Learning English Conversations

Learning English Conversations

Author: BBC Radio Language: English Episodes: 802
Produced by BBC Radio, Learning English Conversations is a practical companion for anyone navigating the nuances of a new language. This podcast moves beyond textbook grammar to focus on the living language you hear in the streets, offices, and cafes. Each episode delves into everyday expressions and authentic dialogues, breaking down how English is actually spoken in casual and professional settings. A regular highlight is the popular segment 'The English We Speak,' which unpacks a new piece of slang, idiom, or useful phrase every week, giving you the confidence to use it yourself. The series also features special deep-dive collections tackling specific challenges, such as the 'Beating Speaking Anxiety' series, which offers strategies to overcome the common fear of making mistakes in conversation. The tone is supportive and clear, prioritizing real-world application over theory. By listening, you gain access to the rhythms, shortcuts, and cultural context that make conversations flow more naturally. Tune in for a direct, accessible route to feeling more at ease and capable in your English speaking and listening journey.
Episodes
The English We Speak: Learn the hard way [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 3:04
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 learn something the hard way.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.…
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 5. I’m scared people won’t understand me [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:55
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 pronunciation.With Jennifer Jenkins, Emeritus Professor of Global Englis…
The English We Speak: A big ask [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:53
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: ✔️ https://downloads.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/tews/260209_tews_a_big_a…
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 4. I'm scared of speaking in front of people [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:23
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 public speaking and speaking in bigger groups.With Regina Kaplan Rakow…
The English We Speak: Facepalm moment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 3:22
Something embarrassing or frustrating could lead to a facepalm moment. Learn how to use this expression here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-26020…
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 3. I’m scared I won’t understand people [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:15
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 and Hanan talk about how you can improve your listening in real life co…
The English We Speak: Shoot off [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:12
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: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-spea…
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 2. I’m scared of forgetting my words [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:23
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 our brain can’t always remember words we know in a new language.With…
The English We Speak: Hot on the heels [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:36
This expression means something happens immediately after something else, often unexpectedly. Learn how to use it here.FIND A TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_202…
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 1. I’m scared of making mistakes [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:26
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 confidence speaking English, even when you make mistakes.With professor of C…