The English We Speak: A hunch

The English We Speak: A hunch

Author: BBC Radio May 12, 2026 Duration: 2:32

Is it true or is it just a hunch? Learn when and how to use ‘a hunch’ in this programme

For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.com As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260511

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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: 100

Learning English Conversations
Podcast Episodes
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…
The English We Speak: Think on your feet [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:49
Sometimes you need to think quickly, like for a job or to answer a question. Thinking on your feet means to do just this! Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.For more great language tips and programmes…
The English We Speak: Can't see the wood for the trees [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 3:23
This idiom is about focusing on the small details too much and losing sight of the bigger picture. Learn when and how to use it, and learn other language to use in this situation, with Feifei and Georgie.For more great l…
The English We Speak: Yap [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 3:18
"Stop yapping!" Learn a word to use when someone talks a lot with Feifei and Georgie. For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comAs always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.…
The English We Speak: Flow State [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 3:26
When we enter a flow state, we feel fully focused. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Becca. For more great language tips and programmes visit bbclearningenglish.comAs always, find a free transcript here: ✔…
The English We Speak: Got you [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:15
If you've got someone, you support them.Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Becca.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/e…
The English We Speak: A bit of a stretch [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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.…
The English We Speak: Kick the can down the road [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:24
Sometimes at work we need to kick the can down the road. Learn how to use this expression with Phil and Feifei.TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260316OFFI…
The English We Speak: Cut corners [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 3:19
If you want to do a task perfectly, it's usually not a good idea to cut corners. Learn about this expression and how to use it in conversations with Feifei and Georgie.TRANSCRIPT: ✔️ https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish…
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 8. I’m scared I can’t be myself [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:08
It can be harder to express our personality in a foreign language because we have fewer language tools available and speaking anxiety can make it harder to let our personalities shine. Learn from experts about this topic…