Learning English Collocations

Learning English Collocations

26, July, 2026

Episode 263: Learning English collocations

Why do we say make a decision but do homework? Why is it heavy rain and not strong rain? If you’ve ever felt confused by these word combinations, you’re not alone—and this episode is here to help.

Word Partners: The Secret Life of Collocations

Notes

Why do we say make a decision but do homework?

Why is it heavy rain and not strong rain?

If you’ve ever felt confused by these word combinations, you’re not alone—and this episode is here to help.

Join Chris and Sue for a fun, lively, and practical deep dive into collocations—the natural word partnerships that make your English sound fluent and authentic.

Through real examples, common mistakes, listener call-ins, and plenty of humor, they break down what collocations are, why they matter, and how you can start using them confidently.

Recap & Takeaways

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • What collocations are and how they work
  • The most common types of collocations in everyday English
  • Typical mistakes learners make (and how to fix them)
  • Simple strategies to learn and remember collocations faster
  • Real listener questions with clear, practical answers

Whether you’re an intermediate learner or aiming for near-native fluency, this episode will help you move from correct English to natural English.

🎧 Tune in, have a laugh, and start building better word partnerships today!

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Toulouse v Bristol – fan reactions

Toulouse v Bristol – fan reactions

26, July, 2026

Episode 262: Toulouse v Bristol – fan reactions

Rugby fans give their forecast for the match between Stade Toulousain v Bristol Bears

Stade Toulousain v Bristol Bears 59–26 in a thrilling clash on April 4, 2026.

Notes

Feel the atmosphere at the stadium in Toulouse and some fan interviews from inside the stadium in Toulouse as the home side, Stade Toulousain delivers a powerhouse performance against a determined Bristol Bears team..

Tune in and discover how fans from Toulouse and Bristol see the outcome of the match.

Recap & Takeaways

How to ask simple questions

Talking about optimism and pesimism

Hear the good atmosphère of a rugby match in Toulouse

Mingle with fans from both sides

Listen to predictions

Some tongue in cheek replies are assured

 

 

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Food Hell; foods we detest.

Food Hell; foods we detest.

26, July, 2026

Episode 261: Food Hell; foods we detest.

How can you describe food that you really can’t stand?

Food is part of everyday life, so that makes it part of your basic language skill set. How can you say you really don’t like a food at all?

Notes

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever eaten ? Snails ? Eels ? Sheep’s brains ?

Listen as we discus the worst things we’ve eaten eaten. Do you agree with our choice? Do you think our choices are cultural or universal tastes?  

Why do you detest these foods? Is it the texture, the smell, the taste or just the idea?

To get in the mood here are the foods we discuss. Build your vocabulary by associating tastes, and adjectives to each choice. 

Snails

Frogs legs

Foie gras

Sheep’s brains

Offal

Tongue

Beef cheeks

Haggis

Sheep’s eyes

Pig’s trotters

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Recap & Takeaways

Here are 10 ways to say that you don’t like certain  foods: 

  • I can’t stand it.
  • It makes my stomach turn.
  • I absolutely loathe it.
  • That stuff is disgusting.
  • I’d rather skip the meal than eat that.
  • It’s not my cup of tea.
  • I have a strong dislike for it.
  • It tastes awful to me.
  • I’m really not a fan of that.
  • I’d never touch that again.

Here are another 10 ways to say it more politely:

  • It’s not really to my taste.
  • I’m not particularly fond of it.
  • It’s not something I usually enjoy.
  • I don’t quite like the flavour.
  • It’s a bit too strong for me.
  • I prefer something a little different.
  • It’s not my favourite, to be honest.
  • I’m afraid it’s not for me.
  • I don’t think it suits my palate.
  • I might pass on that, thank you.

 

 

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Why do we love doing quizzes?

Why do we love doing quizzes?

26, July, 2026

Episode 251: Why do we love quizzes so much?

In this podcast, we wonder why we love doing quizzes so much. People seem to love quizzes because they’re like tiny brain workouts—minus the sweat and there’s something oddly satisfying about proving you know the capital of Uzbekistan! Listen in for why we like doing quizzes so much.

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we talk “intelligence”… or is it? Do quizzes really test our intelligence, our memory or our zxperience. Listen in to find out.

Notes

All quizzes are popular and these days pub quizzes are especially popular because they combine socializing, entertainment, and friendly competition in a relaxed setting. They offer a fun way for friends, colleagues, or strangers to test their knowledge while enjoying food and drinks, making for a lively and engaging night out. The mix of trivia categories ensures that everyone can contribute, fostering camaraderie. Additionally, the challenge of answering questions correctly, the chance to win prizes, and the bragging rights of being the smartest team in the room add to the excitement. Plus, even if you don’t win, you still get to have a good time and maybe learn a few fun facts!

However, we delve into why quizzes primarily test the “what” i.e. factual knowledge—specific pieces of information that can be recalled quickly. For example, a quiz might ask, “What is the capital of France?” This type of question evaluates recognition and recall but doesn’t necessarily require deep understanding.

Whereas the “why” and “how” questions require explanation, reasoning, and critical thinking. Quizzes, especially multiple-choice or short-answer formats, typically aren’t suited for these in-depth explorations because they prioritize quick assessment over deep comprehension.

 

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Recap & Takeaways

LEARNING TIP

What would you say are the benefits of doing quizzes? Listed below are 4 reasons; can you expand on them after listening to the podcast. Try to write 50 words for each reason and then speak about it naturally. 

  1. Boosts Memory & Learning –  Can you expand on this point?
  2. Enhances Problem-Solving Skills –  Try to say more about this.
  3. Provides Instant Feedback – What is your experience?
  4. Fun & Engaging – Do you do quizzes with your friends and family?

 

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National Pet Day

National Pet Day

26, July, 2026

Episode 194: National Pet Day

In this podcast, we have fun with fun facts about cats, dogs, fish, tigers and even an elephant.

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we delve into fun facts around pets… and there are lots of them. The video, the pictures and wriiten clues will help you follow the conversation.  

Notes

National Pet Day is April 11, although if you’re a pet owner, you know there’s not a day that goes by that you don’t celebrate your animal companion! So hug your hedgehog, bond with your bunny, and cut your kitty some catnip! That critter makes you happy — and that’s not all. Over the past 10 years, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been a partner in research to determine the physical and mental benefits of having a pet. It turns out that not only can pets steal our hearts, but they also contribute to overall cardiovascular health by lowering cortisol, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.

Recap & Takeaways

National Pet Day is an excellent time to do a few checks for your pets.

  • Go through your furever family member’s toys. Throw away any items that are no longer safe.
  • Maintain your pet-friendly home. Keep cords and toxins secure from your four-legged friends. This includes phone chargers.
  • Verify when vaccinations are due and schedule an appointment to update if they are due.
  • Check collars to ensure tags are secure and numbers are current. We sometimes forget to update this information when we move or change numbers.

 

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Resolutions, why bother ?

Resolutions, why bother ?

26, July, 2026

Episode 245: Making Resolutions for The New Year

In this podcast, we look into setting resolutions for the New Year, and should we even bother setting resolutions?

Welcome back to English-Podcasts, in this episode we examine the good and the bad of setting resolutions for the New Year. Is it of any use? Did you know that 93% of all resolutions made on 31 December are abandoned just a week or two later?

Notes

Whether or not to set New Year’s resolutions depends on your mindset, personal goals, and what works best for you. Here’s a breakdown to help decide:

Reasons to Set Resolutions:

  1. Fresh Start Effect: The new year feels like a clean slate, which can motivate you to pursue goals.
  2. Reflection and Growth: Resolutions can help you evaluate your past year and set intentions for growth.
  3. Structure: Setting goals gives you direction and a framework for self-improvement.
  4. Accountability: Declaring a resolution often makes people more committed to their goals.

Challenges with Resolutions:

  1. Unrealistic Expectations: If goals are too lofty, it can lead to frustration and burnout.
  2. Pressure and Guilt: Not achieving resolutions can cause feelings of failure.
  3. Short-Term Mindset: Many resolutions fade by February because they lack a long-term plan.
  4. External Influence: Resolutions driven by societal pressure rather than personal desire often lack meaning.

Recap & Takeaways

Alternatives to Resolutions:

  1. Set Intentions: Focus on a word or theme for the year (e.g., “balance” or “growth”) rather than rigid goals.
  2. Break It Down: Set small, achievable goals throughout the year instead of one big resolution.
  3. Reflect Regularly: Monthly or quarterly reviews can help you adjust goals as life changes.
  4. Celebrate Progress: Focus on the process and celebrate small wins along the way.

Ultimately, if resolutions inspire and motivate you, go for it! If they feel overwhelming, there are other ways to reflect and grow without the pressure. What’s your take—do you set resolutions, or do you prefer another approach?

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