

Learning English Vocabulary
BBC Radio
Build your English vocabulary with these short programmes. Each episode explores a new topic to improve your English.Find more at bbclearningenglish.comFollow us at
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Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 17, 2024 • 6min
Lexical sets
Learn how lexical sets can help you remember new words and improve vocabulary. Explore grouping words based on topics like floods, water levels, rainfall, and adjectives related to flooding. Discover vocabulary games like 'lexical set tennis' for practicing word grouping and expanding language options.

Jun 12, 2024 • 1min
English in a Minute: 3 ways to use 'nice'
Explore the versatile usage of the word 'nice' in English, from positive qualities to negative characteristics, and how it defines individuals who are kind or friendly. Learn more in this 60-second podcast episode!

Jun 10, 2024 • 6min
-ing and -ed adjectives
Exploring the distinctions between -ing and -ed adjectives in English vocabulary, the hosts provide clarification and examples to help listeners distinguish between the two types of adjectives. Examples include using -ing adjectives to describe events and feelings like airport waits and encounters with annoying teenagers, and using -ed adjectives to express feelings towards different scenarios. The podcast also includes a quiz and vocabulary tips to help listeners practice using the correct adjectives.

Jun 5, 2024 • 1min
English in a Minute: 3 ways to use 'count'
Expert guest Phil discusses the versatile word 'count' in just 60 seconds. He explains its multiple meanings and how it can be used in different contexts, making it a valuable verb to know in English.

Jun 3, 2024 • 6min
Phrases made of two words
Hosts explore binomials in English vocabulary like 'quick and dirty' and 'cheap and cheerful', followed by a quiz for listeners to identify correct phrases. Tips on vocabulary retention through a card game are also provided.

Jun 3, 2024 • 6min
Binomials: phrases made of two words
The podcast explores binomials in English vocabulary, highlighting phrases like 'aches and pains' and 'short and sweet'. It explains their fixed nature, meanings, and usage, while testing comprehension with a quiz and offering vocabulary-enhancing tips through engaging games.

May 29, 2024 • 2min
English in a Minute: How to use 'schedule'
Phil, a language expert, discusses the word 'schedule' in 60 seconds. He highlights the versatility of 'schedule' as a word for planning and timing, emphasizing its importance in time management and planning tasks and activities.

May 27, 2024 • 6min
Useful chunks of language
Learn how language naturally forms chunks of words as hosts analyze a student's morning routine. Explore challenges with fixed expressions in English and the importance of learning language chunks. Discover how to correct common language mistakes and improve vocabulary for smoother conversations. Master English and Chinese by focusing on natural language chunks instead of individual words.

May 22, 2024 • 1min
English in a Minute: 3 ways to use 'supreme'
Beth, an expert in English words, discusses the versatile usage of the word 'supreme'. She explains how 'supreme' denotes the ultimate level of something, along with its broader meanings of greatness. The podcast showcases examples illustrating how 'supreme' can be applied to describe importance, bravery, and authority.

May 20, 2024 • 6min
Words with 'ough'
Learn how to pronounce tricky English words like cough, thought, enough, and although. Delve into the complexities of 'ough' words, differentiate between similar-sounding words, and get practical tips for mastering them.