Learning English Vocabulary
BBC Radio
Build your English vocabulary with these short programmes. Each week we explore a new topic to improve your English vocabulary. Learn words for the weather, how to talk about people’s jobs, adjective order, and so much more. Plus, in our English in a Minute episodes, give your vocabulary a boost in under a minute. Find more at bbclearningenglish.com Follow us at
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Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 9, 2024 • 6min
Linking words
Learn about the importance of linking words in storytelling and how to use them effectively. Angela shares her personal story of a lucky shark escape and provides examples and quizzes to help you practice using linking words in conversation.
Jan 1, 2024 • 6min
Words with more than one spelling
Catherine and Finn discuss spelling differences between British and American English, including words like analogue, disc, and enquire. They explore words with multiple spellings like 'all right' and 'barbeque'. They also give tips for using a spell checker.
Dec 25, 2023 • 6min
Acronyms
Learn about the origins and correct pronunciation of acronyms like FIFA and BBC. Test your knowledge with a quiz. Acronyms and International Organizations: Discussion about United Nations, UNESCO, WHO, IMF, and WBG. Different Types of Acronyms and Their Usage: hosts discuss different types and give examples of popular acronyms.
Dec 19, 2023 • 6min
Antonyms
The podcast discusses the concept of antonyms, explores examples of antonyms in footwear, explains how prefixes are used to create antonyms, provides vocabulary tips, and includes a vocabulary quiz.
Dec 11, 2023 • 6min
Suffixes: -ness & -ity
Listen to Neil and Catherine talk about words with the suffixes -ness and -ity.
Dec 5, 2023 • 6min
Discourse markers: showing attitude
Discussing words and phrases that express attitude in speech and writing. Exploring the significance and use of discourse markers like 'seriously' and 'of course' in conversations. Suggestions for practicing these markers.
Nov 27, 2023 • 6min
Suffixes: -ment, -ance, -ence
Learn how suffixes such as -ment, -ance, and -ence can turn verbs and adjectives into nouns. Discover the role of suffixes in indicating word type and the similarity in sounds between -ance and -ence. Explore the experience of a replacement dancer in a ballet performance and the growth of their confidence. Dive into vocabulary tips and the use of 'ance' and 'ence' suffixes in Swan Lake.
Nov 20, 2023 • 6min
Someone, somewhere, anywhere...
Discussion on the usage and meaning of words like 'someone' and 'anyone', including verbs and pronouns. Exploration of the meanings and usage of 'anywhere', 'anyone', and 'anything' in English. Quizzes and examples provided for reinforcement.
Nov 13, 2023 • 6min
Irregular verbs
The hosts explore irregular verbs that don't follow the -ed pattern. They discuss examples like 'ring' and 'take' and explain the different forms of irregular verbs. They also provide tips for learning vocabulary using verb tables and highlighters.
Nov 7, 2023 • 6min
Reporting verbs
Discover the use of reporting verbs to talk about what someone else has said. Explore a scandal involving a lying minister and the importance of accurate reporting. Learn about verbs of denial, apology, and admission. Explore different patterns of reporting verbs and get tips for learning new words more quickly.
