

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

Jun 11, 2025 • 1min
English in a Minute: Verbs to use with 'trip'
Explore the dynamic verbs that enhance your travel vocabulary! Learn how to make, take, and extend a trip while discovering essential tips for planning your journeys. From booking transportation to accommodations, this discussion highlights verbs that perfectly collocate with 'trip.' Get ready to level up your English skills and navigate your travel experiences with confidence!

Jun 9, 2025 • 7min
Business jargon
Dive into the intriguing world of business jargon! Discover phrases like 'blue sky thinking' and 'push the envelope' that fill corporate conversations. Learn how these terms can spark creativity and strategic thinking. The hosts share practical examples and visualization techniques to help retain this vocabulary. Plus, there's a fun quiz to test your knowledge and a sneak peek into a job application series. Get ready to communicate with flair in the business realm!

Jun 4, 2025 • 1min
English in a Minute: Verbs to use with 'challenge'
This discussion dives into the dynamic world of verbs associated with 'challenge'. From 'took on' to 'rose to', these phrases illustrate how we confront difficulties in life. Listeners discover the nuances of each expression, highlighting the art of overcoming obstacles. It's a fast-paced exploration that equips you with valuable vocabulary for tackling everyday challenges!

10 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 6min
Pronouncing words that start with ‘c’
Delve into the fascinating world of words that start with 'C' but make that tricky /s/ sound. Enjoy anecdotes from a circus performer that make learning fun! Get expert tips and engaging examples to master pronunciation. Test your skills with interactive quizzes and discover how to keep vocabulary fresh in your mind. This is a playful exploration of language that sharpens your pronunciation and enriches your vocabulary!

5 snips
May 28, 2025 • 1min
English in a Minute: Verbs to use with 'method'
Delve into the fascinating world of verbs that pair with 'method.' Discover how to devise or adopt effective learning strategies through vivid examples. Learn about the importance of revising vocabulary repeatedly to boost your language skills. This engaging discussion highlights practical tips that make mastering English more enjoyable.

May 26, 2025 • 6min
Phrasal verbs and context
Discover the fascinating world of phrasal verbs and how prepositions can change their meanings. Dive into Robin's humorous struggles with a messy housemate, revealing how living situations affect emotions and academics. Explore the multilayered meanings of 'get on' and its role in building relationships and staying focused. Learn about 'move in,' 'move out,' and 'move on' through engaging examples and a fun quiz, all geared towards boosting your vocabulary skills!

May 21, 2025 • 1min
English in a Minute: Verbs to use with 'opinion'
Dive into the world of expressing opinions in English! Discover fascinating verbs like 'airing' and 'voicing' that enhance your language skills. The discussion highlights the richness of personal opinions and encourages listeners to share their own experiences. Perfect for anyone looking to expand their vocabulary and confidently express themselves!

4 snips
May 19, 2025 • 6min
Prefixes re-, pre- and pro-
Uncover the magic of English prefixes like 're-', 'pre-', and 'pro'. Discover how 're-' signifies repetition, as in 'recycle', and how 'pre-' denotes something that comes before, like 'prepacked'. Dive into the proactive world of 'pro', finding its role in vocabulary building. The discussion is enriched with interactive quizzes and helpful tips to expand your vocabulary. Get ready to enhance your understanding of these powerful linguistic tools!

May 14, 2025 • 1min
English in a Minute: Verbs to use with 'source'
Discover the fascinating world of the word 'source' and the verbs that bring it to life! Learn how it connects to nutrition, information, and everyday phrases. The discussion is packed with practical examples that clarify the nuances of this versatile term. You'll gain insights into language use that will enhance your vocabulary skills and make communication smoother. Tune in to elevate your understanding of collocations and make your English even more engaging!

4 snips
May 12, 2025 • 7min
Silent letters
Dive into the quirky world of silent letters in English! Discover the mysteries behind words like 'night' and 'knight' and how they affect pronunciation. A fun dialogue about a doctor's visit highlights the elusive 'W' in 'wrist.' Explore silent beginnings like 'W-R' and 'K-N' and their influence on spelling. Engage with interactive quizzes to reinforce your understanding and retention of vocabulary related to silent letters. It's a captivating journey through the intricacies of English language!


