The English We Speak: A bit of a stretch

The English We Speak: A bit of a stretch

Author: BBC Radio March 24, 2026 Duration: 2:04

Sometimes we say things that aren't 100% true. They're not complete lies, but they are a bit of a stretch. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.

As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260323

And discover the NEW series of Office English. Topics covering small talk, organising meetings and rules. Find it here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/office-english, or search 'Learning English for Work' in your podcast app.

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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: 50

Learning English Conversations
Podcast Episodes
The English We Speak: Understood the assignment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:52
This slang phrase is about knowing what you have to do for a task, and doing it perfectly. Hear examples and learn how to use it in this programme, with Georgie and Feifei.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https…
The English We Speak: Onto something [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:15
Onto something suggests progress or a good idea. Maybe not a complete answer, but you're moving in the right direction. Learn how to use 'onto something' with Becca and Feifei.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ h…
The English We Speak: Sell yourself short [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:31
When we sell ourselves short, we say negative things about ourselves. We undervalue or underestimate ourselves. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Becca.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://ww…
The English We Speak: Wrap it up [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:44
Sometimes you just want people to stop. That's one way to use 'wrap it up'. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.Find a free transcript and related programmes here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/…
The English We Speak: Throw ideas at the wall [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:49
Sometimes you want to come up with ideas without thinking too much. That's when you throw ideas at the wall to see if anything sticks. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.As always, find a free transcri…
The English We Speak: Like a moth to a flame [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:44
Moths are winged insects which are attracted to light sources. Learn the metaphorical use of this expression in this programme with Feifei and Georgie.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/lear…
The English We Speak: Gatekeep [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 3:00
Gatekeep is a verb which means to withhold information. It can be used to talk about fandoms or products. Learn how with Feifei and Georgie.For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com As alwa…
The English We Speak: In over my head [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:53
Do you almost feel like you're drowning in your tasks? Maybe you're in over your head. Learn when and how to use this expression with Becca and Feifei.For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.…
The English We Speak: A hunch [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:32
Is it true or is it just a hunch? Learn when and how to use ‘a hunch’ in this programmeFor more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.c…
The English We Speak: Take it as a given [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:37
There are some things that you can just assume to be true. This expression is for those. Learn how to use it expression with Feifei and Phil.For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com As alw…