English practice: workplace English
For clear workplace English, name the task, use a polite request or update, and include the deadline or next step when it matters. Choose direct words that leave little room for confusion.
Find your next lesson
Search for a phrase or choose a level. The time filter describes the sample recording, not the whole lesson.
Sign in to save phrases and report a problem
English practice: zero and first conditionals
Use the zero conditional for a fact or a result that happens whenever the condition is true: if plus present simple, then present simple. Use the first conditional for a possible future result: if plus present simple, then will plus a base verb.
English prefixes: use word beginnings to predict meaning
Find the base word, notice the prefix, and then check the whole sentence. For example, re- often suggests doing something again, while un- often changes a word to its opposite or adds the idea of not.
English prepositions: choose natural words for relationships
Choose a preposition from the relationship in the sentence. Use at for a point, in for an enclosed space or longer period, on for a surface or day, by for a method or deadline, for for purpose or duration, and with for company or a tool.
English proverbs: meaning and context
A proverb gives a general observation or piece of advice in a fixed, memorable form. Treat it as one possible view, not as a rule that settles every situation. Use the surrounding conversation to work out what the speaker means.
English punctuation rules: make sentences easier to read
Choose punctuation by the meaning and structure of the sentence. End a statement with a full stop and a direct question with a question mark. Use commas to separate items and to mark an opening phrase when it helps the reader see the main clause.
English self-assessment: measure progress fairly
To assess your English fairly, choose one task that matters to you, complete it without help, then check it against a small set of clear criteria such as meaning, accuracy, and clarity.
English slang: meaning, context, and careful use
Use slang carefully because its meaning and tone depend on context. It may suit a relaxed chat with people who know the expression. In a message to a teacher, customer, or new colleague, plain English is usually easier to understand.
English speaking practice: build clear, useful responses
For useful English speaking practice, answer the question directly, add one detail, and listen for a natural next question. Repeat short conversations so you can improve one part at a time.
English suffixes: use word endings to understand vocabulary
Read the base word first, then use the suffix as a clue. Endings such as -ness and -ment often form nouns, -ful and -less often form adjectives, -ize often forms verbs, and -ly often forms adverbs.
English tag questions: check, invite, and soften a statement
Match the tag to the statement's auxiliary verb and subject. After a positive statement, use a negative tag: ‘The meeting starts at nine, doesn't it?’ After a negative statement, use a positive tag: ‘You aren't busy, are you?’
English tenses and time: choose a verb form
English has two main verb tenses, present and past. Combine them with helping words to show habits, ongoing actions, or future plans.