So when someone says, interesting, don't automatically assume they mean, that's amazing. They might mean, I'm not sure, I disagree, that surprised me, or I need a second to respond politely. When someone says, we'll see, They might mean maybe, but they might also mean probably
SAMPLE FROM TODAY'S PRIVATE FLUENCY PODCAST EPISODE ~ Okay, now let's talk about phrasal verbs. These will help you figure out hidden meanings. First, to pick up on. To pick up on something means to notice something subtle. For example, I picked up on her tone. She didn't say no
Use softeners when talking about feelings. A softener is a word or a phrase that makes your emotions sound more natural, gentle, or balanced. For example, a little, kind of, a bit, honestly. To be honest, at first. Instead of I felt nervous, say I was a little nervous at first.
Years ago, I was speaking at an event, and after my talk, someone in the audience asked me a question. And honestly, I didn't know how to answer right away. I felt unprepared, but it was a good question. It was a little unexpected though. For a second, I felt that familiar
Now let's practice full answers. Imagine someone asks, what's the hardest part of speaking English? Repeat after me. I'd say the hardest part is speaking in real time. Now another one. The question is, what do you want to improve this year? Repeat after me. Think I want to
Now here's a cultural communication tip. In many American conversations, especially at work, people often appreciate verbal signals. A verbal signal is when you say what you're doing in the conversation. For example, let me think for a second. This tells the listener, I'm not
Struggling to speak English? Discover practical tips to start thinking in English, from using your smartphone to simple daily practices. Achieve fluency faster than you ever imagined. Unlock your potential now! This clip is a short preview from the full length video on the go
Have you ever answered a question like how have you been and said I'm busy and then the conversation just dies? Well, that's because native English speakers know how to use different phrases and give more details and follow up in a way that continues the conversation. So if you
And today we're talking about one of those little moments in English that can feel surprisingly difficult. Someone says, you did a great job. I love your jacket. Your English is good. suddenly your mind goes completely blank. You don't know what to say. So, what should you say?
Many English learners only know one way to talk about stress or having a lot of things to do I'm busy and that's okay. It's correct, but busy is general. It doesn't tell us why you're busy how stressed you feel whether it's temporary or constant Just today or forever, whether
Americans especially love to say they're busy. They love to show how full their work schedule is. I'm busy and that's okay, but busy is too general! You'll sound more natural in work conversations, small talk, networking, talking to friends, and explaining why you're tired,