In lesson 1 of One Minute Danish you will learn how to say ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ in Danish.
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Month: September 2008
Lesson 01 – One Minute Mandarin
In Lesson 1, you’ll learn how to say ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ in Mandarin Chinese.
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Lesson 01 – One Minute Catalan
In lesson 1 of One Minute Catalan you will learn how to say ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ in Catalan.
Download episode | Subscribe in iTunes | RSS Feed | Bonus Materials
Lesson 01 – One Minute Catalan
In lesson 1 of One Minute Catalan you will learn how to say ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ in Catalan.
Download episode | Subscribe in iTunes | RSS Feed | Bonus Materials
Hola! Welcome to One Minute Catalan
Hola – hello! Welcome to One Minute Catalan from the Radio Lingua Network. In this podcast we’re going to be teaching you the basics of Catalan. The great thing about this language course is that you’ll be learning all you need to know in just 60 seconds – or thereabouts! Each one-minute language lesson will equip you with just enough Catalan to help you get by in lots of situations, either on holiday, or on a business trip to a Catalan-speaking area. One thing’s for sure: you’ll be guaranteed to impress native Catalan speakers by speaking their language! Our course will be broadcast on Fridays, starting 26 September. In the meantime, visit our website on http://www.oneminutelanguages.com
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A first for Radio Lingua: Write Back Soon helps English learners master their Phrasal Verbs
One of the most common requests we receive is for materials aimed at English learners from around the world and we’re delighted to announce today that Write Back Soon, a new podcast aimed at intermediate English learners, will launch on 10th October. In Write Back Soon, experienced English teacher Gerry will help listeners get to grips with their Phrasal Verbs – something which English learners traditionally find very difficult. More details will be available in the coming weeks.
こんにちは – konnichi wa! Welcome to One Minute Japanese
こんにちは – konnichi wa – hello! Welcome to One Minute Japanese from the Radio Lingua Network. In this podcast we’re going to be teaching you the basics of Japanese. The great thing about this language course is that you’ll be learning all you need to know in just 60 seconds – or thereabouts! Each one-minute language lesson will equip you with just enough Japanese to help you get by in lots of situations, either on holiday, or on a business trip to Japan. One thing’s for sure: you’ll be guaranteed to impress native Japanese speakers by speaking their language! Our course will be broadcast on Wednesdays, starting 1 October. In the meantime, visit our website on http://www.oneminutelanguages.com
Download episode | Subscribe in iTunes | RSS Feed | Bonus Materials
你好！Nǐ hǎo! Welcome to One Minute Mandarin
你好 – Nǐ hǎo – hello! Welcome to One Minute Mandarin from the Radio Lingua Network. In this podcast we’re going to be teaching you the basics of Mandarin Chinese. The great thing about this language course is that you’ll be learning all you need to know in just 60 seconds – or thereabouts! Each one-minute language lesson will equip you with just enough Mandarin to help you get by in lots of situations, either on holiday, or on a business trip to China. One thing’s for sure: you’ll be guaranteed to impress native Mandarin speakers by speaking their language! Our course will be broadcast on Mondays, starting 29 September. In the meantime, visit our website on http://www.oneminutelanguages.com
Download episode | Subscribe in iTunes | RSS Feed | Bonus Materials
Bonjour! Welcome to One Minute French
Bonjour – hello! Welcome to One Minute French from the Radio Lingua Network. In this podcast we’re going to be teaching you the basics of French. The great thing about this language course is that you’ll be learning all you need to know in just 60 seconds – or thereabouts! Each one-minute language lesson will equip you with just enough French to help you get by in lots of situations, either on holiday, or on a business trip to a French-speaking area. Our course will be broadcast on Thursdays, starting 2 October. In the meantime, visit our website on http://www.oneminutelanguages.com
Download episode | Subscribe in iTunes | RSS Feed | Bonus Materials
Hej! Welcome to One Minute Danish
Hej – hello! Welcome to One Minute Danish from the Radio Lingua Network. In this podcast we’re going to be teaching you the basics of Danish. The great thing about this language course is that you’ll be learning all you need to know in just 60 seconds – or thereabouts! Each one-minute language lesson will equip you with just enough Danish to help you get by in lots of situations, either on holiday, or on a business trip to Denmark. One thing’s for sure: you’ll be guaranteed to impress native Danish speakers by speaking their language! Our course will be broadcast on Tuesdays, starting 30 September. In the meantime, visit our website on http://www.oneminutelanguages.com
Download episode | Subscribe in iTunes | RSS Feed | Bonus Materials
Seeking help at the pharmacy in French: essential vocabulary and phrases
When travelling in a French-speaking country, you might need to visit a pharmacy for medical assistance or to purchase medication. Knowing how to communicate your needs and describe symptoms in a pharmacy in French is crucial.
This blog post will guide you through key phrases and vocabulary that will help you get the help you need during your visit to the pharmacy.
Starting the conversation
When you enter a pharmacy, the pharmacist may greet you with a polite question such as:
- Bonjour, je peux vous aider ? Hello, can I help you?
You can then explain your situation by describing your symptoms:
- Ma copine ne se sent pas très bien. My friend is not feeling well.
- J’ai mal à la gorge. I have a sore throat.
Describing symptoms
Being able to describe your symptoms accurately is essential when seeking help at a pharmacy in French. These phrases ensure that the pharmacist can understand your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment or medication. In previous episodes, we covered in more detail body aches and symptoms in French.
Here are some common ways to express how you’re feeling:
- J’ai des étourdissements. I feel dizzy.
- J’ai une allergie sur le bras. I have a rash on my arm.
- J’ai mal à la gorge depuis deux jours. I’ve had a sore throat for two days.
Asking for recommendations
After explaining your symptoms, you may need to ask the pharmacist for recommendations. If you’re unsure about what might have caused your symptoms, the pharmacist may suggest that something you ate, such as seafood or exposure to the sun, could be the issue. Here are some of these phrases that you can use at the pharmacy in French.
- Est-ce qu’il y a quelque chose qui est mal passée ? Has something you’ve eaten disagreed with you?
- Je ne pense pas que ce soit sérieux. I don’t think it’s anything serious.
- Je vais vous donner des comprimés. I’m going to give you some tablets.
Would you like to learn the pronunciation of these phrases? In episode 38 of Season 1 of the Coffee Break French podcast, you can get more insight into them and also learn other useful phrases. Listen to it now:
Receiving medication and instructions
Once the pharmacist has assessed your symptoms, they will likely provide you with medication. It’s important to understand how and when to take it:
- Prenez-les deux fois par jour avant de manger. Take them twice a day before eating.
- Vous ne devez surtout pas boire d’alcool. Above all, you must not drink alcohol.
Asking for additional products
In addition to medication, you may need to ask for other products such as creams or lotions. Here’s how to request them at the pharmacy in French:
- Est-ce que vous avez une crème pour l’allergie ? Do you have a cream for the allergy?
- Je voudrais une crème pour les coups de soleil. I would like a cream for sunburn.
Visiting a pharmacy in a foreign country can be daunting if you’re unfamiliar with the language, but knowing these essential phrases and vocabulary will help you navigate the experience with confidence. Whether you’re describing symptoms, asking for recommendations, or receiving medication, these key phrases will ensure that you get the help you need when seeking help at the pharmacy in French.
Remember to stay calm and communicate clearly, and the pharmacist will be able to assist you effectively. Bon rétablissement !
Do you want to keep improving your French skills and revise useful vocabulary to introduce yourself and ask questions to people during a party? Then check the article we prepared to help you make new acquaintances during a birthday party in French.
Coffee Break Spanish in the Podcast Awards
We recently invited you to nominate Coffee Break Spanish for a European Podcast Awards, and it must be the seaon for all the awards at the moment, as the international podcast awards have just been announced. Listeners are invited to vote for their favourite podcasts in a number of categories, and, of course, we’d be very happy if you would consider voting Coffee Break Spanish as your favourite Education podcast.
To do so, you need to go to http://www.podcastawards.com and enter “Coffee Break Spanish” in the education category. The url require for the website is http://www.coffeebreakspanish.com (but you probably knew that!). This is the nomination stage: as far as we know a jury will consider the various submissions and shortlist a number of podcasts. At that point it’s a free-for-all as everyone can vote daily for their favourite podcast! We’ll let you know if and when we reach that stage. In the meantime you should be aware that you can only submit one entry, so make sure you list your other favourite podcasts in other categories on the same form.
You can also choose to submit Coffee Break Spanish for the People’s Choice Award if you feel that this is appropriate.
We very much appreciate all your support!
Travelling through public transport in France: Essential tips and vocabulary
Exploring France by using public transportation is one of the most efficient ways to travel. Whether you are navigating the bustling streets of Paris or exploring small towns like Ste-Marie, understanding transportation in France will make your journey smoother.
This blog post will provide you with essential phrases, tips, and information on how to navigate public transport and how to ask for directions in French.
In previous lessons, we also talked about getting around using public transport and learned basic phrases in French, if you want a refresher, check out our lessons on navigating public transport.
Types of public transportation in France
France offers a variety of public transportation options, making it easy to get around the country. Here are the most common types of public transport in France:
- Le métro the metro – The metro is most commonly found in large cities like Paris, Marseille, and Lyon.
- Le bus the bus – Buses are available in cities, towns, and rural areas.
- Le train the train – Trains, including the high-speed TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse), connect major cities and regions.
- Le tramway the tram – Trams operate in cities like Bordeaux and Strasbourg.
- Le taxi the taxi – Taxis are available in most cities and can be hailed on the street or ordered via an app.
How to ask for directions in French
In a previous lesson, we covered this topic in more detail. If you would like to revise or learn more, check our lesson on asking and giving directions in French.
When using transportation in France, knowing how to ask for directions in French can be crucial, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar city. Here are some key phrases to help you find your way:
- Où se trouve l’arrêt de bus ? Where is the bus stop?
- Il y a un métro près d’ici ? Is there a metro nearby?
- Où se trouve la gare ? Where is the train station?
- Comment puis-je aller à la gare ? How can I get to the train station?
- Pouvez-vous me montrer sur le plan ? Can you show me on the map?
Navigating with public transport
Once you’ve asked for directions, it’s important to understand the routes and schedules. For example, if you are in a city like Paris, you may ask:
- Le bus passe toutes les heures ? Does the bus run every hour?
- À quelle heure part le dernier métro ? What time does the last metro leave?
- C’est à quelle distance à pied ? How far is it on foot?
Would you like to hear these phrases pronounced and used in context? Listen to episode 37 of Season 1 of the Coffee Break French podcast for more insights and useful expressions.
Buying tickets for public transportation
When using transportation in France, buying the correct ticket is essential. You can buy tickets for the metro, bus, and train from machines at stations, kiosks, or directly from drivers (for buses). Here are some useful phrases to help you purchase tickets:
- Je voudrais un ticket pour le métro. I would like a metro ticket.
- Combien coûte un billet de train pour Marseille ? How much is a train ticket to Marseille?
- Je voudrais un carnet de tickets, s’il vous plaît. I would like a book of tickets, please.
Tips for using public transportation in France
To make the most of transportation in France, here are some helpful tips:
- Always check the schedules: Train and bus schedules can vary depending on the day of the week or public holidays.
- Be prepared for strikes: Les grèves are common in France, especially with public transportation. Always check ahead for disruptions.
- Keep your tickets: In many cities, you’ll need to validate your ticket before boarding, and you may be asked to show it to inspectors.
Navigating transportation in France is easy once you’re familiar with the options and key phrases. Whether you’re travelling by metro, bus, or train, understanding how to ask for directions in French and how to buy tickets will make your journey more enjoyable. Armed with this vocabulary and knowledge, you’ll be ready to explore France with confidence and ease. Bon voyage !
Do you want to keep improving your French skills and learn about useful vocabulary and phrases to get around at the pharmacy? Then check the article we prepared to help you seek help at the pharmacy in French.
A Flavour of German – Lesson 10
In lesson 10 of A Flavour of German you’ll learn to wish someone good luck using idiomatic German phrases.
To buy in French: more vocabulary for going shopping
Shopping in a French-speaking country can be a fun and exciting experience. To make the most of it, knowing how to buy in French and the related vocabulary is key. Whether you’re purchasing souvenirs, clothes or simply browsing, mastering these phrases will help you navigate your way through any store or market.
In previous lessons, we also talked shopping and learned basic phrases in French, if you want a refresher, check out our lessons on how to do your shopping in French.
In this blog post, we’ll explore more phrases and terms related to buying in French for a smooth shopping experience.
Basic phrases for shopping
When you’re out shopping, one of the most common verbs you’ll use is acheter, which means to buy in French. Here are some important phrases to remember:
- Je voudrais acheter… I would like to buy…
- Je dois acheter… I need to buy…
- Ça coûte combien ? How much does it cost?
Asking for specific items and sizes
Sometimes, you’ll need to ask for specific items to buy in French. Here’s how to make your request clear:
- Vous avez des cartes postales ? Do you have postcards?
- Je voudrais acheter un timbre. I would like to buy a stamp.
- Je voudrais essayer ces chaussures. I would like to try on these shoes.
- Vous les avez en 38 ? Do you have these in size 38? (referring to shoes)
Would you like to hear these phrases pronounced and used in context? Listen to Episode 36 of Season 1 of the Coffee Break French podcast for more insights and useful expressions to shop and buy in French.
Asking for assistance
Sometimes, you might need assistance while browsing or deciding on an item. Here’s how you can ask for help:
- Pouvez-vous m’aider ? Can you help me?
- Je cherche quelque chose de particulier. I’m looking for something specific.
- N’hésitez pas à me demander. Don’t hesitate to ask me.
- Elles coûtent combien ? How much do they cost?
Completing the purchase
After you’ve selected your items to buy in French, it’s time to complete the transaction:
- Vous passez à la caisse ? Are you going to the checkout?
- Je prends ça. I’ll take that.
- Ça fait combien en tout ? How much is it in total?
- Je paie par carte de crédit. I’m paying by credit card.
- Je paie en espèces. I’m paying in cash.
Knowing how to buy in French will make your shopping experience in any French-speaking country more enjoyable and less stressful. By mastering the essential vocabulary and phrases, you can ask for specific items, discuss prices, and complete your purchase with ease.
Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, clothes, or everyday items, these phrases will ensure a smooth and successful trip. Bon shopping !
Do you want to keep improving your French skills and learn how to get around with public transport? Then check the article we prepared to help you when travelling by public transport on your trip to France.
Navigating the tourist office in France: how to get essential information in French
When visiting a new city in France, the tourist office is often your first stop for getting oriented and finding out about local attractions. Knowing how to ask for information in French can significantly enhance your experience and ensure you don’t miss out on the best that the area has to offer.
This blog post will guide you through key phrases and vocabulary that will help you get the most out of your visit to the tourist office.
Asking for general information in French
As you enter the tourist office, you might need to start by asking for general information in French. Here are some phrases that will help you get started:
- Bonjour, je peux vous aider ? Hello, can I help you?
- Oui, on a besoin de quelques renseignements sur la ville. Yes, we need some information about the city.
- Qu’est-ce qu’on peut faire ici ? What can we do here?
Getting maps and brochures
One of the first things you’ll want to ask for is a map of the city. Maps and brochures are essential tools for exploring any new area, and asking for them confidently in French will help you plan your visit more effectively:
- Avez-vous un plan de la ville ? Do you have a map of the city?
- Je n’ai pas de plan. I don’t have a map.
- Puis-je avoir une brochure sur les activités locales ? Can I have a brochure about local activities?
Learning about local attractions
Once you have your map, the next step is to learn about the local attractions making sure you don’t miss any highlights. Here’s how you can inquire about them:
- Quels sont les sites touristiques à ne pas manquer ? What are the must-see tourist sites?
- Le château est-il ouvert aujourd’hui ? Is the castle open today?
- Y a-t-il un marché demain ? Is there a market tomorrow?
Would you like to learn the pronunciation of these phrases? In episode 35 of Season 1 of the Coffee Break French podcast, you can get more insight into them and also learn other useful phrases. Listen to it now:
Specific events and activities
If you’re interested in specific events or activities, here’s how you can ask about them:
- Y a-t-il des animations touristiques cette semaine ? Are there any tourist activities this week?
- Quels sont les meilleurs restaurants de la ville ? What are the best restaurants in the city?
- Pouvez-vous recommander une promenade ? Can you recommend a walk?
Confirming and understanding directions
After gathering your information in French, you’ll need to ensure you understand how to get to the attractions you’re interested in. Here’s how to ask for directions:
- Pouvez-vous me montrer sur le plan ? Can you show me on the map?
- Comment puis-je aller au port ? How can I get to the port?
- Est-ce loin d’ici ? Is it far from here?
Understanding and confirming directions is key to making the most of your visit and ensuring that you reach all your planned destinations.
Visiting the tourist office is an excellent way to gather information in French about the local area, ensuring you have all the details you need to enjoy your trip. Whether you’re asking for a map, learning about local attractions, or confirming directions, knowing these key phrases will help you navigate your visit with ease.
Once you have learned this essential vocabulary, you’ll be well-equipped to explore France confidently and make the most of your travel experience. Bon voyage !
After you visit the area, you will surely want to do some shopping. Lucky for you, because in our next episode, we will help you do your shopping in French.
