Podcast · Learning

Learn English with Coffee Break English

by Coffee Break Languages · English · Learning

Coffee Break English is a podcast which will help you learn English in regular 15-minute episodes, perfect for your coffee break! Find out more about Coffee Break English at https://coffeebreaklanguages.com/coffeebreakenglish/ . Coffee Break English can help you improve your English with short l

New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 10 min
Latest: 12 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

12 Oct 2026 · 7 minNew

5 English adjectives that don't mean what you think: a false friends quiz

How well do you know these 5 tricky English adjectives? In this episode of Coffee Break English, Nick puts your vocabulary to the test with words that look very similar to words in other languages but don't always mean the same thing in English. You'll hear each adjective in context, choose from three possible meanings, then find out why it catches so many learners out. Keep track of your score, then head to the video version to see the spellings and tell us how you got on. ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode . ➡️ Want more tips like these delivered straight to your…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S7 · E13 · 28 Sep 2026 · 9 min
When to use 'I want' in English and when it's too direct
When does "I want" sound completely natural in English, and when can it sound too direct? In this episode of Coffee Break English, Nick looks at the verb "want" in restaurants, job interviews and work emails, and explains why it works so well for your own desires, goals and intentions but can sound too strong when you use it to make requests. At the end of the episode you'll have the chance to test what you've learned and practise using "want" to talk about your own plans. So, what do you want to do in the next few months? ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode . ➡️ To…
S7 · E12 · 14 Sep 2026 · 9 min
6 natural alternatives to 'I want' in English
Do you use "I want" for everything in English? There's nothing wrong with it, but in some situations it can sound too direct or even demanding. In this episode of Coffee Break English, Nick introduces 6 natural alternatives that help you make polite requests and talk more precisely about your hopes, plans, ideas and preferences. He also explains when "I want" is exactly the right choice. Don't forget to download the free "I want" alternatives cheat sheet for extra examples and practice: click here to access it now . ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode . ➡️ Get free…
S7 · E11 · 31 Aug 2026 · 9 min
8 phrases to buy yourself thinking time in English
Do you ever find yourself freezing in English because you need a moment to think? In this episode of Coffee Break English, Nick shares 8 simple phrases that help you keep a conversation flowing while you organise your thoughts, including everyday expressions like "let me think", "actually", "the thing is" and "well". By the end you'll have a small toolkit to fall back on when you're not quite sure what to say next. ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode . ➡️ Want more tips like these delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free newsletter:…
S7 · E10 · 17 Aug 2026 · 11 min
12 natural English reactions for everyday conversation
Native English speakers react to each other constantly with short phrases like "No way!", "Fair enough" and "What a nightmare", but you rarely find them in a textbook. In this episode, Nick teaches twelve of these natural reactions, grouped into surprise, agreement and sympathy, and explains how your intonation can completely change the feeling of the same few words. There's a quick practice section too, so you can try them out straight away. ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode . ➡️ To receive regular free mini-lessons like this straight to your inbox, visit:…
S7 · E9 · 3 Aug 2026 · 7 min
How to sound more natural: describing experiences instead of using 'nice' or 'good'
Do you often describe everything as 'good', 'nice' or 'interesting'? In this episode, Nick shares two simple techniques that will instantly help your English sound more expressive, natural and confident: describing the experience rather than the object, and describing how something made you feel. You'll hear plenty of everyday phrases you can start using straight away, in conversations, on holiday, in meetings and beyond. ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode . ➡️ To receive regular free mini-lessons like this straight to your inbox, visit:…
S7 · E8 · 20 Jul 2026 · 6 min
Stop saying 'I think' so much: 3 ways to sound more confident
"I think" is one of the most overused phrases in English, and it can make you sound less sure of yourself than you really are. In this episode, Nick shares three simple strategies to help you speak with more confidence: when to remove it, how to upgrade it, and when to keep it. ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode . ➡️ To receive regular free mini-lessons like this straight to your inbox, visit: https://coffeebreaklanguages.kit.com/newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S7 · E7 · 6 Jul 2026 · 11 min
7 natural English phrases that make you sound more fluent
In this episode of Coffee Break English, Nick shares 7 natural English phrases that help you sound more fluent in conversations and in exams like IELTS. You'll learn simple but powerful expressions that help you respond naturally, connect your ideas clearly and summarise with confidence. So grab a coffee and join us for another Coffee Break English lesson. ☕️ ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode . ➡️ To receive regular free mini-lessons like this straight to your inbox, visit: https://coffeebreaklanguages.kit.com/newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more…
S7 · E6 · 22 Jun 2026 · 7 min
What to say in English when you forget a word
In this episode of Coffee Break English, Nick shows you what to say when you can't remember a word. It happens to everyone, and the good news is you don't need the exact word to keep talking. You'll learn how to describe an idea in simpler words, how to keep your language clear and easy, and a few natural phrases that buy you time to think. With these three simple strategies, you can stay calm and keep speaking with confidence. ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode and find a free worksheet in the comments section. ➡️ To receive regular free mini-lessons like this straight…
S7 · E5 · 8 Jun 2026 · 10 min
How to sound more professional in English at work
In this episode of Coffee Break English, Nick shows you how to sound more professional at work, without any difficult grammar. You'll learn simple ways to upgrade everyday phrases, like turning "I think" into "it seems", so you can feel more confident in meetings, emails and conversations with colleagues. ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode . ➡️ To receive regular free mini-lessons like this straight to your inbox, visit: https://coffeebreaklanguages.kit.com/newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S7 · E4 · 25 May 2026 · 9 min
3 listening strategies to understand spoken English
Do you ever feel lost when listening to English because you missed one important word? The good news is that you don't need to understand every word to follow the message. In this episode, Nick shares three simple listening strategies, plus a bonus tip, to help you feel calmer and more confident next time you listen to spoken English. ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode . ➡️ To practise these strategies step by step, take a look at the Skills Boost listening lessons on Coffee Break TV: https://coffeebreaktv.com/programs/collection-t1mxuaqmw-8 Hosted on Acast. See…
S7 · E3 · 11 May 2026 · 9 min
All 9 English modal verbs explained in under 5 minutes
Can you name all 9 English modal verbs? In this fast-paced episode of Coffee Break English, Nick gives you a clear overview of all of them: must, should, can, could, will, would, shall, might and may. You'll learn what each one means and how to use it, in just 5 minutes. 🎧 Want to take your learning further? Check out our "A Coffee Break With…" series on modal verbs on Coffee Break TV, where we explore each modal verb in more depth with examples and guided practice. ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode. ➡️ To receive regular free mini-lessons like this straight to your…
S7 · E2 · 27 Apr 2026 · 9 min
Read faster in English: 4 reading skills you already have
Nick guides you through four reading strategies you probably already use in your own language and shows you how to use them in English. From reading for the gist to skimming, scanning and slowing down for detail, each one helps you read more confidently and find what you need faster. Which one will you try first? ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode. ➡️ Want more tips like these delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free newsletter: https://coffeebreaklanguages.kit.com/newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S7 · E1 · 13 Apr 2026 · 11 min
Nick teaches you 10 essential phrasal verbs for shopping in English, from "look for" and "try on" to "rip off" and "pick out"
Shopping in English is full of phrasal verbs, and if you don't know them, even a simple trip to the shops can feel tricky. In this episode, Nick walks you through 10 essential phrasal verbs for shopping, from "look for" and "try on" to "rip off" and "pick out", with clear examples and a quick practice challenge to finish. ➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode. ➡️ To receive regular free mini-lessons like this straight to your inbox, visit: https://coffeebreaklanguages.kit.com/newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S6 · E10 · 8 Jul 2025 · 10 min
How to use 'get' in English | The Coffee Break English Show 2.10
How many meanings of the word ‘get’ do you know? In this final episode of The Coffee Break English Show Season 2, Nick and Anabel will help you build your vocabulary with one of the most versatile words in the English language. You will look at 6 essential meanings of the word ‘get’, with plenty of examples and a quick quiz at the end. ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this episode ⬅️ You can watch the video version of this episode here: 👉 How to use 'get' in English Now watch: 👉 How to use "GET” in English | Coffee Break English Podcast S2E10 Hosted on…
S6 · E9 · 1 Jul 2025 · 15 min
English word stress explained - 'PREsent' or 'preSENT' | The Coffee Break English Show 2.09
What’s the difference between ‘PREsent’ and ‘preSENT’? If you’re not sure, then this episode of The Coffee Break English Show is perfect for you! Join Nick and Anabel as they look at syllable stress and how words can change meaning depending on how they are pronounced. 🗣️ They look at the important rules to know, lots of examples, and some common exceptions. Plus, they practise these rules with a fun quiz! ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this episode ⬅️ You can watch the video version of this episode here: 👉 English word stress explained - 'PREsent' or…
S6 · E8 · 24 Jun 2025 · 12 min
'So', 'too', 'either' and 'neither' - Key phrases for natural English | The Coffee Break English Show 2.08
Do you know when to use ‘so do I’, ‘me too’ and ‘me neither’? In this episode of The Coffee Break English Show, Nick and Mark look at how to communicate similar experiences in conversations using ‘so’, ‘too’, ‘either’ and ‘neither’. They provide plenty of examples and even do a fun quiz to practise. By the end of this episode, you’ll be confident with conversations too! ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this episode ⬅️ You can watch the video version of this episode here: 👉 'So', 'too', 'either' and 'neither' - Key phrases for natural English Now watch 👉…
S6 · E7 · 17 Jun 2025 · 9 min
How to use 'yet', 'just' and 'already' in English | The Coffee Break English Show 2.07
So you have learnt how to use the present perfect? Can you use these three adverbs as well? ‘Just’, ‘yet’ and ‘already’ are great ways to be more specific when talking about recent actions. In this episode of The Coffee Break English Show, Nick and Francesca break down how to use these powerful time phrases so you can sound like a pro 💪 ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this episode ⬅️ You can watch the video version of this episode here: 👉 You can watch the video version of this episode . Now watch: 👉 How to use the present perfect in English | Coffee…
S6 · E6 · 10 Jun 2025 · 10 min
The present perfect tense - How to talk about experiences | The Coffee Break English Show 2.06
Do you get confused with the present perfect? Do you know when to use ‘been’ or’ gone’? In this episode of The Coffee Break English Show, Nick and Francesca unpack the Present Perfect tense to help you talk about your life experiences with confidence. They give clear examples and show you how to use ‘been’ and ‘gone’ effectively, as well as when to use the past simple. And stay tuned for a fun game to practise the present perfect near the end. 🎲 ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this episode ⬅️ 👉 You can watch the video version of this episode . Now watch…
S6 · E5 · 3 Jun 2025 · 12 min
Too much or too many: What’s the difference? | The Coffee Break English Show 2.05
We are now halfway through this series of The Coffee Break English Show! In this episode, we talk about the quantifiers 'too much, 'too many' and 'enough'. By the end of this episode, you will be able to describe quantities with clarity and precision 🎯 ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this episode ⬅️ 👉 You can watch the video version of this episode . Now watch: ‘How much' or 'how many'? | The Coffee Break English Show 1.10 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S6 · E4 · 27 May 2025 · 12 min
How to pronounce TH Sounds in English | The Coffee Break English Show 2.04
Do you find producing the ' th ' sound difficult? In this episode of the Coffee Break English Show, we look at different 'th' sounds and how to make them. Nick and Francesca look at lots of practical examples and provide plenty of practice with tongue twisters to help you master this difficult sound. 👅😵‍💫 ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this episode ⬅️ Now watch! 👉 How to pronounce 'Tuesday' and 'Thursday' | The Coffee Break English Show 1.09 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S6 · E3 · 20 May 2025 · 13 min
Future forms in English - Talking about future plans | The Coffee Break English Show 2.03
Do you know when to use ‘will’, ‘be going to’ and the present continuous?? In this episode, we talk about future plans and how to use ‘will’, ‘be going to’, and the present continuous to be precise about your plans and ideas. By the end of the episode, you will have a clear understanding of when to use each of these important future phrases. 🔮 Plus Nick and Anabel provide clear examples and a mini quiz at the end! ✍️ ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this episode ⬅️ Now watch! 👉 Future in english - how to talk about the future | Coffee Break English…
S6 · E2 · 13 May 2025 · 12 min
'Must' and 'have to' - 4 simple rules | The Coffee Break English Show 2.02
Welcome back to episode two of The Coffee Break English Show! In this episode, Nick and Francesca explain how to use 'must' and 'have to' with 4 simple rules ! By the end of this episode, you will be able to use these tricky modal verbs with ease 💪 ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this episode ⬅️ 📺Now watch! 'Have to' and 'want to' in English | Coffee Break English Podcast S4E04 📺 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S6 · E1 · 6 May 2025 · 14 min
Making comparisons - How to use 'much' and 'a bit' | The Coffee Break English Show 2.01
Welcome to a brand new season of the Coffee Break English Show! Throughout this 10-episode series, Nick will help you take your English to the next level alongside guest hosts Anabel, Mark and Francesca. Join them and improve your English, one coffee break at a time! ☕ We cover a range of topics to help you deepen your understanding of tricky grammar, broaden your vocabulary, and improve your pronunciation. You'll sound like a native speaker in no time! In the first episode of Season 2, we talk about comparative adjectives and how you can make them stronger and weaker with modifiers. Prefer…
S5 · E11 · 18 Dec 2024 · 16 min
Festive Bonus Episode | 6 examples of phrasal verbs to celebrate the holidays
Welcome to this bonus episode of Coffee Break English! Today, we're learning some examples of phrasal verbs in the time it takes to have a coffee! In this episode, Nick talks to Anabel about what is important to him during the festive period. He uses a lot of examples of phrasal verbs and Nick and Anabel will go through each phrasal verb and explain their meaning. ➡️ That's not all! There's a blog article for this episode, with further explanations about phrasal verbs. Click here to access it now . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S5 · E10 · 22 Dec 2023 · 13 min
‘How much' or 'how many'? | The Coffee Break English Show 1.10
Do you know when to use how much and how many in English? In this final episode of The Coffee Break English Show, Josie and Maurizio talk about when to use how much and how many as well as looking at a few examples. ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S5 · E9 · 15 Dec 2023 · 10 min
How to pronounce 'Tuesday' and 'Thursday' | The Coffee Break English Show 1.09
Do you know how to say the words Tuesday and Thursday correctly in English? In this episode of The Coffee Break English Show, Josie and Mark chat about how to pronounce Tuesday and Thursday - and use these sounds in other words. By the end of this episode you will be more confident in pronouncing the 'tu' and 'thu' sounds in English! ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️ ☕️ To purchase a Coffee Break mug, click here ☕️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S5 · E8 · 8 Dec 2023 · 13 min
‘A' or 'the'? - How to use articles | The Coffee Break English Show 1.08
In this new episode of The Coffee Break English Show, Mark and Josie chat about when to use ‘a’ and ‘the’ to talk about general and specific things. By the end of this episode you will feel confident using definite and indefinite articles. ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S5 · E7 · 1 Dec 2023 · 15 min
‘In', 'on', or 'at'? - Choosing prepositions | The Coffee Break English Show 1.07
Do you know when to use prepositions 'in', 'on', and 'at' in English? In this episode of The Coffee Break English Show, Josie and Maurizio talk about the rules for when to use these prepositions when we talk about time, and they give examples to help you understand. ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S5 · E6 · 24 Nov 2023 · 10 min
When to say 'is it?' at the end of a phrase - Question tags | The Coffee Break English Show 1.06
Do you know when to correctly use "is it?" at the end of a an English phrase? In this episode of The Coffee Break English Show we talk about the rules for how to use question tags such as "is it?". Then we also give some examples to practise! ➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About Learn English with Coffee Break English

Learn English with Coffee Break English is a English learning podcast from Coffee Break Languages. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Coffee Break Languages
Language: English
Category: Learning
New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 10 min
Latest episode: 12 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1500388439
Rights: Radio Lingua Ltd

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