Fib

Fib

We won’t teach you to lie, but you will learn how to use the word ‘fib’.

Aug 27, 2019 • 2:54

Hot under the collar

Hot under the collar

Cool off and learn this phrase with us.

Aug 20, 2019 • 2:46

Eat your heart out

Eat your heart out

Learn a humorous phrase about being the best!

Aug 13, 2019 • 3:11

Across

Across

When is 'across' not a preposition?

Aug 6, 2019 • 2:42

Fat chance

Fat chance

Learn an expression about likelihood.

Jul 30, 2019 • 2:45

Milk it

Milk it

A phrase about taking advantage of a situation to gain sympathy or respect

Jul 23, 2019 • 2:46

To cherry-pick

To cherry-pick

We’ve picked the best phrase for you to learn!

Jul 16, 2019 • 3:06

To fight tooth and nail

To fight tooth and nail

Learn a phrase about working hard to get just what you want.

Jul 9, 2019 • 3:05

It's a small world

It's a small world

Learn an expression about coincidences.

Jul 2, 2019 • 2:37

Vanish into thin air

Vanish into thin air

Learn an expression about disappearing

Jun 25, 2019 • 2:27

Get the short straw

Get the short straw

A phrase that sucks!

Jun 18, 2019 • 3:04

Soft skills

Soft skills

These are job skills needed to deal with the public, and very much in demand.

Jun 11, 2019 • 2:41

Clever clogs

Clever clogs

Will wearing new shoes make Feifei more intelligent? Join her and Rob in this programme.

May 28, 2019 • 2:44

Couch surfing

Couch surfing

Looking for a sofa to sleep on? Learn a phrase to describe your actions.

May 21, 2019 • 2:58

Like riding a bike

Like riding a bike

Learn an English expression about skills we never forget.

May 14, 2019 • 2:47

On fire

On fire

Can you be on fire without any flames?

May 7, 2019 • 2:59

Dead

Dead

If something is 'dead good' is that a positive or negative thing?

Apr 23, 2019 • 3:08

Give someone the runaround

Give someone the runaround

A phrase about being unhelpful.

Apr 16, 2019 • 2:39

Laughing all the way to the bank

Laughing all the way to the bank

When can going to the bank be funny? We've got a phrase that will leave you laughing.

Apr 9, 2019 • 2:34

The joke is on you

The joke is on you

Find out more about a seriously funny English phrase.

Apr 2, 2019 • 3:13

Keep a lid on it

Keep a lid on it

Learn the right English phrase about having to put a stop to something.

Mar 26, 2019 • 2:55

To pull the wool over someone's eyes

To pull the wool over someone's eyes

Here's a phrase about preventing someone from discovering something.

Mar 19, 2019 • 2:52

Take the rough with the smooth

Take the rough with the smooth

Learn an expression about experiencing bad things to enable you to enjoy good things.

Mar 12, 2019 • 2:37

Hard-nosed

Hard-nosed

What is a hard-nosed person like? Find out in this episode of The English We Speak.

Mar 5, 2019 • 2:23

To have a soft spot

To have a soft spot

How do you feel if you really like something or someone? This phrase might help you.

Feb 26, 2019 • 2:54

To make a song and dance (about something)

To make a song and dance (about something)

If things don't go your way, how can singing and dancing help?

Feb 19, 2019 • 2:59

Giant killer

Giant killer

Here's a phrase to describe the success of a small team.

Feb 12, 2019 • 3:04

A shock to the system

A shock to the system

A sudden and unpleasant change can come as a shock. Learn a phrase to describe this.

Feb 5, 2019 • 2:34

From pillar to post

From pillar to post

Moving from place to place can be chaotic. Learn a phrase to describe the situation

Jan 29, 2019 • 2:41

Small talk

Small talk

Here's a phrase that describes making informal conversation about not much.

Jan 22, 2019 • 2:41

A bright spark

A bright spark

Here's a clever expression that can describe someone doing something stupid.

Jan 15, 2019 • 2:49

To be all downhill

To be all downhill

Rob's done all his work! Find out here if it's all downhill until the weekend for him.

Jan 8, 2019 • 2:35

Fireworks

Fireworks

Learn a New Year-related expression

Jan 1, 2019 • 2:40

To have all your Christmases come at once

To have all your Christmases come at once

An expression for when you have good fortune

Dec 28, 2018 • 2:50

It's the thought that counts

It's the thought that counts

Learn a polite thing to say when you receive a bad present.

Dec 18, 2018 • 2:54

Digital detox

Digital detox

Learn this very modern expression.

Dec 11, 2018 • 3:01

It leaves a bad taste in your mouth

It leaves a bad taste in your mouth

How can a tasty meal leave a bad taste?

Dec 4, 2018 • 2:45

Pea-souper

Pea-souper

Is it a meal or a type of weather?

Nov 27, 2018 • 2:19

Throw in the towel

Throw in the towel

Learn a phrase about giving up.

Nov 20, 2018 • 2:38

A walk in the park

A walk in the park

Is walking in the park easy? It can be if you learn this phrase!

Nov 13, 2018 • 2:40

Dumbphone

Dumbphone

Learn a new name for old tech

Nov 6, 2018 • 2:32

No fear

No fear

Are you ready for Halloween?

Oct 30, 2018 • 2:12

Something to chew on

Something to chew on

Feifei gives Neil something to chew on

Oct 23, 2018 • 2:33

Waffle on

Waffle on

Not all waffling is good!

Oct 16, 2018 • 2:55

Skew-whiff

Skew-whiff

Describe something that isn't straight.

Oct 9, 2018 • 3:07

Play a blinder

Play a blinder

Doing something amazing.

Oct 2, 2018 • 3:56

Miffed

Miffed

Has someone annoyed you? Use this word.

Sep 25, 2018 • 3:31

Humblebrag

Humblebrag

Brag if you must - just don’t humblebrag! Find out what that means with Rob and Feifei.

Sep 18, 2018 • 3:59

Out of your depth

Out of your depth

A phrase for when you're struggling to do something.

Sep 11, 2018 • 3:20

Mardy

Mardy

A word for a bad mood.

Sep 4, 2018 • 3:01

Curry favour

Curry favour

Learn a spicy expression.

Aug 28, 2018 • 2:33

Take the biscuit

Take the biscuit

A sweet phrase for irritating behaviour.

Aug 21, 2018 • 2:48

Step on it

Step on it

Do you need someone to go faster? Use this informal phrase.

Aug 14, 2018 • 2:32

Ping

Ping

When does the word 'ping' not make a sound? Find out in this programme.

Aug 7, 2018 • 2:39

Crunch time

Crunch time

When the time comes to make an important decision, what do you say?

Jul 31, 2018 • 2:52

Have a pop

Have a pop

Learn a phrase about having a go at something

Jul 24, 2018 • 2:30

A necessary evil

A necessary evil

Can you accept something you don't like?

Jul 17, 2018 • 2:34

If the cap fits

If the cap fits

Learn an expression about accepting criticism

Jul 10, 2018 • 2:27

My bad

My bad

Learn a phrase about accepting blame

Jul 3, 2018 • 2:40

To have a good nose (for something)

To have a good nose (for something)

Rob and Feifei sniff out a new phrase to learn

Jun 26, 2018 • 2:54

Friends in High Places

Friends in High Places

Learn a phrase about important people

Jun 19, 2018 • 2:42

Catch-22

Catch-22

Learn an expression for a no-win situation.

Jun 12, 2018 • 2:48

Let the dust settle

Let the dust settle

Learn a phrase about allowing a situation to become calm again

Jun 5, 2018 • 2:20

Nothing to shout about

Nothing to shout about

Learn a phrase about not saying much

May 29, 2018 • 2:23

Let sleeping dogs lie

Let sleeping dogs lie

Learn about a trouble-free phrase

May 22, 2018 • 3:00

Bleed someone dry

Bleed someone dry

An expression for a financial injury

May 15, 2018 • 2:45

Small change

Small change

A phrase for trivial things

May 8, 2018 • 2:26

That'll teach you

That'll teach you

Learn from what you've done

May 1, 2018 • 2:52

An old hand

An old hand

Someone who's skilled and experienced

Apr 24, 2018 • 2:34

Out of the loop

Out of the loop

Learn a phrase about missing out.

Apr 17, 2018 • 2:42

Rub it in

Rub it in

Learn an expression about enjoying someone's misfortunes.

Apr 10, 2018 • 2:18

Smombie

Smombie

Are you a smartphone zombie?

Apr 3, 2018 • 2:16

Freegan

Freegan

Are you someone who only eats food that has been wasted or thrown away? Learn a word that describes what you are

Mar 27, 2018 • 2:54

Barking up the wrong tree

Barking up the wrong tree

Have you ever made the wrong assumption? Here's a dog-related phrase to describe your actions

Mar 20, 2018 • 2:48

Cloud cuckoo land

Cloud cuckoo land

Can you make the impossible possible? This phrase implies you can't but what's it got to do with a cuckoo?

Mar 13, 2018 • 2:32

A taste of your own medicine

A taste of your own medicine

Payback time

Mar 6, 2018 • 2:42

Happy-go-lucky

Happy-go-lucky

Relaxed about the future? Here's a phrase that might describe your character

Feb 27, 2018 • 2:59

Whizz-kid

Whizz-kid

Young, clever and successful: find out a phrase that describes someone like this

Feb 20, 2018 • 2:16

The best of both worlds

The best of both worlds

Can you enjoy the advantages of two different situations at the same time? You can if you use this phrase

Feb 13, 2018 • 2:43

Bone idle

Bone idle

Are you taking it easy or just being lazy? Here's a phrase to describe your condition

Feb 6, 2018 • 2:52

To cut a long story short

To cut a long story short

Have you got a story to tell? Here's a phrase about just telling the important bits

Jan 30, 2018 • 3:03

A thing

A thing

Beards have been 'a thing' for a while. Is it now time to shave them off?

Jan 29, 2018 • 2:21

Just the ticket

Just the ticket

Rob and Feifei help teach a phrase to describe something you really want or need

Jan 23, 2018 • 3:00

Do a runner

Do a runner

Is it time to go? Here's a phrase about avoiding a tricky situation

Jan 9, 2018 • 2:17

All that jazz

All that jazz

We love slang, idioms, phrases and all that jazz! Learn a new phrase with us

Dec 26, 2017 • 2:28

Not gonna lie

Not gonna lie

A phrase to use when you're being brutally honest

Dec 18, 2017 • 2:45

Up your game

Up your game

Don't know which one to use? You need to up your emoji game

Dec 12, 2017 • 2:38

To shout it from the rooftops

To shout it from the rooftops

Have you heard the good news? This programme has something to shout about!

Dec 5, 2017 • 2:15

To blow the cobwebs away

To blow the cobwebs away

No spiders involved. It's time to get lively and learn a new English phrase

Nov 28, 2017 • 2:23

A knees-up

A knees-up

Want to go to a party? This phrase might help you get an invitation

Nov 21, 2017 • 2:21

To put someone on the map

To put someone on the map

Need directions to learn a new English phrase? Here's one about a map and being famous

Nov 14, 2017 • 2:36

Down in the dumps

Down in the dumps

Feeling unhappy? Here's a phrase to describe your mood but don't take it too literally!

Nov 7, 2017 • 2:11

Excuse me!

Excuse me!

Rob keeps saying 'excuse me' but what does he really mean? You and Feifei are about to find out the many uses of this phrase

Oct 31, 2017 • 2:40

A sting in the tail

A sting in the tail

Rob's become a bee keeper but there's something more unpleasant to this hobby than being stung. Find out how a sting in the tail doesn't just come from bees!

Oct 24, 2017 • 2:48

So done with

So done with

Are you doing something very boring? We have just the phrase for you!

Oct 17, 2017 • 1:51

lolz

lolz

You might know the slang expression ‘LOL’, but do you know about ‘lolz’?

Oct 10, 2017 • 2:23

Have a go

Have a go

Poor Neil gets a lot of criticism in the programme. Of course, it’s all to help you learn English!

Oct 3, 2017 • 1:59

About

About

You know what ‘about’ means, right? But maybe not this extra meaning! Take another look with us

Sep 26, 2017 • 1:55

Wing it

Wing it

Learn an informal expression for when you have to improvise

Sep 19, 2017 • 2:10

Pot luck

Pot luck

Not sure what to expect? Learn a phrase about hoping your choice will turn out ok

Sep 12, 2017 • 2:33

It beats me

It beats me

Why does Feifei keep hitting Rob? There could be some confusion about the meaning of today's authentic English phrase. Find out what Rob really means when he says 'it beats me'

Sep 5, 2017 • 2:10

Jiggery-pokery

Jiggery-pokery

Tricks and dishonesty: Learn this phrase before it fools you!

Aug 29, 2017 • 1:46

Left, right, and centre

Left, right, and centre

If you do something left, right, and centre does that mean you do it everywhere? Rob's being doing just that but what's he been doing it with?

Aug 22, 2017 • 2:11

Donkey's years

Donkey's years

Why has Rob got a donkey in the studio?! It's probably got something with today's authentic English phrase which is about not doing something for a long time

Aug 15, 2017 • 2:29

Give us a bell

Give us a bell

What's that ringing sound? Is it someone giving you a bell? Find out what it all means

Aug 8, 2017 • 2:36

Echo chamber

Echo chamber

Echo echo echo echo…

Aug 1, 2017 • 2:11

Snowflake

Snowflake

Do you melt too easily?

Jul 25, 2017 • 2:08

The heat is on

The heat is on

Learn an expression which you can use to say you're under pressure

Jul 18, 2017 • 1:58

Wet weekend

Wet weekend

When can a wet weekend be dry? Find out with another authentic English expression

Jul 11, 2017 • 2:16

No picnic

No picnic

Some things in life are hard work. Discover a phrase that describes these situations

Jul 4, 2017 • 2:02

A busman's holiday

A busman's holiday

Going on holiday to do your job? What's it got to do with driving a bus?

Jun 27, 2017 • 2:18

Fuddy-duddy

Fuddy-duddy

Old-fashioned and set in your ways? Could you be one of these people?

Jun 20, 2017 • 2:10

Bottle

Bottle

Use this phrase involving bottles when you’re too afraid to do something

Jun 13, 2017 • 1:53

No great shakes

No great shakes

Not impressed by something? Here's an expression that describes what you think

Jun 13, 2017 • 2:27

Not a sausage

Not a sausage

Nothing, absolutely nothing, nothing at all… Not even one little sausage!

Jun 6, 2017 • 2:05

Long

Long

Not everything in this life is fun. Learn a phrase to describe boring jobs!

May 30, 2017 • 1:46

Not half

Not half

Love pizza? Feifei and Neil bring you a phrase to show how much you enjoy something

May 23, 2017 • 2:07

All over the shop

All over the shop

Looked everywhere? Learn a phrase about shops that isn’t about shops!

May 16, 2017 • 3:04

It comes with the territory

It comes with the territory

Some things have to be expected. Learn a phrase to describe this situation

May 9, 2017 • 2:04

It won't wash

It won't wash

Heard something unconvincing? Maybe it's time to get out the washing powder!

May 2, 2017 • 2:27

Jack-of-all-trades

Jack-of-all-trades

Can you do lots of different things? This could be the phrase to describe you

Apr 25, 2017 • 2:24

The coast is clear

The coast is clear

Doing something you shouldn't? Here's a phrase about not being caught

Apr 18, 2017 • 2:28

Pull a fast one

Pull a fast one

Make the English you speak sound more natural

Apr 11, 2017 • 2:16

Suck it and see

Suck it and see

Learn a phrase about having new experiences

Apr 4, 2017 • 1:50

To cut your teeth

To cut your teeth

Starting out in a new profession? Here's an expression about gaining experience

Mar 28, 2017 • 2:04

Shrinkflation

Shrinkflation

Getting less for your money? Could you be the victim of 'shrinkflation'?

Mar 21, 2017 • 2:28

La-la land

La-la land

Is someone making unreasonable requests? Here's where they live

Mar 14, 2017 • 2:11

A different kettle of fish

A different kettle of fish

Fishing for a phrase? This could be the one for you

Mar 7, 2017 • 2:17

At the drop of a hat

At the drop of a hat

What would Rob do at the drop of a hat? Find out more about this expression

Feb 28, 2017 • 2:09

Brass neck

Brass neck

What does being confident but rude have to do with your neck? Learn an expression that should not be taken literally

Feb 21, 2017 • 2:56

Reinvent the wheel

Reinvent the wheel

Wasting time doing something that's been done before? There's a phrase to explain this

Feb 14, 2017 • 2:23

Frenemy

Frenemy

Do you have a false friend? In The English We Speak we get to hear how one of Feifei's best friends isn't a friend at all and discover that there's a great word to describe them

Feb 7, 2017 • 2:23

To be fair

To be fair

Give both sides of the argument with this phrase

Jan 31, 2017 • 2:18

On the box

On the box

Watching a ‘box’ can’t be very enjoyable, can it?

Jan 24, 2017 • 2:00

Duck

Duck

Learn a phrase you can use that features our feathered friend

Jan 17, 2017 • 2:26

Got your number

Got your number

Understanding someone's true intentions

Jan 3, 2017 • 2:08

Clickbait

Clickbait

Learn a word that describes tempting online links

Dec 20, 2016 • 2:36

Mash-up

Mash-up

Dan and Feifei are in the studio and Dan has been working on a new music track. Will it be good? Let's find out

Dec 13, 2016 • 2:11

Air kiss

Air kiss

How do you kiss someone without kissing them? Neil and Feifei explain a word which describes a popular way of greeting and saying goodbye to friends

Dec 6, 2016 • 2:15

Mansplaining

Mansplaining

A word for when a man explains to a woman something in a way which suggests she's stupid.

Nov 29, 2016 • 2:10

Rolling in it

Rolling in it

Neil is rolling on the floor to teach a phrase connected to wealth. Feifei explains

Nov 22, 2016 • 2:12

Photobomb

Photobomb

Feifei and Sian discuss a word to use when something unexpectedly appears in your photo.

Nov 15, 2016 • 2:36

Cyberchondriac

Cyberchondriac

Do you look up every symptom on the internet and then imagine you have a serious illness? Here's an expression to describe what you're doing

Nov 8, 2016 • 2:52

To wash your dirty linen in public

To wash your dirty linen in public

Are you discussing your private life in public? Here's an expression to describe what you're doing

Nov 1, 2016 • 2:22

Cat got your tongue?

Cat got your tongue?

There's a cat about and Feifei's not talking. Learn an expression that questions her quietness

Oct 25, 2016 • 2:20

It takes two to tango

It takes two to tango

Neil's doing a partner dance on his own in the studio to help you learn English. Learn an expression which means two people need to accept the blame for a bad situation

Oct 18, 2016 • 2:26

Knee-jerk reaction

Knee-jerk reaction

Feifei kicks Neil in the face after he hits her knee with a hammer. It's all to teach you a useful English expression

Oct 11, 2016 • 2:08

To have an axe to grind

To have an axe to grind

An expression with three related but slightly different meanings connected to strong opinions

Oct 4, 2016 • 2:39

Close, but no cigar

Close, but no cigar

Why is Neil trying to smoke a cigar in the studio? Learn an English expression about almost succeeding

Sep 27, 2016 • 2:03

Get somebody's goat

Get somebody's goat

Neil's goat Fred is a bit smelly but useful for teaching an English expression. Feifei's not happy

Sep 20, 2016 • 2:06

Bust a gut

Bust a gut

Neil's wearing a vest in the studio to teach an expression about effort. Feifei's concerned he'll injure himself

Sep 13, 2016 • 2:10

Old-school

Old-school

Feifei has written a letter to her family. Find out why Sian finds this old-school

Sep 6, 2016 • 2:19

Shedloads

Shedloads

Sian has received lots of emails! Learn another way to say 'lots'

Aug 30, 2016 • 2:13

Hangry

Hangry

Sian is irritable today because she skipped breakfast! Learn an adjective to describe people who feel angry when they get hungry

Aug 23, 2016 • 2:14

To pull something out of the hat

To pull something out of the hat

What can you pull out of a hat? Learn an expression that describes doing something that saves the day

Aug 16, 2016 • 2:34

Off the hook

Off the hook

Are you obliged to do something you can't or don't want to? We teach you what to say

Aug 4, 2016 • 1:52

Barefaced

Barefaced

Is someone telling an outrageous lie? Here's an expression we can use

Jul 26, 2016 • 2:26

To make a mountain out of a molehill

To make a mountain out of a molehill

Someone making a big fuss about something small? Here's a phrase to describe what they're doing

Jul 19, 2016 • 2:25

The last straw/final straw

The last straw/final straw

When friendship is under test, something tiny and as light as a straw could cause a huge problem

Jul 12, 2016 • 2:23

The university of life

The university of life

Want to learn about life? Here's a place most of us have studied at

Jul 5, 2016 • 2:31

White collar worker / blue-collar worker

White collar worker / blue-collar worker

What does the colour of your clothes say about your job?

Jun 28, 2016 • 2:39

Drama queen

Drama queen

No need to be in the theatre to find a drama queen. We teach you where to find them…

Jun 21, 2016 • 2:29

It's on the cards

It's on the cards

An expression for when something is likely to happen. What's on the cards for you?

Jun 14, 2016 • 2:07

Until you're blue in the face

Until you're blue in the face

Is nobody listening to you? Learn a colourful phrase to explain the situation

Jun 7, 2016 • 2:44

Clean up your act

Clean up your act

Someone behaving badly? Here's a phrase that tells them what to do

May 31, 2016 • 2:47

You're pulling my leg!

You're pulling my leg!

Want to trick someone? Here is a phrase that involves pulling a part of your body!

May 24, 2016 • 2:39

One good turn deserves another

One good turn deserves another

A helpful phrase for doing something good

May 17, 2016 • 2:43

To fall at the first hurdle

To fall at the first hurdle

Got an idea that's never going to work? Here is a phrase to describe the situation

May 10, 2016 • 2:45

Pain in the neck

Pain in the neck

Learn the phrase Helen needs to describe the headache her mobile phone company is causing her

May 3, 2016 • 1:57

Burn a hole in your pocket

Burn a hole in your pocket

When you are in the habit of spending all your money as soon as it comes in, you can use this phrase to express yourself

Apr 26, 2016 • 2:29

To turn something upside down

To turn something upside down

How to describe doing a thorough search for something in a very messy way

Apr 19, 2016 • 2:01

Going forward

Going forward

How do you ask someone to change the way they do things in the future? Learn this phrase connected to motion

Apr 12, 2016 • 2:19

A recipe for disaster

A recipe for disaster

When things go wrong and the outcome isn't good, what kind of recipe are you following? Learn a phrase that has nothing to do with cooking

Apr 5, 2016 • 2:53

Crash course

Crash course

When you need to learn something very quickly, it’s worth considering a super fast learning programme, but it’s not for everyone

Mar 29, 2016 • 2:13

You've sold it to me

You've sold it to me

When you are in total agreement with ideas or suggestions from others, try a new phrase to express yourself

Mar 22, 2016 • 2:14

Full of the joys of spring

Full of the joys of spring

What time of the year describes a good mood? Learn this lively and cheerful phrase

Mar 15, 2016 • 2:36

Six of one, half a dozen of the other

Six of one, half a dozen of the other

Is this expression related to numbers? If half a dozen is six, what does this expression mean? Listen to the programme

Mar 1, 2016 • 2:17

Test the water

Test the water

How can you make sure a new project is going to be a successful? Here's a piece of good advice

Feb 23, 2016 • 2:12

To lie through your teeth

To lie through your teeth

Not telling the truth is not a good thing to do. Learn a phrase to describe your actions

Feb 16, 2016 • 2:33

To make a monkey out of me

To make a monkey out of me

Rob's been asked to dress up like a monkey but it seems like someone is literally making a monkey out of him!

Feb 9, 2016 • 2:53

There's method to my madness

There's method to my madness

Although other people may think you are behaving rather strangely, you know what you are doing. There's a reason and a phrase to describe your behaviour

Jan 26, 2016 • 2:32

In good nick

In good nick

Learn a phrase to describe something in top condition

Jan 19, 2016 • 2:04

Cheap and cheerful

Cheap and cheerful

Most people like a present that is cheap and cheerful. But no one likes something that is cheap and nasty

Jan 12, 2016 • 2:05

A bitter pill to swallow

A bitter pill to swallow

When a situation is hard to accept, what do you say? This phrase could be for you

Jan 5, 2016 • 2:58

Potty

Potty

When we see people going crazy about something, here is an alternative expression

Dec 31, 2015 • 2:00

I'm game

I'm game

Neil is dying for a game of squash but Li is not game. Find out why...

Dec 22, 2015 • 1:59

That'll put hairs on your chest!

That'll put hairs on your chest!

Learn a humorous expression that is used when someone is going to have a strong alcoholic drink

Dec 15, 2015 • 2:38

Down the pan

Down the pan

When things are not going as planned, we can say they've gone ‘down the pan’, but which pan is it?

Dec 1, 2015 • 2:18

Sweet tooth

Sweet tooth

Do you have a sweet tooth? Is it something that you are born with or do you develop it?

Nov 17, 2015 • 2:27

Bumper-to-bumper

Bumper-to-bumper

When a car bumper is almost touch another car bumper, you know the situation on the road is bad

Nov 10, 2015 • 2:23

Eye candy

Eye candy

How can you describe someone good looking but not interesting?

Nov 3, 2015 • 2:24

Thingy

Thingy

Oh no, you've forgotten the word for something! Don't worry, this expression might help

Oct 27, 2015 • 2:11

Across the pond

Across the pond

Are London and New York separated by a pond? Learn this expression people say on both sides of the Atlantic

Oct 20, 2015 • 2:30

People person

People person

Are you good at working with other people? This expression might describe you

Oct 13, 2015 • 2:23

It's a steal!

It's a steal!

Have you paid very little money for something normally expensive? Learn an expression for when you find a bargain

Oct 6, 2015 • 2:38

Bull and bear market

Bull and bear market

Learn what you say when share prices rise and when they fall. We help you to understand financial terms

Sep 29, 2015 • 2:57

Social media words

Social media words

'Trolls' and 'haters' are the people who want to annoy you. The names are part of the new vocabulary of social media

Sep 22, 2015 • 2:33

Don't give up the day job

Don't give up the day job

If you don't think someone is very good at doing something what should you say? Here's a phrase to help you

Sep 15, 2015 • 2:31

A barrel of laughs

A barrel of laughs

What object is full of laughs? This is a phrase that describes someone who is fun

Sep 8, 2015 • 2:55

To know something like the back of your hand

To know something like the back of your hand

Do you know a place very well? Are you able to find your way in a place without looking at any maps? Here is a way of saying it with help from your hand

Sep 1, 2015 • 2:19

Give me credit

Give me credit

Learn a phrase that's full of praise. You won't need a credit card to use this one

Aug 18, 2015 • 2:42

To keep the wolf from the door

To keep the wolf from the door

Who's that knocking at the door? Someone's here to tell you you're in financial trouble

Aug 11, 2015 • 2:44

Red tape

Red tape

Fed up with rules and regulations? You must learn this expression

Jul 14, 2015 • 2:32

To drink someone under the table

To drink someone under the table

Drink to celebrate the good things in life, drink to forget the bad. Here's an expression for people who like an alcoholic drink

Jun 30, 2015 • 2:24

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying

Is there someone tormenting you online? Here's an expression for when people hide behind a computer to attack others

Jun 16, 2015 • 2:31

A close shave

A close shave

What's a razor got to do with Rob's bike ride to work? Here's an expression for when you've had a narrow escape.

May 19, 2015 • 2:11

My mind's gone blank

My mind's gone blank

Why did Rob ask Feifei to meet him in the studio? Here's an expression for when you've forgotten something.

May 12, 2015 • 2:07

To sleep on it

To sleep on it

Find out how 'sleeping on it' doesn't just mean lying on a bed!

May 5, 2015 • 2:39

All over the place

All over the place

Neil can't find his script. His pen's gone missing. He's feeling a bit confused. What's wrong with him? Find out in the programme.

Apr 28, 2015 • 2:05

To go around the houses

To go around the houses

Feifei wants to borrow Rob's car but she takes a long time getting to the point. Find out why Rob tells her not to go around the houses. And why doesn't Rob want her to drive his car?

Apr 21, 2015 • 2:45

Done and dusted

Done and dusted

When someone says the phrase 'done and dusted', do they mean doing some proper cleaning?

Apr 14, 2015 • 2:22

Chill pill

Chill pill

It's hard to swallow but maybe it's time for a chill pill!

Apr 7, 2015 • 2:43

Put a sock in it!

Put a sock in it!

Why has Helen put a sock in the toaster and how is that going to keep her quiet?

Mar 31, 2015 • 3:14

A wild card

A wild card

Who's the wild card in the office? Rob and Feifei use a phrase to describe an unpredictable colleague.

Mar 31, 2015 • 2:12

To take a shot / stab in the dark

To take a shot / stab in the dark

Feifei thinks someone's been killed but then discovers taking a stab in the dark doesn't involve using knives!

Mar 17, 2015 • 2:49

To keep a lid on it

To keep a lid on it

Li and Neil go for a coffee, but why do they have to keep a lid on it?

Mar 10, 2015 • 2:42

To be on the ball

To be on the ball

Learn a phrase to describe the ability to react quickly to things.

Mar 3, 2015 • 1:40

Mind-blowing

Mind-blowing

Feifei and Harry use an expression for things that amaze and astound.

Feb 24, 2015 • 3:16

Out for the count

Out for the count

Neil and Li talk about how a boxing expression can be used in everyday life.

Feb 17, 2015 • 2:31

Game changer

Game changer

Feifei and Harry use an expression for people and ideas that change the way we do things.

Feb 10, 2015 • 3:00

Wow factor

Wow factor

Harry and Feifei look at an expression for when things surprise and impress you.

Feb 3, 2015 • 2:58

Full on

Full on

Harry and Feifei talk about a common colloquial expression for when things are intense.

Jan 27, 2015 • 2:49

Stab in the back

Stab in the back

Harry and Feifei talk about an expression that is not as violent as it sounds.

Jan 20, 2015 • 2:40

To downsize

To downsize

Neil and Feifei talk about a word made popular by the economic downturn

Jan 13, 2015 • 2:23

At the movies

At the movies

Sci-fi, romcom, whodunnit – What kind of movies do you like?

Jan 6, 2015 • 2:40

Killing time

Killing time

Neil tells Helen to kill time but she smashes up a clock. Find out why and learn a useful expression.

Dec 30, 2014 • 2:33

Like turkeys voting for Christmas

Like turkeys voting for Christmas

Do you celebrate Christmas? Do you like eating turkey? Do you think turkeys like Christmas? Learn this humorous idiom

Dec 23, 2014 • 2:38

Face the music

Face the music

There's something Neil's forgotten to do and now he has to face the music. Listen to the programme to find out why.

Dec 16, 2014 • 2:00

Internet speak

Internet speak

'Snail mail', 'post' and 'hard copy' – learn expressions connected with computers

Dec 9, 2014 • 3:17

Viral

Viral

Li's cat video has gone viral. Will she be happy about it? Learn an expression from the internet age

Dec 2, 2014 • 2:57

Give the cold shoulder

Give the cold shoulder

Is Feifei's designer shawl a solution to her problems with Lisa? Listen to the programme to find out

Nov 25, 2014 • 2:34

Phishing

Phishing

Rob is deleting some emails. He won't take the bait sent in by criminals!

Nov 18, 2014 • 2:27

Take to the cleaners

Take to the cleaners

Rob's very expensive shirt is ruined! Who will pay for it? Listen to the programme to find out

Nov 11, 2014 • 3:02

Eat humble pie

Eat humble pie

Is Rob hungry enough to win a pie-eating competition? Listen to the programme

Nov 4, 2014 • 3:07

Water off a duck's back

Water off a duck's back

Feifei has a thing or two to learn from the ducks in the park. So do you. Listen to the programme.

Oct 28, 2014 • 3:03

Take for a ride

Take for a ride

Li wants to invest in a car moved by air. Is she going to lose her money?

Oct 21, 2014 • 3:16

Baby phrase

Baby phrase

Is Feifei giving up her job to take care of babies? Learn an amusing idiom: 'Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater'.

Oct 14, 2014 • 3:32

Joe Bloggs

Joe Bloggs

Do you know Joe Bloggs? He might be just beside you.

Oct 7, 2014 • 3:23

Butter up

Butter up

Is this butter for a cake, for toast or... to put on a person? Finn and Feifei explain

Sep 29, 2014 • 2:58

Hair of the dog

Hair of the dog

Rob had too much to drink. Is this the cure for his hangover?

Sep 22, 2014 • 3:48

Splash Out

Splash Out

Finn is spending a lot of money. But can he afford it?

Sep 15, 2014 • 4:15

Cheesed off

Cheesed off

Finn is angry, so Li offers him some tasty cheese. Will it calm him down?

Sep 8, 2014 • 2:46

Frogmarch

Frogmarch

A style of walking that is hard to do on your own.

Sep 1, 2014 • 3:01

Proof is in the pudding

Proof is in the pudding

What does Rob mean when he says 'the proof is in the pudding'?

Aug 22, 2014 • 3:12

Dinosaur

Dinosaur

What’s the link between dinosaurs and mobile phones?

Aug 18, 2014 • 2:43

Look like the back end of a bus

Look like the back end of a bus

If someone says you look like 'the back end of a bus', is it a good thing?

Aug 11, 2014 • 2:43

Interjections

Interjections

Wow! Ouch! Yippee! The useful little sounds which mean a lot.

Aug 4, 2014 • 3:59

Blah blah blah

Blah blah blah

Having a repetitive and boring conversation? This expression is for you.

Jul 28, 2014 • 3:55

Have a lot on my plate

Have a lot on my plate

When is a meal not so tasty? This expression will give you the answer

Jul 21, 2014 • 3:18

Bells and whistles

Bells and whistles

Will bells and whistles add to the value of your gadget? Listen to the programme

Jul 14, 2014 • 3:20

Everything but the kitchen sink

Everything but the kitchen sink

Neil and Li are going on a camping trip. But are they packing too much?

Jul 7, 2014 • 3:28

Beat the drum

Beat the drum

Neil and Li want to help protect baby turtles. But do they need a drum?

Jun 30, 2014 • 2:51

Until the cows come home

Until the cows come home

Neil and Li are keen to go home. How long will they have to wait for the bus?

Jun 23, 2014 • 3:05

Smell a rat

Smell a rat

Li is told she won the lottery. But is it true? Neil has bad news for her.

Jun 16, 2014 • 3:47

Funny ha-ha or funny peculiar

Funny ha-ha or funny peculiar

When does 'funny' have nothing to do with laughter?

Jun 9, 2014 • 2:49

Corporate speak

Corporate speak

Blue-sky thinking? Pushing the envelope? Learn what these business terms mean

Jun 2, 2014 • 3:22

Take it with a pinch of salt

Take it with a pinch of salt

Helen takes Neil out for tea but why does she put salt in his cup? Find out more

May 26, 2014 • 2:44

Cold feet

Cold feet

Rob wants a pay rise. But why do his 'cold feet' stop him asking for one?

May 19, 2014 • 3:12

Not enough room to swing a cat

Not enough room to swing a cat

It's hard to find the right place to live. Here's an expression about space.

May 12, 2014 • 2:51

Off the back of a lorry

Off the back of a lorry

Buying something really good but super cheap? This expression will make you think twice.

May 5, 2014 • 3:07

Wrong 'un

Wrong 'un

Li and Finn are looking on an online dating website. Li thinks she's found Mr Right. But Finn thinks he might be a wrong 'un. Learn more about this phrase in the programme.

Apr 28, 2014 • 2:54

Pie in the sky

Pie in the sky

Finn and Li are in the woods. Can they see more than birds flying in the sky?

Apr 21, 2014 • 2:41

On the tip of my tongue

On the tip of my tongue

Can't quite remember what to say? We have a phrase that might help you.

Apr 14, 2014 • 3:05

Under your belt

Under your belt

What does it mean if you say an actor has lots of awards under his belt?

Apr 7, 2014 • 2:45

To brush over

To brush over

When you are decorating, there are some things you can't brush over

Mar 31, 2014 • 2:58

Go the extra mile

Go the extra mile

How can Feifei save money for a new car? Will she go the extra mile?

Mar 24, 2014 • 3:04

Beat around the bush

Beat around the bush

Rob and Li go camping but they are not alone. Join them to learn a phrase

Mar 17, 2014 • 3:21

The boot's on the other foot

The boot's on the other foot

How are boots connected to a changing situation?

Mar 10, 2014 • 2:51

Pull the plug

Pull the plug

Rob is having serious problems with a project. Li wants to help him. But how? Listen to the programme to find out.

Mar 3, 2014 • 2:36

In the doghouse

In the doghouse

Behave or you might end up in the kennel with your dog. Learn a new phrase.

Feb 24, 2014 • 2:59

Chew the fat

Chew the fat

Rob and Feifei share a hearty meal and a new phrase. Join them to learn more.

Feb 17, 2014 • 3:10

Treading on eggshells

Treading on eggshells

What are you treading on if you're trying not to offend someone? We can explain.

Feb 10, 2014 • 3:04

Take a rain check

Take a rain check

What does 'taking a rain check' mean? Do we need an umbrella?

Feb 3, 2014 • 3:01

Use your loaf

Use your loaf

What's the connection between bread and common sense? You might need this expression.

Jan 27, 2014 • 2:51

Stumped

Stumped

Playing cricket is not the only place where you could get stumped. Find out what it means when it happens to you.

Jan 20, 2014 • 3:08

Skeleton in the closet

Skeleton in the closet

Finn and Li go to his late uncle's house. What is Li afraid of? We hope this expression won't frighten you.

Jan 13, 2014 • 3:24

To have words

To have words

Why is Finn cross with Li? Here's a good expression for when you're out of patience.

Jan 6, 2014 • 2:58

Crystal clear

Crystal clear

If something is crystal clear, how clear is it? Rob and Feifei find out when they build a wardrobe.

Dec 30, 2013 • 3:11

Ginormous

Ginormous

The glass and steel buildings of modern Shanghai are ginormous. What does this mean?

Dec 23, 2013 • 3:06

Take the mickey

Take the mickey

Who is laughing at Rob? Is it Li or is it Mickey Mouse? Here's an expression with a twist

Dec 16, 2013 • 3:29

Fishing for compliments

Fishing for compliments

What are you hoping to catch when you're fishing for compliments?

Dec 9, 2013 • 3:39

Go round in circles

Go round in circles

Which way are you going if you're not making any progress? Discover a phrase to use when you keep coming back to the same problem.

Dec 2, 2013 • 3:08

Bottomless

Bottomless

Li starts to get worried when her colleagues talk about going for a 'bottomless' meal. What does it mean? Find out more by listening to this programme.

Nov 25, 2013 • 2:57

Full of beans

Full of beans

Are you feeling tired today? Or are you full of beans? Learn more about this phrase in this programme.

Nov 18, 2013 • 3:17

To go with a bang

To go with a bang

You don't need fireworks to say a party is going really well.

Nov 11, 2013 • 3:08

Other half

Other half

Do you always consult with your other half before you make important decisions?

Nov 4, 2013 • 2:41

Bits and bobs

Bits and bobs

Neil says he has a lot of 'bits and bobs' to sort out. What does he mean?

Oct 28, 2013 • 3:04

Nosh

Nosh

Feifei spots a celebrity in the lift who says he's going to get some nosh. Rob has to explain exactly what he's going to get.

Oct 21, 2013 • 2:57

Ace

Ace

Do you like playing cards? Are you ace at playing cards? Join us for an 'ace' programme.

Oct 14, 2013 • 3:04

Beef

Beef

Beef is meat that comes from a cow, right? Yes, but there is another meaning... Find out more here.

Oct 7, 2013 • 3:52

Out of the picture

Out of the picture

Finn has got his camera. Who does Feifei want to see in the picture?

Sep 30, 2013 • 3:29

Cut to the chase

Cut to the chase

Who's chasing Finn and Feifei? Here's a good expression for when you're running out of patience

Sep 23, 2013 • 2:41

Have a ball

Have a ball

Feifei has just returned to the office after a really relaxing holiday. So why does Finn ask her if she had a ball? Find out in the programme.

Sep 16, 2013 • 3:00

Don't make a scene!

Don't make a scene!

Neil and Feifei are about to watch a play but there is a lot of drama outside the theatre. What is going on?

Sep 9, 2013 • 3:13

Phone slang

Phone slang

When is a bell not a bell, and a dog not a dog? Find out in our programme about phone slang.

Sep 2, 2013 • 4:56

Can of worms

Can of worms

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'a can of worms'.

Aug 26, 2013 • 3:51

What's his face?

What's his face?

What do you say in English if you can't remember someone's name? Listen to this programme to learn lots of different phrases you can use.

Aug 19, 2013 • 2:29

Straight from the horse's mouth

Straight from the horse's mouth

Learn English with horses. In fact, learn it 'straight from the horse's mouth' in this programme.

Aug 12, 2013 • 3:13

After

After

Join Li and Finn for a drink in the bar and learn a new way to ask someone what they want.

Aug 5, 2013 • 3:13

Weather idioms

Weather idioms

Using weather idioms: is Jen chasing rainbows, or is it a storm in a teacup?

Jul 29, 2013 • 3:19

Legend

Legend

Legends are stories about people who lived long ago, right? Well, there's more to it than that.

Jul 23, 2013 • 3:25

It's doing my head in!

It's doing my head in!

Annoyed? Frustrated? Angry? Maybe it's doing your head in!

Jul 15, 2013 • 3:01

The bee's knees

The bee's knees

Finn wants to share some special food with Li. But they receive some uninvited guests who also want to eat their delicious picnic snacks.

Jul 8, 2013 • 3:00

To put all your eggs in one basket

To put all your eggs in one basket

How many eggs should you put in one basket? And what has that got to do with taking risks?

Jul 1, 2013 • 3:41

Don't make me laugh!

Don't make me laugh!

It's laughable. How to say that you think something will never happen.

Jun 24, 2013 • 2:50

A leopard can't change its spots

A leopard can't change its spots

Can someone change their personality? A leopard can't change its spots.

Jun 17, 2013 • 3:00

To see red

To see red

Seeing red: what is making Jen and Feifei so angry on their day trip?

Jun 10, 2013 • 3:51

Haven't slept a wink

Haven't slept a wink

Zzzz... Neil had a crying child in his room and Feifei had a mosquito in hers. That's why neither of them has slept a wink.

Jun 3, 2013 • 3:30

Freak

Freak

Are you obsessed by a hobby or sport? Feifei is but Jen's not impressed!

May 27, 2013 • 2:41

I wasn't born yesterday

I wasn't born yesterday

Were you born yesterday? Probably not, but this is a useful expression if someone's trying to fool you.

May 20, 2013 • 3:17

Six-pack

Six-pack

Do you have a six-pack or a one-pack? Maybe it's time to do more exercise! Find out why in The English We Speak.

May 13, 2013 • 3:21

To cook the books

To cook the books

Neil is cooking an unusual meal in the BBC Learning English kitchen. Would you like to eat a book?

May 6, 2013 • 3:14

On the up

On the up

Things are 'on the up' for Jennifer and Jean at work. Find out why in The English We Speak.

Apr 29, 2013 • 2:25

LOL!

LOL!

Do you know what this text message abbreviation means? Find out with Jennifer and Rob in this week's programme.

Apr 22, 2013 • 3:23

Makeover

Makeover

Feifei thinks that Catherine looks better, younger, prettier. Why does Catherine look so different today? Find out more with The English We Speak.

Apr 15, 2013 • 4:13

A white elephant

A white elephant

Does Finn have to look after his uncle's white elephant? Find out more with The English We Speak.

Apr 8, 2013 • 2:58

Finger on the pulse

Finger on the pulse

Finn has his finger on the pulse when Feifei says that she has no clue about some actors in a movie. What does it mean?

Apr 1, 2013 • 3:14

Cut the mustard

Cut the mustard

Can Feifei cut the mustard to win a cooking contest? Find out more with The English We Speak.

Mar 25, 2013 • 3:37

To miss the boat

To miss the boat

Does Feifei really need a lifejacket to go to Finn's uncle's party? Find out more about this phrase in this programme.

Mar 18, 2013 • 3:03

To take (something) on board

To take (something) on board

Li and Rob are going on a holiday and are getting ready at the airport. But Rob is very surprised to find Li carrying so many things that she is not allowed to take on board. Find out more with The English We Speak.

Mar 11, 2013 • 3:45

The writing is on the wall

The writing is on the wall

Vera gets angry with Dominic when Rob mentions the phrase 'the writing is on the wall'. Is Dominic being naughty?

Mar 4, 2013 • 3:41

Every Tom Dick and Harry

Every Tom Dick and Harry

Kaz invites Tom, Dick and Harry to the studio and introduces them to Yang Li. Who are they?

Feb 25, 2013 • 3:18

Act your age, not your shoe size

Act your age, not your shoe size

Abigail tells Rob to act his age not his shoe size. But what does this mean?

Feb 18, 2013 • 2:34

Go to town

Go to town

Why does Abigail keep saying she's 'going to town'? And what has it got to do with red food? Find out here.

Feb 8, 2013 • 2:52

Over the moon

Over the moon

Someone in the office is over the moon about getting a new job. Find out what that really means in this week's programme.

Feb 1, 2013 • 3:29

To know your onions

To know your onions

Rob gets Li to help him with some quiz answers. Does she know her onions? Find out more about this phrase here.

Jan 28, 2013 • 3:41

Take with a pinch of salt

Take with a pinch of salt

Why does Li think that there is a ghost in her house? Find out more here.

Jan 21, 2013 • 3:47

Not rocket science

Not rocket science

Find out what the expression 'not rocket science' means in this programme.

Jan 14, 2013 • 3:05

Go down a storm

Go down a storm

Kaz says his party 'went down a storm'. Is this a good thing or a bad thing? Find out here.

Jan 7, 2013 • 2:36

Chuffed

Chuffed

Kaz is feeling very chuffed today. Find out what this phrase means in this programme.

Dec 31, 2012 • 2:38

Hit the ground running

Hit the ground running

Kaz decides to 'hit the ground running' in this week's programme. Find out what this phrase means by listening to this programme.

Dec 24, 2012 • 2:54

Language of the blogosphere

Language of the blogosphere

Finn has entered the blogosphere! Find out what this word means in The English We Speak.

Dec 17, 2012 • 4:10

Irons in the fire

Irons in the fire

Jen tells Helen that she has a few 'irons in the fire' for her fortnight off work. Learn a phrase to describe having lots of options. Find out more with this programme.

Dec 10, 2012 • 2:43

Man flu

Man flu

Li is worried when she learns that Neil has caught man flu. But how will she react when she finds out what the illness actually is...?

Dec 3, 2012 • 3:33

Drop dead gorgeous

Drop dead gorgeous

Li is worried when Jen says somebody is 'drop dead gorgeous'. What does this phrase mean?

Nov 26, 2012 • 3:29

Celeb (Celebrity): 19 Nov

Celeb (Celebrity): 19 Nov

Vera teaches Rob how and when to use the word 'celeb' in a modern society. Find out more in The English We Speak.

Nov 19, 2012 • 3:40

Emoticon: 12 Nov

Emoticon: 12 Nov

Rob and Vera have a misunderstanding about an email. Listen to this programme to find out why emoticons can be useful in written messages.

Nov 12, 2012 • 3:47

Keep your chin up!: 5 Nov

Keep your chin up!: 5 Nov

Rob tells Vera to 'keep her chin up'. But what does he mean? Find out with this week's programme.

Nov 5, 2012 • 3:21

Cost an arm and a leg

Cost an arm and a leg

Rob goes shopping but the clothes cost 'an arm and a leg'. What does this mean?

Oct 29, 2012 • 3:34

Hunky-dory

Hunky-dory

Rob and Chris mention the phrase 'hunky-dory' to Helen. Are they trying to say that they are muscular men? Find out what this phrase means with The English We Speak.

Oct 22, 2012 • 3:06

Things are looking up

Things are looking up

Helen gets confused when she hears that 'things are looking up'. Find out what this phrase means with The English We Speak.

Oct 15, 2012 • 3:01

My mind has gone blank

My mind has gone blank

Rosie's mind has gone blank in the studio! Does that mean she's lost her memory? Listen to this programme to find out.

Oct 8, 2012 • 3:09

Shut up

Shut up

Li and Rosie look at an expression which can be rude or jokey. Be careful how you use it!

Oct 1, 2012 • 3:34

Throw the book at somebody

Throw the book at somebody

Rosie arrives late again and she tells Helen that their boss will throw the book at her. Is he going to hurt her?

Sep 24, 2012 • 4:44

A finger in every pie

A finger in every pie

Jen made some delicious pies but what does it mean when we say she has 'a finger in every pie'?

Sep 17, 2012 • 3:24

Finding your feet

Finding your feet

Helen and Rosie are doing a salsa class, but Rosie is still finding her feet. What does it mean?

Sep 10, 2012 • 2:42

The skin of your teeth

The skin of your teeth

Jennifer managed to do something by the skin of her teeth. What does it mean?

Sep 3, 2012 • 3:03

No-win situation

No-win situation

Rob finds himself in a no-win situation although he wins a horse racing bet. What does it mean?

Aug 27, 2012 • 4:08

Plain sailing

Plain sailing

Li joins Rob on a sailing boat. Listen to their excursion and learn some sailing idioms..

Aug 20, 2012 • 4:15

Down with the kids

Down with the kids

Why is Rob dressing like a teenager? Find out in The English We Speak!

Aug 13, 2012 • 3:04

Quids in

Quids in

Have you ever made a lot of money? Rob's got the right expression for Helen.

Aug 6, 2012 • 3:39

Sheepish

Sheepish

Helen is a bit puzzled by Neil's statement that she is looking rather sheepish. Find out what he means in The English We Speak.

Jul 30, 2012 • 2:54

Keep me posted

Keep me posted

Neil gets in trouble with the police just to teach you a new expression! Find out more in The English We Speak.

Jul 23, 2012 • 2:58

To go bananas

To go bananas

Li thinks Neil is a bit out of control and says he's gone bananas. Has this got anything to do with fruit?

Jul 16, 2012 • 3:27

Not give someone the time of day

Not give someone the time of day

What does Rosie mean when she tells Li to put her money where her mouth is? Li is confused and thinks it's really disgusting. Listen to more of their conversation about this expression!

Jul 9, 2012 • 2:32

Put your money where your mouth is: 02 JUL12

Put your money where your mouth is: 02 JUL12

What does Rosie mean when she tells Li to put her money where her mouth is? Li is confused and thinks it's really disgusting. Listen to more of their conversation about this expression!

Jul 2, 2012 • 3:29

To fly by the seat of your pants

To fly by the seat of your pants

Can Chris fly by the seat of his pants? Li and Chris discuss the use of this phrase.

Jun 25, 2012 • 2:52

To bend over backwards

To bend over backwards

What are the different meanings of the phrase 'to bend over backwards'?

Jun 18, 2012 • 2:37

It's a joke

It's a joke

Does the expression 'it's a joke' mean something funny? Find out more in this week's The English We Speak.

Jun 11, 2012 • 2:56

What's the damage?

What's the damage?

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase What's the damage?

Jun 4, 2012 • 3:33

Why the long face?

Why the long face?

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase Why the long face?

May 28, 2012 • 3:08

To murder something

To murder something

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'to murder something'.

May 21, 2012 • 3:55

Catch your eye

Catch your eye

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'to catch someone's eye'.

May 14, 2012 • 2:51

No strings attached

No strings attached

In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'No strings attached'

May 7, 2012 • 3:03

A spanner in the works

A spanner in the works

In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'A spanner in the works'

Apr 30, 2012 • 3:03

Call it a day

Call it a day

In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'call it a day'

Apr 23, 2012 • 2:38

To take the weight off your feet

To take the weight off your feet

Learn phrases related to feet in this week's The English We Speak.

Apr 16, 2012 • 3:05

Comfort zone

Comfort zone

Learn a phrase that has less to do with sofas and more to do with feelings in this week's The English We Speak.

Apr 9, 2012 • 3:07

Knickers in a twist

Knickers in a twist

In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'knickers in a twist'.

Apr 2, 2012 • 4:46

To let the cat out of the bag

To let the cat out of the bag

In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'To let the cat out of the bag'.

Mar 26, 2012 • 3:11

To paint the town red

To paint the town red

In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'To paint the town'.

Mar 19, 2012 • 3:21

Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed!

Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed!

In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed'.

Mar 12, 2012 • 3:35

Wake up and smell the coffee!

Wake up and smell the coffee!

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'Wake up and smell the coffee!'.

Mar 5, 2012 • 3:04

The English We Speak: Have your cake and eat it

The English We Speak: Have your cake and eat it

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'Have your cake and eat it'.

Feb 27, 2012 • 3:00

The English We Speak: Happy Bunny

The English We Speak: Happy Bunny

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'Happy bunny'.

Feb 20, 2012 • 3:35

The English We Speak: Get your hands dirty

The English We Speak: Get your hands dirty

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. In this edition of The English We Speak find out the meaning of the expression 'Get your hands dirty'.

Feb 13, 2012 • 2:53

The English We Speak: Don't get me wrong!

The English We Speak: Don't get me wrong!

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. In this edition of The English We Speak, Li finds Neil's cat 'just a bit surprising' and teaches us a useful phrase to prevent people taking offence at something.

Feb 6, 2012 • 2:50

The English We Speak: Dragon

The English We Speak: Dragon

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the meaning of the word 'Dragon'.

Jan 30, 2012 • 4:08

The English We Speak: Easy Tiger!

The English We Speak: Easy Tiger!

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'Easy tiger!'.

Jan 23, 2012 • 2:54

The English We Speak: Stuffed

The English We Speak: Stuffed

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the words 'stuff' and 'stuffed'.

Jan 16, 2012 • 2:49

The English We Speak: Bubbly

The English We Speak: Bubbly

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the word 'bubbly'.

Jan 9, 2012 • 3:03

The English We Speak: All the trimmings

The English We Speak: All the trimmings

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week we talk about Christmas and the phrase 'all the trimmings'.

Jan 2, 2012 • 3:11

The English We Speak: Cheesy

The English We Speak: Cheesy

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at new meanings of the word 'cheesy'.

Dec 26, 2011 • 2:55

The English We Speak: Work for peanuts

The English We Speak: Work for peanuts

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'work for peanuts'.

Dec 19, 2011 • 4:17

The English We Speak: Sinking Feeling

The English We Speak: Sinking Feeling

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'sinking feeling'.

Dec 12, 2011 • 4:15

The English We Speak: Head over Heels

The English We Speak: Head over Heels

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'head over heels'.

Dec 5, 2011 • 3:25

The English We Speak: Nailed It!

The English We Speak: Nailed It!

Neil needs to put a clock on the studio wall, but can he nail it? Find out more in this week's programme.

Nov 28, 2011 • 3:25

The English We Speak: Lairy

The English We Speak: Lairy

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the word 'lairy'.

Nov 21, 2011 • 3:10

Sponger

Sponger

Neil tells Li about his plan to live in luxury after giving up his job. Find out more about how he will pay for his expense in this week's programme.

Nov 14, 2011 • 3:19

The Creeps

The Creeps

In our special Halloween edition Neil and Li try to give you the creeps.

Nov 7, 2011 • 2:36

Smoothie

Smoothie

Are you a smoothie? Learn different meanings of the word 'smoothie' with Neil and Li.

Oct 31, 2011 • 3:13

The English We Speak: 'Get Lost'

The English We Speak: 'Get Lost'

The English countryside is beautiful but causes problems for Helen and Rob. Find out more about this phrasal verb in this week's The English We Speak.

Oct 24, 2011 • 2:48

The English We Speak: Playing Up

The English We Speak: Playing Up

Everyone likes to see children playing, but do we also want them to play up? Find out more about this phrasal verb with Rob and Helen.

Oct 20, 2011 • 2:59

The English We Speak: Heavy

The English We Speak: Heavy

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at new meanings of the word 'heavy'.

Oct 10, 2011 • 2:38

The English We Speak: You've changed your tune

The English We Speak: You've changed your tune

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'You've changed your tune'.

Oct 3, 2011 • 3:32

The English We Speak: Hold your horses

The English We Speak: Hold your horses

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'hold your horses'.

Sep 26, 2011 • 3:06

The English We Speak: Yob

The English We Speak: Yob

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the word 'yob'.

Sep 19, 2011 • 3:12

The English We Speak: To Jump the Gun

The English We Speak: To Jump the Gun

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'to jump the gun'.

Sep 12, 2011 • 3:04

The English We Speak: Mind-boggling

The English We Speak: Mind-boggling

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the word 'mind-boggling'.

Sep 5, 2011 • 2:56

The English We Speak: Brownie Points

The English We Speak: Brownie Points

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'brownie points'.

Aug 29, 2011 • 2:55

The English We Speak: To nick

The English We Speak: To nick

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at different uses of the word 'to nick'.

Aug 22, 2011 • 3:08

The English We Speak: In the nick of time

The English We Speak: In the nick of time

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'in the nick of time'.

Aug 15, 2011 • 3:05

The English We Speak: On a roll

The English We Speak: On a roll

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the phrase 'on a roll'.

Aug 8, 2011 • 3:06

The English We Speak: Do

The English We Speak: Do

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at a different usage of the word 'do'.

Aug 1, 2011 • 2:27

The English We Speak: Glamping

The English We Speak: Glamping

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's word is glamping.

Jul 25, 2011 • 2:40

The English We Speak: To Blow Your Own Trumpet

The English We Speak: To Blow Your Own Trumpet

William and Helen look at a musical idiom in honour of the BBC Proms, a classical music festival. Listen to find out more.

Jul 18, 2011 • 4:04

The English We Speak: To Nip Something in the Bud

The English We Speak: To Nip Something in the Bud

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's idiom is 'to nip something in the bud'.

Jul 11, 2011 • 3:15

The English We Speak: Teetotal

The English We Speak: Teetotal

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's word is 'teetotal'.

Jul 4, 2011 • 3:38

The English We Speak: Festival Phrases

The English We Speak: Festival Phrases

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week we're looking at phrases related to festivals.

Jun 27, 2011 • 3:32

The English We Speak: Fatherhood

The English We Speak: Fatherhood

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week we're looking at some phrases relating to fatherhood.

Jun 20, 2011 • 3:55

The English We Speak: Hullabaloo

The English We Speak: Hullabaloo

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's word is 'hullabaloo'.

Jun 13, 2011 • 4:04

The English We Speak: Bounce

The English We Speak: Bounce

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week we're looking at a new slang usage of the word 'bounce'.

Jun 6, 2011 • 2:43

The English We Speak: The special relationship

The English We Speak: The special relationship

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's phrase is 'The special relationship'.

May 30, 2011 • 4:16

The English We Speak: 'Baby Talk'

The English We Speak: 'Baby Talk'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's phrase is 'baby talk'.

May 23, 2011 • 4:56

The English We Speak: 'Gatecrash'

The English We Speak: 'Gatecrash'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's word is 'gatecrash'.

May 16, 2011 • 3:36

The English We Speak: -gate

The English We Speak: -gate

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's programme looks at the origin and meaning of the suffix '-gate'.

May 9, 2011 • 4:37

The English We Speak: Touchy-feely

The English We Speak: Touchy-feely

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's phrase is touchy-feely.

Apr 25, 2011 • 4:16

The English We Speak: Two Ticks

The English We Speak: Two Ticks

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week we find out what it means when someone says "I'll be with you in two ticks", and other related phrases.

Apr 18, 2011 • 3:25

The English We Speak: Swizz

The English We Speak: Swizz

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week, find out how Li became the victim of a swizz.

Apr 11, 2011 • 3:18

The English We Speak: 'Sick'

The English We Speak: 'Sick'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases. This week's word is 'sick' which can have a different meaning to the one you'd expect.

Apr 4, 2011 • 3:04

The English We Speak: 'Savvy'

The English We Speak: 'Savvy'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary. This week's word is 'savvy'.

Mar 28, 2011 • 3:02

The English We Speak: ' anorak'

The English We Speak: ' anorak'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary. This week's word is 'anorak'.

Mar 21, 2011 • 3:35

The English We Speak: 'Awesome'

The English We Speak: 'Awesome'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary. This week's word is 'awesome'

Mar 10, 2011 • 3:08

The English We Speak: 'Wee'

The English We Speak: 'Wee'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary. This week's word is 'wee'

Mar 7, 2011 • 3:48

The English We Speak: 'Green'

The English We Speak: 'Green'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary. This week's word is 'green'

Feb 28, 2011 • 3:51

The English We Speak: 'Loved Up'

The English We Speak: 'Loved Up'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary. This week's phrase is 'loved up'

Feb 21, 2011 • 2:53

The English We Speak: 'Chillax'

The English We Speak: 'Chillax'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary. This week's word is 'chillax'

Feb 14, 2011 • 3:02

The English We Speak: 'Rabbit'

The English We Speak: 'Rabbit'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary. This week's phrase is 'rabbit in the headlights'.

Feb 7, 2011 • 3:19

The English We Speak: 'Tastic'

The English We Speak: 'Tastic'

This week Finn and Wang Fei talk about the usage of the suffix -tastic. What does it mean and what words can you use it with?

Jan 31, 2011 • 3:06

The English We Speak: 'Icebreaker'

The English We Speak: 'Icebreaker'

In this series you can learn authentic English words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary. This week's word is 'icebreaker'.

Jan 24, 2011 • 3:09

The English We Speak: 'Good Egg'

The English We Speak: 'Good Egg'

In our new series you can learn authentic English words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary. This week's phrase is 'good egg'.

Jan 17, 2011 • 2:54

BBC Learning English Pantomime 2010 - Cinderella - Part 3

BBC Learning English Pantomime 2010 - Cinderella - Part 3

Listen to the final part of our pantomime. Last time, Cinderella had to leave the ball in a big rush. Will she really get her happy ending this week?

Jan 10, 2011 • 5:55

BBC Learning English Pantomime 2010 - Cinderella - Part 2

BBC Learning English Pantomime 2010 - Cinderella - Part 2

Listen to the second part of our pantomime. This week, Cinderella meets the charming Prince Stephen. But he only speaks in English idioms! The final part of the pantomime is next week.

Jan 3, 2011 • 5:44

BBC Learning English Pantomime 2010 - Cinderella - Part 1

BBC Learning English Pantomime 2010 - Cinderella - Part 1

Listen to the first part of Cinderella, our special pantomime. Cinderella dreams of escaping her ugly sisters, but how will she ever be able to go to Prince Stephen's Ball? Part two is next week.

Dec 27, 2010 • 9:26

English up to date 'Bottle and Bottler'

English up to date 'Bottle and Bottler'

In the last programme of the series, John Ayto explains the origin, meaning and use of the words 'bottle' and 'bottler'.

Nov 29, 2010 • 2:39

English up to date 'Early Doors'

English up to date 'Early Doors'

In this week's episode, John Ayto explores the origin, meaning and use of the expression 'early doors'.

Nov 22, 2010 • 2:20

English up to date 'Go Commando'

English up to date 'Go Commando'

In this week's episode, John Ayto explores the origin, meaning and use of the phrase 'go commando'.

Nov 15, 2010 • 2:10

English up to date 'Go Postal'

English up to date 'Go Postal'

In this week's episode, John Ayto explores the origin, meaning and use of the phrase 'go postal'.

Nov 8, 2010 • 2:09

English up to date 'Fit for Purpose'

English up to date 'Fit for Purpose'

In this episode, John Ayto examines the meaning and usage of the phrase 'fit for purpose'.

Nov 1, 2010 • 2:14

English up to date 'Issue'

English up to date 'Issue'

In this episode, John Ayto examines the meaning of the word 'issue' and how it can sometimes be used instead of the word 'problem'.

Oct 25, 2010 • 2:15

English up to date 'Hella'

English up to date 'Hella'

In this week's episode, John Ayto explores the origin, meaning and use of the prefix 'hella'.

Oct 18, 2010 • 2:26

English up to date 'Chugger'

English up to date 'Chugger'

In this episode, John Ayto examines the meaning of the word 'chugger'.

Oct 11, 2010 • 2:09

English up to date 'Edgy'

English up to date 'Edgy'

In this episode, John Ayto examines a new use of the word 'edgy'.

Oct 4, 2010 • 2:14

English up to Date 'Minging'

English up to Date 'Minging'

In this episode, John Ayto considers how people use the word 'minging'.

Sep 27, 2010 • 2:31

English up to date 'Bridezilla'

English up to date 'Bridezilla'

John Ayto explains the origin, meaning and use of the word 'bridezilla'

Sep 20, 2010 • 2:20

English up to date 'Tweet'

English up to date 'Tweet'

In this episode, you'll find out about a word regularly used when we talk about social networking. John Ayto explores the origins and uses of the word "Tweet"

Sep 13, 2010 • 2:29

English up to date 'Apps'

English up to date 'Apps'

In this first episode in a new series of Keep your English up to date, John Ayto explains the origin, meaning and use of the word 'apps'

Sep 6, 2010 • 2:15

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