Common English Phrases

Introduction

Hello! It’s Kristine here with the Express to Impress podcast. This episode is part two of “Want an American English Accent? Allyson Plumberg Debunks Accent Myths.” You will learn five common English phrases and idioms. If English is your second language, expanding your English vocabulary will allow you to communicate better with native English speakers. You’ll also get some homework at the end so you can continue to improve your English communication skills.

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Before we get started, I want to let you know that all Express to Impress podcast episodes are now organized by category on my website at express-to-impress.com/podcast. The categories include Interviews, Business Communication, Job Search, Presentations, and Advanced Vocabulary. I hope this will help you find relevant episodes faster.

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Now, let’s begin!

Common English Phrases and Idioms

On the Same Page

Now that we’re all on the same page with our understanding of an accent let’s look at some common beliefs surrounding accents.

In this context, the phrase means everyone has the same information and knowledge. It can also be used to indicate everyone is in agreement, people are thinking the same way, or people share the same understanding of something. 

Draw Out

So we’re going to draw out these content words.

This phrasal verb means to make something last longer.

Nothing Could Be Further From the Truth

They are myths! Nothing could be further from the truth, so thank you, Allyson, for busting them today!

We use this idiom to say something is absolutely not true.

Drag (Someone) Down

It drags them down and limits their ability to speak English effectively.

This phrasal verb means to make someone feel unhappy.

Within Someone’s Grasp

Speaking English effectively suddenly seems within their grasp. 

This phrase can be used literally or figuratively. In this case, it is used figuratively. It means that someone is very near to reaching a goal.

All right, now you know five common English phrases and idioms!

Communication Coaching Available

In this podcast, I often talk about my experiences working with clients getting ready for interviews. So, I want to take a moment to let you know that I also offer communication coaching unrelated to interviewing. Just this morning, I helped a client prepare for an upcoming presentation to potential clients where she will introduce her company and product. Then, I worked with a startup founder getting ready for interview appearances on podcasts. 

When you need to communicate effectively in an important situation, I would gladly work with you hands-on so that you have the skills and confidence needed to impress your audience. There’s no reason your communication skills should hold you back from achieving your goals. 

If you want to explore how we can work together to meet your communication goals, you can schedule a free consultation on my website at express-to-impress.com or send me an email at hello@express-to-impress.com. 

English Learning Homework

Alright, learning takes repetition and implementation, and I can’t resist the English teacher in me. So, I’ll give you some homework! Listen to this episode again and repeat the words out loud. It will not only expand your knowledge of common English Phrases and Idioms but help you to improve your American English pronunciation, listening skills, and intonation. You’ll be doing the Shadowing Technique! If you need a reminder about implementing the Shadowing Technique, check out episode 15, Introducing the Shadowing Technique for English Learning.  

Thank you so much for listening to the Express to Impress podcast. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend. See you next time. Bye!

 

Music by Lucas Knutter