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English Functions and Phrases
When dividing most common English phrases into topics, it is wise to know how important it is to learn what a “language function” is. Namely, functions in English are phrases used to express a specific purpose. They are different from phrases based on a topic, because they are much more general, and can be used in any situation (e.g. phrases for tourists). Let me give you the list of most commonly used English functions : Asking for and … Read entire article »
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Making Generalizations
When making generalizations it is wise to use the following phrases listed according to their level of formality. I’ll start with the most formal ones (f) and then semi-formal (sf) and informal (i): F: There is a tendency for X (not) to … F: X has a tendency (not) to … SF: Y tends (not) to … SF: Z appears to … I: X seems to … I: In most cases, …./ Generally speaking, …/ On the whole, … A great set … Read entire article »
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Most Common English Expressions
While searching for the most common expressions in English with pronunciation, I came across this superb video … Read more »
How to Apologize in English ?
Everybody needs to apologize from time to time, right ? That’s why it’s important to prepare for this … Read more »
English Expressions and Idioms – How to Learn them ?
If you are interested in learning some common English expressions and idioms, the best way to do … Read more »
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English Functions and Phrases
When dividing most common English phrases into topics, it is wise to know how important it is … Read more »
Asking For and Giving Opinions - English Language Function
In one of the previous posts about a difference between functions and phrases, I listed some functions … Read more »
Asking for Clarification
If you don't understand what someone is saying, or you are simply not sure of what was … Read more »
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Talking about your Interests
Today I wanted to share with you a couple of videos which can help you practise talking about your interests and hobbies: To answer the following questions: you can use the following phrases: I really/quite like… I enjoy… I love… I am interested in… I don’t like… I hate… I can’t stand… I play… I take … lessons I go training on … Once/twice a week I … … Read entire article »
Most Common English Expressions
While searching for the most common expressions in English with pronunciation, I came across this superb video with both: slow pronunciation normal speed pronunciation You can find more great videos on English Quickly with David Where are you from? I’m from Golden, Colorado, USA. Hello, how are you? What’s up? Hey! What’s going on? Good to see you how are you? What have you been up to? Where’s the … Read entire article »
At the Chemist’s English Phrases
After watching the video jot down the most useful phrases you would need and use at the chemist’s. Do you have something for …? Oh, it’s not me / it’s not for me, it’s (for) my granny. Excuse me, do you have these? Can you give me a whole dosage for a month. I think this one expired last month. This medicine is too expensive. This is what your … Read entire article »
American Slang Words – Part 1
I’m sure you will enjoy watching the new series on History channel called America’s Secret Slang. Here comes a list of phrases from the first episode where you can hear the etymology of the following American slang expressions: Pork barrel project Slush fund Lame duck Dark horse Stump speech Straw poll Throw a hat into the ring Teddy bear Bully pulpit Rehire, indoors, administration Belittle, breadstuff, indecipherable Bloviator, hospitalization Evil empire Misunderestimate, embetterment Watergate, to wiretap, to bug, … Read entire article »
Talking Against a Proposal
Now that we’ve discussed how to suggest a plan or make a proposal and how to express that you are in favour of it, it’s time to learn a few phrases to express that you are against it. I’ll start with very formal ones (F), towards semi-formal (SF) and informal (I) phrases: I see no valid reason for supporting the proposal … Read entire article »
Talking in Favour of a Proposal
While in the previous post you learnt a few commonly used phrases to make a proposal or suggest a plan, today’s post is all about accepting and talking in favour of a proposal: Formal phrases: I’m completely behind the proposal to … I thoroughly approve of … Semi-formal phrases: I agree with you on … The proposal to do… has my full support. Informal phrases: I’d like to … Read entire article »
Useful English Phrases for Making Proposals
If you’d like to put forward plans and proposals decide on one formal (F), one semi-formal (SF) and one informal (I) phrase to use in three different situations* FORMAL (F) I would like to put forward a proposal that … I would like to propose that… SEMI-FORMAL (SF) What I suggest is to … There’s only one way to … INFORMAL (I) I’ve got an idea ! If… … Read entire article »
Giving Short Answers in English
Which of these two videos taught you more about giving short answers in English ? Video 1: Video 2: I hope you had a good laugh watching both videos For the list of some other useful phrases in English, check this page and don’t forget to do some extra work on how to give short responses in English: Practice 1 Loads of exercises … Read entire article »
Checking into a Hotel English Phrases
If you are never sure which phrases to use when you are checking into a hotel, here comes an excellent video by LinguaTV Youtube channel: These are the phrases which are often used when checking in. Which ones have you heard while watching the video ? My name is… I have a reservation for a single / double room for three nights. How … Read entire article »
English Grammar Online
