Plain English is the podcast for learners everywhere who want to improve their English in a fun and modern way. Every Monday and Thursday, we explore the events and trends that shape the world in clear, understandable English. We also take a close look at one English expression or phrasal verb in each episode. Best of all, we go at a slower speed so you can understand every word. By listening to current events and trending topics, you will expand your vocabulary, improve your English listening, and learn about the world. No wonder learners from 160+ countries have made Plain English part of their routine. Read full transcripts and unlock free extras at PlainEnglish.com
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Gesamtlänge aller Episoden: 9 days 14 hours 47 minutes
episode 18: Mexico debates legalizing marijuana | What it means to ‘get your fix’
A Mexican government official suggested legalizing marijuana in tourist areas to reduce violence, but a majority of Mexicans appear to be against the idea. Canada and several US states have made the drug legal for recreational use. Would Mexico ever...
episode 17: Super Bowl traditions in US | English expression ‘pit against’
One of the biggest dates on the American cultural calendar is the first weekend of February—Super Bowl Sunday. On this episode of Plain English, we talk about the American traditions for football’s biggest game, including the halftime show, the...
episode 16: Stolen: World’s most expensive bottle of vodka | English phrase 'getting cold feet’
A collector’s bottle of vodka, made of gold and silver and decorated with diamonds and classic car parts, was stolen from the basement of a bar in Copenhagen, Denmark. Police found the (empty) bottle at a construction site a few days later. The...
episode 15: App matches your face with famous paintings |Learn the English phrase ‘Push the limit’
Today on Plain English: Do you have a historical double—in a painting? A new feature in a Google app will search historical artwork and tell you which painting or portrait most looks like you. But the app only works in the US due to privacy laws....
episode 14: Could Oprah be president? | English phrase ‘speak up’
Today on Plain English: Media mogul Oprah Winfrey gave an inspirational speech at the Golden Globe Awards in January, focusing on injustice and sexual abuse and harassment scandals. Could that be the first step in a potential run for president? We...
episode 13: North Korea to participate in Winter Olympics | How to use ‘rocky’
Today on Plain English: North Korea announced it will send a delegation of athletes to the Winter Olympics, being held in Pyeongchang, just 40 miles from the Demilitarized Zone that separates the two countries. The two Koreas may compete together with...
episode 12: Giving up alcohol for ‘Dry January’ | Pumping their own gas in Oregon | English words ‘sober’ and ‘quirky’
A UK charity encourages people to give up alcohol for the month of January. Those who do experience better sleep, weight loss, and better health—but does it make a big difference? Oregon is one of only two states that have full-service gas stations,...
episode 11: Protests in Iran | New Year around the world | Practice ‘shut down’ & ‘bucket list’
Protesters in Iran are demonstrating against the government, focusing on the economic conditions that include high unemployment and high inflation. The government has shut down social media in response. Many countries have their own New Year’s...
episode 10: Power out at world’s busiest airport | Spain’s lottery | English words ‘stranded’ and ‘fundraiser’
An electrical fire below ground knocked out power at the Atlanta airport—the world’s busiest—for eleven hours just eight days before Christmas. Passengers were left in the dark, wondering what to do; many had to sleep in the airport that night....
episode 9: Saudi Arabia to allow cinemas | Facebook bad for mental health? | English phrases ‘dive in’ and ‘wind up’
Saudi Arabia will allow construction of new movie theaters, after a 35-year prohibition. Theater chains are ready to dive into a new market, but some questions remain about censorship and how this deeply religious country will embrace the cinema...