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Coffee Break Languages

CBS Scenes 1.01 | ¡Qué mal trago!

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Join Mark and Pablo at the start of an engaging new story! In Chapter 1 of Scenes, our latest course for intermediate learners, we’re introduced to Isabel, her café, and its colourful array of customers. Each chapter unveils a scene from this charming café, giving us the chance to learn more about the people who walk through its doors.

In this first chapter, we meet three nurses – Carmen, Míriam, and Pilar – who are unwinding at the café after their night shift at a nearby hospital. Míriam seems troubled by something, but Isabel steps in to help her feel better.

Alongside the story, you’ll discover useful grammar and vocabulary, including phrases like un mal trago, echar una buena bronca, and quitar un disgusto.

If this sounds like the perfect way to boost your language learning journey, ¡no te pierdas el primer capítlo de Scenes!

CBG Scenes 1.01 | Kaffee, Kuchen und eine Überraschung

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Join Mark and Thomas at the start of an exciting new story! In this first chapter of Scenes, our latest course for intermediate German learners, we visit Erna’s cosy café by the park, where regular customers and unexpected surprises make each morning unique.

We meet Heinz, a long-time patron known for his punctuality and unwavering routine. Every day, he arrives at exactly 8am for his usual coffee. But today, something is different – Heinz is late, and when he finally walks in, he’s not alone. To Erna’s amazement, he’s brought along a lively Spaniel puppy, a new companion he decided to adopt overnight. As Heinz shares his story, we get a glimpse into his life and the small but meaningful decisions that bring change.

Alongside the story, Mark and Thomas will highlight useful grammar and vocabulary, such as expressions with (sich) besorgen, the use of the present participle, or expressions like von einem Tag auf den nächsten. Their explanations, examples and discussions are perfect for intermediate German learners. If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to improve your German, don’t miss this first chapter of Scenes!

CBI Scenes 1.01 | Se vuoi un buon caffè, devi aspettare

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Welcome to Scenes from the Coffee Break Café! In this first episode, we introduce you to Caffè di Tulli and to Lorenzo, the café’s enthusiastic new owner. As he settles into his role, we’re introduced to some fascinating regulars, come la signora Rachele.

Pour yourself a coffee and join us for the start of this journey, where every visit to the café reveals a new tale. This episode is just the beginning of what’s sure to be a rich and flavourful series!

Alongside the story, Mark and Francesca will highlight useful grammar and vocabulary, helping you take your language skills to the next level. Their explanations, examples and discussions are perfect for intermediate Italian learners. If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to improve your Italian, don’t miss this first chapter of Scenes!

CBF Scenes 1.01 | Un début prometteur

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Join Mark and Hélène at the start of an engaging new story! In this first chapter of Scenes, our course for intermediate French learners, we are introduced to Chez Nico, a lively village café where locals and visitors cross paths.

We meet Nico, the new owner, who has just taken over the café where he grew up. As he navigates his first busy weekend, we also get to know Romain, a taxi driver and football enthusiast who stops by for his daily coffee. Between tourists on the terrace and local shopkeepers dropping in for lunch, Nico is off to a great start, but will Chez Nico be a success?

Alongside the story, Mark and Hélène will highlight useful grammar and vocabulary, such as the difference between the passé composé and imparfait and expressions like croiser les doigts.

If you’re looking for a fun and immersive way to improve your French, ne manquez pas ce premier chapitre de Scenes !

Why learn Japanese? 8 great reasons to start today!

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Cherry blossoms in full bloom with Osaka Castle in the background

Are you thinking about learning Japanese but feeling a bit unsure if it’s the right fit for you? Don’t worry, you are not alone! In this blog post, we will answer the question ‘why learn Japanese?’ outlining a couple of great reasons that might inspire you to pursue this goal and turn your dream into reality.

After all, learning a language can be an incredibly rewarding experience, opening doors to incredible cultural experiences and personal growth. So, grab your coffee (or matcha!), settle in, and let’s investigate why Japanese should be on your to-learn list.

1. Japan’s rich and unique culture

Japan’s culture is a tapestry of traditions, art and also innovation. Learning Japanese allows you to experience it in a way that goes beyond the surface level. From participating in a tea ceremony to understanding the symbolism in Kabuki theatre or savouring sushi at a traditional omakase, speaking Japanese lets you connect deeply with the culture.

But it’s not just about the traditional customs — Japan’s pop culture scene is equally mesmerising. Whether you’re an anime and manga enthusiast, a J-pop fan or a gamer who loves titles like The Legend of Zelda, knowing Japanese helps you appreciate these art forms in their original language. 

Why learn Japanese? Just think about how great it would be to watch your favourite shows without losing any meaning in translation or singing your favourite songs with the right pronunciation!

2. To make the most of your travel experience

Reason two to ‘why learn Japanese’: to transform your travel experience! Picture this: you’re wandering through the serene temples of Kyoto, or exploring the bustling streets of Osaka. Knowing more than just a few basic Japanese phrases like sumimasen excuse me or arigatou gozaimasu thank you) can turn a simple trip into an extraordinary adventure.

The locals truly appreciate when visitors try to speak their language and you’ll find that a little effort can go a long way. You’ll be able to ask for recommendations, easily navigate public transport, and even discover some hidden gems that the guidebooks might miss! 

Different types of Sushi on display

3. Japan’s delicious food 

Why learn Japanese? If you are a foodie who loves ramen, sushi, tempura or okonomiyaki, here is one reason for you! Indulging in authentic Japanese cuisine can be even more exciting if you know the language, as it allows you to navigate menus, understand regional specialities, and even ask for recommendations!

Instead of sticking to tourist-friendly restaurants, you can explore hidden gems or try daily specials. And let’s not forget food markets! From Osaka’s Kuromon Ichiba Market to Sapporo’s seafood stalls, understanding Japanese ensures you don’t miss out on the flavours that make Japanese cuisine unforgettable.

In Japan, food is more than just food — it’s an art form, a communal experience, and a window into the culture. 

4. To challenge yourself 

We can’t lie… with three types of characters — hiragana and katakana are phonetic characters, each representing a single syllable; kanji consists of ideograms, each representing a specific meaning — and unique grammar structures, mastering Japanese can seem daunting. 

But that brings us to reason number four to ‘why learn Japanese’: challenging yourself! With the support of experienced tutors by your side, you’ll understand that it is like solving a puzzle and you’ll be making steady progress in no time. Each little milestone, whether it’s writing your first kanji or having a conversation in Japanese, will give you a boost of confidence and remind you just how capable you are!  

5. Widen your career prospects 

Japan boasts one of the world’s largest and most advanced economies, making it a significant player worldwide. For example, corporations such as Sony, Toyota, and Nintendo are leaders in innovation and technology, shaping industries and influencing global trends. 

So, being able to speak and understand Japanese can provide a substantial competitive edge, particularly in sectors like technology, business, education, and entertainment, where communication and cultural understanding are crucial. Being bilingual in Japanese and English is increasingly valued, especially in international business. 

After all, learning Japanese enhances your ability to navigate complex negotiations, build strong relationships with Japanese partners, and understand the nuances of the market. So why learn Japanese? It will set you apart from other candidates, making you an attractive prospect for multinational companies looking to expand or strengthen their presence in Japan.

6. To make new friends

According to the 2021 Survey on Japanese-Language Education Abroad by the Japan Foundation, approximately 3.79 million people study Japanese. That’s a massive global community, not even counting the over 123 million people who speak Japanese as their first language.

Reason six to ‘why learn Japanese’ is the fact that learning the language will allow you to form connections with native speakers and fellow learners. What’s more, Japanese culture values politeness and respect in communication, which makes forming relationships even more enriching.

Even if you’re learning Japanese for professional purposes, networking in the language can help you develop meaningful business relationships and collaborations. Understanding cultural etiquette and speaking the language fluently will make you stand out and foster trust.

So, whether you’re diving into a new friendship over a bowl of ramen or chatting with a fellow learner about the best language resources, learning Japanese enriches your social world in ways you never imagined.

7. Keeping your brain sharp

When considering the question of ‘why learn Japanese’, we cannot leave behind the benefits of the learning process for your brain. Research has shown that studying a new language from scratch, especially one as distinct from English as Japanese, can improve cognitive functions like:

  • memory;
  • focus;
  • and problem-solving skills.

The process of memorising the characters and understanding their meanings is akin to solving a puzzle, keeping your mind active and sharp. Additionally, bilingual individuals tend to be much better at multitasking. So, by learning Japanese, you’re not just gaining a new skill — you’re investing in your long-term brain health.

Start learning Japanese today!

So, why learn Japanese? We hope these reasons have helped you decide whether to start your language-learning journey. As you can see, learning Japanese is more than just studying something; it’s about opening your mind to new experiences, connecting with people, and growing as a person.

Whether you’re captivated by anime inspired by Japan’s technological advances or eager to explore its traditions, the Japanese language offers endless opportunities. And the best part? You don’t have to do it alone.

With Coffee Break Japanese, you can learn at your own pace, wherever and whenever it suits you. Our engaging podcasts and online course are designed to guide you through the language step-by-step, making the process enjoyable and accessible. From essential vocabulary to cultural insights, we’ll help you unlock the beauty of the Japanese language one lesson at a time. What are you waiting for? Head over to our Coffee Break Japanese page to begin your journey! 

What is the best way to learn a language?

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Whether your adventure of learning a new language has already started or you are thinking about taking the first steps, one question you might have is “What is the best way to learn a language?”

Several factors contribute to language learning and being aware of these helps make the most of your experience. 

Whether you’re studying for family reasons, travel, personal growth, career advancement, or any other reason, in this article, you will find the best strategies to help you achieve your language-learning goals effectively.

Check out these six golden rules on what the best way to learn a language is: 

1. Being consistent

It can be hard to know where to begin when learning a language from scratch and if you are wondering what is the best way to learn a language, one key element to remember is consistency. By dedicating time to it regularly, you will see constant progress, whereas if you only work on your language skills every now and again, it will take much longer to reach your language-learning goals. 

We believe that you can make language learning something regular and enjoyable that fits in with your everyday life, just like having your daily coffee break. And in this way, you’ll form a language-learning habit that sticks.

Pretty much common sense, isn’t it? 

To help with your consistency, our top tip for you is to build a regular study routine and commit to daily or weekly practice sessions. Remember: little and often is more beneficial and easier to stick to than planning to study for two hours every fortnight. 

In addition to that, be sure to have realistic goals – don’t expect to be able to understand everything that is being said in a dialogue after one month of learning.

An achievable goal would look more like “feeling confident to order a coffee abroad after a month of learning” or even “being able to answer basic questions about yourself after two months”. And be proud of yourself when you achieve these!

If you’re looking for some great tips on what the best way to learn a language is, by sticking to a routine and staying consistent, be sure to check out the video below featuring Mark, the founder of Coffee Break, as he shares his valuable insights as both a language teacher and learner.

2. Taking good notes and reviewing the content 

Ok, so what is the best way to learn a language? Another technique that may be useful to you is to take good notes and review the content you learn whenever you have a spare moment.

With effective note-taking, you can better memorise:

  • key vocabulary;
  • grammar rules;
  • natural phrases and idioms;
  • and cultural aspects.

Writing explanations or definitions in your own words is very useful for consolidation and helps you to remember them.

Don’t forget to organise your notes in a structured manner – maybe with some colour coding or by incorporating visual elements. This way you can create a great resource to refer back to whenever you need clarification. 

Make sure to regularly review your notes to help reinforce your memory and deepen your understanding. This doesn’t have to be a long or boring task – instead, we’d encourage you to carry your language-learning notebook with you and simply review a couple of pages while you’re waiting for the bus, on the train, or during your next coffee break. This will improve the long-term retention of the newfound knowledge.

3. Engaging with the culture

Another great way to learn a language is to actively engage with the culture or cultures associated with it. After all, language and culture are deeply connected. 

Immersing yourself in cultural aspects of the new language can be helpful to improve your understanding and proficiency. You can try books (to suit your level), movies in a different language (maybe watch something with subtitles to begin with) and music, for example! 

It may seem obvious, but what many people forget when looking for resources to help their language learning is to look for something they enjoy! Think about it – if you’d never normally choose to watch a historical movie, instead of making yourself watch one in the language you’re learning, look for albums of your favourite genre of music to help you practise instead. Similarly, if you don’t enjoy reading crime novels even in English, perhaps a better choice for you is watching an action movie.

By making your learning enjoyable, you will form habits you want to stick to, and will make better progress.

If you’re lucky enough to be able to travel to a country where the language you’re learning is spoken, you can also use your travel plans to encourage yourself to interact with native speakers and with the culture around you. 

4. Choosing the right method for you

If you are wondering what the best way to learn a language is, remember that the ideal technique for other people might not be the same technique that suits you best. However, with so many resources online, choosing the right one for you can feel challenging.

Therefore, go for a method that matches your schedule. For example, maybe you have a busy schedule and are looking for a method that allows you to learn at your own pace – here at Coffee Break Languages, we provide resources to allow you to do exactly that. 

We offer bite-sized lessons in 10 different languages, which is ideal if you feel you need flexibility and relevant content, where you’ll learn with experienced teachers and native speakers. In addition, instead of overwhelming you with complex grammar rules or ignoring grammar altogether, for us, it’s important to present language and concepts in an easy-to-understand way, as if you were sitting down for a coffee with a friend who speaks the language you’re learning.

5. Immersing yourself as much as you can 

Another aspect of what is the best way to learn a language is immersing yourself in the language as much as possible. This can help accelerate your understanding of new vocabulary, and it is essential for developing listening skills and good pronunciation. This way, we also soon start to hear things like terms that don’t translate 100% to your native language.  

You can do this by listening to podcasts, watching movies or TV shows, reading books or articles, and engaging with the language whenever you can. Fit these things into your day, during your moments of downtime or while you’re doing other things.

Our top tip: bring language learning into your everyday life wherever and whenever you can. If you’re out on a walk, look around you and see if you know the words to describe what you see. Or, if you’re waiting to pay for your shopping, take a moment to think about what you would say to the cashier if you were in a country where the language you’re learning is spoken.

6. Understanding that language learning is a journey

After reading these tips about the best way to learn a language, there is one more you should add to the list: understanding that learning a new language is a journey. 

This journey should be taken with patience, perseverance, but also enjoyment. Of course, there will be moments when you will feel you’re not getting the pronunciation right, or you are not progressing as much as you should, and other frustrations. 

However, the thing to keep in mind here is that this journey is worth it and that you are more than capable of doing it. So, don’t forget to celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and stay focused on your goals.

So, in summary, what is the best way to learn a language? There isn’t one, but if you take into account these tips and always remember to keep going and use the method (or methods) that feel best for you, that will make your learning journey better. 

In order to have the best results possible, the support and guidance of a great language platform, like Coffee Break Languages, can make that journey so much easier. We offer easy access to learning resources at any time, so you can adapt to the language-learning method that suits you.

Visit Coffee Break Languages and find out more about the Coffee Break method and languages!

Benefits of microlearning: how to use a focus app to learn a new language

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When learning a new language, any technique or method that makes your learning experience easier and more enjoyable is something to keep an eye out for, right? With that in mind, microlearning has gained popularity in recent years as an effective method for acquiring new skills and knowledge. 

Let’s explore the concept and benefits of microlearning and how focus apps can complement it by providing an engaging approach to your language learning.

What is microlearning and what are the benefits of microlearning? 

Microlearning involves breaking down learning materials into small, manageable units. Typically, the content is delivered in bite-sized lessons. This approach contrasts with traditional forms of learning, as it offers learners the flexibility to engage with content in brief, focused sessions. 

The method is exactly the one used here at Coffee Break Languages – a language platform that helps you learn a new language one coffee break at a time, focusing on specific topics to help you improve.

But what about the benefits of microlearning? There are several advantages to this method, but the four main ones are: 

  • It helps improve knowledge retention, as it offers concise pieces of information. Microlearning will therefore help you absorb information more effectively
  • It helps people learn faster because it offers condensed knowledge so learners cover a wide range of topics in a shorter period. This accelerated learning pace is perfect for people with busy schedules, allowing learners to make steady progress over time.
  • It is perfect for individual learning, especially because microlearning can be tailored to personal goals as it allows for a flexible approach;
  • It is great if you need flexibility, as you can easily have a quick session on your way to work, during your coffee break, or even when relaxing at home.

Laptop resting on top of a table with glasses and a notebook close to it.

What are focus apps and how can they help with microlearning and learning a new language?

Now that you are aware of what microlearning is and the main benefits of microlearning, it is time to understand what focus apps are and how they help with learning languages using this method. 

Focus apps are applications created to enhance concentration and productivity. Alongside taking good notes and other techniques for learning a language efficiently, these apps can help you learn a new language faster as they help minimise distractions and promote focused work sessions. 

They are platforms that use various techniques, such as time-management strategies and gamification, to help people maintain their attention. These apps relate to microlearning because they offer a structured approach to studying that helps people learn faster.

Using them to learn a new language means integrating one of them into your study routine. You can start by setting specific goals and allocating time slots for study sessions using the app, for example.

5 focus apps you might want to try!

There are several apps available, but the Coffee Break team selected five that we think are worth a try to help you focus when reviewing your language notes, dedicating time to language lessons, or any other language-learning task.

If you are part of the Coffee Break Community, you will already be familiar with the benefits of microlearning, but you will also be likely to know how easy it is to get distracted or lose sight of your goals – that is where these focus apps can become invaluable.

Check out these five apps to see if they work for you: 

1. Focus to-do

This app helps you organise your study time using the Pomodoro technique for studying – breaking study sessions into short intervals (typically 25 minutes) separated by brief breaks. It goes hand in hand with microlearning benefits, right?

With this application, you can create reminders, synchronise them with all your devices, and make cloud backups. 

2. Forest

Forest is a very popular focus app that offers the benefits of microlearning by encouraging people to stay focused by planting virtual trees. You can decide to stop using your phone to focus for specific periods, and your trees will grow. At the end of your task, you can see a visual representation of your productivity as you gradually create a forest. 

The time frames on the app are also based on the Pomodoro technique for studying.

3. Focus Dog

Focus Dog combines reminders and challenges to keep you on track with your tasks. With its playful interface, this app adds an element of fun to the learning process, motivating you to stay engaged. Again, this application uses the Pomodoro technique for studying.

4. Focus Plant 

Similar to Forest, Focus Plant helps you have focused work sessions by rewarding you with virtual plants. We love it because you can cultivate your digital garden as you progress through your tasks.

5. Habitica 

Habitica gamifies task management by allowing you to create an avatar, set your own goals, and complete tasks to earn rewards. This app is particularly good for learners who thrive on competition and enjoy a sense of accomplishment, which also relates to some of the benefits of microlearning.

This app is also available for wearable tech, and allows collaboration – if you feel like competing with other language learners from your family or friends. 

6. Keep your streak with Coffee Break TV

Our Coffee Break TV app and web platform is an on-demand library of video lessons, to allow you to practise your language skills in short, focused sessions of just 5, 10 or 15 minutes.

Use the Calendar feature to schedule your learning for the day or the week ahead, or simply browse the library, keep up your streak and work towards gaining badges for consecutive days of microlearning.

Learn a new language with the Coffee Break microlearning method!

At Coffee Break Languages, we focus on the microlearning method, offering bite-sized lessons in 10 different languages. With this technique and the focus apps mentioned before, you can easily start your learning journey and make advancements in no time.

After all, instead of overwhelming you with long lessons and complex grammar rules, we break down your language of interest into manageable chunks, allowing learners to engage with the material in short, focused sessions. 

Coffee Break Languages delivers over 1.9 million lessons every month to learners all over the world, who regularly enjoy the benefits of microlearning in our episodes. Check out what James, one of our Italian learners, had to say: 

“I just discovered Coffee Break Italian and I want to compliment the team for such a fantastic way for me to improve my study of the Italian language. I have used many study aids over the years and it is only Coffee Break Italian that is giving me exactly what I need. Thank you!”

With Coffee Break Languages, you can learn a language at any time, so whether you’re commuting to work, taking a coffee break, or relaxing at home, you can easily squeeze in a quick session. 

Start your language-learning journey today! Visit the Coffee Break Academy, and find out more about the languages and levels taught.

5 top tips for taking notes on a new language effectively

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To make the most of your language-learning journey, learning and practising new vocabulary is essential. A good strategy to remember new words is to write them down after each lesson or learning session, but did you know there are techniques for taking notes effectively?

In this article, you will find our top five tips to enhance your learning experience and make the most of each time you grab a coffee and try to learn some vocabulary.

5 tips for taking notes on a new language 

Taking effective notes is a crucial aspect of language learning, helping you to organise information, reinforce concepts, and track your progress. 

Moreover, the act of physically writing down information can aid memory retention.

Let’s explore five top tips for taking notes efficiently to help you maximise your efforts when learning a new language. 

1. Use a dedicated notebook for language learning

The first of our tips for taking notes might seem like the most obvious one: have a notebook dedicated to the language you are learning. This is especially important if you are learning a language from scratch.

Having a designated place to put down vocabulary, grammar rules, and expressions that you learn will help you stay organised and focused. Another advantage of this method is that it gives you motivation. Why? Well, it gives you motivation because you can see how far you’ve advanced in your language-learning process.

2. Develop a consistent notation system

Another tip for taking notes is to create a consistent notation system. But what does that mean?

You want to be able to identify new words, expressions, regular and irregular verbs just by looking at your notes. If you are wondering how to do this, believe us: it is easier than it seems.

You can choose a colour-coding system where blue represents new words, green is for regular verbs, lilac for irregular verbs, and pink represents new expressions, for example. You can also choose colours for specific themes. 

Another idea is to use symbols or abbreviations. For example, if you’re learning German or any language that features noun gender, we’d suggest adding (m), (f) or (n) after any nouns you list, so that you remember whether a noun’s grammatical gender is masculine, feminine or neuter. 

In the end, it is up to you. Find a system that works best for you and stick to it!

Pastel stationery items for taking notes

3. Incorporate visual elements

The next suggestion in our top tips for taking notes on a new language is to incorporate visual elements into your learning experience. Many people retain information better if it is displayed on diagrams, mind maps, or charts. 

This could be anything from creating your own verb conjugation tables, constructing a chart that shows how adjective endings change depending on a noun, or if drawing is your strong point, even adding your own illustrations to accompany new vocabulary!

Usually, these visual aids help provide more context and reinforce new vocabulary more engagingly and memorably.

4. Practise active note-taking

The fourth tip for taking notes in a new language is to practise active note-taking. What does that mean?

Well, instead of just passively transcribing or copying down information, the idea of this activity is that you – as the student – are actually looking in-depth into each word or phrase and how to use it. This active engagement with the learning materials promotes better comprehension and retention, ensuring that you will be able to remember new words with more ease. 

Let’s say you’re learning Spanish, and you come across the phrase tener hambre in your lesson, which means to be hungry. Instead of simply writing down the phrase and its translation, you can:

  • note that tener means to have and hambre means hunger, so you understand that the literal translation is to have hunger
  • write down a few example sentences using tener hambre in context, such as:
    • Yo tengo hambre. I am hungry
    • Él siempre tiene hambre después del entrenamiento. He is always hungry after the workout.
  • make a note to pay attention to any related expressions or variations, such as tener sed to be thirsty or tener sueño to be sleepy, as they help you see similar language patterns.

5. Embrace technology

To make your note-taking process even more convenient, you can embrace technology. Sometimes we don’t have any paper handy when we come across a new piece of vocabulary. Therefore, you can use the notes on your phone or tablet to quickly type down what you learn. 

This flexibility ensures that your language-learning materials are always close to you! You can even upload the vocabulary into a digital flashcard app like Brainscape or Quizlet to help you test your knowledge. 

6. An extra tip! Regularly update your notes

A bonus suggestion on our list of tips for taking notes is to regularly update your notes. This is important because when doing that, you are also reviewing content. 

So, set aside some time to look through your notes and add information on usage or synonyms that you might have learnt since you originally took the notes. 

How to learn a new language quickly and easily?

Now that you know how to take notes, you can use this to make the most of your language learning!

Using our tips for note-taking will enhance your learning and make language retention smoother – however, if you feel like you could be learning a new language more quickly and more easily, then that is where we can help you. 

Why? At Coffee Break Languages, we believe that language learning should be accessible to everybody, no matter your age, location, experience, or even how busy you are. We offer lessons and practical tips to help you – our learners – integrate your language learning into your everyday life, ‘one coffee break at a time’.

To do that, we offer a range of resources, from podcasts and online courses to interactive materials and an on-demand video app, designed to fit every learner’s learning process. So, get started with our top tips for taking notes – and with our range of bite-sized lessons, you will master any new language in no time!

Learn more about Coffee Break Languages, familiarise yourself with the languages we offer and choose the right one for you now!

6 examples of phrasal verbs to celebrate the holidays

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Phrasal verbs are difficult for many English learners, there are so many to remember and not enough time! So, today, let’s learn some examples of phrasal verbs in the time it takes to have a coffee!

In this episode of Coffee Break English Nick talks to Anabel about what is important to him during the festive period. He uses a lot of examples of phrasal verbs and Nick and Anabel will go through each phrasal verb and explain their meaning.

The Coffee Break English Show is a podcast series of bite-sized, friendly conversations in which we demystify tricky English language topics. In the latest video, Nick and Anabel dive into the holiday season and explore a phrasal verb list.

Continue reading to find out more and why not listen to the podcast as you go?

Plus, don’t miss our free worksheet at the end to practise what you learn!

 

The text

Holiday phrasal verbs in English

Phrasal verbs really allow us to be very specific when we are describing or explaining something to someone. They are particularly useful when talking to friends as they may be informal but they are normally much more descriptive than the more formal synonyms in English.

Here are the 6 examples of phrasal verbs from the text with their definitions.

1. Dream of

think about something that you really want

Dream of is a phrasal verb which means to imagine or think about something you desire strongly. It is usually transitive which means we need an object after it. 

e.g. 

  • When he was younger he used to dream of becoming a footballer.
  • I have dreamt of my wedding day since I was a child.

2. Light up

suddenly look happy or surprised (face or eyes)

become bright or illuminated

The next word in our examples of phrasal verbs list is light up. It has a literal and a metaphorical meaning. When we talk about a person lighting up, we can imagine their eyes or face becoming happy, usually because they have received good news. 

When we use light up in a literal sense, we imagine the illumination of an entire object, often in a dramatic way. 

e.g.

  • Her face lit up when I gave her the present. 
  • They lit up the Christmas tree in the town centre on Saturday.

3. Set off

start a journey

trigger / make (something) start working

Next in our examples of phrasal verbs is set off, which has two very different meanings. The first refers to the start of a journey or trip, a synonym of this example is depart. The secondary meaning is to trigger something, if we set something off, we make it go off (a bonus phrasal verb!).

e.g. 

  • We need to set off at 7.00 if we want to arrive by 8.00.
  • I burnt my toast and set off the smoke alarm.

4. Leave behind

not bring / leave in a place

go away permanently from something or someone

The next phrasal verb in the list is leave behind. It can mean to not take something with you when you leave, or leave a person, group or place permanently.

e.g. 

  • I accidentally left my phone behind when I went to work this morning
  • She left her family and friends behind when she moved abroad

5. Cut out

separate something from what surrounds it using scissors or a knife

not publish or broadcast part of a text or video

remove from a situation

The fifth word in our list of examples of phrasal verbs is a 3 in 1! There are three different meanings of cut out and they go from literal to metaphorical.

The first means to cut something out with scissors or a knife. A shape from paper, for example. 

The second meaning refers to editing a video or document. You can cut out part of an article in a newspaper or a scene from a film.

The final meaning is the one in today’s episode. Here we mean to stop using or consuming something.

e.g. 

  • My son’s picture was in the local newspaper, so I cut it out to save it.
  • She appeared in the background of the movie, but they cut that scene out!
  • The supermarket are trying to cut out plastic from their packaging.

6. Look forward to

want something to happen because you think you will enjoy it

expect something positive or useful to happen

And so, let’s have a look at the final verb in our list of examples of phrasal verbs! This is my favourite as it is very common but you need to be careful with the verb form after this phrasal verb. The “to” in look forward to is a preposition and is part of the phrase. This means we need to use a noun or gerund after this phrasal verb like in the examples below. 

  • I’m looking forward to going to my friend’s birthday party on Friday!
  • I’m looking forward to the weather warming up in spring.


Phrasal Verb Rules

Here are some examples of phrasal verbs from the episode, organised into different types. Here you will find some examples but if you want to know more about these rules, make sure you sign up for the Coffee Break English Quest!

Example of phrasal verbs with no object

set off

  • We set off at 8am. 

Examples of separable phrasal verbs with an object

leave behind

  • I left behind my jacket. / I left my jacket behind.

cut out

  • We cut out shapes. / We cut shapes out.

Example of inseparable phrasal verbs with an object

dream of

  • I have been dreaming of this moment for a long time.
  • I have been dreaming this moment of for a long time.

Object pronouns with phrasal verbs

  • Where is your jacket? Oh no, I left it behind! 
  • Where is your jacket? Oh no, I left behind it!

A visual summary of today’s examples of phrasal verbs

 

Now you’re ready for the holidays!

If you found these examples of phrasal verbs interesting, make sure you join us for the Coffee Break English Quest where you can learn many more phrasal verbs in English and improve your language skills.

For a little extra practice, download the free worksheet below, and see how much you’ve learned with this phrasal verb list.

Plus! To get regular free English lessons in your inbox, you can sign up for our short (coffee-break-sized) email lessons that will help you improve your English. You will also hear from Mark, the founder of Coffee Break Languages, giving advice for language learners at any level. Sign up for the newsletter!

Happy holidays and happy Coffee Breaking!

 

Listen to the podcast

CBP 1.40 | An end-of-trip party

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Welcome to the final episode of our beginners’ course in Portuguese. Join teacher Rafael and learner Ava to listen to the final dialogue recorded on location in Portugal, during Ava’s trip to practise her Portuguese. Then, back in the studio, Rafael will help you understand all the language used in the conversation. Vamos lá!

If this is the first time you’ve come to the Coffee Break Portuguese podcast feed, scroll back in the feed for lesson 1, to learn Portuguese right from the start.

Language-learning techniques: retaining new vocabulary

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When you decide to learn a new language, we know that it can be frustrating when trying to remember new words. That is perfectly natural and normal. However, you can incorporate some language-learning techniques to make this process easier.

In this beginner’s guide, you will discover seven easy ways to improve your language-learning experience and make the most of each time you grab a coffee and try to learn some vocabulary. Keep reading!

How does memory work? 

Before looking into the language-learning techniques, it’s helpful to understand how memory works. Memory is a very complex system involving multiple processes that work together to encode, store, and retrieve information. 

The process of memorising begins with the conversion of information into a form that the brain can process and store. Once the information is encoded, it is moved to ‘storage’ where it is held for later retrieval. But if it is that simple, why can’t you remember all the information you ever received? 

Science says that memory has several types, including sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory. So, if you want to remember new words, you need them to transition from short-term to long-term. 

This process is called consolidation and is influenced by factors such as repetition, emotional significance and – believe it or not – sleep!

To set something straight: here, at Coffee Break Languages, we believe that you can learn a language at any age and if you have trouble remembering new vocabulary, having some language-learning techniques is incredibly beneficial. 

7 language-learning techniques to remember new words

Learning a language from scratch is a process that needs dedication because it requires repetition and time, but aren’t all things that are worthwhile? You can achieve this more easily by using certain language-learning techniques. 

Let’s check out seven of these techniques:

1. Create your own list of words

One effective way to remember new words is by creating your own personalised vocabulary list. Keep a notebook or digital document where you can put down words you encounter during your language-learning journey. 

Our top tip: with each new word you note down, include any other key information that you need to know. For example, if you’re learning Spanish or any language that features noun gender, you could write una casa instead of simply casa, so that you remember that house in Spanish is a feminine noun. Or, maybe you’d write down partire (aux. essere) if you were learning Italian and needed to remember that the verb to leave in Italian takes essere as the auxiliary verb in the perfect tense.

You could also organise the list by categories or themes to make it easier to review and practise regularly.

2. Create mnemonics

Another good language-learning technique is creating mnemonics – associations between new words and familiar concepts. This type of memory aid helps you associate new information with existing knowledge. 

One idea is to create a sentence to help you with terms you recently learned, making them easier to recall later. You can group them by topics. 

For example, if you’re learning French, you may have come across the useful mnemonic DR and MRS VANDERTRAMP. This is a popular one to use to help you remember the verbs that use être as an auxiliary verb in the perfect tense:

D (devenir) R (rester) M (monter) R (rentrer) S (sortir) V (venir) A (aller) N (naître) D (descendre) E (entrer) R (revenir) T (tomber) R (retourner) A (arriver) M (mourir) P (partir) 

An ink pen sits on top of a blank notebook.

3. Repeat, repeat, and repeat 

Repetition is key to solidifying new vocabulary in your memory. So, one good language-learning technique is to try to remember new words within a timeframe. For example, you can try to remember new vocabulary after: 

  • one hour;
  • a day;
  • and a week.

For example, you can think of five of your new words while brushing your teeth, walking to the shops or going for your train. Then you can try to write them down the next day when you have five mins spare and so on!

4. Use flashcards

Flashcards are one of the classic language-learning techniques to memorise vocabulary. You can write the new words you learn in one of your lessons on one side and their translation or definition on the other side.

You can ask someone to ‘test’ your knowledge of the meaning of each word. You can also use digital flashcard apps like Brainscape or Quizlet for convenience.

5. Name objects around you

Another effective technique is to create an environment where you are constantly seeing the new vocabulary you are learning. By exposing yourself to the language in various contexts, you’ll naturally reinforce your understanding of new words. 

For example, if you are learning new kitchen vocabulary, you can add sticky notes around the room to name the fridge, sink, cupboards, stove, and so on in the language you are learning.

Another great habit to get into is to use your surroundings as a prompt for recalling vocabulary, so that you can practise whenever and wherever you are. Watch the video below for our top tips for doing this.

6. Try the stacking method

The stacking method involves grouping similar words to help you remember them more effectively. Create word clusters based on common themes or sounds and practise recalling them as a group. 

The stacking method differs from simply organising your vocabulary list into themes because it emphasises active recall and association-building. Rather than passively reviewing words grouped by theme, you actively engage with them as interconnected clusters, which enhances memory consolidation and retrieval. 

Whether you choose to do this mentally or with a notepad depends on your personal preference and learning style. Some learners may find it helpful to physically write them down for reinforcement.

For example, you can identify travel-related words in French, such as avion plane, hôtel hotel and valise suitcase. After that, the clusters you can create based on associations can be related to holidays. Then you can visualise each cluster: you are in an airport, boarding an avion, arriving at your hôtel and unpacking your valise.

So, the stacking method helps you organise and remember vocabulary more effectively by grouping related words and practising recall in a structured way.

7. ‘Teach’ others

Of all the language-learning techniques, teaching others is amongst the most powerful ones. Why? Well, because in order to teach someone you need to actually understand what you are talking about. 

If you can, try to share your language-learning journey with friends or family by explaining the meanings of words or teaching them simple phrases. Teaching others not only helps you retain information better but also helps you feel accomplished and confident in your language skills.

Word memorisation techniques boost your language learning!

Now you know how to remember new words, right? After all, by incorporating these language-learning techniques into your study routine, you can improve your retention of new vocabulary. 

Moreover, remember to take breaks and rest – sleep is very important to build memory. Learning a new language takes time, patience, and consistent effort, so don’t be discouraged by occasional forgetfulness.

Keep practising, experimenting with different methods, and celebrating your progress – however large or small it may be.

If you want to make the most of your language learning and have some regular lessons, in the language of your choice, to help reinforce your language learning, check out our free mini-email lessons. Subscribe now!

CBP 1.39 | A special coffee break in Belém, Lisbon – Tasting Pastéis de Belém

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We have something special in today’s episode! In the penultimate lesson of this season, we’re going to listen to two dialogues recorded on location in Lisbon, Portugal, and hear what happened when Ava and Catarina met up for um verdadeiro cafezinho! This was not just any cafezinho, but a very special coffee break at the Pastéis de Belém bakery – famous for its delicious pastéis de nata. Listen to practise your listening comprehension, while learning the fascinating history of the bakery.

CBP 1.38 | Making friends in Portuguese – Vocabulary for meeting new people

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Lesson 38 of our Portuguese course is a chance to review and practise the essential words and phrases that you typically use when you meet someone for the first time. We’ll listen to another conversation recorded on location in Portugal, then, back in the studio, teacher Rafael and learner Ava will talk through all the language used.

CBP 1.37 | Buying a train ticket to Lisbon – Portuguese transport vocabulary

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In this newest episode of Coffee Break Portuguese, we’ll be reviewing useful language for buying travel tickets! You’ll get the opportunity to practise your listening comprehension through a dialogue that took place during learner Ava’s time in Porto, then teacher Rafael will help you understand everything that was said.

CBP 1.36 | Asking for help at the pharmacy – Asking for medical advice in Portuguese

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Join Rafael and Ava in this latest episode to continue learning Portuguese on your coffee break. The topic of our lesson today is how to ask for help at the pharmacy. You’ll practise your listening comprehension by hearing a dialogue that took place during learner Ava’s visit to the pharmacy, then teacher Rafael will help you understand everything that was said.

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