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
Donkey's years [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Why has Rob got a donkey in the studio?! It's probably got something with today's authentic English phrase which is about not doing something for a long time
Give us a bell [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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What's that ringing sound? Is it someone giving you a bell? Find out what it all means
Echo chamber [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Echo echo echo echo…
Snowflake [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Do you melt too easily?
The heat is on [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Learn an expression which you can use to say you're under pressure
Wet weekend [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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When can a wet weekend be dry? Find out with another authentic English expression
No picnic [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:02
Some things in life are hard work. Discover a phrase that describes these situations
A busman's holiday [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:18
Going on holiday to do your job? What's it got to do with driving a bus?
Fuddy-duddy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:10
Old-fashioned and set in your ways? Could you be one of these people?
Bottle [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:53
Use this phrase involving bottles when you’re too afraid to do something