Smart English Coach

If you already have a good level of English, you probably know a lot of language that you don't always use. In this episode, I talk about why advanced learners need opportunities to experiment with English: trying new vocabulary and expressions, getting feedback and trying again. A supportive environment makes this much easier. When you know it's OK to make mistakes, you're more willing to try using English in new ways. If you'd like somewhere to practise, get feedback and keep developing you...

You probably know much more English vocabulary than you actually use. In this episode, we look at why some ordinary words stay in your passive vocabulary - and how bringing them into your active English can help you express yourself more precisely, naturally and confidently. Advanced English isn't necessarily about learning more complicated words. Sometimes it's about finding the one right word instead of explaining the idea in five. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an epi...

What do fresh ideas, fresh air, a fresh pair of eyes, refresh your memory and freshen up have in common? In this Vocabulary Upgrade episode, I explore the different meanings and patterns behind the word fresh - from something new or recently arrived to something clean, renewed, or full of energy. You’ll discover why we talk about fresh talent, fresh out of university, a fresh perspective, refreshing a room and even telling someone not to get fresh with you. Understanding the connections ...

My summer sale is now on. Get 50% off my five advanced English courses here: smartenglishcoachcom/offer After nearly 40 years of teaching English, I've noticed something interesting... The biggest challenges English learners face are often not what they think they are. You might think you need more grammar, more vocabulary, or more time studying. But I've learned that becoming fluent is about something much more important: knowing how to use the English you already know. In this episode, I sh...

What do sit bolt upright, a horse bolts, bolt-on and a bolt from the blue have in common? In this episode, I explore how understanding the patterns behind English vocabulary can help you remember new expressions more easily. You'll discover the many meanings of the word bolt and why recognising these connections is one of the keys to sounding more natural in English. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get free English coaching tips here. Get the transcript Follow...