Learning English from the News
BBC Radio
Learn the language you need to understand news stories in English. Every week we talk about one big news story and the vocabulary in the headlines that will help you understand it. And in our special Our World in English episodes, we share documentaries from around the world and across the BBC in simple English. Find more at bbclearningenglish.com Follow us at bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/followus
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 13, 2024 • 6min
Haiti: Gang violence crisis
Exploring the resignation of Haiti's Prime Minister amidst violent gang unrest, with essential institutions under attack. Analyzing the metaphorical 'tighten grip' expression used to describe the escalating control of gangs in Haiti and its impact on the nation.
Mar 6, 2024 • 6min
France protects abortion
France's move to make abortion a constitutional right is discussed, highlighting autonomy over one's body and opposition from anti-abortion groups and the Catholic Church. The legal and metaphorical significance of enshrining abortion rights in France is explored, along with the nuanced use of 'lament' and 'follow its lead' in expressing sorrow and direction in various contexts.
Feb 28, 2024 • 6min
Sweden joins Nato
Exploring Sweden's historic decision to join NATO after centuries of neutrality, amidst Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This chapter also delves into the emotional depth of the term 'farewell' and its significance in various contexts.
Feb 21, 2024 • 7min
Cyber hackers hacked
Authorities seized the website of ransomware cybercriminals Lockbit. Discussion on the impact of a successful operation targeting Lockbit. Exploring the concept of 'takedown' in cyber crime. FBI's control of dark web site operated by Lockbit. Exploring the meaning of 'infamous' in the context of dismantling cybercrime gang.
Feb 14, 2024 • 6min
Women working more since pandemic
Pandemic has led to men working fewer hours while women work more in the UK. Rise in full-time female employment. Concerns about negative impact on economy. Use of expressions like 'pick up the slack' and 'cut someone some slack'. Trend of falling working hours in the UK.
Feb 7, 2024 • 7min
Senegal's democratic crisis
Senegal's upcoming elections are postponed, causing a potential constitutional crisis. The hosts explain the meaning of 'looms' and discuss its usage. They also explore the expressions 'hangs by a thread' and 'baffled'.
Jan 31, 2024 • 7min
Elon Musk's brain chip
Entrepreneur Elon Musk, founder of Neuralink, discusses the recent breakthrough of successfully implanting a wireless chip in a human brain. The podcast explores the concept of brain chips, their potential advantages and concerns. It also covers the vocabulary associated with the story and delves into the functionality and implications of brain computer interfaces.
Jan 24, 2024 • 7min
US and UK strike Houthis
US and UK launch airstrikes on Houthis in Yemen in response to attacks on ships. Analyzing expressions used in UK and US airstrike headlines to understand their purpose in weakening the Houthis and preventing further attacks.
Jan 17, 2024 • 6min
Taiwan election angers China
The podcast discusses Taiwan's recent presidential election, highlighting the election of William Lai and China's angry response. It explores the complexities of Taiwan-China relations, the maintenance of the status quo, and the dual meaning of the word 'fuming'. The hosts also explain the metaphorical meaning of 'rock solid' and its connection to US support for Taiwan.
4 snips
Jan 10, 2024 • 6min
Dog meat banned by South Korea
South Korea has banned the killing and sale of dogs for their meat; a new law with a transition period is in place. Animal campaigners are thrilled about the ban, breaking down the word 'overjoyed'; the hosts also mention other words meaning very happy and encourage audience to watch more news reviews on their website for English language learning.
