

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

Jul 31, 2024 • 7min
Venezuela election chaos
The podcast dives into the chaos of Venezuela's recent elections, with President Maduro claiming a controversial victory. Protests erupted following opposing claims from rival candidate Edmundo Gonzalez. A critical look at the election reveals skepticism from international observers and rising tensions among voters. The session also highlights the significance of deception in political language, while showcasing the resilience and struggles of the opposition led by Maria Corrino Machado. It's a deep exploration of unrest and the fight for democracy.

5 snips
Jul 24, 2024 • 9min
Biden out, Harris in
Vice-President Kamala Harris gains support as Biden drops out of the US presidential race. The podcast discusses political pressure, Biden endorsing Harris, and the Democratic nominee's chances against Trump. It also explores the expression 'gets his nod' and the phrases 'on the up' and 'on the rise' in English language context.

Jul 17, 2024 • 9min
Trump assassination attempt
Exploring the US reaction to an assassination attempt on Donald Trump, analyzing vocabulary used in headlines. Delve into the motives of the shooter, implications on US politics. Symbolic meaning of 'abyss' in politics, Trump's response to the attempt. Concept of '2.0' for positive change illustrated through 'Trump 2.0'.

Jul 10, 2024 • 10min
Third of adults inactive
Podcast discusses the global crisis of physical inactivity with 1.8 billion inactive adults. Highlights WHO study findings and compares activity levels between Britain and Australia, using a leapfrogging metaphor. Urges action to combat health risks associated with lack of exercise.

Jul 3, 2024 • 9min
Trump legal ruling
Delving into the recent Supreme Court ruling on Trump's immunity from punishment for official actions as president. Exploring the concept of presidential immunity and its impact on Trump's future actions. Analyzing the Supreme Court decision's implications and the use of a blueprint metaphor. Discussing Chief Justice's views on immunity, Biden's warning, and Republicans' reactions.

Jun 26, 2024 • 10min
Julian Assange walks free
Wikileaks founder Julian Assange discusses his recent release and legal battles. Topics include his plea deal, controversial image, impact of WikiLeaks' document dumps, and twists in his legal saga. The hosts explore vocabulary, politics, and the concept of 'striking a deal.'

Jun 19, 2024 • 9min
Putin in North Korea
Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un meet in North Korea, agreeing to support each other if attacked. The podcast explores the significance of their meeting, Putin's behavior towards Western countries, accusations of North Korea supplying weapons to Russia, and the concept of 'bromance' between the two leaders. It also covers Putin's upcoming visit to Vietnam for trade discussions and China's mixed feelings towards the Putin-Kim relationship.

Jun 12, 2024 • 10min
Far right performs well in EU election
The podcast discusses the success of far-right parties in the EU elections, analysis of election results, understanding the concept of 'making gains', aftermath of European Parliament elections, rise of populism, and the metaphorical connotation of 'wave' in politics.

Jun 5, 2024 • 6min
DNA study: better coffee?
Italian researchers have mapped the genetic makeup of Arabica coffee for better flavors and plants. The podcast explores metaphorical language in headlines and genetic research, while delving into the excitement of better coffee and brewing processes.

May 29, 2024 • 6min
Computer made with brain cells
Scientists have created a computer system using living brain cells. They explore bio computers with human brain tissue for voice recognition and futuristic applications. Lab-grown brain tissue and its applications are discussed, along with the concept of being business-like in biocomputing research.


