Why Fluent Non-Native English Speakers Still Struggle to Communicate Clearly… and What Actually Helps

Many accomplished professionals speak English fluently yet still find communication in the workplace unexpectedly challenging. They contribute valuable insights, manage teams and lead projects — yet sometimes their ideas don’t land as intended. This is rarely about...

Sing Your Way to Better Language Skills

I got into pronunciation training because of my love for singing — and because, believe it or not, I learned to speak Spanish with a pretty decent accent by belting out songs. Over the past two years, I’ve had the joy of reconnecting with a group of Chilean and Greek...

What Is a Phrasal Verb?

If you've ever been puzzled by phrases like "turn up," "give in," or "run out," you're not alone. These aren't just random combinations of words – they're phrasal verbs, and they carry meanings you can't always guess from the individual parts. Take the verb turn. On...
Jokes – Phrasing is Important

Jokes – Phrasing is Important

In writing, we often mark phrasing with punctuation. In speech, we mark phrasing with intonation and pausing. If it is not done correctly, you might be misunderstood! Take a look at the following examples: WHAT IS IT? Let’s eat Grandma... OR… Let’s eat, Grandma. LOVE...

Phrasal Verbs & Stress

This is the third in a series of articles based on excerpts from a presentation made by Heather Chetwynd at the ING Cafe in downtown Toronto in Fall 2012. Please watch out for more upcoming posts based on the variety of topics that were covered at that event....

Idioms & Culture

This is the second in a series of articles based on excerpts from a presentation made by Heather Chetwynd at the ING Cafe in downtown Toronto in Fall 2012. Please watch out for more upcoming posts based on the variety of topics that were covered at that event....

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