Learning English

General vocabulary from Unit 4

the tube

an informal name for the London Underground train system

commuting

travelling from home to work and back again

a folding bike 

a bicycle that folds up so it can be carried easily

Oyster card

an electronic ticket that you can use on any train or bus within London

vox pops

audio or video clips of people talking about everyday topics

6 Minute Vocabulary: Chunks of language

to do something on an empty stomach

to do something without eating first     

You shouldn’t go swimming on an empty stomach.

a full English breakfast

a cooked breakfast, usually with bacon, sausage, eggs, mushrooms, beans, tomatoes, toast and tea

I usually have cornflakes in the morning, but on Saturdays I have a full English breakfast.

to take a long time        

to happen slowly            

It takes a long time to learn to play the piano.

the rush hour  

the period of time in the morning and evening when the traffic is very busy with people going to and from work             

Don’t travel by train during the rush hour. You’ll have to stand up all the way.

a lot of fun        

very enjoyable

That party was a lot of fun.

all over the world          

everywhere around the earth   

I travelled all over the world when I was in the military.

(I’ll be) back in a bit        

(I’ll) return soon              

I’m just going to the shops. Back in a bit!

News Report

extreme commuters
people who spend a very long time travelling to work

stressful
making you feel worried or nervous

following
next: the 'following day' is the 'next day'

lifestyle choice
a choice about how you live

income
money people receive, usually for working

productively
successfully; usefully

The Race Episode 4

go about
(a sailing term) turn and sail in the opposite direction

steer
control the direction of movement of a vehicle such as a boat, car or bicycle

navigate
find a route across an area of land or water, often using a map

satnav
short for 'satellite navigation': a piece of technology that uses satellites to find the best way to get to a place

on course
going in the right direction