Language Learners

Learning German: Saying what you like, dislike and prefer 

Whether you’re visiting galleries and museums, sampling German cuisine or simply chatting to your German-speaking friends, you’ll probably want to talk about what you like and dislike. There are several different ways to do this in German. To say what you like, use ich mag (I like) and ich mag…… Read More

French word of the week: élever

This series of weekly blogs takes a closer look at words from our French dictionaries. The word we're focusing on this week is the French verb 'élever'. Read More

Making a phone call

Making a phone call in English can be intimidating, so here are some phrases to help you. Once you’ve made the call and someone answers, you will need to tell them who you are. Use Hello, it’s … (here). Hello Mr Hall, it’s Alex Ronaldson here. Hello, it’s Marie. Can… Read More

Using the Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary to Develop Vocabulary Building Skills

The Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary is more than a source for the definition of words, it is also a tool for improving vocabulary skills through understanding the many prefixes and suffixes used in English words. Both students of English as an additional language and those who have spoken English… Read More

Spanish word of the week: capital

This week’s Spanish word of the week is 'capital'. Read More

Learning Italian: Lifestyle tips (1)

Whatever country you travel to, understanding the social etiquette, the dos and don’ts, and the cultural norms of the country are just as important as learning the language. Here are a few tips for different scenarios you will likely come across in Italy – to save you from any awkward… Read More

Learning French: asking after others

Our series of French conversation blogs continues with a look at asking and responding to the question 'How are you?' Read More

Giving encouragement

To encourage someone to go somewhere more quickly or to do something more quickly, use Hurry up! or, more informally, Get a move on! Hurry up! We’ve got to be there in ten minutes! Hurry up, Mario! When you’ve finished your work, you can go out to play. Get a… Read More

Spanish word of the week: diferente

This week’s Spanish word of the week is 'diferente'. 'Diferente' is an adjective that means 'different' or 'several, various'. Read More