The English We Speak

Intermediate level

Not gonna lie

Episode 171218 / 18 Dec 2017

Summary

Neil thinks he's the best presenter at BBC Learning English. Feifei doesn’t agree. How can you use the phrase 'not gonna lie' before saying something very direct, critical or boastful?

Transcript

Neil
Welcome to The English We Speak. I'm Neil.

Feifei
And I'm Feifei.

Neil
You're a pretty polite person, aren't you, Feifei?

Feifei
Well, thanks. I don't know. I try to be!

Neil
That was a very polite answer! But sometimes we want to say things that are very honest, or that others might not want to hear.

Feifei
For example, I ask you: "Do I look tired today?"

Neil
Well, I could directly say: "Yes, you do look a bit tired."

Feifei
Or you could start with this slang expression: 'not gonna lie'.

Neil
Not gonna lie Feifei, you do look a little tired.

Feifei
I know, I need to get to bed earlier! 'Gonna' of course, is short for 'going to'. Using this phrase indicates that you're choosing to be honest, rather than polite.

Neil
It's not only used for honest criticism; we might also use it before something we're very proud of, or something we boast about. For example: I love recording these programmes. Though I'm not gonna lie, I'm the best presenter in the team.

Feifei
Whoah, that's enough. I'm sure everyone listening agrees that I'm the best presenter.

Neil
Of course you're a fantastic presenter, Feifei. Just an example!

Feifei
Talking of examples, let's hear a few more.

Examples
A: Fancy coming round for dinner tomorrow?
B: Absolutely. If you're making your famous roast?
A: Oh yes. Not gonna lie, it's the best roast in town!

Slow down! You really are a terrible driver Mark, not gonna lie.

Not gonna lie, I absolutely love my job. I feel so happy when I walk through the office door every day.

Neil
That last example sounds just like me. Especially as I'm the best presenter.

Feifei
OK, OK, that joke is getting old now.

Neil
You're right. OK, one more thing. This phrase 'not gonna lie'…

Feifei
Yes?

Neil
Not gonna lie, I think some people use it too much!

Feifei
Yes, it's become a popular phrase on social media. Usually accompanied by a photo of someone on holiday at the beach with a post saying "Not gonna lie, it's stunning here!"

Neil
The kind of post that makes me feel jealous when I'm stuck in the office.

Feifei
But I thought you loved your job?!

Neil
Oh, I do.

Feifei
And yes, you are a very good presenter, Neil.

Neil
That makes me feel much better, not gonna lie.

Neil and Feifei
Bye.

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  • Live for something

    Live for something

    Episode 200504 / 04 May 2020

    What’s are you living for?

  • Cabin fever

    Cabin fever

    Episode 200427 / 27 Apr 2020

    What is cabin fever?

  • Bang on about something

    Bang on about something

    Episode 200420 / 20 Apr 2020

    What are you banging on about?

  • Fire

    Fire

    Episode 200413 / 13 Apr 2020

    This phrase is fire!

  • Running on fumes

    Running on fumes

    Episode 200406 / 06 Apr 2020

    So tired!

  • Left on read

    Left on read

    Episode 200330 / 30 Mar 2020

    Received, but not replied!

  • Sheeple

    Sheeple

    Episode 200323 / 23 Mar 2020

    A phrase to follow!

  • Hater

    Hater

    Episode 200316 / 16 Mar 2020

    Don’t hate this phrase!

  • Talk shop

    Talk shop

    Episode 200309 / 09 Mar 2020

    Something to talk about!

  • Snackable

    Snackable

    Episode 200302 / 02 Mar 2020

    Something to snack on

  • A memory like a sieve

    A memory like a sieve

    Episode 200224 / 24 Feb 2020

    An English phrase to remember

  • Nomophobia

    Nomophobia

    Episode 200217 / 17 Feb 2020

    No phone – no-mophobia!

  • Peacocking

    Peacocking

    Episode 200210 / 10 Feb 2020

    A phrase to show off with

  • To kick (something) into the long grass

    To kick (something) into the long grass

    Episode 200203 / 03 Feb 2020

    Give your English a kick!

  • Rat race

    Rat race

    Episode 200127 / 27 Jan 2020

    Join the rat race for the 'Year of the Rat'

  • Microworker

    Microworker

    Episode 200120 / 20 Jan 2020

    If you do small tasks for tech firms then this new word describes your job!

  • Serial returner

    Serial returner

    Episode 200113 / 13 Jan 2020

    Feifei's had a new coat every day this month. How?!

  • Talk the talk

    Talk the talk

    Episode 200106 / 06 Jan 2020

    Neil can talk the talk, but does he know what he's talking about?

  • Out with the old, in with the new

    Out with the old, in with the new

    Episode 191230 / 30 Dec 2019

    A phrase to describe what you can do at this time of year!

  • The more the merrier

    The more the merrier

    Episode 191223 / 23 Dec 2019

    Learn a merry phrase with friends!

  • Take one for the team

    Take one for the team

    Episode 191216 / 16 Dec 2019

    Three tickets, four people. What to do?

  • Mind your Ps and Qs

    Mind your Ps and Qs

    Episode 191209 / 09 Dec 2019

    Don’t forget these letters at an important meeting

  • Dad dancing

    Dad dancing

    Episode 191202 / 24 Oct 2019

    Swing those arms, shake those hips!

  • Big data

    Big data

    Episode 191125 / 25 Nov 2019

    Data is everywhere… But what to do with it?

  • Punch above your weight

    Punch above your weight

    Episode 191118 / 02 Oct 2019

    It sounds violent, but this phrase might surprise you!

  • Social media influencer

    Social media influencer

    Episode 191111 / 11 Nov 2019

    What exactly is a social media influencer?

  • Goldilocks

    Goldilocks

    Episode 191104 / 04 Nov 2019

    Too hot? Too cold? Or just right?

  • Ghosting

    Ghosting

    Episode 191028 / 28 Oct 2019

    Is someone ignoring all your calls and messages? 👻

  • Slow TV

    Slow TV

    Episode 191021 / 21 Oct 2019

    Because life doesn’t need to be fast, fast, fast

  • Tiger mother

    Tiger mother

    Episode 191014 / 14 Oct 2019

    What’s the best way to help your kids succeed in life?

  • Buzzkill

    Buzzkill

    Episode 191007 / 28 Aug 2019

    One minute you were feeling happy, then…

  • Buyer's remorse

    Buyer's remorse

    Episode 190930 / 22 Aug 2019

    Have you ever regretted an expensive purchase?

  • Freecycle

    Freecycle

    Episode 190923 / 23 Sep 2019

    When you don't want to sell, freecycle!

  • Carbon footprint

    Carbon footprint

    Episode 190916 / 16 Sep 2019

    Love to travel, but worried about the environment?

  • Cough up

    Cough up

    Episode 190909 / 09 Sep 2019

    When is a cough not a cough?

  • Brain fade

    Brain fade

    Episode 190902 / 02 Sep 2019

    Where did I leave my keys?

  • Fib

    Fib

    Episode 190826 / 26 Aug 2019

    A little word for a little lie

  • Hot under the collar

    Hot under the collar

    Episode 190819 / 03 Jul 2019

    Cool off and learn this phrase with us

  • Eat your heart out

    Eat your heart out

    Episode 190812 / 12 Aug 2019

    Could this be the scariest phrase we’ve ever taught?

  • Across

    Across

    Episode 190805 / 05 Aug 2019

    When is ‘across’ not ‘across’?

  • Fat chance

    Fat chance

    Episode 190729 / 29 Jul 2019

    An expression about likelihood

  • Milk it

    Milk it

    Episode 190722 / 22 Jul 2019

    Are you looking for sympathy?

  • Cherry-pick

    Cherry-pick

    Episode 190715 / 15 Jul 2019

    Picking the best!

  • To fight tooth and nail

    To fight tooth and nail

    Episode 190708 / 08 Jul 2019

    A phrase about determination

  • It's a small world

    It's a small world

    Episode 190701 / 01 Jul 2019

    An expression about coincidences

  • To vanish into thin air

    To vanish into thin air

    Episode 190624 / 24 Jun 2019

    A disappearing phrase

  • Get the short straw

    Get the short straw

    Episode 190617 / 17 Jun 2019

    A phrase that sucks!

  • Soft skills

    Soft skills

    Episode 190610 / 10 Jun 2019

    This phrase isn’t hard!

  • Big deal

    Big deal

    Episode 190603 / 03 Jun 2019

    An unimpressive phrase!

  • Clever clogs

    Clever clogs

    Episode 190527 / 27 May 2019

    Intelligent footwear!

  • Couch surfing

    Couch surfing

    Episode 190520 / 20 May 2019

    A phrase for moving around

  • Like riding a bike

    Like riding a bike

    Episode 190513 / 13 May 2019

    An 'easy' phrase

  • On fire

    On fire

    Episode 190506 / 06 May 2019

    Why is Neil 'on fire?'

  • Out of order

    Out of order

    Episode 190429 / 29 Apr 2019

    What actions are considered out of order in your country?

  • Dead

    Dead

    Episode 190422 / 22 Apr 2019

    Learn a new way to say ‘very’ in this week’s The English We Speak!

  • Give someone the runaround

    Give someone the runaround

    Episode 190415 / 15 Apr 2019

    A phrase to describe being unhelpful

  • Laughing all the way to the bank

    Laughing all the way to the bank

    Episode 190408 / 08 Apr 2019

    Learn a funny phrase!

  • The joke is on you

    The joke is on you

    Episode 190401 / 01 Apr 2019

    It's no joke!

  • Keep a lid on it

    Keep a lid on it

    Episode 190325 / 25 Mar 2019

    Keep this phrase a secret!

  • To pull the wool over someone's eyes

    To pull the wool over someone's eyes

    Episode 190318 / 18 Mar 2019

    A deceiving phrase

  • To take the rough with the smooth

    To take the rough with the smooth

    Episode 190311 / 11 Mar 2019

    A good and bad phrase

  • Hard-nosed

    Hard-nosed

    Episode 190304 / 04 Mar 2019

    A tough phrase

  • To have a soft spot

    To have a soft spot

    Episode 190225 / 25 Feb 2019

    A phrase you'll really like

  • To make a song and dance (about something)

    To make a song and dance (about something)

    Episode 190218 / 18 Feb 2019

    A phrase to sing about

  • Giant killer

    Giant killer

    Episode 190211 / 11 Feb 2019

    A phrase about big vs small

  • A shock to the system

    A shock to the system

    Episode 190204 / 04 Feb 2019

    Prepare to be shocked!

  • From pillar to post

    From pillar to post

    Episode 190128 / 28 Jan 2019

    A moving phrase!

  • Small talk

    Small talk

    Episode 190121 / 21 Jan 2019

    Informal chat

  • A bright spark

    A bright spark

    Episode 190114 / 14 Jan 2019

    Is this a clever phrase?

  • To be all downhill

    To be all downhill

    Episode 190107 / 07 Jan 2019

    An easier phrase

  • Fireworks

    Fireworks

    Episode 181231 / 31 Dec 2018

    A phrase to shout about

  • To have all your Christmases come at once

    To have all your Christmases come at once

    Episode 181224 / 24 Dec 2018

    Get that festive feeling again and again

  • It's the thought that counts

    It's the thought that counts

    Episode 181217 / 17 Dec 2018

    A phrase for bad presents

  • Digital detox: What's the meaning?

    Digital detox: What's the meaning?

    Episode 181210 / 10 Dec 2018

    A detox of a different kind

  • 'It leaves a bad taste in your mouth': What does it mean?

    'It leaves a bad taste in your mouth': What does it mean?

    Episode 181203 / 03 Dec 2018

    Great food but a bad taste

  • Pea-souper

    Pea-souper

    Episode 181126 / 26 Nov 2018

    Is it a meal or a type of weather?

  • Throw in the towel

    Throw in the towel

    Episode 181119 / 19 Nov 2018

    Time to give up

  • A walk in the park

    A walk in the park

    Episode 181112 / 12 Nov 2018

    An easy expression

  • Dumbphone

    Dumbphone

    Episode 181105 / 05 Nov 2018

    A less intelligent phone

  • No fear

    No fear

    Episode 181029 / 29 Oct 2018

    Who's scared?

  • Something to chew on

    Something to chew on

    Episode 181022 / 22 Oct 2018

    An indecisive phrase

  • Waffle on

    Waffle on

    Episode 181015 / 15 Oct 2018

    Believe it or not, not all waffles are good!

  • skew-whiff

    skew-whiff

    Episode 181008 / 08 Sep 2018

    When things aren't quite straight

  • To play a blinder

    To play a blinder

    Episode 181001 / 01 Oct 2018

    Doing something amazing

  • Miffed

    Miffed

    Episode 180924 / 24 Sep 2018

    Has someone annoyed you?

  • Humblebrag

    Humblebrag

    Episode 180917 / 17 Sep 2018

    What’s worse than bragging?

  • Out of your depth

    Out of your depth

    Episode 180910 / 10 Sep 2018

    A deep phrase

  • Mardy

    Mardy

    Episode 180903 / 03 Sep 2018

    A moody expression

  • Curry favour

    Curry favour

    Episode 180827 / 27 Aug 2018

    A spicy expression

  • Take the biscuit

    Take the biscuit

    Episode 180820 / 20 Aug 2018

    A sweet phrase

  • Step on it

    Step on it

    Episode 180813 / 13 Aug 2018

    Hurry up!

  • Ping

    Ping

    Episode 180806 / 06 Aug 2018

    Press 'send'

  • Crunch time

    Crunch time

    Episode 180730 / 30 Jul 2018

    No biscuits required

  • Have a pop

    Have a pop

    Episode 180723 / 23 Jul 2018

    A trying expression!

  • A necessary evil

    A necessary evil

    Episode 180716 / 16 Jul 2018

    Unavoidable situations

  • If the cap fits

    If the cap fits

    Episode 180709 / 09 Jul 2018

    A truthful phrase

  • My bad

    My bad

    Episode 180702 / 02 Jul 2018

    It was me!

  • To have a good nose (for something)

    To have a good nose (for something)

    Episode 180625 / 25 Jun 2018

    No smelling needed!

  • Friends in high places

    Friends in high places

    Episode 180618 / 18 Jun 2018

    A phrase about knowing important people

  • Catch-22

    Catch-22

    Episode 180611 / 11 Jun 2018

    A no-win situation

  • Let the dust settle

    Let the dust settle

    Episode 180604 / 04 Jun 2018

    Dust off an old English phrase

  • Nothing to shout about

    Nothing to shout about

    Episode 180528 / 28 May 2018

    A quiet phrase

  • Let sleeping dogs lie

    Let sleeping dogs lie

    Episode 180521 / 21 May 2018

    A trouble-free phrase

  • Bleed someone dry

    Bleed someone dry

    Episode 180514 / 14 May 2018

    Blood money

  • Small change

    Small change

    Episode 180507 / 07 May 2018

    A trivial phrase

  • That'll teach you!

    That'll teach you!

    Episode 180430 / 30 Apr 2018

    Serves you right!

  • An old hand

    An old hand

    Episode 180423 / 23 Apr 2018

    Some who's skilled and experienced

  • Out of the loop

    Out of the loop

    Episode 180416 / 16 Apr 2018

    Are you missing out?

  • Rub it in

    Rub it in

    Episode 180409 / 09 Apr 2018

    Reminding someone about something they'd rather forget

  • Smombie

    Smombie

    Episode 180402 / 02 Apr 2018

    Are you a smartphone zombie?

  • Freegan

    Freegan

    Episode 180326 / 26 Mar 2018

    Free food!

  • Barking up the wrong tree

    Barking up the wrong tree

    Episode 180319 / 08 Mar 2018

    Don't blame me!

  • Cloud cuckoo land

    Cloud cuckoo land

    Episode 180312 / 12 Mar 2018

    A ridiculous phrase!

  • A taste of your own medicine

    A taste of your own medicine

    Episode 180305 / 05 Mar 2018

    Payback time!

  • Happy-go-lucky

    Happy-go-lucky

    Episode 180226 / 26 Feb 2018

    A worry-free phrase

  • Whizz-kid

    Whizz-kid

    Episode 180219 / 19 Feb 2018

    Young and clever

  • The best of both worlds

    The best of both worlds

    Episode 180212 / 12 Feb 2018

    Two good things

  • Bone idle

    Bone idle

    Episode 180205 / 05 Feb 2018

    A lazy phrase

  • To cut a long story short

    To cut a long story short

    Episode 180129 / 29 Jan 2018

    Just give me the details

  • Just the ticket

    Just the ticket

    Episode 180122 / 22 Jan 2018

    Just what I wanted!

  • FOMO

    FOMO

    Episode 180115 / 15 Jan 2018

    A phrase about jealousy

  • Do a runner

    Do a runner

    Episode 180108 / 08 Jan 2018

    Time to get out of here!

  • A thing

    A thing

    Episode 180101 / 01 Jan 2018

    Time to lose that beard…

  • All that jazz

    All that jazz

    Episode 171225 / 25 Dec 2017

    When jazz isn't jazz…

  • Not gonna lie

    Not gonna lie

    Episode 171218 / 18 Dec 2017

    Not gonna lie: this is a great programme!

  • Up your game

    Up your game

    Episode 171211 / 11 Dec 2017

    Up your emoji game

  • To shout it from the rooftops

    To shout it from the rooftops

    Episode 171204 / 04 Dec 2017

    Shout it out

  • To blow the cobwebs away

    To blow the cobwebs away

    Episode 171127 / 27 Nov 2017

    An energetic phrase

  • A knees-up

    A knees-up

    Episode 171120 / 20 Nov 2017

    Party time!

  • To put someone on the map

    To put someone on the map

    Episode 171113 / 13 Nov 2017

    Fame at last!

  • Down in the dumps

    Down in the dumps

    Episode 171106 / 06 Nov 2017

    Is this a rubbish phrase?

  • Excuse me!

    Excuse me!

    Episode 171030 / 30 Oct 2017

    A polite phrase – most of the time

  • A sting in the tail

    A sting in the tail

    Episode 171023 / 23 Oct 2017

    Learn a phrase with a painful ending

  • So done with

    So done with

    Episode 171016 / 16 Oct 2017

    Feeling bored of your work?

  • Lolz

    Lolz

    Episode 171009 / 09 Oct 2017

    Fancy a laugh?

  • Have a go

    Have a go

    Episode 171002 / 02 Oct 2017

    Why is Neil being criticised?

  • About

    About

    Episode 170925 / 25 Sep 2017

    Familiar word, new meaning!

  • Wing it

    Wing it

    Episode 170918 / 18 Sep 2017

    Learn an informal expression for when you have to improvise

  • Pot luck

    Pot luck

    Episode 170911 / 11 Sep 2017

    Take a chance!

  • It beats me

    It beats me

    Episode 170904 / 04 Sep 2017

    What's going on?!

  • Jiggery-pokery

    Jiggery-pokery

    Episode 170829 / 29 Aug 2017

    Don't be tricked by this phrase!

  • Left, right, and centre

    Left, right, and centre

    Episode 170822 / 22 Aug 2017

    Doing something everywhere

  • Donkey's years

    Donkey's years

    Episode 170815 / 15 Aug 2017

    Years and ears!

  • Give us a bell

    Give us a bell

    Episode 170808 / 08 Aug 2017

    Someone's ringing!

  • Echo chamber

    Echo chamber

    Episode 170801 / 01 Aug 2017

    Echo echo echo echo…

  • Snowflake

    Snowflake

    Episode 170725 / 25 Jul 2017

    Do you melt too easily?

  • The heat is on

    The heat is on

    Episode 170718 / 18 Jul 2017

    Too much pressure!

  • Wet weekend

    Wet weekend

    Episode 170711 / 11 Jul 2017

    It's wet and there's no rain!

  • No picnic

    No picnic

    Episode 170704 / 04 Jul 2017

    Learn a phrase that involves effort

  • A busman's holiday

    A busman's holiday

    Episode 170627 / 27 Jun 2017

    Learn a phrase about a working holiday

  • Fuddy-duddy

    Fuddy-duddy

    Episode 170620 / 20 Jun 2017

    Not cool!

  • No great shakes

    No great shakes

    Episode 170613 / 13 Jun 2017

    Not impressed!

  • Not a sausage

    Not a sausage

    Episode 170606 / 06 Jun 2017

    Learn a phrase that means ‘nothing’

  • Long

    Long

    Episode 170530 / 30 May 2017

    Love ironing? Or is it ‘long’?

  • Not half

    Not half

    Episode 170523 / 23 May 2017

    Learn a phrase which isn’t half useful

  • All over the shop

    All over the shop

    Episode 170516 / 16 May 2017

    The phrase about shops that isn’t about shops

  • It comes with the territory

    It comes with the territory

    Episode 170509 / 09 May 2017

    Accept the situation!

  • It won't wash

    It won't wash

    Episode 170502 / 02 May 2017

    A dirty phrase

  • Jack-of-all-trades

    Jack-of-all-trades

    Episode 170425 / 25 Apr 2017

    A multi-skilled phrase!

  • The coast is clear

    The coast is clear

    Episode 170418 / 18 Apr 2017

    Nobody's watching!

  • Pull a fast one

    Pull a fast one

    Episode 170411 / 11 Apr 2017

    Don’t be cheated – learn this phrase!

  • Suck it and see

    Suck it and see

    Episode 170404 / 04 Apr 2017

    You won’t know until you try

  • To cut your teeth

    To cut your teeth

    Episode 170328 / 28 Mar 2017

    Gaining new experience

  • Shrinkflation

    Shrinkflation

    Episode 170321 / 21 Mar 2017

    Getting less for your money

  • La-la land

    La-la land

    Episode 170314 / 14 Mar 2017

    It's not Los Angeles!

  • A different kettle of fish

    A different kettle of fish

    Episode 170307 / 07 Mar 2017

    Fishing for a phrase? This could be the one for you

  • At the drop of a hat

    At the drop of a hat

    Episode 170228 / 28 Feb 2017

    Acting on impulse!

  • Brass neck

    Brass neck

    Episode 170221 / 21 Feb 2017

    An expression about saying what you think

  • Reinvent the wheel

    Reinvent the wheel

    Episode 170214 / 14 Feb 2017

    Doing it all over again

  • Frenemy

    Frenemy

    Episode 170207 / 07 Feb 2017

    False friends

  • To be fair

    To be fair

    Episode 170131 / 31 Jan 2017

    Give both sides of the argument with this phrase

  • On the box

    On the box

    Episode 170124 / 24 Jan 2017

    Watching a ‘box’ can’t be very enjoyable, can it?

  • Duck

    Duck

    Episode 170117 / 17 Jan 2017

    When being called ‘duck’ is a good thing

  • Bottle

    Bottle

    Episode 170110 / 10 Jan 2017

    Don’t lose your bottle!

  • Got your number

    Got your number

    Episode 170103 / 03 Jan 2017

    Understanding someone's true intentions

  • A slap in the face

    A slap in the face

    Episode 161227 / 27 Dec 2016

    Words not actions

  • Clickbait

    Clickbait

    Episode 161220 / 20 Dec 2016

    Click here for nonsense. Learn some cyber vocabulary

  • Mash-up

    Mash-up

    Episode 161213 / 13 Dec 2016

    If you mix A and B, do you get C?

  • Air kiss

    Air kiss

    Episode 161206 / 06 Dec 2016

    When is a kiss not a kiss?

  • Mansplaining

    Mansplaining

    Episode 161129 / 29 Nov 2016

    Has a man ever over-explained something to you?

  • Rolling in it

    Rolling in it

    Episode 161122 / 22 Nov 2016

    How much money do you need to roll around in it?

  • Photobomb

    Photobomb

    Episode 161115 / 15 Nov 2016

    Someone's in my photo!

  • Cyberchondriac

    Cyberchondriac

    Episode 161108 / 08 Nov 2016

    Is the internet making you ill?

  • To wash your dirty linen in public

    To wash your dirty linen in public

    Episode 161101 / 01 Nov 2016

    An expression about not keeping matters private

  • Cat got your tongue?

    Cat got your tongue?

    Episode 161025 / 25 Oct 2016

    A phrase about not saying much

  • It takes two to tango

    It takes two to tango

    Episode 161018 / 18 Oct 2016

    How many people dance the tango?

  • Knee-jerk reaction

    Knee-jerk reaction

    Episode 161011 / 11 Oct 2016

    An expression connected to the knee

  • To have an axe to grind

    To have an axe to grind

    Episode 161004 / 04 Oct 2016

    An expression for when someone's got a strong opinion

  • Close, but no cigar

    Close, but no cigar

    Episode 160927 / 27 Sep 2016

    A phrase about almost succeeding

  • Get somebody's goat

    Get somebody's goat

    Episode 160920 / 16 Sep 2016

    A phrase about something annoying

  • Bust a gut

    Bust a gut

    Episode 160913 / 13 Sep 2016

    An expression that means 'to make a great effort'

  • Old-school

    Old-school

    Episode 160906 / 06 Sep 2016

    A phrase that describes old things

  • Shedloads

    Shedloads

    Episode 160830 / 30 Aug 2016

    A way to say 'lots'

  • Hangry

    Hangry

    Episode 160823 / 23 Aug 2016

    A phrase for people who get angry when they don't eat

  • To pull something out of the hat

    To pull something out of the hat

    Episode 160816 / 16 Aug 2016

    What surprising things come out of a hat?

  • In the blink of an eye

    In the blink of an eye

    Episode 160809 / 09 Aug 2016

    An expression to show speed

  • Off the hook

    Off the hook

    Episode 160802 / 02 Aug 2016

    Here's a phrase for when you free someone from an obligation

  • Barefaced

    Barefaced

    Episode 160726 / 26 Jul 2016

    A phrase about being bold and shameless

  • To make a mountain out of a molehill

    To make a mountain out of a molehill

    Episode 160719 / 19 Jul 2016

    Don't overreact - use this phrase!

  • The last/final straw

    The last/final straw

    Episode 160712 / 12 Jul 2016

    Something tiny could cause a lot of problems

  • The university of life

    The university of life

    Episode 160705 / 05 Jul 2016

    Where's the best place to learn about life?

  • White-collar worker / blue-collar worker

    White-collar worker / blue-collar worker

    Episode 160628 / 28 Jun 2016

    What does the colour of your clothes say about your job?

  • Drama queen

    Drama queen

    Episode 160621 / 21 Jun 2016

    Here's a phrase to describe someone who overreacts easily

  • It's on the cards

    It's on the cards

    Episode 160614 / 14 Jun 2016

    Learn a different way of saying that something is likely to happen

  • Until you're blue in the face

    Until you're blue in the face

    Episode 160607 / 07 Jun 2016

    Can you face this phrase?

  • Clean up your act

    Clean up your act

    Episode 160531 / 31 May 2016

    Someone behaving badly? Here's a phrase that tells them what to do

  • You're pulling my leg!

    You're pulling my leg!

    Episode 160524 / 24 May 2016

    Want to trick someone? Here is a phrase that involves pulling a part of your body!

  • One good turn deserves another

    One good turn deserves another

    Episode 160517 / 17 May 2016

    Has someone helped you with something? If so, here's a phrase that tells you what to do next

  • To fall at the first hurdle

    To fall at the first hurdle

    Episode 160510 / 10 May 2016

    Got an idea that's never going to work? Here is a phrase to describe the situation

  • Pain in the neck

    Pain in the neck

    Episode 160503 / 03 May 2016

    Learn the phrase Helen needs to describe the headache her mobile phone company is causing her

  • Burn a hole in your pocket

    Burn a hole in your pocket

    Episode 160426 / 26 Apr 2016

    Learn a vivid expression to describe someone who cannot save any money

  • To turn something upside down

    To turn something upside down

    Episode 160419 / 19 Apr 2016

    Learn a phrase about doing a thorough search

  • Going forward

    Going forward

    Episode 160412 / 12 Apr 2016

    Office speak for 'in the future'

  • A recipe for disaster

    A recipe for disaster

    Episode 160405 / 05 Apr 2016

    A phrase that means you're heading for disaster

  • Crash course

    Crash course

    Episode 160329 / 29 Mar 2016

    A really fast way to learn something!

  • You've sold it to me

    You've sold it to me

    Episode 160322 / 22 Mar 2016

    Learn a different way to express 'you've convinced me'

  • Full of the joys of spring

    Full of the joys of spring

    Episode 160315 / 15 Mar 2016

    A seasonal idiom that puts you in a good mood

  • A leopard can't change its spots

    A leopard can't change its spots

    Episode 160308 / 08 Mar 2016

    Learn a phrase about keeping your bad habits

  • Six of one, half a dozen of the other

    Six of one, half a dozen of the other

    Episode 160301 / 01 Mar 2016

    This expression may not have anything to do with numbers

  • Test the water

    Test the water

    Episode 160223 / 23 Feb 2016

    A water phrase which may have nothing to do with water

  • To lie through your teeth

    To lie through your teeth

    Episode 160216 / 16 Feb 2016

    Telling lies? Here's an honest phrase to use

  • To make a monkey out of me

    To make a monkey out of me

    Episode 160209 / 09 Feb 2016

    Looking stupid? This is a phrase for you!

  • Hot potato

    Hot potato

    Episode 160202 / 02 Feb 2016

    Learn a phrase to describe tricky situations

  • There's method to my madness

    There's method to my madness

    Episode 160126 / 26 Jan 2016

    A phrase to describe your seemingly strange behaviour

  • In good nick

    In good nick

    Episode 160119 / 19 Jan 2016

    Learn a phrase to describe something in top condition

  • Cheap and cheerful

    Cheap and cheerful

    Episode 160112 / 12 Jan 2016

    A phrase to describe an inexpensive but fun product

  • A bitter pill to swallow

    A bitter pill to swallow

    Episode 160105 / 05 Jan 2016

    Learn a phrase to describe a situation that is hard to accept

  • Potty

    Potty

    Episode 151229 / 29 Dec 2015

    Learn a phrase to describe someone going mad

  • I'm game

    I'm game

    Episode 151222 / 22 Dec 2015

    Neil is dying for a game of squash but Li is not game

  • That'll put hairs on your chest!

    That'll put hairs on your chest!

    Episode 151215 / 15 Dec 2015

    An expression said when someone is about to have a strong alcoholic drink

  • Fancy someone

    Fancy someone

    Episode 151208 / 08 Dec 2015

    They seem to be getting on well... maybe they 'fancy' each other?

  • Down the pan

    Down the pan

    Episode 151201 / 01 Dec 2015

    Learn a phrase to describe a disastrous situation

  • Part of the furniture

    Part of the furniture

    Episode 151124 / 24 Nov 2015

    Learn a new idiom about being around a long time

  • Sweet tooth

    Sweet tooth

    Episode 151117 / 17 Nov 2015

    Do you have a sweet tooth? Is it something that you are born with or do you develop it?

  • Bumper-to-bumper

    Bumper-to-bumper

    Episode 151110 / 10 Nov 2015

    It looks pretty bad on the road

  • Eye candy

    Eye candy

    Episode 151103 / 03 Nov 2015

    Going out with a good-looking but uninteresting person?

  • Thingy

    Thingy

    Episode 151027 / 27 Oct 2015

    An expression for when you forget English words

  • Across the pond

    Across the pond

    Episode 151020 / 20 Oct 2015

    Learn an expression which makes an ocean sound very small indeed

  • People person

    People person

    Episode 151013 / 13 Oct 2015

    An expression for those who get along with people

  • It's a steal!

    It's a steal!

    Episode 151006 / 06 Oct 2015

    An expression for when you get a bargain

  • Bull and bear market

    Bull and bear market

    Episode 150929 / 29 Sep 2015

    Learn what we say when share prices go up and when they go down

  • Social media words

    Social media words

    Episode 150922 / 22 Sep 2015

    'Trolls' and 'haters' – the words for people who are just there to annoy you online

  • Don't give up the day job

    Don't give up the day job

    Episode 150915 / 15 Sep 2015

    Learn a phrase to give someone some friendly advice

  • A barrel of laughs

    A barrel of laughs

    Episode 150908 / 08 Sep 2015

    How to describe someone who is fun

  • To know something like the back  of your hand

    To know something like the back of your hand

    Episode 150901 / 01 Sep 2015

    A popular expression for letting people know you are an expert

  • A face for radio

    A face for radio

    Episode 150825 / 25 Aug 2015

    A useful expression for indirectly saying that someone is ugly

  • Give me credit

    Give me credit

    Episode 150818 / 18 Aug 2015

    Learn a phrase that's full of praise. You won't need a credit card to use this one

  • To keep the wolf from the door

    To keep the wolf from the door

    Episode 150811 / 11 Aug 2015

    Who's that knocking at the door? Someone's here to tell you you're in financial trouble

  • Hot desk

    Hot desk

    Episode 150804 / 04 Aug 2015

    Hot-desking is a modern way of working in offices. Learn how to use this phrase as a noun and a verb

  • Out of juice

    Out of juice

    Episode 150728 / 28 Jul 2015

    Oh no - your phone's out of battery. We have just the phrase you need!

  • The penny dropped

    The penny dropped

    Episode 150721 / 21 Jul 2015

    What do you say when you finally understand something? Learn a useful phrase to do just that in this programme

  • Red tape

    Red tape

    Episode 150714 / 14 Jul 2015

    An expression for when there are lots of rules and regulations

  • Words for underwear

    Words for underwear

    Episode 150707 / 07 Jul 2015

    What do you call your panties, socks and bra? Listen to the programme to find out...

  • To drink someone under the table

    To drink someone under the table

    Episode 150630 / 30 Jun 2015

    Drink to celebrate the good things in life, drink to forget the bad. Here's an expression for people who like a drink

  • Me time

    Me time

    Episode 150623 / 23 Jun 2015

    Both work and home are demanding lots of your time but what you really want is a few hours to yourself. Here's an expression to help you deal with that.

  • Cyberbullying

    Cyberbullying

    Episode 150616 / 16 Jun 2015

    Is there someone tormenting you online? Here's an expression for when people hide behind a computer to attack others.

  • Take a back seat

    Take a back seat

    Episode 150609 / 09 Jun 2015

    Learn a phrase about not taking control. You won't need a car for this driving-related idiom!

  • In black and white

    In black and white

    Episode 150602 / 02 Jun 2015

    What two colours do we use to describe something that's official? Learn a phrase that leaves you in no doubt!

  • A sticky situation

    A sticky situation

    Episode 150526 / 26 May 2015

    What kind of situation has Rob got into when he bumps into a woman on the way to work?

  • A close shave

    A close shave

    Episode 150519 / 19 May 2015

    What's a razor got to do with Rob's bike ride to work? Here's an expression for when you've had a narrow escape

  • My mind's gone blank

    My mind's gone blank

    Episode 150512 / 12 May 2015

    Why did Rob ask Feifei to meet him in the studio? Here's an expression for when you've forgotten something

  • To sleep on it

    To sleep on it

    Episode 150505 / 05 May 2015

    How can sleeping help you make a decision? Learn a phrase that doesn't involve lying on a bed!

  • All over the place

    All over the place

    Episode 150428 / 28 Apr 2015

    What's wrong with Neil today? Here's an expression for when you're badly organised

  • To go around the houses

    To go around the houses

    Episode 150421 / 21 Apr 2015

    Where do you go if you waste time asking pointless questions? We explain a useful phrase

  • Done and dusted

    Done and dusted

    Episode 150414 / 14 Apr 2015

    When someone says the phrase done and dusted, do they mean doing some proper cleaning?

  • Chill pill

    Chill pill

    Episode 150407 / 07 Apr 2015

    It's hard to swallow but maybe it's time for a chill pill! We explain what that is

  • Put a sock in it!

    Put a sock in it!

    Episode 150331 / 31 Mar 2015

    Why has Helen put a sock in the toaster and how is that going to keep her quiet?

  • A wild card

    A wild card

    Episode 150324 / 24 Mar 2015

    Who's the wild card in the office? Rob and Feifei use a phrase to describe an unpredictable colleague

  • To take a shot / stab in the dark

    To take a shot / stab in the dark

    Episode 150317 / 17 Mar 2015

    Feifei thinks someone's been killed but then discovers taking a stab in the dark doesn't involve using knives!

  • To keep a lid on it

    To keep a lid on it

    Episode 150310 / 10 Mar 2015

    Li and Neil get free coffee at a cafe but they need to keep a lid on it

  • To be on the ball

    To be on the ball

    Episode 150303 / 03 Mar 2015

    Learn a phrase to describe the ability to quickly react to things

  • Mind-blowing

    Mind-blowing

    Episode 150224 / 24 Feb 2015

    Feifei and Harry use an expression to describe things that amaze and astound

  • Out for the count

    Out for the count

    Episode 150217 / 17 Feb 2015

    Neil and Li talk about how a boxing expression can be used in everyday life

  • Game changer

    Game changer

    Episode 150210 / 10 Feb 2015

    Feifei and Harry use an expression for people and ideas that change the way we do things

  • Wow factor

    Wow factor

    Episode 150203 / 03 Feb 2015

    Harry and Feifei look at an expression for when things surprise and impress you

  • Full-on

    Full-on

    Episode 150127 / 27 Jan 2015

    Harry and Feifei talk about a common colloquial expression for when things are intense

  • Stab in the back

    Stab in the back

    Episode 150120 / 20 Jan 2015

    Harry and Feifei talk about an expression that is not as violent as it sounds

  • To downsize

    To downsize

    Episode 150113 / 13 Jan 2015

    Neil and Feifei talk about a word made popular by the economic downturn

  • At the movies

    At the movies

    Episode 150106 / 06 Jan 2015

    Sci-fi, romcom, whodunnit – What kind of movies do you like?

  • Killing time

    Killing time

    Episode 141230 / 30 Dec 2014

    Neil tells Helen to kill time but she smashes up a clock. Find out why and learn a useful expression.

  • Like turkeys voting for Christmas

    Like turkeys voting for Christmas

    Episode 141223 / 23 Dec 2014

    Do you celebrate Christmas? Do you like eating turkey? Do you think turkeys like Christmas? Learn this humorous idiom

  • Face the music

    Face the music

    Episode 141216 / 16 Dec 2014

    There's something Neil's forgotten to do and now he has to face the music. Listen to the programme to find out why.

  • Internet speak

    Internet speak

    Episode 141209 / 09 Dec 2014

    'Snail mail', 'post' and 'hard copy' – learn expressions connected with computers

  • Viral

    Viral

    Episode 141202 / 02 Dec 2014

    Li's cat video has gone viral. Will she be happy about it? Learn an expression from the internet age

  • Give the cold shoulder

    Give the cold shoulder

    Episode 141125 / 25 Nov 2014

    Is Feifei's designer shawl a solution to her problems with Lisa? Listen to the programme to find out

  • Phishing

    Phishing

    Episode 141118 / 18 Nov 2014

    Rob is deleting some emails. He won’t take the bait sent in by criminals!

  • Take to the cleaners

    Take to the cleaners

    Episode 141111 / 11 Nov 2014

    Rob's very expensive shirt is ruined! Who will pay for it? Listen to the programme to find out

  • Eat humble pie

    Eat humble pie

    Episode 141104 / 04 Nov 2014

    Is Rob hungry enough to win a pie-eating competition? Listen to the programme

  • Like water off a duck's back

    Like water off a duck's back

    Episode 141028 / 28 Oct 2014

    Feifei has a thing or two to learn from the ducks in the park. So do you. Listen to the programme

  • Take for a ride

    Take for a ride

    Episode 141021 / 21 Oct 2014

    Cars that run on air? Sounds too good to be true. But Li thinks they're the future and wants to invest in a company that makes them. Will she lose her money?

  • Don't throw the baby out  with the bathwater

    Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater

    Episode 141014 / 14 Oct 2014

    Is Feifei giving up her job to take care of babies? Learn an amusing idiom

  • Joe Bloggs

    Joe Bloggs

    Episode 141007 / 07 Oct 2014

    Do you know Joe Bloggs? He might be just beside you

  • Butter up

    Butter up

    Episode 140923 / 23 Sep 2014

    Is this butter for a cake, for toast or... to put on a person? Finn and Feifei explain

  • Food for thought

    Food for thought

    Episode 140914 / 14 Sep 2014

    Finn wants to buy a sports car. But Feifei gives him some 'food for thought'

  • Frogmarch

    Frogmarch

    Episode 140826 / 26 Aug 2014

    Rob challenges Helen to a word game about a funny-sounding phrase. But what has it got to do with frogs?

  • Proof is in the pudding

    Proof is in the pudding

    Episode 140819 / 19 Aug 2014

    Feifei doesn't like Rob's cooking. But Rob wants Feifei to try his dumplings and promises 'the proof is in the pudding'. What does he mean?