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
Mar 27, 2018 • 3min
Freegan
The podcast explores the concept of freegans, who only eat wasted or thrown away food, to reduce food waste and help those in need.
Mar 20, 2018 • 3min
Barking up the wrong tree
They discuss accusations and misunderstandings, with Feifei accusing Rob of snitching to the boss, but he explains the phrase 'barking up the wrong tree' and apologizes with coffee.
Mar 13, 2018 • 3min
Cloud cuckoo land
Exploring the concept of 'living in Cloud Cuckoo Land' where someone perceives impossible things as possible, with banter about work responsibilities and humorous refusal to take on additional workload.
Mar 6, 2018 • 3min
A taste of your own medicine
This podcast explores the concept of 'a taste of your own medicine' and its origin and application. Playful banter and examples are discussed.
Feb 27, 2018 • 3min
Happy-go-lucky
The hosts discuss the concept of being happy-go-lucky, exploring examples and contradictions, ending with a sponsor ad for Juvederm.
Feb 20, 2018 • 2min
Whizz-kid
In this podcast, the hosts discuss the concept of being a 'whiz kid' and share stories of successful young individuals from different industries.
Feb 13, 2018 • 3min
The best of both worlds
Exploring the concept of enjoying the advantages of two different situations without drawbacks. Examples are given of people who work in the city but retreat to the countryside for relaxation. Train cancellations lead to frustration and the need for overnight accommodation.
Feb 6, 2018 • 3min
Bone idle
A hilarious exploration of laziness, featuring funny examples and jokes about being bone idle. Also includes an ad for Juvederm, a cosmetic product for adding facial volume.
Jan 30, 2018 • 3min
To cut a long story short
The hosts discuss the meaning and usage of the phrase 'to cut a long story short' and share personal anecdotes. They explore different situations where the phrase can be used and discuss omitted details in a conversation about a night out.
Jan 29, 2018 • 2min
A thing
The hosts discuss the meaning of 'a thing' in popular culture, using examples like beards and fidget spinners. They explore the popularity of various trends, from funny gifts to parkour, and organic powdered food. The phrase 'a thing' is even included in major dictionaries.
