Learning English Conversations
Episodes
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 ...
The English We Speak: Ham-fisted
09 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Here's an expression about clumsiness. [Image: Getty] For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com Find a full transcript ...
The English We Speak: Second nature
02 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Here's an expression that means you can do something without having to think about it, because it's so familiar to you. [Image: Getty] For more great ...
The English we speak: Take the plunge
25 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com (Image: Getty)Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to ...
The English We Speak: Peaks and troughs
18 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Ever felt like you’re on the rollercoaster of life and you don’t know a good way to say it?(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for thi...
The English We Speak: Heavy lifting
11 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Heavy lifting isn’t about the gym. Learn this expression here.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes t...
The English We Speak: Stir the pot
04 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Some people just love causing trouble. This expression is about them!(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more program...
The English We Speak: Wishy-washy
28 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Here's an expression to use when things are just too vague.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to hel...
The English We Speak: Shook
21 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A word to express surprise or shock.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English...
The English We Speak: Let loose
14 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
An expression that means relax and celebrate.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with you...
IMPORTANT: This podcast is changing its name
13 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This podcast is changing its name! Don’t worry, you will still be able to learn new expressions with The English We Speak. And we’ll also have som...
Zing
07 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Zing is that special something that's hard to describe, but makes things more exciting.
Do the trick
30 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Here's an expression that describes something solving a problem.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes t...
Beige flag
23 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
An expression that describes a habit you find strange, but doesn't make you not like someone. (Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this...
Lay it on thick
16 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
An expression about exaggerating or praising someone too much.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to ...