Vocabulary practice · Episode 115

Review the useful expressions from the episode

Study the episode’s central expressions with English definitions, nuance and examples, plus reviewed support-language versions where available.

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A short study session

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  1. Choose one expression. Read its definition, nuance and examples.
  2. Make it yours. Write one true sentence from your own life.
  3. Return to the episode. Listen for the expression in its original context.

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Vocabulary from the episode

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Expression 1

Let me think

A neutral phrase used to create a short pause before answering.

Nuance: Natural in informal and professional conversation; it signals that you still intend to answer.

Let me think. Friday afternoon should be possible.

Let me think before I choose.

Expression 2

Give me a second

An informal request for a very short amount of time.

Nuance: Common with friends and colleagues; tone determines whether it sounds friendly or abrupt.

Give me a second. I think I saw your keys.

Just give me a second, please.

Expression 3

How can I put this?

A phrase used before expressing a difficult, delicate or complex idea.

Nuance: It signals careful wording and can soften criticism or sensitive information.

How can I put this? The project needs a clearer direction.

How can I put this? Your previous style suited you better.

Expression 4

What I mean is...

A phrase used to clarify or reformulate a message.

Nuance: Use it after an unclear statement or misunderstanding; it introduces the intended meaning.

What I mean is, perhaps we should choose another day.

I am not refusing. What I mean is, I need more time.

Expression 5

That's a good question

A response that acknowledges a thoughtful or difficult question while creating thinking time.

Nuance: Often sounds appreciative; it should be followed by a real answer, not used to avoid one.

That is a good question. I have never considered it.

That is a good question. Let me think.

Expression 6

Let me see

An informal phrase used while remembering, checking or deciding something.

Nuance: More active than Let me think: it often suggests mentally or physically checking information.

Let me see. I may have the address here.

Let me see which train arrives first.

Expression 7

Bear with me for a moment

A polite request for patience while you think, check or complete something.

Nuance: Useful when the delay affects the listener; slightly more formal than Give me a second.

Bear with me for a moment while I open the file.

Please bear with me while I check the figures.

Expression 8

Let me gather my thoughts

A phrase used when you need time to organise several ideas before speaking.

Nuance: Suitable for reflective, emotional or complex answers; longer pause than Let me think.

Let me gather my thoughts before I answer.

The news surprised me. Let me gather my thoughts.

Expression 9

I need a moment to think about that

A clear statement that a question or decision requires reflection.

Nuance: Direct but respectful; useful when a quick answer would be unwise.

I need a moment to think about that before I decide.

That is an important offer. I need a moment to think about it.

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