Vocabulary practice · Episode 16

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.

B1–B2VocabularyAbout 12 min + dynamic ads5 PDF versions 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

make up your mind

to decide

Nuance: shows hesitation, thought, and finally, action.

I couldn’t make up my mind about which podcast to listen to first.

Just make up your mind and start speaking English.

Expression 2

give it a try

try something new, even if you’re not sure

Nuance: sounds friendly and positive.

Just give it a try — one sentence at a time.

I’ve never recorded my voice before, but I’ll give it a try.

Expression 3

step by step

little by little, calmly

Nuance: paints a picture: walking, moving forward, no rush.

Fluency is built step by step, not overnight.

I’m building my confidence step by step.

Expression 4

sooner or later

eventually, it will happen

Nuance: perfect when you’re patient but hopeful.

Sooner or later, all that listening will pay off.

It’s perfect when you’re patient but hopeful.

Expression 5

keep an open mind

stay ready for new ideas

Nuance: all about curiosity.

You have to keep an open mind about how adults learn.

The more open your mind, the more English fits inside it.

Expression 6

get out of your comfort zone

do something new or uncomfortable to grow

Nuance: has energy.

You grow faster when you get out of your comfort zone.

I joined a conversation group to get out of my comfort zone.

Expression 7

go with the flow

relax and accept things as they come

Nuance: means you still move — but gently.

Stop forcing it — just go with the flow.

When my plan changed, I went with the flow and enjoyed it.

Expression 8

don’t beat yourself up

don’t be too hard on yourself

Nuance: emotional and common in speech.

Students beat themselves up for small mistakes.

I made a mistake during the call, but I’m not going to beat myself up about it.

Expression 9

practice makes perfect

the more you practice, the better you get

Nuance: our philosophy in one line.

Keep shadowing every morning. Practice makes progress.

Because perfection is impossible, but progress is beautiful.

Expression 10

it’s never too late

you can start again anytime

Nuance: feels stronger, like encouragement from a friend.

It’s never too late to rebuild your habits.

It’s never too late to learn English slowly — and enjoy it.

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