It's a fun science fiction trope: learn a mysterious alien language and acquire superpowers, just like if you'd been zapped by a cosmic ray or bitten by a radioactive spider. But what's the linguistics behind this idea found in books like Babel-17, Embassytown, or the movie Arrival?
In this episode, your hosts Lauren Gawne and Gretchen McCulloch get enthus ... Show More
Aug 22
107: Urban Multilingualism
When we try to represent languages on a map, it's common to assign each language a zone or a point which represents some idea of where it's used or where it comes from. But in reality, people move around, and many cities are host to hundreds of languages that don't show up on off ... Show More
39m 16s
Nov 2024
Bonus episode #124 – Pushing past pain
In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew tells the story of what happened after he hurt his knee during a marathon. He talks about his trip to the doctor, getting different treatments, and what it was like walking around with a leg brace.
How this episode will improve your English:
L ... Show More
26m 10s
Sep 1
Questions of English & Listener Comments 🙋Bits & Bobs 4 [951]
Dealing with some questions from listeners about pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary, namely how to know when 'd is had or would (in writing and pronunciation), the curious origins of the word podcast and a vocabulary lesson about the word cast including various collocations an ... Show More
1h 21m
Sep 1
Questions of English & Listener Comments 🙋Bits & Bobs 4 [951]
Dealing with some questions from listeners about pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary, namely how to know when 'd is had or would (in writing and pronunciation), the curious origins of the word podcast and a vocabulary lesson about the word cast including various collocations an ... Show More
1h 24m
Nov 2024
176 - Expression: What Goes Around Comes Around
Hello and welcome to today’s episode! ? Today, we’re diving into a popular expression in English: What goes around comes around.
It’s a phrase you’ve probably heard in movies, TV shows, or even in real life, but what does it really mean? And how can you use it in your everyday co ... Show More
17m 59s
Dec 2024
Bonus episode #131 – Talking ‘bout last week
In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew shares a story about trying to celebrate his mother-in-law’s birthday. At first, they planned a hike, but heavy snow forced them to change their plans over and over again. In the end, he and his family enjoyed a cozy, indoor party instead. You ... Show More
27m 57s
Jun 2025
#56- 16 Phrasal Verbs, Slang Words & Idioms for Feuds & Fights
Welcome to episode #55 of TheReal Life English with Gabby- 16 Phrasal Verbs, Slang words and Idioms for Feuds & Fights. In this episode, you’ll learn useful vocabulary to talk about feuds and fights in English. Inspired by recent political events, in this episode, you'll dive dee ... Show More
23m 32s
Sep 30
Past vs Present Perfect | Real-Life English Podcast A1-B1 Learners | English Podcast
Learn how to use Past Tense and Present Perfect naturally in real English conversation! In this powerful episode of English Unleashed, Tom talks about his real life — his work, travels, hobbies, health, and dreams — using only past tense and present perfect tense. There are no gr ... Show More
20m 44s