Lessons

Latest from EFD Editorial Board

Writing

Cutting filler from your English: the words to delete on every draft

Strong English writing is short English writing. These are the words and phrases that pad your sentences without adding meaning — cut…

Vocabulary

Collocations: why it is “strong coffee”, not “powerful coffee”

Why is it "strong coffee" not "powerful coffee"? A friendly guide to English collocations, the word pairings that make you sound natural.

Writing

How to write email subject lines that get opened (and replied to)

Your subject line is half the email. A clear one gets a reply within hours. A vague one disappears into the inbox.

Listening

Catching contractions: the small sounds that trip listeners up

"I'd", "he's", "they've" — three letters can replace two whole words, and many learners miss them entirely. Here's how to hear them.

Vocabulary

Business English buzzwords decoded: what they actually mean (and when to use them)

"Circle back". "Move the needle". "Touch base". Office English has a vocabulary all its own — here's what each phrase really means,…

Vocabulary

British vs American English: spelling, words, and which one to pick

Colour or color? Lift or elevator? A clear guide to British vs American English spelling, vocabulary, and grammar, plus how to pick…

Learning Tips

The Auditory Shadowing Technique: How to Retrain Your Tongue for Spoken English Fluency

A 15-minute daily deliberate practice routine used by top simultaneous interpreters to automate English vocal cadence, linking, and stress timing.

Writing

Apostrophes, commas and semicolons: the punctuation that trips people up

A practical guide to the three punctuation marks that cause the most trouble: apostrophes, commas and semicolons, with clear rules and examples.

Speaking

How to Answer Behavioral Interview Questions in English: The 60-Second STAR Engine

Master behavioral interview questions in English. Learn the calibrated STAR framework, avoid the rambling trap, and deliver concise executive impact.

Pronunciation

The American Flap T and Glottal Stop: The Acoustic Keys to Natural Spoken Rhythm

Why native Americans say "wader" for water and omit the T in "button". Master the flap T and glottal stop mechanics to…