To sound more natural and fluent in English, it helps to learn the idiomatic expressions and casual phrases that native speakers use in everyday conversations. Here are some commonly used phrases. Casual Greetings and Small Talk Expressions of Surprise and Enthusiasm Expressions of Agreement and Understanding Incorporating these phrases into your conversations can help you…
In 2024, the world celebrates the 23rd anniversary of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” the film that brought J.K. Rowling’s enchanting world to life on the big screen. Released in November 2001, the movie marked the beginning of a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences of all ages. A Magical Journey Begins Directed…
Day of the Dead, or Día de Muertos, is one of the most important celebrations in Mexico, with roots dating back thousands of years, long before Spanish settlers arrived. It has become a blend of Catholic tradition and Mexican mysticism, commemorating death as another element of life and as a way to remember and honor…
Halloween is a holiday celebrated each year on October 31. The tradition originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints. Soon, All Saints Day incorporated some…
Every year on October 24th, the world comes together to celebrate United Nations Day, commemorating the establishment of the United Nations in 1945. This day marks the anniversary of the UN Charter’s entry into force, a pivotal moment in history that reshaped international relations and laid the groundwork for global cooperation and peacekeeping. The United…
The phrase “hit the nail on the head” is a widely used idiom that means to describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem or to be exactly right about something. It is often used to commend someone for being accurate and precise in their assessment or observation. This idiom originates from carpentry, where…
Decent Work and Social Protection: Putting dignity in practice for all The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, celebrated annually on October 17th, aims to promote understanding and dialogue between people living in poverty and the wider society. This year’s theme draws on first-hand testimonials showing that those trapped in extreme poverty often work long,…
Europe Day is a vibrant celebration that lights up two dates on the calendar across Europe. On 9 May, the European Union pays tribute to the peace and unity of the entire continent. The date was chosen to commemorate the 1950 Schuman Declaration, a speech that laid the foundations for what would become the European Union. The aim…
Did you know that today is International Harry Potter Day? Although the Harry Potter books were first published in 1998 and the films were released in 2001, it wasn’t until a decade later, after the books and films had been released, that International Harry Potter Day was officially announced. In fact, it was only in…
World Penguin Day is a celebratory and educational initiative that encourages people to learn more about penguins and their environment, their importance to our ecosystems and the threats they face. Want to know more about this day? Penguins are highly adapted to aquatic life, their wings have evolved into flippers and their excellent swimming skills…