Learning English Conversations
Everyday expressions and real English conversations to help make your English conversations easier. Each week, a new phrase or word is taught for use in conversation. Special series like Beating Speaking Anxiety help improve English conversation skills. More resources are available at bbclearningenglish.com.
Episodes
The English We Speak: Side quest
Do you ever get distracted by something fun? A side quest is where you do something that's different to your main task. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.As always, find a free transcript here:✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260721For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comWe send a newsletter w
The English We Speak: Passing Ships
This phrase comes from a longer idiom, ‘like ships that pass at night’. It’s used when two people have busy schedules, and struggle to find time to meet for more than just a brief encounter. Learn how to use it here, with Georgie and Feifei.Find a free transcript here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260713We send a newsletter with our weekly hig
The English We Speak: Understood the assignment
This slang phrase is about knowing what you have to do for a task, and doing it perfectly. Hear examples and learn how to use it in this programme, with Georgie and Feifei.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260706. For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com We send a newsletter
The English We Speak: Onto something
Onto something suggests progress or a good idea. Maybe not a complete answer, but you're moving in the right direction. Learn how to use 'onto something' with Becca and Feifei.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260629.For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comWe send a newslett
The English We Speak: Sell yourself short
When we sell ourselves short, we say negative things about ourselves. We undervalue or underestimate ourselves. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Becca.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260622.For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comWe send a newsletter with o
The English We Speak: Wrap it up
Sometimes you just want people to stop. That's one way to use 'wrap it up'. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.Find a free transcript and related programmes here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260615Exams coming up? Practise your skills with BBC Learning English: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/skillsSign up to
The English We Speak: Throw ideas at the wall
Sometimes you want to come up with ideas without thinking too much. That's when you throw ideas at the wall to see if anything sticks. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260608. For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comWe s
The English We Speak: Like a moth to a flame
Moths are winged insects which are attracted to light sources. Learn the metaphorical use of this expression in this programme with Feifei and Georgie.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260601Practise your listening in The Listening Room. Find it here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/
The English We Speak: Gatekeep
Gatekeep is a verb which means to withhold information. It can be used to talk about fandoms or products. Learn how with Feifei and Georgie.For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com
As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260525Discover the NEW series of Office English. Topics cove
The English We Speak: In over my head
Do you almost feel like you're drowning in your tasks? Maybe you're in over your head. Learn when and how to use this expression with Becca and Feifei.For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com
As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260518Discover the NEW series of Office English.
The English We Speak: A hunch
Is it true or is it just a hunch? Learn when and how to use ‘a hunch’ in this programmeFor more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com
As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260511Discover the NEW series of Office English. Topics covering small talk, organising meetings and rules. Find
The English We Speak: Take it as a given
There are some things that you can just assume to be true. This expression is for those. Learn how to use it expression with Feifei and Phil.For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com
As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260504Discover the NEW series of Office English. Topics cov
The English We Speak: Think on your feet
Sometimes you need to think quickly, like for a job or to answer a question. Thinking on your feet means to do just this! Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com
As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260427Discover the NEW s
The English We Speak: Can't see the wood for the trees
This idiom is about focusing on the small details too much and losing sight of the bigger picture. Learn when and how to use it, and learn other language to use in this situation, with Feifei and Georgie.For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com
As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_202
The English We Speak: Yap
"Stop yapping!" Learn a word to use when someone talks a lot with Feifei and Georgie. For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comAs always, find a free transcript here:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260413And discover the NEW series of Office English. Topics covering small talk, organising meetings and rules. Fin
The English We Speak: Flow State
When we enter a flow state, we feel fully focused. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Becca. For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comAs always, find a free transcript here:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260406And discover the NEW series of Office English. Topics covering small talk, organising me
The English We Speak: Got you
If you've got someone, you support them.Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Becca.As always, find a free transcript here:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260330And discover the NEW series of Office English. Topics covering small talk, organising meetings and rules. Find it here:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/fea
The English We Speak: A bit of a stretch
Sometimes we say things that aren't 100% true. They're not complete lies, but they are a bit of a stretch. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.As always, find a free transcript here:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260323And discover the NEW series of Office English. Topics covering small talk, organising meetings and rules.
The English We Speak: Kick the can down the road
Sometimes at work we need to kick the can down the road. Learn how to use this expression with Phil and Feifei.TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260316OFFICE ENGLISH:
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The English We Speak: Cut corners
If you want to do a task perfectly, it's usually not a good idea to cut corners. Learn about this expression and how to use it in conversations with Feifei and Georgie.TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260309BEATING SPEAKING ANXIETY:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/beating_speaking_anxietySUBSCRIBE TO OUR
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 8. I’m scared I can’t be myself
It can be harder to express our personality in a foreign language because we have fewer language tools available and speaking anxiety can make it harder to let our personalities shine. Learn from experts about this topic and get tips on how to show your true self in English in the last episode of this special series. Don't forget, you can watch Georgie's explainer videos and see learners of Englis
The English We Speak: Short-change
If you give someone less than they deserve, you short-change them. Learn the literal and metaphorical use of this expression with Feifei and Georgie and hear more examples.IND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260302BEATING SPEAKING ANXIETY: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/beating_speaking_anxietySUBSCRIBE
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 7. I’m scared I’m not getting better
Sometimes it can feel like no matter how much you practise speaking, you don’t get any better.In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about what to do when you feel stuck learning English.With speaking coaches Rhiannon Carter and Barnaby Griffiths.WATCH – Find Georgie’s videos with tips to improve your speaking here https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/beating_s
The English We Speak: Go through a rough patch
Life isn't always great, sometimes things can be difficult. Use 'go through a rough patch' when life gets difficult for a while. Learn this useful expression with Feifei and Phil.As always, find a free transcript here:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260223And discover the NEW series of Office English. Topics covering small talk, organising m
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 6. I’m scared I won’t get the joke
Have you ever been in a group of friends and everyone laughs, but you didn’t understand the joke?In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about understanding humour and making people laugh when speaking English.With Peruvian performer Pepa Duarte.WATCH – Find Georgie’s videos with tips to improve your speaking here https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/beating_spe
The English We Speak: Learn the hard way
Sometimes we ignore advice. Sometimes things go wrong and this programme is about those times. Phil and Feifei teach you how to use the expression to learn something the hard way.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260216BEATING SPEAKING ANXIETY: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/beating_speaking_anxietyS
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 5. I’m scared people won’t understand me
Have you ever spoken in English, and the other person didn’t understand?In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about accents and pronunciation.With Jennifer Jenkins, Emeritus Professor of Global Englishes, University of Southampton.WATCH – Find Georgie’s video with tips to improve your speaking here https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/beating_speaking_anxiety/being_un
The English We Speak: A big ask
Sometimes people ask for too much. Listen to examples of this phrase being use and learn how to use it for those moments.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://downloads.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/tews/260209_tews_a_big_ask_transcript.pdfBEATING SPEAKING ANXIETY: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/beating_speaking_anxietySUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/l
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 4. I'm scared of speaking in front of people
Do you get nervous speaking English in front of people, even a small group of friends?In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about public speaking and speaking in bigger groups.With Regina Kaplan Rakowski, Professor of Learning Technologies at the University of North Texas.WATCH – Find Georgie’s videos with tips to improve your speaking here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglis
The English We Speak: Facepalm moment
Something embarrassing or frustrating could lead to a facepalm moment. Learn how to use this expression here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260202BEATING SPEAKING ANXIETY: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/beating_speaking_anxietySUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 3. I’m scared I won’t understand people
Speaking is only one side of the conversation. You also have to listen to and understand the other person.In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about how you can improve your listening in real life conversations.With Erhan Aslan, Associate Professor of Applied Linguistics at the University of Reading.WATCH – Find Georgie’s videos with tips to improve your speaking here: https:/
The English We Speak: Shoot off
This expression means leave quickly because you're in a hurry or there's somewhere you need to be. Learn how to use it here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260126BEATING SPEAKING ANXIETY:
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Beating Speaking Anxiety: 2. I’m scared of forgetting my words
Have you ever been speaking English, and suddenly you freeze and forget your words?In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about why our brain can’t always remember words we know in a new language.With Alissa Melinger, Professor of psycholinguistics at the University of Dundee.WATCH – Find Georgie’s videos with tips to improve your speaking here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningeng
The English We Speak: Hot on the heels
This expression means something happens immediately after something else, often unexpectedly. Learn how to use it here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260119TRY BEATING SPEAKING ANXIETY
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Beating Speaking Anxiety: 1. I’m scared of making mistakes
Do you get anxious when speaking English? You’re not alone.In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about how to increase your confidence speaking English, even when you make mistakes.With professor of Chinese Han Luo and speaking coach Barnaby Griffiths.WATCH – Find Georgie’s videos with tips to improve your speaking here https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/beating_spe
The English We Speak: Aura farming
Learn this expression which means do something for attention or praise.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260112TRY THE LISTENING ROOM
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The English We Speak: Lock in
This phrasal verb means to focus hard with no distractions. Learn how to use it here!FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260105TRY THE LISTENING ROOM
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The English We Speak: A fresh start
A new year is the perfect time for a fresh start.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-251229TRY THE LISTENING ROOM
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The English We Speak: A little something
Learn a phrase about small gifts with Feifei and Phil.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-251222TRY THE LISTENING ROOM
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The English We Speak: Moment of truth
Use this expression to add drama and suspense to what you're saying. Learn how in this programme.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-251215TRY THE LISTENING ROOM
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The English We Speak: On their toes
This expression is about causing someone else to stay alert and ready for anything. Learn how to use it here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
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The English We Speak: Duck out
This expression means to leave early and quickly. Learn how to use it here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
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The English We Speak: Off base
This expression is a way to say someone's idea, guess or opinion is far from the reality. Learn it here with Beth and Feifei.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
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The English We Speak: Take someone under your wing
When you take someone under your wing, you help them with something or protect them. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
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The English We Speak: No two ways about it
If there are no ways about something, you want to emphasise that it's true. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
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The English We Speak: -coded
Eating beans and chips for dinner is very student-coded. Learn a different meaning of the word 'coded'.FIND A TRANSCRIPT:
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The English We Speak: Make a pig's ear of something
This expression is about doing something badly. Learn how to use it here.TRY THE READING ROOM:
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The English We Speak: -core
This expression describes the vibe of something.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: Cook
This expression is a way to say don't interrupt someone because they're doing well. Learn it here.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: Neck of the woods
This is an expression that talks about an area, especially the one where you live. Learn how to use it with Feifei and Phil.TRANSCRIPT
Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-251006Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersFIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE:
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The English We Speak: Teething problems
Teething problems are issues that you have when you’re getting used to something new. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.TRANSCRIPT
Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250929Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersFIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE:
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The English We Speak: No leg to stand on
This phrase means that someone's argument is weak.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: Speak someone's language
This expression is a different way to say 'I love that idea' or 'I completely agree'.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: Ate
This expression is a way to say someone did something really well. Learn it here.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: Muddle along
An expression meaning you're managing OK even if you don't have a plan. Learn it here.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: Tough it out
When you face a difficult time, you can tough it out.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: A you problem
Don't know this expression? That sounds like a you problem. Learn how to use this expression with Phil and Feifei.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: Can't put my finger on it
I know I recognise you, but I can't quite put my finger on where we met. Learn how to use this phrase with Georgie and Feifei.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: All hands on deck
This phrase comes from a boating context. Learn how to use it here.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250804Have you tried 6 Minute English? Find it with a free worksheet and transcript here ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2025Subscribe to our newsletter
The English We Speak: The CEO of...
This expression is a funny or silly way of saying someone is the best at 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-250728Have you tried 6 Minute English? Find it with a free worksheet and transcript here ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_
The English We Speak: Up to my eyes in
An expression meaning you’re very busy with something stressful or time-consuming.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: Dabble in
Here's an expression that talks about doing something for fun. Learn how to use it here with Phil and Feifei.Have you tried our other podcasts?
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The English We Speak: Rope someone in
This phrasal verb is about persuading someone to do something. Learn it here with Georgie and Feifei. Have you tried Real Easy English?
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The English We Speak: Scratch the surface
This phrase is about dealing with only a small part of something. Learn how to use it with Georgie and Feifei. Subscribe to our newsletter
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The English We Speak: Step into the shoes
Learn an expression about responsibility. Subscribe to our newsletter
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The English We Speak: Drop
An expression meaning something exciting like a song or TV show is released. Learn it here.Subscribe to our newsletter
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The English We Speak: All you like
An expression meaning whatever you say or do won't change the situation.Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersTRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: Around the clock
An expression used to talk about time. Learn it here! Subscribe to our newsletter
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The English We Speak: Have in your locker
An expression that talks about something extra you have.Subscribe to our newsletter
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The English We Speak: Come full circle
An expression meaning to return to where you started, but in a positive way. Subscribe to our newsletter
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The English We Speak: Grind someone's gears
Use this expression when something really annoys you. Subscribe to our newsletter
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The English We Speak: Feel seen
An expression meaning your experiences or feelings are represented. Learn it here.Subscribe to our newsletter
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The English We Speak: It's giving
An expression meaning something has a certain energy or vibe.TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: Dial down
Here's an expression we use to talk about reducing the intensity of something. TRANSCRIPT
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The English We Speak: The name of the game
Learn an expression to talk about the most important aspect of something. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode
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The English We Speak: Do it for the plot
An expression for when you make spontaneous life decisions for entertainment. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250407FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE:
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The English We Speak: Let something slide
You're late! I'll let it slide just this once... This phrase has two meanings. Learn them and hear some examples in this episode.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2025/ep-250331FIND BBC LEARNING ENGLISH HERE:
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The English We Speak: Twist someone's arm
What does it mean to 'twist someone's arm'? TRANSCRIPTFind a full transcript for this episode
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The English We Speak: Have someone on
This means making someone believe something that isn't true, but in a jokey way. Learn how to use this expression here.TRANSCRIPTFind a full transcript for this episode
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The English We Speak: Can-do attitude
If you have a can-do attitude, you don't let anything stop you. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode
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