The English We Speak

Listen to the second part of our pantomime. This week, Cinderella meets the charming Prince Stephen. But he only speaks in English idioms! The final part of the pantomime is next week.

Listen to the first part of Cinderella, our special pantomime. Cinderella dreams of escaping her ugly sisters, but how will she ever be able to go to Prince Stephen's Ball? Part two is next week.

In the last programme of the series, John Ayto explains the origin, meaning and use of the words 'bottle' and 'bottler'.

In this week's episode, John Ayto explores the origin, meaning and use of the expression 'early doors'.

In this week's episode, John Ayto explores the origin, meaning and use of the phrase 'go commando'.

In this week's episode, John Ayto explores the origin, meaning and use of the phrase 'go postal'.

In this episode, John Ayto examines the meaning and usage of the phrase 'fit for purpose'.

In this episode, John Ayto examines the meaning of the word 'issue' and how it can sometimes be used instead of the word 'problem'.

In this week's episode, John Ayto explores the origin, meaning and use of the prefix 'hella'.

In this episode, John Ayto examines the meaning of the word 'chugger'.

In this episode, John Ayto examines a new use of the word 'edgy'.

In this episode, John Ayto considers how people use the word 'minging'.

John Ayto explains the origin, meaning and use of the word 'bridezilla'

In this episode, you'll find out about a word regularly used when we talk about social networking. John Ayto explores the origins and uses of the word "Tweet"

In this first episode in a new series of Keep your English up to date, John Ayto explains the origin, meaning and use of the word 'apps'