My Way – Using ‘Way’ in Expressions and Idioms

In my/the way – someone or something is blocking your path, usually a physical obstacle. “Your car is in my way.  Can you please move it so I can get out?” My way – my style, according to my thoughts and plans. “Frank Sinatra sang a very famous song where he talks about his life […]

20 Common Grammar Mistakes That (Almost) Everyone Makes

20 Common Grammar Mistakes That (Almost) Everyone Makes Column by Jon Gingerich January 31, 2012 I’ve edited a monthly magazine for more than six years, and it’s a job that’s come with more frustration than reward. If there’s one thing I am grateful for — and it sure isn’t the pay — it’s that my […]

Organizing Our Thoughts for Quick Delivery and Impact

Hello fellow communication enthusiasts, Today’s tip is on organizing one’s thoughts better so that we can speak faster and easier to others, especially when we are put on the spot or in a fast-paced work environment. Think of your intended message as an iceberg, floating in the ocean.  We can see the tip from the […]

A Great Post on Defining A Business English Program

Author Paul Emmerson reflects on in-work and pre-experience Business English. What is Business English? A naïve question to be sure, but a good one to step back and ask from time to time. Below, in blue, is a nine-point answer to that question that I wrote along with my colleague Nick Hamilton back in 2000. […]

English Language Pronunciation Class Description

Here is a good description of what is involved in a typical English pronunciation (or accent reduction) class or coaching program.  Things are usually tailored to the particular English level, industry or work etc. but the main idea is explained clearly here: English language pronunciation includes all the mechanical functions and skills of language sound […]

Happy Halloween!

Halloween Jack-O-Lantern Halloween is almost upon us! I would like to take this opportunity to remind all the ESL readers of this blog that even though we focus on speaking English better the blogs’ focus is also on learning and understanding culture.  Why?  Because as I have said many times as an ESL teacher, business […]

15 Most Butchered Phrases in the English Language

From http://www.onlinedegree.net/15-most-butchered-phrases-in-the-english-language/ Compared to other languages, English isn’t particularly complex. But do other languages have nearly as many similar sounding words and phrases? We’ve all made the mistake of consistently butchering a phrase or two, not realizing it until someone had the nerve to correct us. Unless you couldn’t care less about sounding silly, it’s […]