On the up

On the up

Author: BBC Radio April 29, 2013 Duration: 2:25

Things are 'on the up' for Jennifer and Jean at work. Find out why in The English We Speak.


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.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 802

Learning English Conversations
Podcast Episodes
A sting in the tail [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:48
Rob's become a bee keeper but there's something more unpleasant to this hobby than being stung. Find out how a sting in the tail doesn't just come from bees!
So done with [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:51
Are you doing something very boring? We have just the phrase for you!
lolz [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:23
You might know the slang expression ‘LOL’, but do you know about ‘lolz’?
Have a go [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:59
Poor Neil gets a lot of criticism in the programme. Of course, it’s all to help you learn English!
About [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:55
You know what ‘about’ means, right? But maybe not this extra meaning! Take another look with us
Wing it [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:10
Learn an informal expression for when you have to improvise
Pot luck [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:33
Not sure what to expect? Learn a phrase about hoping your choice will turn out ok
It beats me [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:10
Why does Feifei keep hitting Rob? There could be some confusion about the meaning of today's authentic English phrase. Find out what Rob really means when he says 'it beats me'
Jiggery-pokery [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:46
Tricks and dishonesty: Learn this phrase before it fools you!
Left, right, and centre [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:11
If you do something left, right, and centre does that mean you do it everywhere? Rob's being doing just that but what's he been doing it with?