Learning English Conversations
BBC Radio
Everyday expressions and real English conversations to help make your English conversations easier. Every week, we teach you a new phrase or word you can use in conversation with The English We Speak. And we bring you special series to improve your English conversation. Try Beating Speaking Anxiety to learn how to fight your fears of speaking English. Find more at bbclearningenglish.com Follow us at
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Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 23, 2018 • 3min
Something to chew on
The hosts discuss homemade cookies and the phrase 'something to chew on'. They explain its informal usage as needing to think about something before making a decision. This chapter also explores the expression 'to chew on something' in a conversation where one person declines an invitation to a dinner party.
Oct 16, 2018 • 3min
Waffle on
The podcast explores the topic of waffling and the annoyance of rambling colleagues in meetings, while discussing the love for waffles and the best toppings to go with them.
Oct 9, 2018 • 3min
Skew-whiff
This podcast discusses the concept of 'skew-whiff' and how it can describe things that are not as they should be, such as a crooked picture or an uneven table. They also touch on the word 'whiff' and its definition as a sudden smell, before talking about the importance of breath freshness and having chewing gum readily available. Alongside these topics, there are ads for Juvederm, a cosmetic product, and for tourism in Azerbaijan.
Oct 2, 2018 • 4min
Play a blinder
Exploring the meaning of 'to play a blinder' and discussing hypothetical football skills and looking younger with Juvederm
Sep 25, 2018 • 4min
Miffed
The podcast explores the meaning of 'miffed' and discusses situations that cause frustration or annoyance. Ticket trouble and forgiveness are also discussed.
Sep 18, 2018 • 4min
Humblebrag
The podcast discusses the concept of humble bragging, with examples of its prevalence in social media and the workplace. They explore the tactic of hiding a brag inside a complaint to elevate humble bragging. They also discuss the effects of humble bragging on perception and introduce a product called Juvederm Volux XC for improving jawline definition.
Sep 11, 2018 • 3min
Out of your depth
Discussing the meaning of 'out of your depth' and personal experiences of feeling overwhelmed in various situations. Highlighting the need for support in overcoming challenges and mentioning a project for the boss.
Sep 4, 2018 • 3min
Mardy
This podcast explores the meaning and implications of being 'Mardi' and its impact on an individual's mood, behavior, and interactions. It discusses the various interpretations of the word 'Mardi', including its usage to describe someone's demeanor. Additionally, an advertisement for Juvederm, a non-surgical injectable gel filler, is included.
Aug 28, 2018 • 3min
Curry favour
They discuss the meaning and examples of 'curry favor'. Feifei denies currying favor with their boss. The phrase has insincere connotations. They talk about promotions and a humorous suggestion involving a curry house. They also mention two sponsor ads for Juvederm and Mint Mobile.
Aug 21, 2018 • 3min
Take the biscuit
The hosts discuss the phrase 'take the biscuit' which means irritating behavior. They share examples of annoying situations and apologize for using up someone's coffee.
