Podcasts about English grammar

So, the other day, I was on the phone with my friend Ed. We had plans to meet at 1pm, and it was already 1:15. I said, "It's time to go." And he goes, "It's about time!" Ha! You ever hear that phrase? "It's about time"? What does that even mean? Well, today, we're going to talk about how to use a bunch of conversational phrases with “It's time” in English. Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: learnenglish,englishpodcast,englishconversation,phrasalverbs,americanenglish,englishgrammar,englishpronunciation,eslpodcast,speakenglishnaturally,englishlessons,englishforbeginners,englishlistening,englishspeaking,improveyourenglish,studyenglishonline,learnenglishusa,learnenglishcanada,learnenglishgermany,learnenglishbrazil,happyenglishpodcastBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to Speak Naturally in a Minute from Happy English. I'm here every Sunday with a quick one-point lesson to help you improve your pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation.  And if you want to watch this lesson, just look for Happy English Podcast on YouTube.Today, let's continue our discussion of reduction in American English, you know, when we shorten or soften sounds when we speak. Can't you, Aren't you, and ain;t you are usually pronounced as can'cha, aren'cha, and ain'chaWhen we say can't you, the T of can't blends with the Y of you. Can't you becomes can'cha.  “Can'cha see that?,”  “Can'cha hear me?,”  “Can'cha stay a little longer?”And when we say aren't you, the T in aren't also blends with the Y of you. Aren't you becomes aren'cha. “Aren'cha coming to the party?,” “Aren'cha ready?” “Aren'cha going home soon?”And finally, It's the same with ain't you. The T in ain't also blends with the Y of you. Ain't you becomes ain'cha. “Ain'cha coming to the party?,” “Ain'cha ready?” “Ain'cha gonna tell me?”Can'cha, aren'cha and ain'cha. This is how it goes in spoken American English.  They help the rhythm stay smooth and make the whole sentence easier to say.And if you want to sound more natural yourself, try using them in casual conversation. Hey, thanks for listening! And remember to follow and subscribe so you won't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next Sunday's Speak Naturally in a Minute.  Until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to English Tips in a Minute from Happy English. I'm here every Saturday with a short, simple tip to help you speak English more naturally and confidently. And by the way, if you want to watch this lesson, just look for Happy English Podcast on YouTube.Today, let's look at a really casual, really conversational pattern you'll hear in everyday American English - all + adjective. We use all before an adjective to mean very or totally, and it adds emotion to what we're saying.  You'll hear this especially when people are talking about feelings, reactions, or moodsLike, Maybe last night, you came home after a long day. You can say: “I was all hungry and tired when I got home last night.” all hungry and tired means very hungry, and  very tired.Or maybe your boss saw last month's sales numbers and wasn't happy. You could say: “The boss was all grumpy when he saw last month's sales data.” Here's another example. “Jen was all excited about her vacation.” It's casual, it's expressive, and it sounds very natural in everyday American English.  Just remember - this is spoken English, not something you'd use in formal writing.Try using this pattern the next time you want to describe a strong feeling - like “I was all surprised!”  It really brings your English to life. Lemme know in the comments how it goes, and remember to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next Saturday's English Tips in a Minute. Hey, thanks for listening - and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Hey there! It's Michael here, and welcome back to Phrasal Verbs in a Minute from Happy English. I'm here every Friday with a quick one-point lesson to help you learn a new phrasal verb and sound more natural when you speak.By the way, if you want to see the video version of this lesson, just look for Happy English Podcast on YouTube.Today's phrasal verb is weigh in on. When you weigh in on something, it means you offer your opinion in a discussion — especially when people want your thoughts or input.Like in the office, the boss weighed in on Jack's new marketing idea.And yesterday, my friend Justin weighed in on which laptop I should buy.And whenever I post a lesson like this online, you guys weigh in with awesome comments!And here's a pronunciation tip: The A sound of weigh links with in, and the N of in links with on. Altogether, it  sounds like way-yih-non. Way-yih-non: very smooth and connected.So how about you? What's something you weighed in on recently - maybe a decision at work, a family plan, or even a friend's problem? Let me know in the comments, and remember to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Phrasal Verbs in a Minute.  Hey, thanks for listening. And until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

So I got invited to another one of Jack's parties. If I go by myself, there's a good chance I won't know anyone, which is ok, unless a lot of people come. But if Jenny comes with me, then there's a better chance of having fun. I wonder if she'll go... or come with me. Come and go. That's the magic - and the confusion - of the verbs come and go in English. They seem simple… but they can be really tricky. Today we're going to clear up one of the biggest confusions that even intermediate and advanced learners struggle with: the difference between come and go.Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

In this podcast episode, we explore common English idioms connected to music and everyday situations. You will learn how native speakers use these expressions naturally in conversations, stories, and informal speech. Each one is explained in simple English with clear context so you can understand the meaning, the tone, and when it is appropriate to use it.This lesson is ideal for intermediate and advanced English learners who want to expand vocabulary, sound more fluent, and prepare for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English. By the end, you will feel more confident recognising and using music-related idioms in both professional and casual conversations.Share Your ThoughtsSupport the showImprove your English step by step. My online courses cover grammar, vocabulary, and speaking practice — prices start from just €7.99. Enrol today and start improving your English ➡️ https://www.englishlessonviaskype.com/online-learning-courses/

The other day, I was thinking about the difference between though, even though, and although. Even though they all mean but, there's a difference, though. And although you may not have learned it before… you'll learn it today.Though, Even Though, & Although all - express contrast, like you say one thing, but then mention something opposite. But how we use them depends on the situation, how formal or casual we want to sound, and the rhythm of the sentence. So today, I'll walk you through the differences between though, even though, and although... with clear, natural examples to help you speak more fluently and confidently.Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to Speak Naturally in a Minute from Happy English. I'm here every Sunday with a quick one-point lesson to help you improve your pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation.And if you want to watch this lesson, just look for Happy English Podcast on YouTube.As we've said before, in everyday spoken American English, we often use reduction - that means we shorten or soften sounds when we speak.Today, let's look at two really common question reductions that you hear all the time in natural spoken English: don't you and won't you. These are pronounced like, doncha and wonchaWhen we say don't you, the T of don't blends with the Y of you. Don't you becomes doncha.  Like “Doncha wanna go?” “Doncha know him?” “Doncha like it” DonchaAnd when we say  won't you, the T of won't blends with the Y of you. Won't you becomes woncha.  “Woncha join us for lunch?” “Woncha come inside?” “Woncha tell me?”  WonchaSo remember. Doncha and Woncha. These natural ways to say don't you and won't you in American English.  They help the rhythm stay smooth and make the whole sentence easier to say.And if you want to sound more natural yourself, try using them in casual conversation. Hey, thanks for listening! And remember to follow and subscribe so you won't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next Sunday's Speak Naturally in a Minute.  Until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to English Tips in a Minute from Happy English. I'm here every Saturday with a short, simple tip to help you speak English more naturally and confidently. And by the way, if you want to watch this lesson, just look for Happy English Podcast on YouTube.Today, let's look at a really useful conversational phrase - “What's up with…?”We use what's up with…? to ask about something we don't understand. It's another way to say“What's the situation with…?”  And you can use it for people, for events, or even for weird situations.Like,  Maybe your coworker is acting strange. You can say:  “What's up with John today?”Or if you're confused about a rule at work, you might say:  “What's up with casual Fridays? Can we wear jeans or not?”We also use it to talk about trends or new behaviors we don't get.  Like:  “I don't know what's up with kids these days and that 6-7 thing.”One thing to keep in mind is tone. With a neutral tone, it sounds curious.  With a strong tone, it can sound annoyed or frustrated:  “Oh man, what's up with all this traffic today?”What's up with waiting? Go try this phrase in your next conversation! Lemme know in the comments how it goes, and remember to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next Saturday's English Tips in a Minute. Hey, thanks for listening. And until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Hey there! It's Michael here, and welcome back to Phrasal Verbs in a Minute from Happy English.I'm here every Friday with a quick one-point lesson to help you learn a new phrasal verb and sound more natural when you speak. By the way, if you want to see the video version of this lesson, just look for Happy English Podcast on YouTube.Today's phrasal verb is brush up on.  When you brush up on something, it means you review it or practice it again so you can improve. We usually use brush up on for skills, subjects, and knowledge.For example, before my trip to Paris, I brushed up on my French a little.And yesterday, my friend Emma brushed up on her Excel skills before her job interview.If you want to brush up on your English, why not take a lesson with me!And here's a pronunciation tip: brush up on sounds like bruh-shuh-pon. The SH of brush links with UP, and the P of UP links with ON bruh-shuh-pon That makes it smooth and quick.So how about you? What's something you want to brush up on? Maybe English, a hobby, or a skill you haven't used in a while? Let me know in the comments, and remember to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Phrasal Verbs in a Minute.  Hey, thanks for listening. And until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

learn about contractions

Do you need a pick-me-up? I'm not being a show-off when I say that our little online get-togethers like this podcast are probably good for your English. Thanks for tuning in! Let me start with a quick question. Have you ever heard someone say, “We're having a little get-together this weekend”? Or maybe, “I could really use a pick-me-up”? You might think, wait a second – isn't get a verb? Isn't get together a phrasal verb? Yep - but when we add a hyphen and use it as a noun, it becomes something totally different. Today, we're going to look at these kinds of phrases that native speakers use all the time, but they don't always show up in grammar books. These are called phrasal nouns and for today's lesson, we're going to see how those verbs become nouns, and how we use them in conversation. Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

In this episode, we explore useful English expressions that describe everyday actions and reactions. You will hear clear explanations and natural examples that show how native speakers use these expressions in real conversations. The focus is on helping you understand meaning, tone, and context so you can start using them confidently in your own speaking.This lesson is ideal for intermediate and advanced English learners who want to improve fluency, build natural vocabulary, and prepare for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English. By the end of the episode, you'll know how to express support, emotions, quick decisions, social behaviour, and trust in a more accurate and natural way.Share Your ThoughtsSupport the showImprove your English step by step. My online courses cover grammar, vocabulary, and speaking practice — prices start from just €7.99. Enrol today and start improving your English ➡️ https://www.englishlessonviaskype.com/online-learning-courses/

Let me ask you something… have you ever been surprised - like, really surprised - and you just didn't know what to say in English? Imagine, you're talking to a friend, and they say something totally unexpected. Like, “Hey, did you hear? Lisa is moving to Australia!” And you want to respond like a native speaker - with something more natural than just “Wow” OR “Really?”That's what we're going to look at today - casual, real-life phrases that native English speakers use to show surprise. And hey - this isn't just fun stuff. These phrases help you sound more natural and more confident when you speak. So let's jump in!Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to Speak Naturally in a Minute from Happy English. I'm here every Sunday with a quick one-point lesson to help you improve your pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation.And if you want to watch this lesson, just look for Happy English Podcast on YouTube.Now, in everyday spoken American English, we often use reduction - that means we shorten or soften sounds when we speak. Today's example is the word “didn't.” First, most native speakers drop the D in the middle.  So instead of “didn't,” we say “dih-n't.” “dih-n't.” The reason is if you pronounce the final D of did, and the next sound is N, D followed by N makes the sound stop. Did-n't. Dropping the D makes the sound smoother: “dih-n't.” Like, “I didn't see your message.” becomes “I din't see your message.” OR “She didn't call me back.” becomes “She dih-n't call me back.” “dih-n't.”And there's one more thing. The final T in this word also tends to get very soft… or disappears.  So “dih-n't ” becomes “dih-n.”  That's right - both the D and the T get reduced. I'm sure you hear this all the time, like,  “I didn't hear you.” becomes “I dih-n hear you.”  “She didn't call me back.” becomes “She dih-n call me back.” and  “They didn't do it.” becomes “They dih-n do it.”This is not slang and it's not lazy. It's just how real American English flows. So next time you say didn't, try relaxing your tongue a bit:  “I dih-n know.”  “I dih-n get it.”  That's the rhythm of natural American speech.Hey, thanks for listening! And remember to follow and subscribe so you won't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next Sunday's Speak Naturally in a Minute.  Until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to English Tips in a Minute from Happy English. I'm here every Saturday with a short, simple tip to help you speak English more naturally and confidently. And by the way, if you want to watch this lesson, just look for Happy English Podcast on YouTube.Today, let's look at a really common phrase you'll hear in everyday English - “Do me a favor.”We use do me a favor when we want to ask someone to do something for us. It's usually for a small, everyday request, and it sounds more friendly than directly asking someone to do something. One common pattern is: Do me a favor and, plus a verb. You can say things like,  “Do me a favor and close the window.” OR  “Do me a favor and turn down the TV a little.”We also use Do me a favor followed by a sentence. Like, “Do me a favor. Hand me that dictionary over there.” OR  “Do me a favor, don't tell anyone what we just talked about.You can also use Do me a favor when you're annoyed with someone. Like, Do me a favor and talk more quietly. OR Do me a favor. Stop smoking in this restaurant. Using “do me a favor” is a common, indirect way to soften your request. Even when you're annoyed. So do me a favor and try using this phrase in one of your English conversations this week, ok?Lemme know in the comments how it goes, and remember to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next Saturday's English Tips in a Minute. Hey, thanks for listening - and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Has this ever happened to you? Someone invites you to do something - maybe go out for dinner, or join a party - but you can't go. Maybe you're too busy. Maybe you don't want to go. But you feel a little nervous about saying no? Yeah... totally understandable. Saying no in English isn't always easy, so today let's learn how to do it.In this lesson, we're going to look at how we invite people in English, and more importantly, how to politely say no when you can't accept that invitation. This is super helpful for conversations at work, school, or even with friends.Build Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signupWatch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcasts

In this episode, you will learn different ways to say “I'm shocked” in English and how native speakers use them in real situations. Each expression is explained in simple, clear language so you can understand the meaning, the tone, and when to use it.This lesson is ideal for English learners at intermediate and advanced levels who want to expand vocabulary, improve speaking confidence, and sound more natural in conversations. By the end, you'll know how to express surprise, disbelief, or strong emotion in a more accurate and fluent way.Share Your ThoughtsSupport the showImprove your English step by step. My online courses cover grammar, vocabulary, and speaking practice — prices start from just €7.99. Enrol today and start improving your English ➡️ https://www.englishlessonviaskype.com/online-learning-courses/

Thanks for joining me today! If you've ever wondered what the difference is between “Have you eaten yet?” and “Are you still eating?”... or if you're not sure when to use anymore - then this episode is for you. These four little words - still, yet, already, and anymore - seem simple, but when it comes to questions and negative sentences, things can get a little tricky. So today, we'll take a deep dive into how they work, with plenty of real, everyday examples.Build Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signupWatch video versions of the Happy English Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcasts

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to Speak Naturally in a Minute from Happy English. I'm here every Sunday with a quick one-point lesson to help you improve your pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation.And if you want to watch this lesson, just look for Happy English Michael on YouTube.In fact, the idea for today's lesson came from a listener's question on YouTube. It's all about reductions. In language learning, reduction means shortening or softening sounds when we speak quickly - it's what makes English sound smooth and natural. One really common example is when we say the phrase “I'm trying to.”  It usually sounds like, “I'm tryin' uh.” “I'm tryin' uh.” There are three things happening here. First, I'm is pronounced as Ahm. Then, we drop the g of trying, so it sounds like try-in, and third we drop the T in the word TO and pronounce it as uh. Ahm try-in-uh. Here are some examples in context: “I'm tryin' uh finish this report.”“I'm tryin' uh get up earlier.”And these days, “I'm tryin' uh learn Japanese.”It's quick, relaxed, and totally natural - especially in everyday conversation and songs. You'll hear this kind of reduction all the time in American English, like what we studied last Sunday: Lemme, gimme, and gemme. So next time you say I'm trying to, relax your mouth and let it flow: “I'm tryin' uh.”  That's the rhythm of real American English.Hey, thanks for listening! And remember to follow and subscribe so you won't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Sunday Speak.  Until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch the video version of this Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to English Tips in a Minute from Happy English. I'm here every Saturday with a short, simple tip to help you speak English more naturally and confidently.And if you want to watch this lesson, just look for Happy English Michael on YouTube.Today, let's look at a really common phrase you'll hear in everyday English - “Does that make sense?”We use does that make sense? to check if the other person understands what we just explained. It's a more natural and friendly way to say “Do you understand?” - which can sometimes sound a little too direct.For example, if you're giving directions, you could say: “Go straight two blocks, turn right at the light, and the café's on the left. Does that make sense?”Or, if you're helping a coworker with a report, you might say: “So, we'll send this out by Friday, and then follow up next week. Does that make sense?”It's polite, warm, and shows you care that the other person understood you. So next time you're explaining something, try ending with a friendly “Does that make sense?” - just to make sure!And hey, does that make sense to join me again next time for another podcast English lesson? Lemme know in the comments, and remember to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next Saturday's English tips in a minute.  Hey, thanks for listening - and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch the video version of this Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyEnglishNY/podcastsBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to Phrasal Verbs in a Minute from Happy English.I'm here every Friday with a quick one-point lesson to help you learn a new phrasal verb and sound more natural when you speak. And if you want to watch this lesson just look for Happy English Michael on YouTube.Today's phrasal verb is rattle off.  When you rattle something off, it means you say or list things quickly and easily - usually without stopping to think much. It's like when someone just fires off information from memory.Like, my friend Lisa is amazing with dates. You can ask her about any historical event, and she'll rattle off the exact year it happened.And my coworker Tom can rattle off ten phrasal verbs in thirty seconds - no problem at all.Here's a pronunciation tip: rattle off - ra-dl-off. The T sound of rattle  is a flap T sound, and the  L sound of links with off, so it sounds like ra-dloff.So how about you? Is there something you can rattle off - maybe song lyrics, movie quotes, or English phrasal verbs?Lemme know in the comments, and remember to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Phrasal Verb Friday.  Hey, thanks for listening - and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Watch the video version of this Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/happyenglishnyBuild Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

In this podcast episode, you will learn how to make suggestions clearly in English. We explain easy ways to accept suggestions and also how to say no politely. You will understand how to give reasons when you make suggestions. The episode also covers the right intonation to use when suggesting something. This lesson will help you speak English more confidently and naturally.Perfect for B2 level learners, the explanations are simple and practical. Listen and practice to sound more like a native speaker.Share Your ThoughtsSupport the showImprove your English step by step. My online courses cover grammar, vocabulary, and speaking practice — prices start from just €7.99. Enrol today and start improving your English ➡️ https://www.englishlessonviaskype.com/online-learning-courses/

In everyday spoken American English, we often use reduction. Here, reduction means we shorten or soften sounds when we speak. It's when certain words or syllables lose their full sound to make speech smoother and faster. Today, let's look at three really common reductions: lemme, gimme, and gemme.Like, instead of saying let me, we reduce it to lemme. The T sound at the end of let, is dropped. Lemme. You can say things like, “Lemme see that.”  “Lemme know when you're ready.” or “Lemme know what time the meeting starts.” Lemme. And instead of saying give me, we reduce it to gimme comes from give me.The V sound at the end of give, is dropped. Gimme. You can say things like,  “Gimme a second.” “Gimme that pen.” Or “Can you gimme a hand moving this desk?. GimmeFinally for today, instead of saying get me, we reduce it to gemme. The T sound at the end of get is dropped. Gemme. You can say things like, “Gemme a coffee, please.”  “Can you gemme a towel?” Or, “You're going for donuts? Can you gemme one?”These reductions happen naturally in everyday casual conversation. And reductions aren't a lazy way of speaking. They're just how people really talk smoothly.  So next time you hear lemme, gimme, or gemme, you'll know the meaning. And when you use them yourself, your English will sound smoother and more natural.Build Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Today, let's look at a really natural and friendly phrase you'll hear all the time in everyday English - “Sounds like a plan.” We use sounds like a plan when we agree to someone's suggestion or idea. It's a casual, upbeat way to say “That's a good idea” or “Let's do that.”For example, your friend says:  “Let's meet at 6 for dinner.” You can reply: “Sounds like a plan!”Or maybe your coworker says: “How about we finish this project on Monday?” You can say: “Yeah, sounds like a plan.”It's short, friendly, and works perfectly in everyday conversation - at work, with friends, even with your family.So remember, the next time someone suggests something you agree with, skip the formal “That is a good idea.” and just say “Sounds like a plan!” It's a natural way to reply!Build Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Today's phrasal verb is whip up.  When you whip something up, it means you make or create something quickly - usually food, but it can also be ideas, energy, or excitement.Like, yesterday morning I was in a rush, so I whipped up some scrambled eggs before heading out the door.And the other day, my neighbor whipped up a batch of cookies and brought them over. Best surprise ever!Or my friend Amy is so creative - she can whip up a great PowerPoint presentation in no time.So how about you? What's something you can whip up quickly - maybe a meal, a project, or even a good idea?  Leave a comment, and remember to follow or subscribe!Build Vocabulary With My Free Vocabulary Workshop: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/vocabulary-workshop-signup

Welcome to The Real Life English with Gabby Podcast. Have you ever felt like everything was going wrong, like maybe you had bad luck? Did you ever do something that you thought might change your luck in some way? In episode #71, we dive into the world of bad luck, fate, and superstitions. You'll learn 13 real American idioms, slang, and phrasal verbs that will help you speak confidently about luck. You'll also hear fun examples from everyday life, talk about popular superstitions from around the world and even learn some grammar-the first conditional.We'll talk about expressions like knock on wood, jinx, Murphy's Law, and when it rains, it pours and how you can use them naturally in conversation.Also, don't forget that this episode includes a free Study Guide that will help you practice what you learn in this episode! It includes:Definitions and example sentencesReview of the First ConditionalThe full transcriptPractice exercises that will challenge youand more!Click >> HERE > CLICK HERE

Let's table this. That's what the boss said. And then someone else said, we need to pivot. So then I suggested we take it off line, but the boss said, Let's not reinvent the wheel. Ah, the language of business.have you ever been in a meeting or on a Zoom call and someone says something like, “Let's circle back on that” or “We need to pivot”… and you're just sitting there thinking, “Wait, what did that mean?” Today, let's take a closer look at what these buzzwords really mean in plain English - and how native speakers use them in everyday business conversations. Visit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/

In this episode, you'll learn how native speakers use phrasal verbs related to driving in real-life situations. Each one is explained in simple English with clear examples so you can understand and use them naturally.This lesson is perfect for English learners (B1–C1) who want to improve vocabulary, speak more fluently, and prepare for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English. By the end, you'll feel more confident using common driving expressions in both conversation and writing.Share Your ThoughtsSupport the showImprove your English step by step. My online courses cover grammar, vocabulary, and speaking practice — prices start from just €7.99. Enrol today and start improving your English ➡️ https://www.englishlessonviaskype.com/online-learning-courses/

One of the biggest secrets to sounding natural in English is something called the schwa sound. It's the most common sound in American English, and it's a huge reason why native speakers sound so smooth and relaxed when they talk.The schwa sounds like uh - not strong or clear, just soft and lazy: uh. We use it in many unstressed syllables and small words: Like the vowel sounds in umbrella, the a in what [whut], the i in anima [AN-uh-muhl] and the a in  Sofa  [SO-fuh]. Visit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/

In today's Saturday Short, Michael talks about one of the newest slang expressions to hit the English language — “6-7.”You'll learn where this Gen Z phrase came from, how people use it online, and why it's more about vibe than grammar.It's short, fun, and a perfect look at how English keeps evolving.So, what does “6-7” really mean? Let's find out together!Visit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to another Happy English, Phrasal Verb Friday. I'm here every Friday with a quick, one-point English lesson to help you learn a new phrasal verb and sound more natural when you speak.Today's phrasal verb is zone out.  When you zone out, it means your mind starts to wander and you stop paying attention - especially when you're tired, bored, or distracted. Basically, your body's there, but your brain takes a little break.Like the other day, I was in a long meeting, and about halfway through, I totally zoned out.Or my friend Olivia said she was watching a movie, but she zoned out and missed the ending.And when I ride the train home at night, sometimes I just zone out and stare out the window. It's kind of relaxing, actually.Here's a pronunciation tip: zone out - zohn-out. The N connects smoothly with out, like zoh-nout.So how about you? When do you usually zone out - at work, in class, or maybe when someone's talking too long? Leave a comment, and don't forget to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Phrasal Verb Friday.Thanks for listening - and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Get my training and advanced episodes: https://www.patreon.com/listeningtimeUS Conversations: https://www.patreon.com/USConversationsTranscript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PoRz56wtKPBES0SaK-QxHNm9EMHEgU7d/view?usp=sharing

Boo! Did I scare you? I hope not. Halloween is literally right around the corner, and depending on where you live that may or may not have any particular meaning for you. But in the USA? Well, let's go trick or treating...Thanks for tuning in. And hey, Happy Halloween!

“Are we there yet?” That's a question you've probably heard - or maybe even asked - especially if you've ever taken a road trip with kids:  “Are we there yet?” “Not just yet!” Yet is just a three-letter word, but it's packed with meaning. It helps you talk about time, expectations, contrast, and even emphasis. And once you learn how to use yet naturally, your English is going to sound a whole lot more fluent. So today, let's look at four of the most common ways we use yet - and I'll show you how this tiny word makes a big impact in everyday conversation. Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

In today's episode of Speak Better English with Harry, we're going to talk about some essential English verbs you can use at work. These are important for anyone who wants to improve their Business English or sound more professional in meetings, presentations, and emails.You'll hear clear examples and practical explanations to help you use these verbs naturally in real workplace situations. Knowing how to choose the right verbs will help you describe your responsibilities, communicate clearly with colleagues, and speak English at a higher, more confident level.By the end of this episode, you'll be able to use professional English vocabulary more accurately and make a stronger impression at work or in your English exam.Share Your ThoughtsSupport the showImprove your English step by step. My online courses cover grammar, vocabulary, and speaking practice — prices start from just €7.99. Enrol today and start improving your English ➡️ https://www.englishlessonviaskype.com/online-learning-courses/

Let me ask you something - have you ever noticed how often people say get in English?  I mean seriously - we get tired, we get pizza, we get better, we get going, we get caught in the rain, and we get used to the cold. Well, some of us.  Get is one of the most flexible and common verbs in English - and native speakers use it all the time in conversation. So today, let's get into it… and take a look at five of the most useful ways we use get in natural, everyday English.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Hey there! It's Michael here, and welcome back to another Happy English Saturday Short, your quick tip for speaking English better.Today, let's look at two really common and super natural phrases you'll hear in everyday English: “You know what?” and “Guess what?” We use both of these when we want to grab someone's attention - usually before we share some news, an idea, or an opinion. They make your speech sound lively and conversational and they're kind of like how we say, “Hey, listen to this!”Like:  “You know what? I think I'm finally getting used to this cool weather.” Or: “You know what? I've decided to start going to the gym again.”And guess what? is even more playful. We use it when we're excited to share news or something surprising. Like:  “Guess what? I passed my driving test!”  Or:  “Guess what? My favorite band is coming to Japan!”When you use you know what or guess what, your tone matters. Both phrases sound best with energy and a rising intonation - it builds a little excitement before you say your news. So remember...you know what and guess what, are great for starting a story, sharing good news, or giving an opinion in a fun, natural way. And you know what? I think you're gonna sound even more fluent when you start using these in your conversations!Oh, and don't forget to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Saturday Short. Thanks for listening - and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Hey there! It's Michael here — and welcome back to another Happy English, Phrasal Verb Friday.  I'm here every Friday with a quick, one-point English lesson to help you learn a new phrasal verb and sound more natural when you speak.Today's phrasal verb is buckle down. When you buckle down, it means you start working seriously and with focus — especially after being a bit lazy or distracted. You stop wasting time and get things done. And we tend to say, buckle down and DO somerthing.Like my buddy Kevin. He was having fun all summer, but now that classes started, he really needs to buckle down and study.Or my coworker Amy — she had a big project deadline coming up, so she buckled down this week and finished everything on time.And me? I'll be honest — I've been putting off updating my website, but this weekend I'm gonna buckle down and finally get it done.So how about you? Is there something you need to buckle down and do — maybe work, study, or a personal goal? Leave a comment, and don't forget to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Phrasal Verb Friday. Thanks for listening — and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

I suggest you listen carefully to this podcast. And if you're with a friend right now, I suggest he listen carefully as well. Or she listen carefully. I mean, if I were you, I'd definitely stick around for this one.Today we're diving into a part of English grammar that doesn't follow the usual rules - but native speakers use it all the time without thinking twice. Especially in American English. It's called the subjunctive mood - and while that might sound technical or tricky, it's actually pretty simple once you know how it works. So today, I'll walk you through four common ways we use the subjunctive - all with real-life, everyday examples.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

In this episode of Speak Better English podcast, you'll learn popular English idioms that use colours. These expressions are common in everyday conversations and will help you sound more natural and fluent.We'll explore idioms with colours like feeling blue, in the red, green with envy, and many more. You'll hear clear explanations and practical examples so you can use them with confidence.By the end of this lesson, you'll:Understand the meaning of common colour idiomsLearn how to use them in daily conversations and writingImprove your vocabulary for IELTS, CAE, TOEFL, and advanced EnglishListen now and brighten up your English with these colourful idioms.Share Your ThoughtsSupport the showImprove your English step by step. My online courses cover grammar, vocabulary, and speaking practice — prices start from just €7.99. Enrol today and start improving your English ➡️ https://www.englishlessonviaskype.com/online-learning-courses/

Hey, let me ask you a question - have you ever made a decision… and then later thought, “Oh man, I shouldn't have done that”? Or maybe you've thought, “If only I had done it differently.” Yeah. That, my friend, is regret - and we all feel it sometimes. Regret is one of those universal emotions - something everyone experiences. And in English, we've got a few really natural and emotional ways to talk about it. So today, I'll show you how to use phrases like “I should have,” “I wish I had,” and “If only I had” - plus some everyday expressions people use when they mess up. Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Hey there! It's Michael here - and welcome back to another Happy English Sunday Speak. I'm here every Sunday with a quick one-point tip to help you speak English more naturally.Now, in American English, there's a special sound we make with the letter T. It's called the flap T, and it sounds kind of like a soft D sound. You'll hear it in words like better, water, and pretty. So instead of saying “BET-ter,” “WAH-ter,” and “PRIT-ty,” Americans usually say “BEH-der,” “WAH-der,”  and “PRI-dee.” This sound happens when the T comes between two vowel sounds — like the a and e in water, or the i and y in city. Let me give you some sentences to practice this:  “I feel better today.” → “I feel beh-der today.” “We had a pretty nice day in the city.” → We had a pri-dee nice day in the sih-dy.” “Can I get a glass of water?” → “Can I gedda glass of wah-der?”This flap T sound makes your English smoother and more natural — just like how most Americans really speak. Thanks for listening. And remember to like, follow, and subscribe so you won't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Sunday Speak. Until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Hey there! It's Michael here  -  and welcome back to another Happy English Saturday Short, your quick tip for speaking English better.Today, let's look at a super common phrase you'll hear in everyday English: “You know what I mean?” We use you know what I mean? to seek agreement or to check if the other person understands us. It's kind of like soft tag questions, like isn't it? that keeps the conversation friendly and connected.Like, in the office, you might say: “There's something strange about the new marketing manager, you know what I mean?” OR  “That meeting felt way too long, you know what I mean?”And on a rainy Monday, “Man, this weather makes me so sleepy, you know what I mean?”Again, when you say you know what I mean, you're not really asking for information. You're just trying to connect what you're thinking with the other person. It makes your English sound more relaxed, natural, and conversational. And here's a quick pronunciation tip  -  in real life, we often say it like this: “Y'know what I mean?” Go ahead, try saying that out loud.So remember, you know what I mean? is a great way to show understanding, invite agreement, and sound more like a native speaker. You know what I mean?Oh, and don't forget to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Saturday Short. Thanks for listening  -  and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Welcome - and by the way - thanks for stopping by today! I've been thinking… by is one of those little words that shows up everywhere in English.  It's just two letters, but it does a lot of work. Today we're gonna take a close look at by - and I think you'll be surprised at how many different ways we use it. You've probably seen BY in phrases like “by the time I got there,” or “a book by Hemingway,” or even “I'll finish it by Friday.”  Yeah - by is short, but powerful.  Time, location, who did something, how something happens… yep, by does it all.  So, let's break it down - nice and easy.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Hey there! It's Michael here — and welcome back to another Happy English Sunday Speak. I'm here every Sunday with a quick one-point tip to help you speak English more naturally.Now, one of the most common phrases in English is “I don't know.” But in everyday conversation, most native speakers don't pronounce each word clearly like that. Instead, we usually say “I dunno.” (“EYE-duh-NO”) That's right — I don't know becomes I dunno. It's just a natural sound change that happens when we speak quickly. “Who's coming to the party?” → “I dunno.” “What time does the movie start?” → “Eh, I dunno.” “I'm gonna ask Tom where Jenny is” → “He dunno.” The meaning doesn't change — it's just faster, smoother, and more natural. So next time you want to say I don't know, try saying I dunno. It'll make your English sound more relaxed and more natural.Thanks for listening. And  remember to like, follow, and subscribe so you won't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Sunday Speak. Until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Hey there! It's Michael here and welcome back to another Happy English Saturday Short, your quick tip for speaking English better.Today, let's look at a really common and powerful phrase: “Let me tell you something.” We use let me tell you something when we want to share our feelings, give an opinion, or emphasize what we're about to say. It helps grab the listener's attention and makes your speech sound more natural — and more emotional.Let's say your friend just ask you about a new restaurant in town. You could say: “Oh, let me tell you something - their pasta is incredible!”Or maybe you saw a movie, and a friend says she heard it's boring. You can say: “Let me tell you something, that movie is one of the best I've seen this year.”We also use it when we feel strongly about something:  “Let me tell you something — learning English takes time, but it's totally worth it.”So remember, let me tell you something is a great way to add emotion, confidence, or strong opinion to what you say. It's natural, it's friendly, and it really makes your English sound alive.And let me tell you something - if you keep practicing with these Saturday Shorts, your English is only going to get better and better! Oh, and don't forget to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Saturday Short. Thanks for listening — and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

~~~~~~~~901 - Phrasal Verb Frida - Crank OutHey there! It's Michael here — and welcome back to another Happy English, Phrasal Verb Friday.I'm here every Friday with a quick, one-point English lesson to help you learn a new phrasal verb and sound more natural when you speak.Today's phrasal verb is crank out. When you crank something out, it means you produce it quickly, often in large amounts. This phrase is often used for things like writing, work, or manufacturing — anything that can be produced at a fast pace, sometimes with a focus on quantity over quality.The factory in the next town cranks out thousands of sneakers every week.My friend Amanda writes for a travel blog, and last week she cranked out five articles in just two days!And I remember when I was in college — we all cranked out our final papers right before the deadline. Typical, right?And hey, here's a little pronunciation tip: crank out… crank-out. The K at the end of crank links smoothly into the O of out. Crank-out.So how about you? What's something you've cranked out lately — work, content, projects, maybe a bunch of emails? Leave a comment, and don't forget to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the nextHappy English Podcast and next week's Phrasal Verb Friday. Thanks for listening — and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Hey, can you believe it? This is Episode 900 of the Happy English Podcast. Nine. Hundred. Episodes. I can hardly believe it myself. Here's what I've learned along the way!I just want to take a moment today to say how grateful I am to YOU. Whether this is your first time listening, your 50th time, or you've been here since Episode 1, thank you. The fact that you listen, learn, and grow with me is what keeps me showing up here week after week. So today, I want to share a little bit of my story, what I've learned from doing 900 episodes, and some advice for you on your English journey.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Professional English Level 2 is now open for enrollment and this week only, you save $100 off the normal price. Get ready for your next high-stakes moment in your career by developing executive-level English. Offer ends Sunday 10/11 at midnight. Go here to enroll now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices