Learning English Conversations

The English We Speak: Cut corners

10 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

If you want to do a task perfectly, it's usually not a good idea to cut corners. Learn about this expression and how to use it in conversations with F...

Beating Speaking Anxiety: 8. I’m scared I can’t be myself

09 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

It can be harder to express our personality in a foreign language because we have fewer language tools available and speaking anxiety can make it hard...

The English We Speak: Short-change

03 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

If you give someone less than they deserve, you short-change them. Learn the literal and metaphorical use of this expression with Feifei and Georgie a...

Beating Speaking Anxiety: 7. I’m scared I’m not getting better

02 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Sometimes it can feel like no matter how much you practise speaking, you don’t get any better.In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan t...

The English We Speak: Go through a rough patch

24 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Life isn't always great, sometimes things can be difficult. Use 'go through a rough patch' when life gets difficult for a while. Learn this useful exp...

Beating Speaking Anxiety: 6. I’m scared I won’t get the joke

23 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever been in a group of friends and everyone laughs, but you didn’t understand the joke?In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hana...

The English We Speak: Learn the hard way

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Sometimes we ignore advice. Sometimes things go wrong and this programme is about those times. Phil and Feifei teach you how to use the expression to ...

Beating Speaking Anxiety: 5. I’m scared people won’t understand me

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever spoken in English, and the other person didn’t understand?In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about accents and ...

The English We Speak: A big ask

10 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Sometimes people ask for too much. Listen to examples of this phrase being use and learn how to use it for those moments.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ htt...

Beating Speaking Anxiety: 4. I'm scared of speaking in front of people

09 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Do you get nervous speaking English in front of people, even a small group of friends?In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about ...

The English We Speak: Facepalm moment

03 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Something embarrassing or frustrating could lead to a facepalm moment. Learn how to use this expression here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bb...

Beating Speaking Anxiety: 3. I’m scared I won’t understand people

02 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Speaking is only one side of the conversation. You also have to listen to and understand the other person.In this episode of our new series, Georgie a...

The English We Speak: Shoot off

27 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

This expression means leave quickly because you're in a hurry or there's somewhere you need to be. Learn how to use it here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ ...

Beating Speaking Anxiety: 2. I’m scared of forgetting my words

26 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever been speaking English, and suddenly you freeze and forget your words?In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about why...

The English We Speak: Hot on the heels

20 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

This expression means something happens immediately after something else, often unexpectedly. Learn how to use it here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ http...

Beating Speaking Anxiety: 1. I’m scared of making mistakes

19 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Do you get anxious when speaking English? You’re not alone.In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about how to increase your conf...

The English We Speak: Aura farming

13 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Learn this expression which means do something for attention or praise.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/feature...

The English We Speak: Lock in

06 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

This phrasal verb means to focus hard with no distractions. Learn how to use it here!FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/e...

The English We Speak: A fresh start

30 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A new year is the perfect time for a fresh start.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak...

The English We Speak: A little something

23 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Learn a phrase about small gifts with Feifei and Phil.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-...

The English We Speak: Moment of truth

16 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Use this expression to add drama and suspense to what you're saying. Learn how in this programme.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/lear...

The English We Speak: On their toes

09 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This expression is about causing someone else to stay alert and ready for anything. Learn how to use it here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bb...

The English We Speak: Duck out

02 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This expression means to leave early and quickly. Learn how to use it here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/fe...

The English We Speak: Off base

25 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This expression is a way to say someone's idea, guess or opinion is far from the reality. Learn it here with Beth and Feifei.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️...

The English We Speak: Take someone under your wing

18 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When you take someone under your wing, you help them with something or protect them. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.FIND A TRAN...

The English We Speak: No two ways about it

11 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If there are no ways about something, you want to emphasise that it's true. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ...

The English We Speak: -coded

10 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Eating beans and chips for dinner is very student-coded. Learn a different meaning of the word 'coded'.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.u...

The English We Speak: Make a pig's ear of something

27 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This expression is about doing something badly. Learn how to use it here.TRY THE READING ROOM: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/...

The English We Speak: -core

21 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This expression describes the vibe of something.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/englis...

The English We Speak: Cook

14 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This expression is a way to say don't interrupt someone because they're doing well. Learn it here.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ...

The English We Speak: Neck of the woods

07 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This is an expression that talks about an area, especially the one where you live. Learn how to use it with Feifei and Phil.TRANSCRIPT Find a full tr...

The English We Speak: Teething problems

30 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Teething problems are issues that you have when you’re getting used to something new. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.TRANSCRI...

The English We Speak: No leg to stand on

23 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This phrase means that someone's argument is weak.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/engl...

The English We Speak: Speak someone's language

16 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This expression is a different way to say 'I love that idea' or 'I completely agree'.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https:/...

The English We Speak: Ate

09 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This expression is a way to say someone did something really well. Learn it here.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://ww...

The English We Speak: Muddle along

02 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression meaning you're managing OK even if you don't have a plan. Learn it here.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https...

The English We Speak: Tough it out

26 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When you face a difficult time, you can tough it out.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/e...

The English We Speak: A you problem

19 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Don't know this expression? That sounds like a you problem. Learn how to use this expression with Phil and Feifei.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript fo...

The English We Speak: Can't put my finger on it

12 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I know I recognise you, but I can't quite put my finger on where we met. Learn how to use this phrase with Georgie and Feifei.TRANSCRIPT Find a full ...

The English We Speak: All hands on deck

05 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This phrase comes from a boating context. Learn how to use it here.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/lea...

The English We Speak: The CEO of...

29 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This expression is a funny or silly way of saying someone is the best at something. Learn it here.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔...

The English We Speak: Up to my eyes in

22 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression meaning you’re very busy with something stressful or time-consuming.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://...

The English We Speak: Dabble in

15 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression that talks about doing something for fun. Learn how to use it here with Phil and Feifei.Have you tried our other podcasts? ✔️...

The English We Speak: Rope someone in

08 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This phrasal verb is about persuading someone to do something. Learn it here with Georgie and Feifei. Have you tried Real Easy English? https://www.bb...

The English We Speak: Scratch the surface

01 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This phrase is about dealing with only a small part of something. Learn how to use it with Georgie and Feifei. Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ http...

The English We Speak: Step into the shoes

24 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Learn an expression about responsibility. Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newsletters TRANSCRIPT Find a full...

The English We Speak: Drop

17 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression meaning something exciting like a song or TV show is released. Learn it here.Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/l...

The English We Speak: All you like

10 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression meaning whatever you say or do won't change the situation.Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newsl...

The English We Speak: Around the clock

03 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression used to talk about time. Learn it here! Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newsletters TRANSCRIPT...

The English We Speak: Have in your locker

27 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression that talks about something extra you have.Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newslettersTRANSCRIPT...

The English We Speak: Come full circle

20 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression meaning to return to where you started, but in a positive way. Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish...

The English We Speak: Grind someone's gears

13 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Use this expression when something really annoys you. Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/newsletters TRANSCRIPT...

The English We Speak: Feel seen

06 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression meaning your experiences or feelings are represented. Learn it here.Subscribe to our newsletter ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningeng...

The English We Speak: It's giving

29 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression meaning something has a certain energy or vibe.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learninge...

The English We Speak: Dial down

22 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression we use to talk about reducing the intensity of something. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www....

The English We Speak: The name of the game

15 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Learn an expression to talk about the most important aspect of something. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.c...

The English We Speak: Do it for the plot

08 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression for when you make spontaneous life decisions for entertainment. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bb...

The English We Speak: Let something slide

01 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

You're late! I'll let it slide just this once... This phrase has two meanings. Learn them and hear some examples in this episode.TRANSCRIPT Find a ful...

The English We Speak: Twist someone's arm

25 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What does it mean to 'twist someone's arm'? TRANSCRIPTFind a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/fea...

The English We Speak: Have someone on

25 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This means making someone believe something that isn't true, but in a jokey way. Learn how to use this expression here.TRANSCRIPTFind a full transcrip...

The English We Speak: Can-do attitude

11 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you have a can-do attitude, you don't let anything stop you. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learn...

The English We Speak: Go to

04 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Your 'go-to' is your preferred option. Learn how to use this phrase.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/le...

The English We Speak: Skedaddle

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Do you need to skedaddle? Leave somewhere in a hurry? Learn this expression.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc....

My Song, My Home: Adam in Ipswich

18 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to our new music series My Song, My Home. In each episode we meet a new musician who tells us about their home town and performs a song to hel...

The English We Speak: Main character moment

17 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Look at her - she's having such a main character moment on the dance floor! Learn this internet phrase TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this epis...

My Song, My Home: Alice in Leeds

11 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to our new music series My Song, My Home. In each episode we meet a new musician who tells us about their home town and performs a song to hel...

The English We Speak: Fall on stony ground

10 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We hope our advice doesn't fall on stony ground. Learn a new expressionTRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk...

My Song, My Home: Grace in Liverpool

04 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to our new music series My Song, My Home. In each episode we meet a new musician who tells us about their home town and performs a song to hel...

The English We Speak: Make a rod for your own back

03 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An expression that means you are doing something that will cause you future problems.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https:/...

My Song, My Home: Josh in London

28 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to our new music series My Song, My Home. In each episode we meet a new musician who tells us about their home town and performs a song to hel...

The English We Speak: Ship

27 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A word that means you want two people to be in a relationship.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learnin...

My Song, My Home: Bailey in St Ives

21 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to our new music series My Song, My Home. In each episode we meet a new musician who tells us about their home town and performs a song to hel...

The English We Speak: Twig

20 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A word for when you suddenly realise or understand something. Learn it here TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc....

The English We Speak: Mooch

14 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An informal British English word that means to wander or stroll around casually.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www....

The English We Speak: By the book

07 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This expression is all about following the rules.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/engli...

The English We Speak: Turn over a new leaf

31 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Many of us hope to turn over a new leaf when a new year starts.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learn...

The English We Speak: You can't go wrong with

24 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

If you 'can't go wrong' with a suggestion, you can't fail if you use it.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help...

The English We Speak: The flip side

17 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

An expression to change someone's perspective. Learn it hereTRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with yo...

The English We Speak: In my travel era

10 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

An expression that means you're focused on one thing at a particular period of lifeTRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more program...

The English We Speak: Give it some welly!

03 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Say this if you want to encourage someone to put some more effort into an activity. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more progra...

The English We Speak: Shoehorn something in

26 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn an expression that means force something in somewhere that it doesn't quite fit. TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more pro...

The English We Speak: On the fly

19 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Should you cook on the fly, or follow a recipe? Learn a phrase to talk about improvising.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more p...

The English We Speak: That's on you

12 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When someone tells you 'that's on you', they're telling you that it's your fault.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programm...

The English We Speak: Warts and all

05 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

An expression that means including all your imperfections.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with you...

The English We Speak: Off the scale

29 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

An expression that means goes far beyond what is expected.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with you...

The English We Speak: Throw one's toys out the pram

22 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression for someone's dramatic reaction when they don't get what they want.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more pr...

The English We Speak: Makes my skin crawl

15 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression for when you're incredibly disgusted by something.TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help ...

The English We Speak: An uphill task

08 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This is a phrase about something that needs energy and determination. [Image: Getty] Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to h...

The English We Speak: Bide someone's time

30 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression about waiting patiently for an opportunity.[Image: Getty]Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you ...

The English We Speak: From the get-go

24 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression that means 'from the beginning'. [Image: Getty] Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with you...

The English We Speak: Stomping ground

17 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression you can use about somewhere you live or visit very often.Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you ...

The English We Speak: Tug at the heartstrings

10 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression for when something makes you feel strong emotions. [Image: Getty] Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to...

The English We Speak: Clutch at straws

03 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression you can use when you're in a desperate situation. [Image: Getty] Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to ...

The English We Speak: Crank up

27 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression about increasing intensity.[Image: Getty]Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your Englis...

The English We Speak: Find your groove

20 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn an expression that means getting used to something.An expression that means something is very high quality.[Image: Getty]Find a full transcript ...

The English We Speak: Top-notch

13 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

An expression that means something is very high quality.[Image: Getty]For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comFind a f...

The English We Speak: Off the cuff

06 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

An expression that means you say something without preparing first. Learn it here.[Image: Getty]For more great language tips and programmes visit bbcl...

The English We Speak: Take the wheel

30 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This expression is all about being in control.[Image: Getty]For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comFind a full transc...

The English We Speak: The works

23 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn a phrase that means 'everything'![Image: Getty]For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comFind a full transcript fo...

The English We Speak: Dip your toe into

16 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Here's an expression about trying something new. [Image: Getty] For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com Find a full ...