If you’re having an enthusiastic, engaging conversation in English, it’s almost guaranteed that you’re going to be interrupted. In some cultures, interrupting is considered rude, so you may be surprised that someone jumps in when it’s your turn to talk. However, interrupting can actually be an excellent way to create a connection in conversations in English, especially in American culture. That said, you may feel a little thrown off course when someone interrupts you, even … Read the article and watch the video lesson

Have you heard anyone start a request with “I was wondering…” or “I was hoping…” and wanted to know why they used a past form of the verb? Or have you felt a little uncomfortable when inviting someone to do something because you’re concerned they may already have plans or be busy? Maybe you had to share an opinion, but at the same time you wanted to show you’re open to other suggestions? This conversation strategy will help … Read the article and watch the video lesson

Have you ever found yourself in a conversation where you really liked what the other person had to say and wanted to show them that you’re looking forward to hearing more? Or realized that you missed something but knew it was central to the conversation? Or maybe felt that you had something to add but you weren’t quite sure how to interject your idea without sounding rude? We’ve all been there. If you’re connecting with … Read the article and watch the video lesson

Even if you have been speaking English for years, you are going to find yourself in a situation where someone uses a word or a phrase you don’t know, speaks a little too fast, or mumbles (speaks unclearly). The other person might be using slang or a technical term you’re not familiar with. Or they simply may not have expressed themselves clearly. In situations like these, you should not feel embarrassed or assume that it … Read the article and watch the video lesson