Blogs: Read and Learn
An English teacher’s 7 tips to improve your English listening skills.
Listening is one of four important skills you develop when learning English, or any other language. Some people think that just learning words and vocabulary in English is enough to enable them to be able to listen to English and understand it. This is not true! You need to consciously practice listening to improve your English listening skills. Just like learning a musical instrument, the more you practice listening to English, the more your train your ear to hear the different intonations, rhythms and word stress and the better you will get at understanding it.
Here are 7 top tips that will help you to improve your English listening skills:
1. Make sure you do your English listening practice at the right level!
Don’t make life too hard for yourself! Listening to audio aimed at advanced students or native English speakers when you’re an pre-intermediate student won’t do anything except stress you out. Find materials for students at your level and focus on those instead. You can search online for “pre-intermediate audio for English learners” to find resources. For example, this website, which has podcasts, https://www.podcastsinenglish.com/ is a good starting point.2. Surround yourself with English
A lot of learning happens unconsciously in the subconscious mind, so always having English audio in the background in your life will improve your listening and understanding in English. Even though you may not be paying attention to the audio, you would be surprised how much your subconscious mind is picking up. Finding listening resources in English is simple given that there is a constant flow of media coming from English speaking countries, in particular Britain and the US. Here are some of the main sources students are using today to improve English listening skills:- YouTube for videos in English on everything!
- Youtube or Spotify to listen to music or podcasts in English
- Netflix or Amazon Prime to watch movies in English
- Audible: Choose an Audiobook on Audible to listen to a book in English
3. Use resources with transcripts
Whilst you can learn a lot of English by listening, having access to the transcripts where you can read what you are listening to can help you in a number of ways:- You can check that you understood what you heard
- Listening and reading together helps you practice two important skills.
- You can get a feel for the sound changes and music of the language
- You can check the spelling for new vocabulary items
4. Repetition
It is really important to listen to the materials more than once! The first few times you listen to something, you’ll likely pick up the overall gist of the conversation. Afterwards, you’ll slowly pick up nuances in the conversation, pronunciation, linked sounds, new phrases and learn new vocabulary. Listening to one audio again and again trains your ear to recognise the common sounds native speakers make all the time. So, you should continue to do your English listening practice using the same audios until the audio has become too simple - until you understand it 100%.
5. Don’t try to translate while you’re listening
If you’re doing something else in your head, you aren’t listening effectively. Let images and feelings come to you whilst you listen, but don’t actively translate anything. Once the audio has stopped, you should take a moment to think about what you’ve heard. You can translate during this time if you need to. You should also feel free to look up any words you don’t know or if you aren’t sure about the meaning of the sentence as a whole.6. Note non-verbal cues: Body language
You can get a lot of information about what people are saying from how they say it and what they look like when they’re saying it. Facial expressions give you a lot of information. If someone is smiling at you and you hear the words “I’m...upset”, you should know that the information your eyes are getting is different to what your ears are getting. You should ask them to repeat or to clarify. It is more likely that they said, “I’m not upset” if they’re smiling. You should remember that different body language is used in different cultures. You should research body language in English speaking countries as it might be very different to your own.7. Practice makes perfect
Listening in English is a skill. It’s something you can train to be better at. Set aside some time to do English listening practice every day and you’ll quickly notice the difference. Off course, conversation practice is best because it kills two birds with one stone (speaking and listening), but it is not the only way to practice. If you don’t have someone available to talk with remember that you can still practice by listening to audio alone. So to conclude, you can easily combine improving your English listening skills with other fun and enjoyable tasks. If you make it fun and interesting it will become a habit! A lot of students don’t do enough English listening practice and tend to focus too much on Grammar. Yes Grammar is important, but when you improve your listening and understanding, all your other English skills are quickly improved and you are on the way to becoming a fluent English speaker. We are sure that if you try some of the strategies above for a few weeks you will notice a big difference in your level.
How to speak English fluently: 7 teacher tips to improve your English
1. Focus on your interests!
If you don’t care about tennis or sailing then there isn’t much point learning English vocabulary about these sports if you don’t like them and are never going to talk about them. No – you should focus on learning English language that relates to your interests, hobbies, plans and personality. You should take note of the English vocabulary and phrases you frequently use in your own language and find out how to say them in English. You shouldn’t directly translate the phrases – instead you should learn what English speakers say in place of that phrase. They’re often very different!2. English Conversation: Find a language partner
Practicing with a native speaker will help to improve your English speaking skills. You can look into language exchange sites, like Tandem, or paid services, like iTalki, to find a native speaker who can help you practice English conversation. Both these sites allow you to find online tutors for English lessons on Skype. If you can’t find or can’t afford a native speaker, speaking English with people who speak English as a second language is still beneficial. Many students who are fluent English speakers admit that they rarely spoke with native speakers whilst they were learning. In fact, approximately 70% of English speakers are people whose second language is English.3. Use content created by native speakers: Consume content you like in English
Using content created in English for native speakers can help you get a feel for how native speakers use the language. You will hear the natural rhythm and tones of the English. You can use sources like:- YouTube videos on topics you like
- Watch movies or TV series in English - use subtitles if necessary
- Spotify or youtube for music- find lyrics online
- Audiobooks - services like Audible are great for listening to Books in English
4. Stop translating!
Translating from English to your own language in necessary in the beginning, but if you continue to do it as you get better in English it is actually a huge block to fluency. You should use feelings and your physical senses to learn vocabulary, not a translator. Don’t think of an apple as whatever the word for apple is in your language. Imagine the fruit when you say it instead. Try to do this with all of the language that you use! It can be more difficult for non-physical words, like jealousy and disappointment. Here, you should use a dictionary (not google translate!) to find the definition in English and some sample sentences so that you can feel how English speakers use the word. Then, instead of translating jealousy - you can imagine your partner speaking to an ex-lover, or that time that your friend bought a new, expensive car. Having a mental visual image of a word will help you remember it much easier.5. Learn about linking words in English
Linking is a way of joining the pronunciation of two words so that they are easy to say and flow together smoothly English speakers often link certain sounds and learning to mimic this will make your speech sound more natural. You can check this website for the linking rules and some examples. I recommend downloading songs, using the rules to work out which words in the song should be linked and then listening to the song to see whether you were right! You should also copy the speech as practice. Singing is a great way to practice forming sounds and linking correctly in English.6. Increase your vocabulary
A wide vocabulary is key to speaking English fluently. English has a huge range of adverbs and adjectives to help you express yourself. You might know the adjective ‘good’ in English, but fluent English speakers naturally use lots of synonyms of ‘good’. If you know the words good, great, amazing, incredible, awesome, and excellent then you’ll be able to have a much more exciting conversation with someone than you could if you only knew “good”. You can search for synonyms of a word here on this website When you learn new English vocabulary you should also practice saying the words in different example sentences. Again, choose sentences that make sense to you and that you will remember.7. And finally,......Practice, practice, practice!
It’s usually easy to find time to practice reading, writing and listening to English – but conversation practice requires the help of another person. If you can only meet up with your language partner once or twice a week, you should still devote a few minutes to improving your English speaking skills each day. There are plenty of ways to practice speaking alone. You can have conversations with yourself, or you can think of questions that people might ask you and practice answering them. If you live in an English speaking country, you can walk into a store or talk to someone on the bus. Any practice is good practice! Improving your English fluency will take time and practice. If you follow our helpful advice and stick with it, we are sure that your will learn how to speak fluently in English much faster than you thought possible!
The importance of English: 7 great reasons to learn English today!
We know that learning to speak English can be tough. It takes time and effort to learn to speak fluently. However, we can clearly see the importance of English when we look at our global economy and the key role that English plays in almost every part of your global society. So, in the past people used to ask each other “why are you learning English?”. Today, a better question to ask is” Why are you not learning English? In this article we’ve put together the top reasons to learn English so that you can remember why you started learning English and also find some inspiration to continue:
1. English is the global language
English is the lingua franca of business, politics and science. If you want to understand these fields, or even work in one of them, you’ll need to speak English. English is by far the most popular language to learn as a second language and is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. This map shows the percentages of English speakers in various countries:
2. Learning English increases job prospects
Being able to speak English will open up many employment opportunities for you. You are more likely to be able to work in a global company (Facebook, Google, Microsoft) if you speak English. There are jobs that require the applicant to speak at least the local language and English. Obviously, if your English isn’t good enough – you won’t get these jobs! Being fluent in English could also mean that you are more likely to be chosen to attend corporate events abroad. If you work in a local company that doesn’t require English and they want to send someone to a conference internationally, you are the person that they will chose. This might even lead to a promotion.3. Increased salary for English speakers
Speaking English is a skill that might set you apart from the other applicants and this means that you can ask for a higher salary. As mentioned above, you can also apply for global companies if you speak English and the wages are usually higher at these companies. Check out this table that shows the hourly wages for fluent English speakers in India, for example:
Source: https://voxeu.org/article/it-pays-speak-english
4. More friendship and dating opportunities
If you speak one language, you can find friends or a boyfriend/girlfriend from the pool of people who speak that language. If you speak English as well, the pool of people gets a lot bigger! If you want to make friends from other countries, including expats in your own country, it is important for you to learn to speak English. There is research that suggests that apps like Tinder and OKCupid are increasing the number of intercultural relationships. So, if you’ve been unlucky in love or friendship in your native language – learning English might be just what you need to meet people who are interesting to you.5. Better cultural understanding
Learning about another culture is inevitable when you learn English. Many aspects of the English speaking countries culture are unique, interesting and beautiful and can only be discovered if you speak English. You can also understand reactions to your culture a little better if you can see the perspective of people from other cultures. Understanding different cultures can prevent arguments and confusion when you interact with people from these cultures, which is a big benefit.6. Travel is so much easier with English!
English is the language of travel too. In most places around the world, you’ll be able to book hotels, tours, guides, and find restaurants if you speak English. If you go backpacking and stay in hostels you’ll be able to meet other travelers and make friends in English too. English is the language that people most often use if they are in a foreign place and they don’t know the local language. This means that you’ll be able to help tourists in your home country and ask for help when you’re abroad too.
7. Freedom of movement
If you speak English, you can study, work and live comfortably in other countries. It isn’t always easy to get a long term visa for countries like the US, Ireland, the UK or Australia. If you speak English, you can apply for University in these countries and get your visa that way. This is true for a lot of European countries also where a lot of universities offer their Master programmes in English. So, it is important for you to learn to speak English if you want to live and study abroad and take advantage of the opportunities in other countries. As you can see, there are plenty of reasons that learning to speak English is important and valuable. You can get a better job and higher salary at home if you learn English and you have thousands of opportunities to not only see, but be a part of, other cultures around the world. If those reasons aren’t enough to help you realize the importance of English, just imagine meeting your future best friend or partner and finding out that they don’t know your native language!
11 different ways to Say 'Toilet' in English
*Reading articles in English will help you improve your English reading and writing skills. These articles by Absolute English will also help you learn English vocabulary and phrases to help you improve your fluency. *After reading this article, see the reading comprehension exercises with answers. English Vocabulary:10 words English Level: Intermediate - AdvancedDownload Article and Exercises Sheets - HERE
Article
Everyone has to go to the toilet, yet it can be hard to know which term for “toilet” is the right one to use. This is especially true when you are in a foreign country. Slang or informal words for “toilet” are common and students have difficulty knowing which words are rude and which words are not. Some of the words for toilet are considered polite or formal, while others are impolite and potentially offensive. Slang terms used for toilet can vary greatly from country to country. It is important to understand that a term that is appropriate in Ireland or the United Kingdom, may not be understood in the United States, and also a term that is used in Canada might not make sense in Australia. Let’s start with formal ways to say toilet…..Bathroom (UK, Ireland, US, Australia)
Perhaps the most common way to say ‘toilet’ in the United States is to say ‘bathroom’. A bathroom usually refers to a room with a bath in it, but when Americans refer to a bathroom they usually mean a room with only a toilet and washbasin. In all English speaking countries, if you ask “where is the bathroom?”, you will be shown to a toilet.Washroom (US)
‘Washroom’ is another formal word that most English speakers will understand. It is mostly used in the USA.Restroom (US)
‘Restroom’ is a safe term to use in the United States and won't offend anyone. When traveling on motorways, signs may appear announcing “rest stops”. These rest stops will have toilets. In other English speaking countries, however, some people may be confused by restroom, and could even point you towards a bedroom, or somewhere else where you can rest. Men’s Room, Ladies’ Room, Little Boys’ Room” or “Little Girls’ Room (UK, Ireland, US, Australia) It is common to use the terms ‘Men’s Room’, ‘Ladies’ Room’ when asking for the toilet. Sometimes native English speakers will use the terms ‘Little Boys’ Room’ or ‘Little Girls’ Room’, however these terms are often considered rather childish.Ladies and Gents (UK, Ireland, Australia)
Ladies and gents are common term for men’s and women’s toilets. These are perfectly polite terms.The Loo (UK, Ireland)
In the United Kingdom, “the loo” is a common term for toilet. ‘The loo’ is generally a safe term to use and likely won't offend anyone.Lavatory (UK)
‘Lavatory’ is a good option for people looking for a very formal word to use in very formal occasions. In the United Kingdom, some people will shorten lavatory to just ‘lav’ and when they do it becomes quite informal.Informal and slang ways to say toilet
Bog (UK, Ireland)
‘Bog’ is another other common term in the United Kingdom and Ireland. It is not rude but is considered informal.Jacks (Ireland)
In Ireland, the ‘jacks’ is a very common way to refer to a toilet. If you are having a drink in an ordinary pub it is ok to use but if you are in a fancy restaurant it is considered rude.The John (US)
Some people in the United States will also use the term ‘the John’. This is quite informal. While it is generally okay to use this term among friends, if said at the wrong time, it might offend people.Dunny
The word ‘dunny’ is used in Australia and New Zealand to refer to toilet.Language Focus
English Vocabulary and Expressions
1.slang - (noun) very informal language- Some types of slang are rude or offensive.
- John thought the woman who pushed to the front of the queue was extremely rude.
- Mary found the customer’s bad manners offensive.
- When you are going hiking in the mountains you should wear appropriate shoes.
- Frank always washes his hands in the washbasin after using the toilet.
- The speed limit on motorways is 120 kilometers per hour.
- Don’t be so childish!
- John’s work colleague was offended he wasn’t invited to John’s wedding.
- Weddings are very special occasions
- People often shorten the word “advertising” to “ad”.
Practice Exercises in English
Mix and Match Exercises Match the toilet name to the country where it is used.
The Loo Ireland The Restroom USA The Dunny UK The Jacks Australia The John USAComplete the sentences: EXERCISES Complete these sentences with a highlighted word or phrase from the article.
- Rappers often use ………….. language in their rap songs. (causing upset or anger)
- Mary is a very kind person but she is very ………….. . (silly and immature)
- Sarah brushed her teeth at the public ………….. in the airport. (sink)
- Speaking loudly on the phone on public transport is not ………….. behaviour. (proper, suitable)
- Smoking cigarettes ………….. your life. (makes shorter)
- Young people often use new ………….. expressions that older people don’t understand. (informal)
- On many ………….. I have been caught in the rain without an umbrella. (times)
- It is ………….. to chew food with your mouth open. (impolite)
Download Article and Exercises Sheets - HERE
The Top 7 Phobias People Have
*Reading articles in English will help you improve your English reading and writing skills. These articles by Absolute English will also help you learn English vocabulary and phrases to help you improve your fluency. *After reading this article, see the reading comprehension exercises with answers.English Vocabulary:19 words English Level: Intermediate - Advanced
Download Article and Exercises Sheets - HERE
*Note: Don’t worry if you can’t pronounce these fears, most native English speakers can’t either :)
Article
We are all afraid of something, but a few things are more widely feared than others. Let’s take a look at the world's top seven phobias, and also some interesting unusual fears people have.1. Arachnophobia - fear of spiders
Very few spiders pose a threat to human beings. In fact, a cat or dog is probably more of a threat to a person than your average spider. That doesn't stop people from being afraid of spiders, however, as arachnophobia is actually the most widely held fear. 48% of women and 12% of men are afraid of these eight-legged creatures.2. Ophidiophobia - fear of snakes
Following close behind arachnophobia is ophidiophobia, which is a fear of snakes. While some venomous and large snakes do pose a threat to humans, your average garden snake is essentially harmless.3. Acrophobia - fear of heights
Are you afraid of heights? If so, you're not alone. Over 10% of people are afraid of heights. Unlike many of our primate relatives, humans didn't evolve to live in trees, but instead on flat ground. Aerophobia, or the fear of flying, is also common.4. Agoraphobia - fear of open or public places
Since humans evolved to live on the ground, most of us should love wide open spaces, right? It turns out that many people are actually afraid of crowded or open spaces! This is called agoraphobia, and comes in at number four on the list.5. Cynophobia - fear of dogs
Dogs may be considered ‘man's best friends’, but nonetheless, many people are afraid of them. Given their sharp teeth, dogs can be a threat to humans, and especially children. Most dogs, however, would rather play fetch than attack a person.6. Astraphobia- fear of storms
Thunder and lightning can make just about anyone jump. For people who suffer from astraphobia, however, their fear of thunder and lightning goes far deeper than the initial surprise. For many, it's an actual phobia. Maybe they shouldn’t visit tropical countries!7. Claustrophobia - fear of small spaces
Many people don't like small spaces, such as elevators. For some, the walls can feel like they are closing in, they feel like they’re trapped and that they can’t breathe. Some people even have nightmares that they are going to be buried alive.Three Unique Honorable Mentions
1. Sidonglobophobia - fear of cotton balls
Believe it or not, a good number of people are afraid of cotton balls. Something as simple as a q-tip can cause a panic attack. Of course, many of us would probably be more afraid of having to pronounce “sidonglobophobia” than having to touch cotton balls.2. Telephonophobia - fear of telephones
It's fun to try to say “telephonophobia” really fast. It is hard to believe in this day and age that people can be afraid of phones as nearly everyone has one. They are lucky that there are email or other forms of communication that don't involve telephones.3. Pogonophobia - fear of beards
Beards have made a big comeback in recent years and are now considered very stylish. That's bad news for people who suffer from pogonophobia, which refers to a fear of bearded men.Conclusion: So Many People, So Many Fears
There are literally hundreds of different phobias and many people are often afraid of things that are not very threatening. That might mean spiders, cotton balls, or just about anything else. I guess that is what makes each of us unique!So how about you? What are you afraid of? Tell us in the comments below!
Language Focus
English Vocabulary and Expressions
1. pose a threat - are dangerous- Animals with young children can get aggressive if they think that you pose a threat to their children.
- I told a harmless joke about my sister at her birthday party but she got upset. (not intended to cause harm
- He is sad because his life didn’t turn out as he expected.
- I was very nervous about my graduation speech but it turned out to be a lot of fun.
- The old woman has only 100 euros left in her bank account. Nonetheless, she decided to give 70 euros to charity at Christmas.
- Dogs get excited when they go to the park to play fetch
- My sister's dog is afraid of thunder and lightning. He hides under the bed when it starts.
- The manager asked me to write my initials on the employment contract.
- We were stuck in the elevator for 3 hours during the storm.
- The police closed in on the thief who was hiding in the forest.
- He sold a good number of products for the company.
- Almost 47% of people have had a panic attack in their life.
- 80’s style clothes are making a big comeback in London.
- Most of the men in the TV show Game of Thrones are bearded men.
- He literally drank the whole bottle of whiskey himself.
Practice Exercises in English
Reading Comprehension Questions: True or False ? Say whether the following statements are true or false. If they are false, say why.
- Most spiders are dangerous to humans.
- Twice as many women are afraid of spiders than men.
- Most garden snakes are not dangerous.
- More than 10% of people are afraid of heights.
- Beards are not very popular anymore.
- Some people with claustrophobia have bad dreams.
Complete the sentences: EXERCISES Complete these sentences with a highlighted word or phrase from the article.
- Monkeys and apes are ……………. (group of mammals like monkeys)
- Peanuts are ……………. to most people but can kill people who are allergic to them. (not dangerous)
- My sister has a ………... of snakes. Even if she sees a snake on TV she gets scared. (irrational fear)
- I didn’t follow the recipe when making the cake but it ………. ……. fine. (the end result was..)
- My ……….. impression of China was that they people were very friendly. (first)
- In some parts of Asia they have …………………………. everyday during the summer. (stormy weather)
- The couple ………... spent all their savings on their new home. (actually)
- There were ………………... people at Tom’s birthday party. (a significant number of)
- It was snowing heavily on the football pitch. …………..., they two football teams decided to play the match. (However, nevertheless)
- The walls felt like they were ……………. (getting nearer or closer)
- Lots of students get …….. ……….. the week before their exams. (sudden feeling of extreme fear)
- Advances in technology …………… to jobs in the manufacturing industry. (are dangerous)
- There are more …………… snakes in the world than venomous spiders. (poisonous)
- The singer is …………………….. after taking a 5 year break from music. (becoming popular again)
Download Article and Exercises Sheets - HERE
What is Brexit and What Does a Leave Vote Mean?
*Reading articles in English will help you improve your English reading and writing skills. These articles by Absolute English will also help you learn English vocabulary and phrases to help you improve your fluency. *After reading this article, see the reading comprehension exercises with answers. English Vocabulary: 16 words English Level: Intermediate - AdvancedDownload Article and Exercises Sheets - HERE
Article
Like many other countries in Europe, the United Kingdom (or UK) is part of the European Union – but that is about to change. On the 23rd of June 2016, British people voted to leave the European Union. This has become known as ‘Brexit’, a combination of the words ‘Britain’ and ‘exit’.What is the European Union?
The EU, as it’s more commonly known, is a group of European countries who have all signed up to a series of agreements. Members of the EU can trade freely with each other without having to pay fees, and people who were born in an EU country can live and work in any other EU country without needing a visa. The member countries often have similar laws, especially about development and agriculture.What happens now?
At the moment (April 2018) the UK is still a member of the European Union. After the vote they had to inform the rest of the EU about their decision by triggering Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty. The UK and the EU are currently in two years of negotiations to try to reach new agreements on trade and the movement of people.Effect on the economy
Directly after the Brexit vote, the value of the UK’s money - the pound - dropped quickly. This was good news for any company who buys things in the UK and sells them abroad, but bad news for anyone trying to sell in Britain. Many people were predicting that Brexit would cause a recession. So far the British economy is fairly steady, but there are some worrying signs, such as the housing market slowing down and stock prices falling. So far, employment has not been affected too much. The UK will be looking for new trading partners after their agreements with the EU are finished, so we could see the UK trying to strengthen their relationships with current partners such as the USA, Canada, China or Saudi Arabia.Other consequences
Europeans living and working in the UK may eventually need to apply for a visa so that they can stay. Whether or not that happens depends on the result of the UK’s negotiations with the EU. There are also many Brits living in Europe, who may also either need to apply for a visa for the country they are currently living in or go back to the UK. It is unlikely that Brexit will have much of an effect on tourist visas; the UK will still want tourists to visit the country and they already have a reciprocal agreement with many countries to allow its citizens visa-free entry. The UK will soon be able to make its own laws on things previously controlled by the EU, such as fishing quotas or employment rights. In the end, we won’t know the real effects of leaving the European Union until the UK and the EU have finished negotiating, which will be several years from now. One thing is for sure; it is in both the UK and Europe’s best interests to make sure the change is a smooth one.Language Focus
English Vocabulary and Expressions
- trade freely - to exchange good and services, do business together without paying taxes and tariffs. *Freely - (adverb) do sth without restrictions or limitations
- Countries in the EU can trade freely with each other.
- Visitors from outside the EU cannot move freely in the EU. They need to have visas to visit the different countries.
- triggering Article 50 - causing Article 50 to be used or enacted.
- Treaty - (noun) an agreement between two or more countries or states.
- The two countries signed a peace treaty.
- negotiations - (pl noun) talks or discussions people have when they are trying to agree on something
- The negotiations between the two companies lasted for 3 weeks. Finally they agreed to work together.
- to reach new agreements - to agree on an agreement / to agree to something after sometime
- After 3 days of negotiations the two companies reached a deal.
- Predicting - saying what will happen in the future *To predict (verb) - to try to say what will happen in the future
- No one predicted the economic crisis in 2008.
- a recession - a period of time when the economy declines.
- There is a recession happening in many countries in Europe.
- the British economy is fairly steady - quite stable and secure *Fairly - (adverb) quite , rather *Steady - (adjective) stable, not balanced or moving (sth physical) / consistent, secure, unchanging (job, economy)
- The table is steady so it doesn’t move a lot.
- The new restaurant in town is nice but it is fairly expensive.
- stock prices - pieces of company, group of shares, sold on the stock market
- My friend owns some stock in Facebook.
- 10. to strengthen - to make sth stronger
- The government said that investing in industry will strengthen the economy.
- Whether or not that happens - it will happen or it won’t depending on the result of sth else *Whether - if, or not
- My sister got offered a new job but she doesn’t know whether to accept it or not. (if she should accept it or if she shouldn't accept it)
- Unlikely - not probable, sth probably won’t happen
- England are unlikely to win the world cup.
- reciprocal agreement - an agreement where two people or groups agree to give each other the same treatment, benefits or advantages.
- Ireland and England signed a reciprocal agreement to to allow people to travel without a passport between the two countries.
- fishing quotas - official limits of fish that you can catch *quotas - official limits or fixed number of things
- Canada has a quota on immigration every year. (there is a limit on how many people can enter Canada to live and work)
- in both the UK and Europe’s best interests - it will benefit the UK and Europe *to be in sb’s best interest to do sth - (expression) it benefits sb to do sth
- My parents told me it is in my best interest to be polite to my teacher.
- a smooth one - (adjective) easy, without any problems *It is more normal to use the adverb ‘Smoothly’ Smoothly - (adverb) without problems or difficulties
- My exams went smoothly.
Practice Exercises in English
Comprehension Questions Find the answers to these questions in the article..
- What is Brexit?
- Why is it called 'Brexit'?
- How did the UK inform the rest of their decision?.
- What negative effects has the Brexit vote had on the British economy?
- What is the consequence of Brexit relating to the movement of people?
Comprehension Questions: True or False ? Say whether the following statements are true or false. If they are false, say why.
- By triggering Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, the UK was immediately no longer part of the EU.
- The drop in value of the pound had a positive effect for some companies.
- After the Brexit vote, the UK has entered into a recession.
- The UK is trying to find new trade partners outside of Europe.
- Brexit means that all tourists going to the UK will need a visa.
- One benefit of Brexit is that the UK can make its own laws relating to employment rights.
Complete the sentences: EXERCISES Complete these sentences with a highlighted word or phrase from the article.
- My sisters and I bought my dad a present for his birthday but I don’t know …………………….. he will like it. (if he will or will not)
- Bob used to work a few times per month but now he has a ………… job in a company. (secure, stable)
- It …………………………… to learn English if you want to work in international business. (it will benefit you)
- The police operation went ………… and the criminals were arrested. (without problems or difficulties)
- The weatherman said it is ………… to snow tomorrow. (not probable)
- Some people believe that they can ………… the future. (say what will happen)
- I ………… an agreement with my boss where I can work 2 days from home and 3 days from the office. (made, agreed)
- Lifting weights in the gym will ………… your muscles. (make stronger)
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Ten Ways to Say Someone is Beautiful or Sexy in English
*Reading articles in English will help you improve your English reading and writing skills. These articles by Absolute English will also help you learn English vocabulary and phrases to help you improve your fluency. *After reading this article, see the reading comprehension exercises with answers. English Vocabulary:11 words English Level: Intermediate - AdvancedDownload Article and Exercises Sheets - HERE
*(These words are common in most English speaking countries unless marked)
Article
There are dozens of ways to say someone is beautiful in English, and they all have subtly different meanings. If you read a lot or watch English-language television then you will surely have come across at least some of these.Cute
This can also be used in a non-romantic way for children and animals, and is usually seen as more innocent and family-friendly than some of the others on this list.The way she bites her lip when she’s thinking is so cute.
Dishy (UK)
This is more often used to describe a man than a woman. It means that he is very handsome or attractive and usually fairly charming too.The nurses all want to date the dishy doctor from Cardiology.
Easy on the eyes
This phrase means pleasant to look at, and it can refer to an object as well as a person. It’s a fairly relaxed way to talk about someone.I’ll watch movie that has Angelina Jolie in it – she’s very easy on the eyes.
Fine
This is an old one – think of the song ‘He’s So Fine’ from 1963 – but it’s still used as slang today. It means the person looks nice and that you are attracted to them. It also implies that they’ve made an effort with their appearance.That guy is so fine, I’m going to ask him out.
*a fine thing = used in Ireland to describe someone you are attracted to. *She is a fine thing.Fit (not used in the US)
The main meaning of ‘fit’ is that the person is healthy and exercises a lot, but it has also come to mean attractive, and especially someone with a nice body.Wow, that guy standing at the bar is so fit!
Foxy
Think of the Jimi Hendrix song “Foxy Lady. A slightly old-fashioned one, but still sometimes used today. It is normally used to describe a woman and means that she is very physically attractive.I’m looking for a foxy lady to take out to dinner.
Gorgeous
A very commonly used description of either an attractive man or woman, gorgeous can also be used for a lovely view, a nice dress, or really anything that you think is pretty.I saw a gorgeous guy on the bus but he didn’t notice me.
Hot
This one is closest to ‘sexy’ in that it implies a definite sexual interest in the person you’re describing.She looks so hot in that dress.
Ravishing
This is quite old-fashioned and has more of a romantic than a sexual feel to it. Ravishing is just about the most beautiful you can possibly look.She came down the stairs looking ravishing in her new black dress
Stunning
Stunning literally means that you feel stunned or speechless when you look at someone. It can be used to describe a man or a woman, and means impressively or shockingly attractive.Look at that woman at the bar. She is stunning! She’s incredibly beautiful.
A babe
The word ‘babe’ comes from ‘baby’ and is also used as a term of affection between couples. A boyfriend can call his girlfriend ‘babe’. Saying someone is a ‘babe’ means you think they are beautiful.Rihanna is a babe.
As with any new vocabulary, the best way to learn is to use the words as much as possible. So get out there and people-watch with your friends, so you can discuss who is cute and who is stunning!Language Focus
English Vocabulary and Expressions
1. Dozens - (pl noun) group of 12- I bought a dozen eggs in the supermarket.
- Some words in English have a subtle difference in pronunciation.
-
There was a subtle taste of whiskey in the cake.
-
He looked at the woman subtly.
- “I have never come across that problem before” said the computer technician
- The hotel is family-friendly. It has a creche for kids.
- He is fairly tall.
- Charming men always get what they want.
- I asked my girlfriend if she wanted to come running with me and she thought I was implying that she needed to lose weight.
- The pizza we got in the restaurant was slightly burned but it still tasted good.
- The expressions he uses are so old-fashioned. Nobody speaks like that anymore.
- When you translate something literally from one language to another if often doesn’t make sense
- I like to sit in a cafe and people-watch when I am on holidays in a different country.
Practice Exercises in English
Complete the sentences: EXERCISES Complete these sentences with a highlighted word or phrase from the article.
- The hotel was …………. expensive. (quite)
- The movie is not …………. . There is too much violence. (suitable for families)
- My parents are very …………. . They don’t agree with two people living together before they are married. (traditional in the way they think)
- Scientists have …… ……. a new species of bird in the forest. (found by chance, encountered)
- There were …………. of people waiting to get into the cafe this morning. (group of 12)
- Her boss in her new job is quite …………. . (delightful, attractive)
- Although he didn’t say it directly, the CEO’s speech …………. that he might soon leave the company. (communicated an idea or feeling, hinted)
- I like to sit in a cafe and …………. .. when I am on holidays in a different country. (actively observe people)
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10 Unusual Foods People Eat in Europe
*Reading articles in English will help you improve your English reading and writing skills. These articles by Absolute English will also help you learn English vocabulary and phrases to help you improve your fluency. *After reading this article, see the reading comprehension exercises with answers.English Vocabulary:22 words English Level: Intermediate - Advanced
Download Article and Exercises Sheets - HERE
Article
Just about every country, region, and culture has its own unusual foods. Often, these foods can seem gross or weird to people who are not from the region. Yet in many cases these unusual foods are actually tasty delicacies. With its long history and varied cultures, Europe is home to some of the strangest foods in the world. The immense differences in climate, ranging from the arctic climate of Scandinavia to the warm and mild Mediterranean weather found in Southern Europe, have led to widely differing agricultural practices. This, in turn, has led to a variety of different food cultures. So let's take a look at ten of the weirdest foods found in Europe.1. Surstömming
Arguably the most pungent specialty from Europe is Sweden's Surstömming, or rotten fish. The fish is fermented for 1 to 2 months before being canned. The smell released after opening a can is so strong that many airliners ban it.2. Casu Marzu
Many cheeses are heavily fermented, but Casu Marzu from Sardinia takes fermenting to a new level. The cheese contains live maggots, and is made by letting sheep's milk cheese rot outside.3. Andouillette sausage
France is famous for its fine cuisine, but you might want to skip the Andouillette sausage. This sausage contains parts of the colon and intestines of pigs, and is described by many as smelling like pig offal.4. Smalahove
If you happen to find yourself in Norway around Christmas time, you might find yourself being served Smalahove, or boiled lamb's head. The brain is removed, and then the head is salted and boiled. Eyes are usually eaten first as they're the most tender.5. Lappkok
Reindeer are a popular Christmas symbol, and Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer is often considered Santa's best friend. That doesn't stop people in Finland and parts of Sweden from enjoying Lappkok, a dumpling made of reindeer blood and bone marrow mixed in with wheat.6. Haggis
Haggis might be the most well-known food on this list as it is the national dish of Scotland. Haggis is basically a pudding made of oatmeal, sheep's stomach, heart, lungs, and other organs.7. Black Pudding
Somewhat similar to Haggis, black pudding is made of animal blood, most often pig’s blood, mixed in with oatmeal and a variety of herbs and spices. Black pudding is usually eaten in Ireland and the UK.8. Kokoretsi
Greek food is quite popular around the world. Many people, however, wouldn't want to eat Kokoretsi. This dish is made of lamb or goat intestines wrapped around the animal’s internal organs, including hearts, lungs, and kidneys.9. Nozki
Nozki is a unique dish from Poland. The word Nozki literally translates to “cold feet”, and the dish is made of pig’s feet cooked in herbs and spices, and set in gelatin. The dish is generally well-regarded for its savory taste.10. Paardenrookvlees
“Paardenrookvlees” is quite the mouthful isn't it? Paardenrookvlees refers to horse meat, and is often eaten in the Netherlands and elsewhere across Europe. In fact, smoked horse meat is a common sandwich filling in these countries.Language Focus
English Vocabulary and Expressions
1. Gross - (adj) extremely unpleasant, disgusting, horrible, ugly, repulsive.- My sister thinks the smell of cigarettes is gross.
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The girl was beautiful but she said she felt gross in the bikini.
- There were people of all ages at the event ranging from children of 5 years old to older people in their 80’s
- I prefer a curry that is mild. I don’t like spicy food.
- *dish from India that uses chilli and is normally hot and spicy.
- Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution is widely accepted by scientists.
- There was a pungent smell of smoke and whiskey in the house the morning after the party.
- There is a pungent smell of chemicals in the factory.
- If you eat food that is rotten you could get sick.
- Fermented foods are good for you.
- and improve or develop it greatly
- The new CEO said he wants to take the company to a new level
- If you leave food out and the flies come there will be maggots on it in two days.
- Most people don’t like foods that contains animal offal.
- If you happen to meet John at the club tell him I will call him tomorrow.
- My favourite type of eggs are boiled eggs.
- The meat was beautiful. It was so tender.
- We ate dumpling in the Chinese restaurant.
- Bone marrow soup is becoming very popular health food.
- The sick man needed a kidney transplant.
- Miles Davis is well-regarded as a Jazz musician.
- The restaurant is well-regarded by people in the city.
- Do you prefer sweet or savory food?
- His name was quite the mouthful so I just called him Tim.
- Smoked fish is popular in Sweden.
Practice Exercises in English
Complete the sentences: EXERCISES Complete these sentences with a highlighted word or phrase from the article.
- This year the winter in the UK was ………….. .It didn’t even snow. (not strong or intense)
- The restaurant serves lots of ………….. dishes. (not sweet, salty, tasty)
- The man ………….. the water to make tea. (heated)
- The famous guitar player Jimi Hendrix took blues music …………….... (developed it greatly)
- Frogs legs are considered a ………….. in France. (hard to find, expensive and considered good to eat)
- The apple was ………….. so I threw it in the bin. (bad)
- Japanese people eat a lot of ………….. food. (has good bacteria)
- Some words in German are ………………………...! (long and hard to pronounce)
- The price for a new BMW …… …….. 25,000 euros to 120,000 euros. (between two prices)
- If you ……… ….. find a wallet in the park it is mine. I lost it when I was running there. (by chance)
Download Article and Exercises Sheets - HERE
10 Classic Chat Up Lines in English
*Reading articles in English will help you improve your English reading and writing skills. These articles by Absolute English will also help you learn English vocabulary and phrases to help you improve your fluency. *After reading this article, see the reading comprehension exercises with answers.10 Classic Chat Up Lines in English
English Vocabulary-17 words English Level-Intermediate - Advanced
Download Reading Exercises and Answers Worksheets - HERE
Chat up lines are usually intended for men to start talking to women in bars, although they’re famous for being completely useless. They’ve become more of a joke than a real conversation starter – use them on your friends to make them laugh, but stick to politely introducing yourself to people you want to get to know better.
Let’s take a look at some of the most famous chat up lines. You never know, someone might use one of these on you one day.
Number 1
Guy - Did you hurt yourself when you fell? Girl - Fell? Guy - Did it hurt when you fell from heaven?
This one is probably the oldest and most famous. It’s suggesting that the woman must be an angel because she is so beautiful, and that she got from heaven to earth by falling.Number 2
Line: It's handy that I have my library card because I'm totally checking you out.
You ‘check out’ a library book when you borrow it from the library, but you ‘check out’ a person when you are looking intently at someone you’re attracted to. So this is a play on words, or a pun.Number 3
Line: I hope you know CPR, because you take my breath away.
CPR is a type of first aid where you breathe into someone’s mouth to keep them alive until an ambulance arrives. You might think that someone who has their breath taken away would need CPR, but in fact it means that the person can’t breathe because they have seen someone so beautiful.Number 4
Line: Is your name Wi-Fi? Because we have a connection.
Of course Wi-Fi is a wireless ‘connection’ to the internet, but you can also say you have a ‘connection’ with someone if you get on really well and have a lot of things in common.Number 5
Line: Is your name Gillette? Because you’re the best a man can get.
Gillette is a brand of razor that used to run an advert with the slogan “Gilette, the best a man can get”; in other words, the woman being complimented is the best a man could possibly hope to meet.Number 6
Line: Can I borrow a quarter? I want to call my mom and tell her I just met the girl of my dreams.
This classic old American line is actually quite sweet. It’s telling the person you’re talking to that you think she might be the girl of your dreams. (a quarter is 25 cents in the US and you used to need to pay a quarter to use a payphone)Number 7
Line: You look like a parking ticket - because you've got fine written all over you.
‘Fine’ can have two different meanings; it is usually money you have to pay if you park in the wrong place and get a parking ticket. But if you describe a person as ‘fine’, that means they are good-looking and attractive.Number 8
Line: Is it hot in here or is it just you?
Similar to the one above, it jokes about the two meanings of ‘hot’; the weather can be hot, or someone who looks very handsome or beautiful is hot.Number 9
Line: If I could rewrite the alphabet I would put 'U' and 'I' together.
Another really old line! U and I are letters, but this sounds the same as saying ‘You and I’. In other words, you want to get closer to the person you’re speaking to.Number 10
Line: Did your licence get suspended for driving all these guys crazy?
On its own, ‘drive’ usually refers to driving a car, which is why the joke mentions a license, but to drive someone crazy can mean to make someone madly in love with you. There you are! Love them or hate them, you have to admit that some of them are quite funny and could make you smile.Language Focus
English Vocabulary and Expressions
1. Chat up lines - (noun phrase) phrases used to start a conversation with someone that shows you are interested in them romantically. *to chat up - (phrasal verb) to talk to someone in a flirtatious way because you are interested in them romantically.- Bob uses the same chat up lines on women every time. He’s so unoriginal.
- You should stick to talking about music, you know nothing about politics.
- Grandma has died and gone to heaven.
- It was handy that Jane had a spare tyre in her car when she got a puncture.
- John was checking out your sister
- Mary stared intently at the screen because the movie was so tense.
- The name of the hairdressers “Curl up and dye” is a play on words because “dye” sounds like “die”.
- Mary had to do a first aid course to learn what to do if there was a medical emergency at work.
- Bob and Frank both love football, beer and Italian food. They have a lot of things in common.
- What is your favourite brand of breakfast cereal?
- Frank uses a razor to shave his face every morning.
- “I’m lovin’ it” is a famous slogan used by McDonald’s.
- Bob complimented John on his photography skills.
- Jane has a sweet singing voice
- It was sweet of you to get me such a nice birthday gift
- Mary got a parking ticket for parking on a double yellow line.
- Bob thought John’s sister was a good-looking girl.
- When Mary passed her driving test she got her first driving licence.
- Jane was so beautiful she drove all the guys crazy. (because they were so in love with her)
- John and Mary were madly in love with each other.
Practice Exercises in English
Complete the sentences: EXERCISES Complete these sentences with a highlighted word or phrase from the article.
- The couple gazed ………….. at each other during their romantic dinner. (with a lot of attention and focus)
- The sound of nails on a blackboard …… ….. ……….. (make me insane, really annoys or irritates me)
- You won’t lose weight if you don’t …… ….. your exercise plan. (keep doing)
- When John fell and broke his leg Frank gave him …… ….. until the ambulance arrived. (first medical attention)
- Sarah only wears famous ………... like Chanel. (products with recognisable names)
- Bob went to the library and ………. ……... 3 books about butterflies. (took out)
- Frank spends his Saturday nights in bars ………. ……... girls. (talking in a flirtatious way)
- Frank’s parents were …… …. ……... when they were young. (deeply in love)
- It is very …………. to have an extra battery for your phone in case the normal battery dies. (convenient, useful)
- Frank ……………. Jane on her new hair style. (say sth good about someone)
- Most women think George Clooney is a ……………... guy (handsome, beautiful)
- Coca Cola use the …………. “Always Coca Cola” (memorable phrase)
Download Reading Exercises and Answers Worksheets - HERE
5 places you need to visit in Europe
*Reading articles in English will help you improve your English reading and writing skills. These articles by Absolute English will also help you learn English vocabulary and phrases to help you improve your fluency. *After reading this article, see the reading comprehension exercises with answers. English Vocabulary:22 words English Level: Intermediate - AdvancedDownload Article and Exercises Sheets - HERE
Article
Discovering ancient monuments, eating sensational food and experiencing new adventures make the perfect holiday. Thankfully, Europe has something for everyone, but narrowing down the top places in Europe to visit is a difficult task especially with so many unique and interesting cities to discover. London and Paris are indeed wonderful cities to explore. However, there are many other beautiful and interesting places worth a visit. Check out these cities when you decide to do a little exploring!Number 5: Verdun
Verdun in France is probably most famous for the battle fought there during World War I. During this time, much of the town was destroyed. It has since been rebuilt but there are still surrounding areas left in ruins as a reminder of the past. Battle-scarred hills and war memorials can be seen, as well as an 11th century cathedral, which has been restored. A must-visit place for history buffs and anyone interested in World War I history.
Number 4: Bruges
(Source: visitbriges.be)
Bruges is packed with people exploring its narrow lanes and ancient buildings, but don’t let that stop you from checking it out. Stepping into this city is like stepping back in time. The streets are cobblestoned in much of the city. There are lots of old buildings to see and traditional food to taste. You’ll feel part of the medieval world.
Number 3: Bulgaria
(Source: http://www.interrail.eu/)
Bulgaria is an entire country that had, until recently, been largely overlooked by tourists. An ancient nation, it holds important information about people and civilizations past. Tombs and monuments, temples and jewels, all exist from the time of ancient Thrace. This is a country that has such a rich past and beautiful modern culture that anyone would enjoy.
Number 2: Valencia
(Source: http://www.tourist-destinations.net)
If you’re interested in delicious food and stunning parks, Valencia is the place for you. This city is large - Spain’s third largest - but it is not as busy as some other places in the country. Valencia is renowned for its futuristic modern architecture and charming traditional neighbourhoods.
Number 1: Kvarner Islands, Croatia
(Source: http://unforgettablecroatia.co.uk/)
Croatia used to be a secret of a few travellers. Now, however, it is a popular tourist spot but there are still places to check out that are less well known. The Kvarner Gulf, with its unique islands, features all the aspects of Croatian culture that attract visitors. There are mountains, quiet fishing villages, warm waters to swim in and the flora on these islands is large, lush and tropical. Croatia is definitely worth a visit.
Travel broadens the mind, so grab your bags and go!!!!
Language Focus
English Vocabulary and Expressions
1. Sensational - (adjective) amazing, incredible- She looked sensational in her new dress
- When I wanted to buy a car. I liked 6 cars I saw and drove. I have narrowed the list down to my favourite two cars but it is difficult to choose which one I will buy.
- In my job I have the task of hiring new staff.
- My friend is checking out the price of flights to France for next month.
- The city was in ruins after the earthquake.
- The house was in ruins after the birthday party. (non-literal - means ‘a mess’)
- The prisoners back was scarred from the torture he received in prison.
- There is memorial in New York for the people who died in the September 11th attacks.
- The church in my town is being restored at the moment.
- My friend is a movie buff. He has seen every movie that exists!
- The bar was packed after the match.
- The streets in the old city are too narrow to drive through.
- John lives in the house at the end of that lane.
- The accountant said that she had overlooked some of the expenses when she did the accounts.
- She looked stunning in her wedding dress.
- People from Ireland are renowned for being very welcoming to foreigners.
- Charming men always get what they want. (If somebody is charming they are able to make people like them or become attracted to them)
- Learning another language broadens the mind.
- The thief tried to grab the woman’s handbag.
Practice Exercises in English
Comprehension Questions Find the answers to these questions in the article..
- What is Verdun most renowned for?
- Why do people like to visit Bruges?
- What still exists from the time of ancient Thrace in Bulgaria?
- What is Valencia famous for?
- Why is the Kvarner Gulf worth a visit?
Comprehension Questions: True or False ? Say whether the following statements are true or false. If they are false, say why.
- Not many tourists visited Bulgaria in the past.
- Valencia has narrow streets made of cobblestone.
- The city Verdun has been rebuilt or restored since WW1.
- The Kvarner Islands are a popular tourist spot.
- Valencia is a small town in Spain.
- Bruges is a very old city with ancient architecture.
Complete the sentences: EXERCISES Complete these sentences with a highlighted word or phrase from the article.
- I bought a house in the countryside. I am going to …………. it and live in it. (fix, rebuild)
- Prague and Edinburgh are two examples of …………. cities in Europe. (from time period called the ‘middle ages’)
- The hotel is not very modern but it is ………….. (delightful, attractive)
- …………. your jacket! We need to leave now! (take it quick)
- France and Italy are …………. for their food. Germany and Ireland are …………. for their beer. (famous for, know for)
- Before I went to work I wrote a list of …………. for the cleaner to do in my house. (small jobs to do)
- The views from the mountain are ………….. (beautiful)
- Reading about different religions …………. ……. .….. (makes you more accepting)
- I heard about a new restaurant in town that is cheap and has good quality food. I want to …………. it ……… . (try, have a look)
- The company interviewed 20 people for a new job but they ………... ………. their choice to 5 people who were called for a second interview. (made their choice smaller)