The Lingu Blog
Tips, stories & ideas for your language journey.
25 articles in Useful Resources
Top TipsHow to improve your English vocabulary: practical tips that work
Improve your English vocabulary: practical tips that really work If you’re an online English learner wondering how to improve your English vocabulary without memorising endless word lists, you’re not alone. Many students work hard but feel their vocabulary doesn’t grow as quickly as their effort. The problem is usually how vocabulary is learned,
Useful ResourcesTypes of English learners and how to use AI
Do you know which type of English learner you are? Our top tips on how to best use AI to reach your goals In our previous blog post, we shared some practical insights into how AI can support your English learning journey — from practising conversations to improving vocabulary and confidence. But one
BlogBlack Friday English: 12 expressions every smart shopper should know
Black Friday is now a global event, and it’s not just for in-store crowds anymore. Whether you’re shopping in London, Lagos or Lima, chances are your inbox and social media feeds are full of flash sales, discount codes and “limited-time offers.” For many people, this time of year is all about saving money
Useful ResourcesDo you really need grammar to learn English?
When you think about learning English, what comes to mind first? For many students, the answer is grammar. Grammar rules can make us feel like “serious” students because they give structure and order to the language. But do we really need grammar to become good English speakers? Or is it better to just “pick
Useful ResourcesLet’s talk about summer
Summer is a favourite season for many people around the world. It’s the warmest time of the year, full of sunshine, long days, and exciting outdoor celebrations Let’s explore what makes summer special, how people celebrate it, and how to enjoy it safely. What happens
Useful ResourcesLabour Day. A Celebration around the world
May 1st is a special day in many countries. It is known as Labour Day or International Workers’ Day. In some places, it is a day for parades and speeches. In others, it is a time for picnics and parties. The story behind May 1st The
Useful ResourcesEnglish Language Day: celebrating the power of words
Every year on April 23rd, people around the world celebrate English Language Day. This day is a great opportunity to enjoy the English language, learn new words, and explore its long and interesting history. Why April 23rd? April 23rd was chosen because it is believed
Useful ResourcesEaster: a time of new life, chocolate and celebration
Spring is a time of flowers, sunshine, and warmer days. It’s also when many people celebrate Easter, a special holiday that brings together traditions, fun, and history. In 2025, Good Friday is on April 18th, and Easter Monday is on April 21st. What is Easter?
Useful ResourcesPancake Day – A fun and tasty tradition!
Do you like pancakes? If you do, then Pancake Day is the perfect day for you! Pancake Day, also called Shrove Tuesday, is a special day celebrated in many countries. People make and eat delicious pancakes with their friends and family. Here’s a bit more about this fun tradition! [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1691514025274{background-color: #ffffff
Useful ResourcesWhat is Black Friday? The ultimate guide
If you love finding great deals, Black Friday is the day you won’t want to miss. Celebrated annually on the Friday after Thanksgiving in the United States, Black Friday kicks off the holiday shopping season with incredible discounts and exciting deals. From electronics to clothing, it’s the perfect time to shop and save on all
Useful ResourcesTelling the time in English: fun facts
Telling time in English is an essential skill for clear communication, whether you’re scheduling a meeting, making plans with friends, or simply answering “What time is it?” From understanding “o’clock” to mastering terms like “quarter past” or “half past,” this guide breaks down the most common expressions and fascinating time-related facts in English. You’ll also
Useful ResourcesTime Zones: how time changes across the world
Time is a fascinating concept, and it changes depending on where you are in the world. In this article, we’ll explore how time zones work, why they change, and how people in the UK and other countries are affected. We will also explain the difference between GMT and BST and provide useful phrases related to
Useful ResourcesWhat is flipped learning and how can it help you learn English?
In recent years, flipped learning has become a popular way to teach and learn. It is used in many subjects, like maths, science, and even English. But what is flipped learning, and why is it so popular? In this article, we explain what flipped learning is, how it started, and how it can help you
Useful ResourcesUnderstanding climate change and why it matters
Climate change is a big change in the world’s weather. Usually, when we talk about climate change, we mean that the Earth is getting warmer. This is also called global warming. Over the past 100 years, the Earth’s temperature has gone up a lot. This is happening because of things people do, like burning fossil
Useful ResourcesSwearing in English: what you need to know
Swearing is a part of language that many people use. Sometimes, people swear when they are angry, surprised, or even happy. For some people, swearing is a way to express strong emotions. However, if you are learning English, you might wonder whether you should use swear words. In this post we will help you understand
Useful ResourcesThe difference between American and British English: a beginner’s guide
As English language learners embarking on the exciting journey of mastering this global language, it’s crucial to understand the delightful nuances that distinguish British and American English. In this article, we’ll explore some key differences between American and British English at an elementary level, touching upon vocabulary, spelling, pronunciation, and expressions. Additionally, we’ll highlight how
Useful ResourcesAn introduction to British Slang
British slang is like a secret language that people use in informal or casual situations. It’s made up of words or phrases that might not be in regular dictionaries, and it changes a lot depending on where you are and who you’re talking to. It’s kind of like a cool, fun way of talking that
Useful ResourcesCommon difficult words in English
English can be a difficult language to master, especially for non-native speakers. One of the common challenges faced by English language learners is the confusion between words that sound similar or have similar meanings. Are you sure you know the difference between ‘it’s’ from ‘its’ and ‘your’ from ‘you’re’? In this article, we will explore
Top TipsIs Duolingo the best way to learn a language?
In today’s interconnected world, learning a new language, such as English, has become increasingly vital. With the advent of online learning platforms, students now have access to a wide range of tools and resources to aid their language learning journey. Before making a final decision it’s important to examine the effectiveness of Duolingo as a
Top TipsHow do I start learning basic English: A Beginner’s Guide
Are you ready to start your journey to learn English? If you have little or zero knowledge of the language, we will give you some great advice on how to start learning basic English and take your first steps towards becoming proficient in the language. Learning English or any language can be difficult, but with
Useful ResourcesChatGPT: AI and chatbots in plain English
Chat GPT has become the world’s fastest growing consumer app acquiring more than 100 million users in just 2 months since its launch. And, according to Perfectly Spoken’s global media partner Reuters, this is faster than even TikTok which took 9 months to reach that number or Instagram which took two and a half years.
PhrasesThe best Valentine’s Day phrases in English
Valentine’s Day, also called Saint Valentine’s Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine is celebrated on 14th February each year. On this day people celebrate by sending messages of love and affection to their partners (husbands and wives) and to family and friends. The true origin of the day is unclear – one possibility is
Top TipsShould I learn English online or offline?
3 ways Covid has created more choice for English language learners During lockdown many, many students had to adapt to a ‘new normal’ for learning English. Like all subjects, suddenly self-study lessons and distance learning from home in front of a computer screen took over from classroom teaching at University or High School.
Blog3 Foods that British people love and American people don’t
When you are learning English you will probably be watching a lot of movies with American actors and listening to a lot of American music. It is very common for people learning English to actually learn American English rather than the more traditional BBC style British English. English people certainly have a lot in common
BlogTop 5 Christmas TV Shows to Help You Learn English
If you are living in the UK and learning English or if you have access to UK TV online then these Christmas TV shows are great for learning English. TV and Movies are a brilliant way to help support your online English lessons and this Christmas there are some really useful ones. Strictly Come Dancing