Lost in Translation

I bet lots of people have awkward moments when they use English for the first time.

During our last Speaking Practice for Adults we covered the topic “Lost in Translation”. It took us into the fascinating world of language, culture and fun moments.

We started by exploring funny literal translations and discovering that sometimes translating word for word can lead to very unexpected results.

Then we went deeper and looked at Ukrainian words and concepts that are difficult to express with just one English word — затишок, душевність, щирість, порядність, авось, туга, метушня.

How would you explain those words to someone who has never experienced it?

What’s the difference between awkward, embarrassed, and ashamed?

And does being direct always mean being rude?

Through role plays, language challenges, discussions, and personal stories, we discovered that speaking a language well is about much more than knowing vocabulary.

It’s about understanding context, culture, tone, emotions, and what people really mean between the lines.

And, of course, there was plenty of laughter, interesting stories, and those wonderful moments when someone suddenly says:

“Ohhh… now I get it!”

Because sometimes the hardest thing to translate… is a feeling.

The Power of Words

Words may seem simple and ordinary, but sometimes just a few of them can stay with us for years.

At our latest English Speaking Practice for adults, we explored exactly that — the power our words have to encourage, hurt, motivate, repair relationships and influence the people around us.

We started by talking about words and phrases that can change everything: “Thank you,” “I’m sorry,” “I believe in you,” “You can do it.” We shared personal stories about words we have heard or said that we still remember.

Our discussions took us further into real-life situations:

What should you say when a friend is having a difficult time?

How can you disagree without offending someone?

Does our intention matter more than the impact of our words?

Why can communication online be so easily misunderstood?

And, of course, we had plenty of speaking practice, new vocabulary and lively discussions along the way.

We may not always intend to hurt someone, but our words can still have an effect. That is why learning to communicate thoughtfully is such an important skill — not only in English, but in life.

We finished by choosing one phrase or message we would like to use more often in our everyday conversations.

Because words are powerful.

So, what words will you choose to use today?

A new season is just around the corner!

As summer slowly comes to an end, we had a special English Speaking Practice for adults - a chance to pause, look back, and think about what these past months brought us. We reflected on our summer memories, little victories, unexpected moments, and things we learned along the way. We shared what made this summer special and what we would perhaps do differently.

And then… we looked ahead!

We dreamed about the coming autumn, talked about our hopes and expectations, and made plans for the new season. Some plans were big, some were simple - but all of them reminded us that a new season is always a chance for a fresh start.

Of course, we did all of this in English - turning personal reflections and future plans into meaningful speaking practice. We used new vocabulary, shared ideas, asked questions, and encouraged each other to speak more freely and confidently.

Because learning a language is not only about grammar and vocabulary.

It’s also about having something meaningful to say.

Thank you to everyone who made this summer’s speaking practices so warm, lively, and inspiring!  Goodbye, summer.

Welcome, autumn. Let’s see what this new season has in store for us!

Our differences make us interesting

This week our English Speaking Club was all about the idea that our differences make us interesting. We started with a fun warm-up, comparing our personalities, habits, and preferences, and quickly discovered that even in a small group we see the world in very different ways. We then explored vocabulary related to individuality, diversity, perspectives, stereotypes, and open-mindedness, and used these expressions in real conversations.

One of the highlights of the session was a 60-second speaking challenge, where participants had to choose a side and defend their opinion. The question “Are men and women equal in society today?” led to a thoughtful and respectful discussion, with everyone sharing personal experiences and different points of view.

Through pair work, small-group discussions, and a mini debate, we practiced not only English, but also the ability to listen carefully, express ideas clearly, and appreciate perspectives that may differ from our own.

Thank you to everyone who joined and made the conversation meaningful. We’re already looking forward to the next session!

Life is better when you know IDIOMs

We had a wonderful speaking practice with our adult English group yesterday afternoon.

We started the class with a fun warmer about summer activities that people are enjoying these days. Everyone shared what they have been doing recently — from traveling and swimming to hiking, gardening, spending time with family, and enjoying the warm weather. It was a great way to get everyone talking from the very beginning and to practice speaking naturally about everyday life.

After that, we moved on to our main topic: idioms and phrasal verbs. We explored useful expressions, discussing what they mean and when native speakers use them in real conversations. We guessed meanings from context, created our own examples, and practiced using the expressions in different situations.

The class was full of conversation, laughter, and new vocabulary that can be used in everyday English. I especially enjoyed hearing everyone’s personal stories and seeing how confidently the group used the new expressions in discussion.

Thank you to everyone who joined today — your participation, curiosity, and willingness to speak make every class enjoyable and inspiring. Looking forward to our next speaking session together!