The Lingu Blog
Tips, stories & ideas for your language journey.
FeaturedTop Tips, Useful Resources
How to improve your English vocabulary: practical tips that work
Improve your English vocabulary: practical tips that really work If you’re an online English learner wondering how to improve your English vocabulary without memorising endless word lists, you’re not alone. Many students work hard but feel their vocabulary doesn’t grow as quickly as their effort. The problem is usually how vocabulary is learned,
Exam PreparationOfficial English certificates explained: IELTS, Cambridge, TOEFL, Duolingo & more
Which English certificate do I actually need? Many English learners ask the same question: “Which English certificate do I actually need?” The answer depends on why you need one — university admission, immigration, professional registration, or personal goals. This guide explains the most widely recognised official English certificates, who they are for, how
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesTypes of English learners and how to use AI
Do you know which type of English learner you are? Our top tips on how to best use AI to reach your goals In our previous blog post, we shared some practical insights into how AI can support your English learning journey — from practising conversations to improving vocabulary and confidence. But one
David De Jager ·
Top TipsCan you learn English with ChatGPT? What works (and what doesn’t)
Can you really learn English with ChatGPT? Why English learners are using ChatGPT Over the past year, a growing number of English learners have started using ChatGPT as part of their study routine — sometimes before enrolling in a course, and sometimes instead of one. It’s easy to see why. ChatGPT is always
David De Jager ·
NewsPerfectly Spoken joins forces with Lingu, opening new horizons for English learners worldwide
Perfectly Spoken joins forces with Lingu, opening new horizons for English learners worldwide Cambridge, UK / Stavanger, Norway — December 2025 Perfectly Spoken, the online English-learning platform trusted by hundreds of thousands of students globally, has officially joined Lingu. The acquisition brings together Perfectly Spoken’s decade of
David De Jager ·
Blog, Useful ResourcesBlack Friday English: 12 expressions every smart shopper should know
Black Friday is now a global event, and it’s not just for in-store crowds anymore. Whether you’re shopping in London, Lagos or Lima, chances are your inbox and social media feeds are full of flash sales, discount codes and “limited-time offers.” For many people, this time of year is all about saving money
David De Jager ·
Top TipsLearning with real teachers vs AI avatars
Which is better for your English? Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way we live, work, and learn. In the world of English language learning, AI avatars are becoming more common. They can talk, answer questions, and even simulate real conversations — sometimes 24 hours a day! But how do they compare with
David De Jager ·
Top TipsImprove your English writing and learn English faster
Do you need to improve your English writing? Welcome to our study tips to boost your English! When you think about learning English, what skills do you focus on first? Many students say speaking or listening. After all, those are the skills we use most in everyday life. But there’s another skill that’s just
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesDo you really need grammar to learn English?
When you think about learning English, what comes to mind first? For many students, the answer is grammar. Grammar rules can make us feel like “serious” students because they give structure and order to the language. But do we really need grammar to become good English speakers? Or is it better to just “pick
David De Jager ·
Top TipsBack to school: 7 Study tips to boost your English after a break
Welcome to our study tips to boost your English! Maybe you’ve taken a summer holiday or a break from studying English for whatever reason and now you want to refocus and refresh your learning. Don’t worry! Now is the perfect time. With just a few smart study habits, you can make real progress and
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesLet’s talk about summer
Summer is a favourite season for many people around the world. It’s the warmest time of the year, full of sunshine, long days, and exciting outdoor celebrations Let’s explore what makes summer special, how people celebrate it, and how to enjoy it safely. What happens
David De Jager ·
Top Tips3 easy daily habits to boost your English – for every level!
Do you want to speak better English? You already study and take online lessons – that’s great! But what can you do by yourself, in just a few minutes a day, to become even better? Here are three simple activities you can do anytime, anywhere. They are fun, free, and useful. And they work for
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesLabour Day. A Celebration around the world
May 1st is a special day in many countries. It is known as Labour Day or International Workers’ Day. In some places, it is a day for parades and speeches. In others, it is a time for picnics and parties. The story behind May 1st The
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesEnglish Language Day: celebrating the power of words
Every year on April 23rd, people around the world celebrate English Language Day. This day is a great opportunity to enjoy the English language, learn new words, and explore its long and interesting history. Why April 23rd? April 23rd was chosen because it is believed
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesEaster: a time of new life, chocolate and celebration
Spring is a time of flowers, sunshine, and warmer days. It’s also when many people celebrate Easter, a special holiday that brings together traditions, fun, and history. In 2025, Good Friday is on April 18th, and Easter Monday is on April 21st. What is Easter?
David De Jager ·
Business, Top TipsThe importance of Business English today
In our interconnected world, proficiency in Business English has become a vital asset for both professionals and students. It serves as the primary medium of communication in international business, academia, and various industries. Understanding its significance, the challenges learners face, and the evolving trends can provide valuable insights into its role in career advancement.
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesPancake Day – A fun and tasty tradition!
Do you like pancakes? If you do, then Pancake Day is the perfect day for you! Pancake Day, also called Shrove Tuesday, is a special day celebrated in many countries. People make and eat delicious pancakes with their friends and family. Here’s a bit more about this fun tradition! [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1691514025274{background-color: #ffffff
David De Jager ·
Exam PreparationB2: the magic key to English success – Why you need it and how to get there!
Why B2 is the most important level in English learning If you are learning English, there is one level that can completely change your opportunities: B2 – the “Magic Key” level! Why is B2 so important? Because it’s the critical level where you go from basic communication to real fluency. It’s the difference between simply
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesWhat is Black Friday? The ultimate guide
If you love finding great deals, Black Friday is the day you won’t want to miss. Celebrated annually on the Friday after Thanksgiving in the United States, Black Friday kicks off the holiday shopping season with incredible discounts and exciting deals. From electronics to clothing, it’s the perfect time to shop and save on all
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesTelling the time in English: fun facts
Telling time in English is an essential skill for clear communication, whether you’re scheduling a meeting, making plans with friends, or simply answering “What time is it?” From understanding “o’clock” to mastering terms like “quarter past” or “half past,” this guide breaks down the most common expressions and fascinating time-related facts in English. You’ll also
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesTime Zones: how time changes across the world
Time is a fascinating concept, and it changes depending on where you are in the world. In this article, we’ll explore how time zones work, why they change, and how people in the UK and other countries are affected. We will also explain the difference between GMT and BST and provide useful phrases related to
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesWhat is flipped learning and how can it help you learn English?
In recent years, flipped learning has become a popular way to teach and learn. It is used in many subjects, like maths, science, and even English. But what is flipped learning, and why is it so popular? In this article, we explain what flipped learning is, how it started, and how it can help you
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesUnderstanding climate change and why it matters
Climate change is a big change in the world’s weather. Usually, when we talk about climate change, we mean that the Earth is getting warmer. This is also called global warming. Over the past 100 years, the Earth’s temperature has gone up a lot. This is happening because of things people do, like burning fossil
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesSwearing in English: what you need to know
Swearing is a part of language that many people use. Sometimes, people swear when they are angry, surprised, or even happy. For some people, swearing is a way to express strong emotions. However, if you are learning English, you might wonder whether you should use swear words. In this post we will help you understand
David De Jager ·
Top TipsHow to use ChatGPT to learn English easily!
Hey there, English language learners! At Perfectly Spoken we are always looking at extra new and useful ways to help you learn and improve you English in a fun and easy way. We know students love our courses and teachers, and we are 100% human but we also appreciate the value that AI can give
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesThe difference between American and British English: a beginner’s guide
As English language learners embarking on the exciting journey of mastering this global language, it’s crucial to understand the delightful nuances that distinguish British and American English. In this article, we’ll explore some key differences between American and British English at an elementary level, touching upon vocabulary, spelling, pronunciation, and expressions. Additionally, we’ll highlight how
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesAn introduction to British Slang
British slang is like a secret language that people use in informal or casual situations. It’s made up of words or phrases that might not be in regular dictionaries, and it changes a lot depending on where you are and who you’re talking to. It’s kind of like a cool, fun way of talking that
David De Jager ·
Top TipsHow to improve English-speaking skills online?
Do you want to get better at speaking English? Maybe you want to speak with confidence and fluency, or perhaps you want to excel in your job or make new friends from around the world. The good news is that you can improve your English-speaking skills online, right from the comfort of your home. In
David De Jager ·
BusinessEnglish Language as a tool in business communication
When it comes to the world of business, effective communication is key. One of the most widely spoken languages used in international business is English. In this article, we’ll explore what it means to use the English language as a tool in business communication. We’ll also examine what business English is, its importance, and how
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesCommon difficult words in English
English can be a difficult language to master, especially for non-native speakers. One of the common challenges faced by English language learners is the confusion between words that sound similar or have similar meanings. Are you sure you know the difference between ‘it’s’ from ‘its’ and ‘your’ from ‘you’re’? In this article, we will explore
David De Jager ·
Top TipsHow to learn English fast
(And…How can I study English by myself) Whether you’re studying English online for work, travel, or personal growth, we’re going to give you some valuable tips on how to learn English fast … and by yourself! How to learn English Fast [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row” gap=”20″ equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1695915220018{background-color:
David De Jager ·
Exam PreparationHow to read the IELTS score
Do you know how to read the IELTS score? What is IELTS and why is it important? IELTS stands for “International English Language Testing System.” It is a globally recognized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. Whether you are a student, a professional, or an immigrant, IELTS can
David De Jager ·
Top Tips, Useful ResourcesIs Duolingo the best way to learn a language?
In today’s interconnected world, learning a new language, such as English, has become increasingly vital. With the advent of online learning platforms, students now have access to a wide range of tools and resources to aid their language learning journey. Before making a final decision it’s important to examine the effectiveness of Duolingo as a
David De Jager ·
Top Tips10 easy ways to practise & improve your English with just 20 minutes every day
Hello English language learners! Today we bring you some tips to improve your English with just 20 minutes every day. Do you really want to improve your English skills but find it hard to dedicate a lot of time? Well, good news! You can practice English every day with just a 20-minute routine. It’s like
David De Jager ·
Exam PreparationWhat is IELTS
IELTS is hugely popular across the world with some 5 million tests taken each year with an average score on 6.5 -8. It’s owned by is jointly owned by the British Council; IDP (International Development Program) IELTS; and Cambridge University Press & Assessment. It’s accepted in 140 countries and considered essential for students planning to
David De Jager ·
Top Tips10 Top Tips for learning English on holiday
Are you going on holiday? Get ready for our 10 Top Tips for learning English on holiday. Our selection of fun and easy ways to practise English, ensuring that your travel experience becomes an enriching language adventure. Going on holiday is a fantastic way to relax, rejuvenate, and escape from the stresses and strains of
David De Jager ·
Top Tips, Useful ResourcesHow do I start learning basic English: A Beginner’s Guide
Are you ready to start your journey to learn English? If you have little or zero knowledge of the language, we will give you some great advice on how to start learning basic English and take your first steps towards becoming proficient in the language. Learning English or any language can be difficult, but with
David De Jager ·
Useful ResourcesChatGPT: AI and chatbots in plain English
Chat GPT has become the world’s fastest growing consumer app acquiring more than 100 million users in just 2 months since its launch. And, according to Perfectly Spoken’s global media partner Reuters, this is faster than even TikTok which took 9 months to reach that number or Instagram which took two and a half years.
David De Jager ·
Phrases, Useful ResourcesThe best Valentine’s Day phrases in English
Valentine’s Day, also called Saint Valentine’s Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine is celebrated on 14th February each year. On this day people celebrate by sending messages of love and affection to their partners (husbands and wives) and to family and friends. The true origin of the day is unclear – one possibility is
David De Jager ·
Top Tips, Useful ResourcesShould I learn English online or offline?
3 ways Covid has created more choice for English language learners During lockdown many, many students had to adapt to a ‘new normal’ for learning English. Like all subjects, suddenly self-study lessons and distance learning from home in front of a computer screen took over from classroom teaching at University or High School.
David De Jager ·
Business, PhrasesBusiness English
The demand for business English classes has increased exponentially in recent years, with students around the world keen to gain a deeper understanding of the terminology and language used in business and international trade. Business English differs from standard English – the terms and phrases you’ll encounter in a business environment aren’t what you’ll encounter
David De Jager ·
BusinessWhy you need to use online tutoring for learning English for business
If you’re already a business professional or are looking to get into the professional landscape, brushing up your English skills quickly is a great way to build your confidence and make yourself more desirable to employers. So, what is the best way to learn English fast? Online tutoring! Like a lot of the business world,
David De Jager ·
Business, PhrasesBusiness abbreviations commonly used in English
In the modern world of business, being efficient is vital – fast communication and getting your message across as quickly as possible has become the norm. A useful range of terms are abbreviations and acronyms; enabling you to quickly and efficiently get your message across, whether it is an in email or an instant message.
David De Jager ·
Business, PhrasesEnglish Phrases To Use In Business Meetings
In the corporate world and in meetings, using a good turn of phrase is commonplace in the UK an having a strong understanding of at least some of them is a vital part of localised corporate English. These phrases could be the difference between striking great rapport with a business connection and having a complete
David De Jager ·
Business, Business &Benefits Of Corporate English
Learning a language through your employer is an excellent opportunity to develop a new skill and help reinforce your communication skills overall. Additionally, England is famous for using unusual terminology and slang that can be difficult for non-native speakers to understand straight away. These terms are frequently used around an office environment and in meetings
David De Jager ·
Business, NewsIt’s All About Online
For a company that offers online English courses, it won’t be a surprise we are very much behind the move to online services but Covid-19 has pushed this trend even faster than anyone predicted. There are lots of new ways people interact, new software tools, and even new vocabulary around the new online world so
David De Jager ·
UncategorizedA Very British Summer – What is it Like?
Summertime in the UK is something British people look forward too. As a country, the UK gets a lot of rain during the Autumn, Winter, and Spring too so people get very excited about sunshine and warm weather. But, traditionally, it still rains quite often in the Summer too and British people do like to
David De Jager ·
NewsBritish Storms and their Names
It’s storm season in the UK and after an already very wet winter, Storm Ciara and Dennis have brought record rain levels and heavy flooding across the country. The British are well-known for talking about the weather and this year with such fierce storms already, there’s plenty to talk about. And with the storms having
David De Jager ·
UncategorizedPopular English Expressions
There are so many idioms and expressions embedded in the English language that it can be really difficult for a non-native speaker to get to grips with them all. But they are a regular and important part of everyday use, so it is good for learners to slowly build up their knowledge. Some expressions have
David De Jager ·
UncategorizedBurn’s Night – What you need to know
The United Kingdom is home to many quirky festivals and celebrations. Burns Night is one such Scottish event that can brighten the cold winter month of January with a wee dram (a shot of whisky). An institution in its homeland, many Scots in England, and indeed English people, enjoy marking this unique event with its
David De Jager ·
Top Tips, UncategorizedWhy News is So Important for English Learners
If you are learning English there are lots of different ways you can help support your English lessons and courses. Watching movies in English can be very useful and a great way to test yourself and be aware of different accents. Music can also be very helpful; trying to learn the words and practising English
David De Jager ·
PhrasesThe Summer is over and things are turning cold – Useful Winter English Vocabulary
If you are learning English and have any experience with British people you will know that they like to talk about the weather a lot. There are lots of jokes about how British and English people enjoy talking about the weather and moaning about it too! So we thought it would be a good time
David De Jager ·
Blog, NewsE learning and its role in English Language Teaching
With predictions of growth to a total spend of $250bn by 2020, EdTech is clearly a global phenomenon and has growing implications for the future of English Language Teaching (ELT) But what is E-Learning and Ed Tech? EdTech stands for Educational Technology. Sometimes referred to as EduTech or e-learning. In general terms, it covers any
David De Jager ·
Blog, BusinessWhy It’s OK to Ask People to Speak Slowly or Repeat Something in a Business Meeting
When you are learning English for business there will come a time when you are using your new skill in a business meeting. The meeting could be online via Skype, on the phone or in person, it could be a presentation and it can be tough! But do not worry, the challenges are something a
David De Jager ·
Blog, NewsSing Your Way to Better English
It may seem silly but music can help when learning English just as much as movies can. Singing can also help make you happy and singing is very healthy even if you don’t think you are very good at it. Singing and Vocab Most popular songs are sung with a wide range of both good
David De Jager ·
News, Top TipsAre children better at learning languages than you?
Have you ever wondered why children seem to learn languages so easily? Maybe a child can pick up new words in English, Spanish, or another language faster than you. Many people think that only children can learn new languages well. But is this really true? Let’s talk about why children are good at learning languages
David De Jager ·
BlogSpring in the UK
British people love talking about the weather; in person or online, face to face or in an email conversation! For many people Spring is their favourite season. Here are some essential facts and useful vocabulary that will help you participate in everyday conversations not only about Spring and the four seasons in the UK but
David De Jager ·
Blog, Useful Resources, Vocabulary3 Foods that British people love and American people don’t
When you are learning English you will probably be watching a lot of movies with American actors and listening to a lot of American music. It is very common for people learning English to actually learn American English rather than the more traditional BBC style British English. English people certainly have a lot in common
David De Jager ·
Blog3 Easy Ways to Make Friends in the UK
If you are planning on coming the UK to work or to study then making friends is going to be really important. Being away from your friends at home and your family can be tough and building a range of new people to speak to and hang out with is really good for your happiness
David De Jager ·
PhrasesA Guide to Speaking Like a Geek..or a Nerd
The terms Geek and Nerd have been around for a very long time but it is only in the last 10 years or so that they have really become popular and used as a positive way to describe yourself. Once being called a geek or a nerd was a serious insult. It normally described people
David De Jager ·
Blog, General, Useful ResourcesTop 5 Christmas TV Shows to Help You Learn English
If you are living in the UK and learning English or if you have access to UK TV online then these Christmas TV shows are great for learning English. TV and Movies are a brilliant way to help support your online English lessons and this Christmas there are some really useful ones. Strictly Come Dancing
David De Jager ·
PhrasesHow to Say Happy Christmas in the UK
Christmas is coming and for people in the UK and other English speaking countries, it is a very important festival or holiday. It is worth noting that for a lot of people it is less about the religious significance and often more about seeing family and friends, taking time off work and sharing presents. There
David De Jager ·
BusinessWhy Learning English Isn’t Just for Working in English Speaking Countries
One of the main reasons people learn English is for work. For thousands of people, the desire to travel and to work and build a career in an English-speaking country is a big reason to learn English online. But there are other benefits to learning English when it comes to work even in countries that
David De Jager ·
Phrases, Word of the DaySome of the Hardest English Words to Learn and Spell
We know learning English can be hard work and we love helping people get batter through our videos and courses. However, we thought it might be useful to share some of the words students tell us are some of the hardest to learn in the English language. Whom This is a really confusing word and
David De Jager ·
NewsWhy is learning English through a course is so beneficial?
As the world becomes more and more connected, learning a second language is increasingly valuable. There are various ways to learn another language, from immersing yourself in the country where it’s widely spoken to using text books, but there are several benefits from choosing a structured course that make it the preferred method for so
David De Jager ·
PhrasesOdd words in the English language
As languages go, English is arguably one of the strangest out there with its confusing idioms, bizarre words and contradictory rules. If you are learning English online then it can be quite hard to understand a lot of the more unusual words. From Shakespeare’s inventions to the blend of influences from other languages, English has
David De Jager ·
NewsWatch More Movies – and improve your spoken English
There are not man times in school where a teacher will say “you should watch more movies” but when it comes to learning English movies (or films as many English people call them) can be a brilliant way to improve your English learning both in terms of listening and understanding English conversations and improving your
David De Jager ·
NewsEnglish Speaking Practice
Learning English isn’t easy but with the right online English courses, it is certainly something anyone can do. An important part of learning English is getting time to practise speaking English as well as watching online video lessons and learning written English. However, finding people to help with English speaking practice can be hard.
David De Jager ·
NewsThe Best Way To Learn and Practice English Online
Learning English Online is not easy, it is challenging but very rewarding thing to do. Learning to speak English can help with getting a job in an English speaking country, studying and travelling too. But with so many ways to learn English online what are the best ways to do it and what are the
David De Jager ·
BlogWhere Can I Learn English Online?
There are many reasons you may want to learn English or improve your English spoken and written skills. The question “where can I learn English online” is a very common one and the answer can be quite complicated. There are a lot of different websites offering online English lessons, but they are not all right
David De Jager ·
PhrasesWhat to say when you know but you are not sure
Sounds almost contradictory doesn’t it? How can you ‘know’ something if you are not ‘sure’? When it comes to learning any language things get quite hard when you have to learn the small and subtle ways of saying the same thing. Saying you know something can be simple “I know today is Wednesday” but what
David De Jager ·
Phrases5 Useful English Slang Words
Slang is a word that describes another word that is not in the English dictionary but is commonly used to describe things, place and feelings. They are very useful to know if you are planning on working or studying in the UK or with people from the UK. Many slang words are not found in
David De Jager ·
PhrasesHow to Say I’m Sorry in English
We all make mistakes and one of the best ways to deal with a mistake is to say sorry and to tell people it was your fault. When learning English it is important to understand some different ways we can say sorry and how we can let people know we made a mistake. This can
David De Jager ·
PhrasesA vocabulary guide to British money
If you are learning English to work in the UK, planning to visit the UK or are even just want to improve you knowledge and understanding of English, knowing the vocabulary around money is very useful. As with most countries, there are a number of informal and slang terms used to describe different amounts of
David De Jager ·
News3 Things You Hear About the UK That are Not True
As with every country there are a lot of stereotypes and things that people believe are true that are simply not. Because British actors often feature on huge movies and many TV shows are exported around the world the UK perhaps suffers this problem more than some other countries. Here are just 3 things you
David De Jager ·
Blog, NewsNorthern Ireland – A Useful Guide
If you are hoping to move to the UK for work or visit, or even work with people from the UK it is important to understand the countries that make up the United Kingdom. Learning English is very useful but knowing a little about the countries is important too. Here is our very useful guide to
David De Jager ·
Blog, Word of the DayWord of the Day – January
If you follow us on Facebook, you will know we have a number of posts called Word of the Day. This is a fun look at a single word to see if people know what it means, and then we look at the definition and how it might be used. These are all common words
David De Jager ·
Blog, NewsWhat is Pancake Day?
If you are living in the UK or working with people that do then you may have heard about Pancake Day. It is basically a day when people in the UK cook and enjoy thin flat cakes made in a pan But, there is a lot more to the day than enjoyable food. If you
David De Jager ·
Blog, NewsWales – A Useful Guide
If you are planning on visiting the United Kingdom for work or you are working with people from the UK then this Guide to Wales will be very useful. When learning English it can be important to understand the different countries in the UK and how the people can be different. General Information Wales is
David De Jager ·
Blog4 Top Tips – How to Study When Learning English Online
Studying and learning is never easy, and we know learning a language can be very tough sometimes. This can be really hard if you are working at the same time. A lot of people study and work because they would like to get a better job or move to another country for work. Read this
David De Jager ·
Blog, NewsScotland – A Useful Guide
If you are planning to move to the UK for work, visit or if you work with people from the UK then this guide to Scotland will be very useful. If you are learning English it can be very useful to understand a little more about how the UK is made up of different countries.
David De Jager ·
Blog, BusinessWork Language – Idioms and Sayings
It is very common for people to use different words and sayings around friends and family to when they are a work or School. This is something that is very natural when speaking your native language but it can be very hard if you are learning English at any level. Bad Taste Using the wrong
David De Jager ·
Blog, Business3 British Sayings You Can Use Anywhere
Just like every other language, there are sayings in English that are used to say things differently. These sayings are often called idioms. They are common across all countries and are often funny, or they are a simple way of describing something complicated. Nearly all sayings come from history, many were created a long time
David De Jager ·
Blog, Business7 Top Business English Vocabulary Terms
Learning English has many different parts and much of the basic learning is all about day-to-day life. However, as students get more advanced they may start wanting to learn more specific terms aspects of the language. For many students learning English for work and business purposes is a big factor so below we have got
David De Jager ·
Blog, BusinessIs Learning English Good for My Career?
The answer to this question is yes, it really is. Learning English is useful for many reasons but if you want to work in different countries to likelihood is that knowing English will mean you can communicate with most people. Getting Ahead Before you even start thinking about working and speaking English as part of
David De Jager ·
BlogA Rather Odd Way to Say “Why”
There are many reasons why you might need to say the word why…just like this sentence. Why can be used to question something you do not understand; “why is this happening?” or “why are you doing that?” It is certainly a very useful word when learning a language or even starting a new job. Trying
David De Jager ·
BlogThe British Christmas Dinner
Christmas is celebrated in a number of countries and often in different ways. In the UK it is celebrated over 3 days – Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Christmas Eve is the 24th of December, Christmas Day which is the main day of celebration is the 25th and Boxing Day is the 26th.
David De Jager ·
Blog, BusinessHow Learning Better English Can Help With Linkedin
LinkedIn is a powerful tool and one that is used right across the business world. It is great for people looking for new jobs, people learning more about their own careers and much more. However, how people communicate on LinkedIn can have a very big impact on if they are successful. Approaching people with badly
David De Jager ·
BlogBlack can mean many things
The word black is not simply a description sued when talking about the colour of something. It is a word that carries lots of meanings and uses from describing someone’s mood to the biggest online sales day of the year. Knowing how and when to use this word is important as it is easy to
David De Jager ·
Blog3 Common English Expressions or Slang
Every language is full of terms that are not something you learn in lessons but make up an important part of understanding and communicating with people. Using these expressions properly can make a big difference when it comes to doing business, making friends and even ordering food and dealing with people on a daily basis.
David De Jager ·
Blog3 Traditional British Meals People Actually Eat
As with many local delicacies and national dishes not that many people actually still eat them. Things like Hakarl which is the national dish of Iceland is more of a rite of passage (1) than a tasty meal enjoyed by everyone. However, in the UK there are just a few traditional dishes that are still
David De Jager ·
Blog, NewsNew Years Resolutions – What Are They All About?
A New Year’s resolution is simply a choice someone makes at the start of the new year to change the things they do, or perhaps to do things they have not done yet. These resolutions are common in most of the Western Hemisphere and also in the East but what the resolutions are can vary
David De Jager ·
BlogA Quick Guide to Seasons in the UK
People across the UK love to talk about the weather so knowing a little bit about the different weather to expect at different times of year could be helpful. This could help when visiting the UK but also if you are doing business with someone in the UK and you have an understanding of the
David De Jager ·
Blog, Word of the DayWord of the Day – December
If you follow us on Facebook, you will know we often have a word of the day. This is a fun post that highlights and teaches followers a single useful word. We normally do this right through the month but because of all our Christmas fun posts, we did less than normal in December. Below
David De Jager ·
Blog, PhrasesPhrases and Sayings – November
Here is a list of all of the sayings and phrases we have looked at and discussed on our Facebook page this month. This are all commonly used and are useful to know and understand. If you are learning English these sayings and phrases can really help you add more feeling and personality to your
David De Jager ·
Blog, Word of the DayNovember – Words of The Day
Below is a list of all of our Facebook “words of the day” we had in November. These words are often chosen because they relate to one of our live Facebook lessons or something else seasonal that is going on during the month. Each word is also chosen because it is commonly used and can
David De Jager ·
BlogA Short Guide to the Work Christmas Party
If you work or are planning to work in the UK you will be invited to a Christmas party at work. It is a very big tradition in the UK and can be a very fun evening. It is, however, useful to understand what the party is all about and be aware of some of
David De Jager ·
Blog, PhrasesWays to say I’m Hungry
Variety is always important when you are speaking English and learning different ways to say “I’m hungry” is helpful because it’s fun and interesting. It’s especially important to learn idiomatic alternatives commonly used in Britain because it helps learners understand native speakers better and sound more natural when speaking English in everyday situations. Here are
David De Jager ·
Blog, BusinessTop Growth Sectors for Jobs in the UK
If you are planning on coming to the UK for work, or you are working in the UK and would like a change of career there are some areas of work that are doing very well at the moment. These sectors are important to look it if you are thinking about what training or university
David De Jager ·
BlogWinter In The UK
People in the UK love to talk about the weather and there are two main seasons they like to talk about the most; Summer and Winter. Right now it’s winter in the UK and we thought it would be useful for everyone working with people in the UK to know a little more about the
David De Jager ·