The English We Speak

Every week, we look at a different everyday English phrase or piece of slang in this fun three-minute programme. From BBC World Service

The English we speak: Second nature

Here's an expression that means you can do something without having to think about it, because it's...

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The English we speak: Take the plunge

For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com (Image: Getty)Find a full transcript...

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The English We Speak: Peaks and troughs

Ever felt like you’re on the rollercoaster of life and you don’t know a good way to say it?(Image:...

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The English We Speak: Heavy lifting

Heavy lifting isn’t about the gym. Learn this expression here.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full...

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The English We Speak: Stir the pot

Some people just love causing trouble. This expression is about them!(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a...

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The English We Speak: Wishy-washy

Here's an expression to use when things are just too vague.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript...

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The English We Speak: Shook

A word to express surprise or shock.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode...

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The English We Speak: Do the trick

An expression that means relax and celebrate.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this...

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IMPORTANT: This podcast is changing its name

This podcast is changing its name! Don’t worry, you will still be able to learn new expressions with...

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Zing

Zing is that special something that's hard to describe, but makes things more exciting.

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Do the trick

Here's an expression that describes something solving a problem.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full...

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Beige flag

An expression that describes a habit you find strange, but doesn't make you not like someone. (Image:...

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Lay it on thick

An expression about exaggerating or praising someone too much.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript...

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Telling porkies

Here's a light-hearted expression about not telling the truth.(Image: Getty)TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript...

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In on it

We have an phrase which means to know about something or to be involved in it.

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Walk someone through

TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English...

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Brick by brick

TRANSCRIPT Find a full transcript for this episode and more programmes to help you with your English...

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Read the room

Here’s a phrase that means to work out how people feel. Learn how to use it!

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Cook up an idea

Here’s a phrase that means to come up with an idea carefully. Learn how to use it here For more great...

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Rinse repeat

Beth and Feifei explain how to use this expression to describe repetitive tiresome actions. Find a full...

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A million to one

Here's an expression to say something is extremely unlikely

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Cash in on something

Learn a phrase about making money.

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Make your hair stand on end

Here’s a phrase about things that scare you. Learn how to use it in this programme.

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On the go

A phrase to describe how busy you are

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