

Learning English Conversations
BBC Radio
Everyday expressions and real English conversations to help make your everyday conversations easier. Find more at bbclearningenglish.comFollow us at
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Episodes
Mentioned books

14 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 2min
The English We Speak: Neck of the woods
Discover the meaning behind the expression 'neck of the woods'—a charming way to refer to your local area. Join Feifei and Phil as they provide practical examples for everyday conversation. Learn how informality plays a role, often using possessive forms like 'my neck of the woods.' They also share real-life dialogues to illustrate common usage. It's a fun exploration of language that adds a personal touch to your discussions about where you live!

21 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 3min
The English We Speak: Teething problems
Discover the concept of teething problems—a phrase used to describe the initial issues faced when adapting to something new. The hosts provide relatable examples, such as struggles with a new phone or changes in a canteen system. They also share tips on how to use this expression effectively, highlighting its temporary nature. This lively discussion makes the topic both entertaining and informative!

9 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 3min
The English We Speak: No leg to stand on
Dive into the intriguing world of idioms with a focus on the phrase 'no leg to stand on.' Discover how this expression conveys the idea of a weak argument. The hosts provide relatable examples and explore various contexts in which this phrase can be used. Get ready to enhance your English conversations with some witty insights and practical tips to navigate discussions with confidence!

15 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 3min
The English We Speak: Speak someone's language
Explore the phrase 'speaking someone's language' and its role in boosting everyday conversations. The hosts discuss finding common ground, using a new sushi restaurant as a fun example. They dive into the idiom's meanings, highlighting how it relates to shared agreement and enthusiasm, and emphasize being 'on the same wavelength' for effective communication.

19 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 2min
The English We Speak: Ate
Discover the slang term 'ate,' which is used to praise someone’s impressive performance or style. Dive into its meaning and context, including the catchy phrase 'left no crumbs' that celebrates flawless execution. Get ready to enhance your vocabulary with these vibrant expressions!

6 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 2min
The English We Speak: Muddle along
Explore the intriguing phrase 'muddling along', which captures the spirit of managing without a clear plan. The hosts share relatable situations where this expression fits perfectly, making it a handy addition to your informal English toolkit. Discover various contexts and related phrases that enhance your understanding and communication skills. It's a fun dive into language that encourages confidence even in uncertainty!

5 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 2min
The English We Speak: Tough it out
Discover the meaning behind the phrase 'tough it out' as the speakers dive into its significance. They share relatable examples of perseverance in challenging situations, highlighting how to apply this phrase in everyday life. The conversation emphasizes the importance of resilience and mastering English phrasal verbs, making language learning both fun and practical. Tune in for insights that not only aid your English skills but also inspire you to face difficulties head-on!

20 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 3min
The English We Speak: A you problem
Explore the intriguing phrase 'a you problem' and discover its meaning! The hosts break down how this expression promotes personal accountability in conversations. With relatable examples, they illustrate when and how to effectively use this phrase in everyday situations. Tune in for insights that will enhance your communication skills!

13 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 3min
The English We Speak: Can't put my finger on it
Dive into the intriguing phrase 'can't put my finger on it.' Discover its meaning and everyday usage through engaging examples. The hosts explore how this expression captures moments of confusion and nuanced emotions. Join the conversation as they illustrate its relevance in daily life, making it a handy phrase for any English learner.

20 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 3min
The English We Speak: All hands on deck
Discover the phrase 'all hands on deck' and its nautical roots, emphasizing the essence of teamwork. The discussion highlights how this expression symbolizes collaboration during urgent scenarios. Dive into related sayings that stress the importance of working together to achieve common goals.


