Improve your English and learn about the world at the same time. Plain English brings you short, modern stories about culture, science, travel, business, and everyday life, all told in clear, natural English designed for learners. You’ll grow your vocabulary, improve your listening skills, and build your confidence one episode at a time. Like the show? Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com and get a personalized learning path.
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Learn the English expression, "better off" Get the full story and learning resources: https://plainenglish.com/expressions/better-off -- Plain English helps you improve your English: Learn about the world and improve your English Clear, natural English at a speed you can understand New stories every week Learn even more at PlainEnglish.com Mentioned in this episode: Hard words? No problem Never be…
Today's story: Scientists at the University of Minnesota built a synthetic cell entirely from non-living chemical ingredients. Called SpudCell, it can absorb nutrients, copy its genetic code, divide into two, and even show natural selection over several generations. However, it still depends on scientists to supply key cellular machinery, cannot reproduce forever, and does not always pass on a…
Learn what it means to "distance yourself" from someone or something Get the full story and learning resources: https://plainenglish.com/expressions/distance-yourself -- Plain English helps you improve your English: Learn about the world and improve your English Clear, natural English at a speed you can understand New stories every week Learn even more at PlainEnglish.com Mentioned in this…
Today's story: Europe’s new Entry/Exit System replaces passport stamps with digital records and biometric checks. But its rollout during peak travel season caused long lines, missed connections, and confusion at major airports. Technical problems, staffing shortages, and slow first-time registrations made the delays worse. Transcript & Exercises: https://plainenglish.com/891 Get the full story and…
Learn what it means to have something "on hand" Get the full story and learning resources: https://plainenglish.com/expressions/on-hand-2 -- Plain English helps you improve your English: Learn about the world and improve your English Clear, natural English at a speed you can understand New stories every week Learn even more at PlainEnglish.com Mentioned in this episode: Hard words? No problem…
Today's story: Greek-style frozen yogurt is becoming popular around the world, thanks to its tangy flavor, bright appearance, and colorful toppings. Although it is marketed as a natural, high-protein treat, many versions contain little protein and a large amount of sugar. Its real appeal comes from its social-media-friendly look, customizable toppings, and simple business model. Transcript &…
Learn what it means to keep something "up to date" Get the full story and learning resources: https://plainenglish.com/expressions/up-to-date -- Plain English helps you improve your English: Learn about the world and improve your English Clear, natural English at a speed you can understand New stories every week Learn even more at PlainEnglish.com
Today's story: E-bikes combine traditional cycling with battery-powered assistance, helping riders travel faster, climb hills, and cover longer distances with less effort. They are popular for commuting, school drop-offs, deliveries, and light exercise. But they're more expensive and weigh more than traditional bicycles. Transcript & Exercises: https://plainenglish.com/887 Get the full story and…
Learn what it means to go "above and beyond" Get the full story and learning resources: https://plainenglish.com/expressions/above-and-beyond -- Plain English helps you improve your English: Learn about the world and improve your English Clear, natural English at a speed you can understand New stories every week Learn even more at PlainEnglish.com Mentioned in this episode: Hard words? No problem…
Today's story: Spain won its second World Cup on the strength of its defense, allowing just one goal in the entire tournament. In the final game, La Roja needed extra time to defeat defending champion Argentina 1-0, though the game was more one-sided than the score makes it seem. The 2026 World Cup was the first to feature 48 teams, and the first to be hosted by three nations. All three hosts…
Learn what it means to "carry out" plans or wishes Get the full story and learning resources: https://plainenglish.com/expressions/carry-out -- Plain English helps you improve your English: Learn about the world and improve your English Clear, natural English at a speed you can understand New stories every week Learn even more at PlainEnglish.com Mentioned in this episode: Hard words? No problem…
Today's story: In cities of the far north, it never gets fully dark around the summer solstice. Cities and towns celebrate with festivals, outdoor events, and late-night traditions, from baseball in Alaska to White Nights in St. Petersburg. But constant light can also affect sleep, so people use blackout curtains, dim lights, and other routines to help their bodies adjust. Transcript & Exercises:…
Learn a new way to use the phrasal verb, "put on." Get the full story and learning resources: https://plainenglish.com/expressions/put-on -- Plain English helps you improve your English: Learn about the world and improve your English Clear, natural English at a speed you can understand New stories every week Learn even more at PlainEnglish.com Mentioned in this episode: Hard words? No problem…
