The English We Speak: Non-starter

The English We Speak: Non-starter

Author: BBC Radio September 1, 2026 Duration: 2:56

Some ideas are just never going to work. Those are what we call 'non-starters'. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.

As always, get your free transcript for this episode here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-260831

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Have you tried our 'Real Easy English' podcast? Listen to real conversations about everyday topics to boost your listening confidence. You can WATCH the podcast here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/real-easy-english


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: Go through a rough patch [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:56
Life isn't always great, sometimes things can be difficult. Use 'go through a rough patch' when life gets difficult for a while. Learn this useful expression with Feifei and Phil.As always, find a free transcript here: ✔…
Beating Speaking Anxiety: 6. I’m scared I won’t get the joke [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:37
Have you ever been in a group of friends and everyone laughs, but you didn’t understand the joke?In this episode of our new series, Georgie and Hanan talk about understanding humour and making people laugh when speaking…
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.…
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…
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…
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…