In this lesson, I explain the viral news about President Trump’s rumored $2000 giveaway and what’s really going on. You’ll also learn useful English vocabulary from the story like pledge, low income, and double down.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. 📺 Link to Newscast: https://youtu.be/p-k3kNewOto?si=aSx2qPs9LxQtDvwv1. Doubling Down: To continue doing something strongly, even after problems or criticism. : He doubled down on his diet after seeing how much weight he had gained.2. Pledge: A serious promise to do something. : He pledged to his family that he would stop smoking and live a healthier life.3. Low Income: Earning little money, not enough for many basic needs. : Many low-income families receive help to pay for food and housing.4. Middle Income: Earning a moderate amount of money — not poor, not rich. : Middle-income families often work hard to pay for their homes and children’s education.5. High Income: Earning a lot of money. : Doctors and engineers are often in the high-income group.6. Dividends: Money paid to people who own shares in a company. : Her smart investments paid off, and the dividends helped her retire early.7. Tariff: A tax on goods brought into a country. : The U.S. placed a tariff on steel from other countries.8. Revenue: The total money a government or business earns. : Tourism brings a lot of revenue to the country each year.9. Stimulus Check: Money the government gives to people to help the economy during hard times. : Many Americans used their stimulus checks to buy food and pay rent.10. A Share: A small part of a company that someone can own. : Owning a share means you own a small part of a company.11. Congress: The part of the U.S. government that makes laws. : Congress voted to pass a new education bill.12. Inflation: When prices go up and money buys less than before. : Because of inflation, food and gas are more expensive this year.13. Debt: Money that you owe to someone. : The country has a lot of debt after years of borrowing money.14. Go Crazy: To become very excited, angry, or out of control. : Fans went crazy when the singer walked on stage.15. Deficit: When you spend more money than you have. : The government had a budget deficit after spending too much on the military.16. Surge: A sudden, strong increase.: She felt a surge of fear when the dog barked loudly. : There was a surge in gas prices after the war started.17. Surplus: When there is more of something than needed. : The farm had a surplus of corn after a good harvest.

I filmed today’s lesson at The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli in Columbia, South Carolina—one of the most famous places for huge, homemade cinnamon buns. In this video, you’ll learn how to order breakfast in simple, natural English just like people do in the United States.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off.

Every year on November 11, people in the United States celebrate Veterans Day to honor those who served in the military. In this lesson, you’ll learn the history, traditions, and important English words used to talk about this national holiday.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. Veteran – Someone who served in the military. : My grandfather is a veteran who served in the Army.Military – The armed forces of a country. : The military protects the country.Serve – To work for your country, especially in the military. : Many men and women serve in the U.S. military.Honor – To show respect and thanks. : We honor our veterans for their bravery.Sacrifice – Giving up something important to help others. : Veterans made many sacrifices like leaving their families to keep us safe.Ceremony – A special event to remember or celebrate something. : There was a Veterans Day ceremony at the park.Memorial – A place built to remember someone or something important. : We visited the war memorial to lay flowers.Freedom – The right to live and speak freely. : Veterans helped protect our freedom.Parade – A public celebration with marching bands and flags. : The Veterans Day parade went through the city streets.Courage – Being brave even when it’s hard or scary. : Soldiers show great courage during war.

In this English lesson, you will learn terms that you might see on the IELTS or TOEFL exam. Together, we will watch a news clip that uses some very advanced terms.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. Click for bonus English: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/usbrent/subscribe🦱 Want a hair transplant? Use Brent10 for 10% off: +90 538 545 34 42 on WhatsApp1. The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration): The government agency that controls and oversees all air travel and safety in the United States. : The FAA makes sure airplanes fly safely in the sky.2. Bracing: Preparing yourself for something difficult or unpleasant. : She took a deep breath, bracing herself for bad news.3. Cancellations: The act of stopping or calling off something that was planned. : There were many flight cancellations because of the storm.4. Delays: When something happens later than expected. : Our flight had a two-hour delay.5. Sole: Only; not shared with others. : She was the sole passenger on the small plane.6. In the Coming Days: During the next few days; soon. : The weather will get colder in the coming days.7. Lead To: To cause something to happen. : Bad weather can lead to flight delays.: Improving your English can lead to a better job. 8. Systematic Way: A method that is organized and follows clear steps. : The TSA checks bags in a systematic way to keep everyone safe.9. Obtaining: Getting or gaining something, especially through effort. : He is obtaining his pilot’s license this year.10. Air Traffic Controllers: People who manage airplane takeoffs and landings to keep flights safe. : Air traffic controllers guide pilots through bad weather.11. Staffing Shortages: When there are not enough workers to do the needed jobs. : Staffing shortages at airports cause long lines.12. TSA (Transportation Security Administration): The U.S. government agency that checks passengers and luggage before flights. : The TSA makes sure no dangerous items are brought onto airplanes.13. Checkpoints: Places where security officers check passengers or vehicles. : We went through two TSA checkpoints before boarding the plane.14. Strain: Pressure or stress that makes something or someone work too hard. : The rope began to strain under the heavy weight.: Don’t lift that heavy box — you might strain your back.15. Exponentially: Increasing very fast; growing more and more quickly. : Her English skills are improving exponentially because she studies every day.: Gas prices rose exponentially last summer.16. Exhausted: Very tired; having no energy left. : After waiting all night for her flight, she felt exhausted.17. Compromise: An agreement where each side gives up something to solve a problem. : They made a compromise so that both teams could use the field.

Sound is everywhere — from a door slamming to thunder rolling across the sky. In this lesson, you’ll learn English words and expressions to describe all kinds of noises, from quiet buzzes to deafening booms.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. 💙 OVER 100 BONUS ENGLISH LESSONS? Become a channel member. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCakDTg9dhhAsr3WmHyJDa-g/joinBang – A sudden, loud noise. The window closed with a loud bang during the storm.Boom – A deep, loud sound. We heard a big boom when the fireworks started.Crash – A loud breaking sound. The plates fell off the shelf and made a crash.Clang – A loud metal sound. The metal gate closed with a clang.Rattle – A fast shaking sound. The keys rattled in her pocket as she walked.Thud – A heavy, dull sound. The basketball hit the floor with a thud.Pop – A small, sharp sound. The balloon suddenly went pop at the party.Slam – To close loudly. He slammed the door because he was angry.Buzz – A humming sound. A fly buzzed around my head all morning.Whistle – A high, shrill sound. The referee whistled to stop the game.Shout – To speak very loudly. She had to shout so her friend could hear over the music.Yell – Another word for shout. The coach yelled instructions to the team.Cheer – Loud happy shouting. The fans cheered when their team scored a goal.Applause – Clapping hands loudly. The singer smiled as the crowd’s applause grew louder.Chant – Repeated singing or shouting. The protesters chanted for change in the city square.Belt out – To sing with power. He loves to belt out songs in the shower.Blare – Music played very loudly. Music blared from the speakers at the party.Blast – To play sound very loud. They blasted rock music while cleaning the garage.“Have a blast” is another way to say you are having fun.Roar (crowd) – A deep, loud noise from many people. The stadium roared when the team won.Echo – A sound that repeats. Her voice echoed in the empty hall.Engine – The loud part of a car. The car’s engine made a loud noise when it started.Horn – Car warning sound. The driver honked the horn to warn the cyclist.Siren – Emergency alarm. An ambulance siren wailed down the street.Alarm – A warning sound. The smoke alarm rang in the kitchen.Jackhammer – A loud tool. The jackhammer outside kept everyone awake.Drill – A loud machine for holes. The worker used a drill to fix the wall.Chainsaw – A very loud cutting tool. A chainsaw buzzed as they cut the tree.Thunder – Loud noise in a storm. Thunder rolled across the sky before the rain.Fireworks – Exploding lights with loud sounds. Loud fireworks lit up the night sky.Jet – A loud airplane. A jet flew overhead and made a roaring sound.Bark – A dog’s loud sound. The dog barked at the stranger.Howl – A long, loud cry. Wolves howled under the full moon.Roar (animal) – A lion’s deep sound. The lion’s roar could be heard far away.Squawk – A bird’s harsh cry. The parrot squawked when it wanted food.Deafening – So loud it hurts. The concert was so deafening I needed earplugs.Bustling – Busy and noisy. The bustling market was full of people and sounds.Thundering – Very loud, like thunder. The runner entered the stadium to thundering applause.Chaotic – Very noisy and disorganized. The classroom felt chaotic when everyone started talking.

Even More English: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/usbrent/subscribe

Millions of Americans are struggling to eat as the government shutdown drags on. In this English lesson, you’ll learn emotional phrasal verbs and key vocabulary you’ll need for the TOEFL and IELTS while understanding how this crisis affects real families.

✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. Link to Original Newscast: https://youtu.be/8jmIjZEjQng?si=LCGJUZYvmNTG5GgB1. Drags On: Continues for a long time and feels slow or boring. : When class drags on, students look at the clock a lot.: The rainy day drags on, and there is nothing fun to do.2. Count On: To depend on someone or something. : People count on doctors when they are sick.: She counts on her alarm clock to wake her up every morning.3. Portion: A part of something, like food or money. : Each student got one portion of cake at the party.: A big portion of the town was without power after the storm.4. Rely On: To trust or depend on someone or something. : Many people rely on their phones to wake them up in the morning.5. Louisiana: A state in the southern United States, known for cities like New Orleans. : My cousin lives in Louisiana, where they celebrate Mardi Gras every year.6. Run Out: To use all of something so that nothing is left. : We ran out of milk, so we can’t make cereal today.7. Funds: Money saved or used for a special purpose. : The school needs more funds to buy new computers.8. Relieved: Feeling happy because something bad did not happen. : The team was relieved after winning the close game.9. Skeptical: Not sure if something is true; having doubts. : I was skeptical when my friend said he saw a UFO.10. Gearing Up: Getting ready or preparing for something. : The store is gearing up for the holiday rush.: The firefighters are gearing up for a long night of work.11. Slammed : Extremely busy with a lot of work to do. : The hotel was slammed during the summer vacation.12. Stretched Thin: Having too many things to do and not enough time or energy. : The hospital staff are stretched thin after many long shifts.13. Layoffs: When workers lose their jobs because the company has no money or work. : The news about factory layoffs made many families worried.14. Stock Up: To buy a lot of something so you don’t run out later. : People stocked up on food before the big storm.: We stocked up on snacks for the long road trip.15. Food Insecurity: Not having enough food or worrying about getting food. : The school started a program to help students with food insecurity.16. Provide: To give something that is needed. : The hospital provides care for everyone, even without money.17. Both Sides of the Aisle: People from different political parties working together..in the U.S. it’s the Republicans and Democrats. : The new law was supported by both sides of the aisle.18. Hanging in the Balance: Uncertain; the result has not been decided yet. : Peace talks continued late into the night, with the future of the country hanging in the balance.: The rescue mission is dangerous, and the workers’ safety is hanging in the balance.19. Sobering: Serious and makes you stop and think. : Seeing the hospital full of patients was a sobering sight.: The news about the hurricane in Jamaica was a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be.

The world couldn’t believe it — President Trump says he wants to restart nuclear testing after more than 30 years. In this video, learn the powerful English words and phrases people are using to talk about this shocking news story.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. Link to Original Newscast: Link: https://youtu.be/v6Fi0lUeiU4?si=6ikTI85lrQeqo1B4Stirring the Pot: Causing trouble or making a situation more intense.: On social media, many people stir the pot just to get attention.Concern: A feeling of worry about something important.: His parents showed concern when he didn’t answer the phone.Match (Verb): To be equal to or compete with something or someone.: My socks don’t match, but they’re comfortable!The couple met at work and turned out to be a surprising match.Match (Noun): A contest or competition between two sides.: The match between Ukraine and Germany started three minutes ago.Moratorium: A temporary stop or suspension of an activity.: The U.S. has had a moratorium on nuclear testing since 1992.Match: A small stick used to start a fire.: He lit the match to start the bonfire at the campsite. Insists: Says something strongly and refuses to change one’s opinion.: My dad insists that family dinners are important.She insists that she’s right, even when she might be wrong.Clarified: Explained something to make it clear or easier to understand.: The manager clarified that the meeting starts at 2:00, not 3:00.Taken by Surprise: Shocked or not expecting something to happen.: I was taken by surprise when I saw my old friend at the grocery store.They were taken by surprise when the power went out during dinner.Resume: To start again after stopping for a while.: The president wants the United States to resume nuclear testing for the first time in over 30 years.Detonations: Explosions, especially from bombs or weapons.: During the war, detonations became a frightening part of daily life.Arsenal: A collection or supply of weapons.: The U.S. already has the world’s largest nuclear arsenal, so many question why testing is needed.Consequences: The results or effects of an action, often negative.: Experts warn that restarting nuclear tests could have serious consequences for world peace.Contamination: Pollution or poisoning of an area, especially by dangerous substances.: Washing your hands helps prevent food contamination.Nevada: A U.S. state where most past nuclear tests took place.: The new tests would likely happen at the old site in Nevada.The desert in Nevada can be very hot during the summer.Sacrificed: Gave up something valuable for another purpose.: She sacrificed her weekend to help her friend move to a new house.The team sacrificed the fun of trick-or-treating to focus on training for the big game.Comprehensive: Including all or nearly all parts of something.: The museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the city.Ratified: Officially approved by a government or group.: The treaty was signed but never ratified by the United States Senate.Fall Into Place: To begin to happen smoothly or make sense.: After weeks of planning, everything started to fall into place for the wedding.Arms Race: A competition between countries to build more or better weapons.: Experts worry that this move could start a new arms race between global powers.Justification: A reason or explanation that makes something seem right.: The president’s justification is that the U.S. must stay strong against other nuclear nations.His only justification for being late was that the bus broke down.

I thought checking into my Airbnb would be easy… until I found out there are two elevators! Come with me as I try not to get lost — and teach you some English along the way.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. 💙 OVER 100 BONUS ENGLISH LESSONS? Become a channel member. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCakDTg9dhhAsr3WmHyJDa-g/join1. Lanyard*Definition:* A string or strap you wear around your neck to hold something, like an ID card or keys.*Example:* The teacher wore a lanyard with her school ID on it.---2. Octopi*Definition:* The plural form of *octopus*, meaning more than one sea animal with eight arms.*Example:* We saw two octopi swimming in the big tank at the aquarium.---3. Cacti*Definition:* The plural form of *cactus*, a plant that usually grows in hot, dry places and has spines.*Example:* There are many cacti in the desert because they don’t need much water.---4. Terrace*Definition:* A flat outdoor area next to a building, often used for sitting or eating.*Example:* We had breakfast on the terrace and enjoyed the warm weather.---5. Airbnb*Definition:* A website and app where people can rent homes, rooms, or apartments for short stays.*Example:* We stayed in an Airbnb while visiting South Carolina for the weekend.

Millions of families in the United States may soon lose food help because of the government shutdown. Learn important English words and phrases while we talk about this sad but real story.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. 💙 OVER 100 BONUS ENGLISH LESSONS? Become a channel member. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCakDTg9dhhAsr3WmHyJDa-g/joinLink to Original Newscast: https://youtu.be/8jmIjZEjQng?si=LCGJUZYvmNTG5GgB1. Drags On: Continues for a long time and feels slow or boring. : When class drags on, students look at the clock a lot.: The rainy day drags on, and there is nothing fun to do.2. Count On: To depend on someone or something. : People count on doctors when they are sick.: She counts on her alarm clock to wake her up every morning.3. Portion: A part of something, like food or money. : Each student got one portion of cake at the party.: A big portion of the town was without power after the storm.4. Rely On: To trust or depend on someone or something. : Many people rely on their phones to wake them up in the morning.5. Louisiana: A state in the southern United States, known for cities like New Orleans. : My cousin lives in Louisiana, where they celebrate Mardi Gras every year.6. Run Out: To use all of something so that nothing is left. : We ran out of milk, so we can’t make cereal today.7. Funds: Money saved or used for a special purpose. : The school needs more funds to buy new computers.8. Relieved: Feeling happy because something bad did not happen. : The team was relieved after winning the close game.9. Skeptical: Not sure if something is true; having doubts. : I was skeptical when my friend said he saw a UFO.10. Gearing Up: Getting ready or preparing for something. : The store is gearing up for the holiday rush.: The firefighters are gearing up for a long night of work.11. Slammed : Extremely busy with a lot of work to do. : The hotel was slammed during the summer vacation.12. Stretched Thin: Having too many things to do and not enough time or energy. : The hospital staff are stretched thin after many long shifts.13. Layoffs: When workers lose their jobs because the company has no money or work. : The news about factory layoffs made many families worried.14. Stock Up: To buy a lot of something so you don’t run out later. : People stocked up on food before the big storm.: We stocked up on snacks for the long road trip.15. Food Insecurity: Not having enough food or worrying about getting food. : The school started a program to help students with food insecurity.16. Provide: To give something that is needed. : The hospital provides care for everyone, even without money.17. Both Sides of the Aisle: People from different political parties working together..in the U.S. it’s the Republicans and Democrats. : The new law was supported by both sides of the aisle.18. Hanging in the Balance: Uncertain; the result has not been decided yet. : Peace talks continued late into the night, with the future of the country hanging in the balance.: The rescue mission is dangerous, and the workers’ safety is hanging in the balance.19. Sobering: Serious and makes you stop and think. : Seeing the hospital full of patients was a sobering sight.: The news about the hurricane in Jamaica was a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be.

✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off.

This English lesson tells the story of Gen Z—the young generation taking to the streets to create a better future. Learn English vocabulary through real news about courage, hope, and social change.

✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off.

Link of Original Newscast: https://youtu.be/ywJuZ8kCwBI?si=V-VAnZvXQI4yIqZk

1. Gen Z: People born from the late 1990s to around 2010. : Gen Z uses social media to share their opinions and ideas.2. Taking to the Streets: When people go outside to protest or show their opinions publicly. : Many students are taking to the streets to ask for better education.3. Specific: Clear and exact; not general. : The teacher gave specific directions for the homework.4. Demands: Strong requests for something that people believe they deserve. : The workers made demands for higher pay and safer conditions.5. Social Justice: Fair treatment and equal rights for everyone in society. : Many young people care deeply about social justice and equality.6. Clashed: Fought or argued strongly with someone. : Protesters clashed with police during the march.7. Impeached: When a government leader is officially accused of doing something wrong. : The president was impeached after being accused of corruption.8. Step Down: To leave an important job or position. : The mayor decided to step down after ten years in office.9. Sweeping Across: Moving quickly or spreading over a large area. : A wave of protests is sweeping across the country.10. Corruption: Dishonest or illegal behavior, especially by people in power. : The people were angry because of corruption in the government.11. Taking On: To fight against or challenge someone or something. : The brave journalist is taking on powerful politicians in her articles.12. Spiraling: Getting worse or increasing quickly and out of control. : Prices are spiraling, and many families can’t afford food.13. Crackdown: Strong action by authorities to stop something bad or illegal. : The police started a crackdown on speeding and drunk driving.14. Galvanizing: Causing people to take action or become more active. : The speech was galvanizing—it made people want to change the world.15. Triggered: Caused a strong reaction, usually emotional. : The video triggered memories of the earthquake for many survivors.16. Routine: A regular way of doing things. : She follows a morning routine before going to school.17. C-Sections: A medical operation to deliver a baby through surgery instead of natural birth. : The doctor performed two C-sections last week.18. Woeful: Very bad, sad, or full of trouble. : The country’s economy is in a woeful state right now.19. Priorities: The most important things that must be done first. : Her top priorities are finishing school and helping her family.

A daring jewel heist just happened at the Louvre Museum in Paris — and we’re using this breaking news story to learn real English words you’ll see on the TOEFL and IELTS! Watch to discover key vocabulary like heist, brazen, and getaway while improving your English through current events.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. Original News Link:https://youtu.be/QwdwC2NUlXI?si=TcrMiQjInCQ-Zrh61. Whether: Used to show a choice between two or more things. : She didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.: I’m not sure whether he likes his new job.2. Hunt: To look for something or someone carefully. : He likes to hunt rabbits with his dog, Gus. 3. Priceless: So valuable that it cannot be given a price. : Her grandmother’s ring is priceless.4. Brazen: Very bold and not afraid of what others think. : The student brazenly used his phone during the test.5. Heist: A planned robbery, usually of money or valuable things. : The movie was about a bank heist.6. Widely Shared: Seen or known by many people. : The photo of the sunset was widely shared because it was beautiful.7. Vest: A piece of clothing worn on the upper body, often under or over a shirt. : The hunters wore orange vests so they could be seen easily.8. Disguised: Dressed or changed to look different to hide who you are. : The movie star disguised herself with sunglasses and a hat.9. Maintenance Worker: A person who fixes or takes care of buildings or machines. : The maintenance worker repaired the broken light.10. Lavish: Expensive, fancy, or full of luxury. : They lived in a lavish apartment with gold decorations.11. Captivated: Very interested or charmed by something or someone. : The crowd was captivated by the magician’s tricks.12. Oceans 11: A famous movie about a group planning a big casino robbery. : The students compared their project to Oceans 11 because it needed teamwork.13. Mount : To put on, organize, or begin something; or to climb. : The company plans to mount a big campaign to sell their new fish-flavored toothpaste.14. Audit: A careful check of money records or accounts. : The students did a small audit of how much paper the school uses each month.15. Deprioritized: Made less important than other things. : The student deprioritized video games to study for exams.16. Deplorable: Very bad and deserving strong dislike. : The living conditions in the building were deplorable.17. Construction Work: Building or repairing structures like houses, roads, or bridges. : Construction work started early in the morning.18. Snatched: Taken quickly or suddenly. : The man snatched the purse and ran away.19. Encrusted: Covered with a hard or decorative layer. : The necklace was encrusted with diamonds.: His shoes were encrusted with dried mud after the hike.: The walls of the cave were encrusted with colorful minerals.20. Getaway: The act of escaping, usually after a crime. : The robbers jumped into the getaway car.21. Intact: Not broken or damaged; still complete. : The phone fell on the floor, but the screen stayed intact.22. Diminish: To make or become smaller or weaker. : The doctor said the pain will diminish with time.: His energy diminished after running for so long.

🍁 Learn 11 fun English phrasal verbs and idioms for autumn! These natural expressions will help you sound more like a native speaker while talking about the fall season.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. 🍁 Autumn Idioms and Phrasal VerbsFall Apart👉 To break into pieces or stop working emotionally.🧩 After his dog died, he started to fall apart.Fall Behind👉 To not move as fast as others.🧩 She fell behind in her homework after falling and breaking her arm.Fall Through👉 To fail or not happen as planned.🧩 Our trip to the park fell through because it rained all day.Fall for Someone or Something👉 To start liking or loving someone.🧩 He fell for his best friend.Fell for It👉 To be tricked or fooled by someone or something.🧩 I told my brother there was a spider on his shoulder—he totally fell for it!Turn Over a New Leaf👉 To start fresh or change your behavior for the better.🧩 After summer vacation, she turned over a new leaf and studied harder.Bundle Up👉 To put on warm clothes.🧩 It’s cold outside—bundle up before you go out!Change Up👉 To do something in a different way.🧩 I wanted to change up my English learning, so instead of reading a book I listened to a podcast.Drift Off👉 To slowly fall asleep or lose focus.🧩 Last night, I drifted off while reading by the fire, never making it to bed.Rake In👉 To earn a lot of money easily.🧩 The coffee shop rakes in money during the fall festival.Rake Up👉 To collect fallen leaves.🧩 We raked up the leaves in the yard.Blow Over👉 To pass without causing much trouble.🧩 The storm blew over by morning.Leaf Through👉 To look quickly through a book, magazine, or papers.🧩 I leafed through the magazine while waiting for the bus.

🇻🇪 In this English lesson, we explore how Venezuela’s people are suffering under dictatorship and the fear of a possible U.S. invasion. Learn important vocabulary and expressions to understand and discuss this powerful news story in English.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. 💙 OVER 100 BONUS ENGLISH LESSONS? Become a channel member. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCakDTg9dhhAsr3WmHyJDa-g/joinLink to original newscast: https://youtu.be/P3lqs6haNx8?si=b8M61fHISGiPQMNB1. Considering: Thinking carefully about something before making a decision.: She is considering moving to another city for work.2. Soil: The top layer of the earth where plants grow; dirt.: Farmers need good soil to grow healthy crops.3. Combat: To fight against someone or something.: The government is trying to combat teen smoking.4. Under Control: When a problem or situation is being managed and is not dangerous anymore.: The fire is now under control thanks to the firefighters.5. Authoritarian: A person or government that expects people to obey rules without question.: The country is ruled by an authoritarian leader who allows no free speech.6. Covert: Secret or hidden; not done openly.: The spy carried out a covert mission at night.7. To Take Out: To remove or destroy something or someone.: The video game player took out all the robots on the screen.8. Non-Committal: Not showing a clear opinion or decision.: He made a non-committal shrug and changed the subject.9. Feeling Heat: Experiencing pressure or criticism from others.: The player was feeling the heat from the crowd after missing the goal.10. Legitimize: To make something legal or acceptable.: The artist’s success helped legitimize street art as real art.11. Regime Change: When one government is replaced by another, especially by force.: The United States were secretly drawing up plans for a regime change in Venezuela. 12. Carried Out: Done or completed; when an action or plan is performed.: Volunteers carried out repairs on the old playground.13. Narco : A person who sells or moves illegal drugs; short for narcotics dealer.: The police arrested a narco who was smuggling drugs across the border.14. Vessel: A large boat or ship that travels on water.: The navy vessel sailed into the harbor.15. Condemnation: Strong disapproval or saying that something is wrong or bad.: His cruel words earned him condemnation from his friends.16. Full-Fledged: Complete or fully developed.: After years of training, she became a full-fledged pilot.17. Lethal: Able to cause death; deadly.: The snake’s bite can be lethal to humans.18. Verify: To check that something is true or correct.: The reporter must verify all facts before writing the article.19. Blown to Smithereens: Completely destroyed into very small pieces.: The old building was blown to smithereens by the explosion.

✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. Original Link to Newscast: https://youtu.be/8wl3j-ayOJg?si=Vl7camJRGYaZuFeI1. Take My Chances: To try something even if it might not work.: I’ll take my chances and try out for the soccer team.2. You Don’t Mind: You are okay with something; it doesn’t bother you.: I hope you don’t mind if I sit here.3. Incredible: Very good or amazing.: The view from the mountain was incredible!4. Respect: To think someone or something is important and treat them well.: We should respect our teachers and classmates.5. Successful: Doing well; reaching your goals.: She worked hard and became a successful doctor.6. Fantastic: Very good or wonderful.: The food at that new restaurant tastes fantastic.7. Best Seat: The most comfortable or most desired place.: Reporters had the best seat to witness history being made at the trial.8. Roasting: Making jokes about someone in a funny way: My friends were roasting me for being late again. 9. GDP (Gross Domestic Product): The total value of everything a country makes in a year.: The United States has one of the largest GDPs in the world.10. Come Here: To move closer to where the speaker is.: Come here and look at this picture!11. Going Well: Happening in a good or successful way.: My English classes are going well this year.12. 20-Minute Notice: A warning or message given 20 minutes before something happens.: The doctor has to perform emergency surgery with only 20 minutes notice. 13. Complements: something that fits well with something else.: The blue shirt complements your eyes.14. Unique: One of a kind; special or different from others.: The snowflake has a unique shape that no other snowflake has.15. Assembled: Put together or gathered in one place.: The students assembled in the gym for the school meeting.: We assembled all the materials we needed for the science project.

✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. Ceasefire: An agreement to stop fighting for a time.: The two sides agreed to a ceasefire after many days of war.🤝 Brokered: Arranged or helped to make an agreement.: The peace deal was brokered by the United Nations.🪖 Withdrawal: When soldiers or troops leave a place.: The army’s withdrawal from the city began last night.🧍‍♀️ Displaced: Forced to leave your home because of war or danger.: Thousands of people were displaced after the major rainstorm.🚶 Trek: A long and difficult journey on foot.: Families made a long trek back to their homes in Gaza City.🚪 Pulls Out: Leaves or stops being involved; withdrawal : The country pulls out its soldiers from the region.💬 Address : To speak to a group or nation.: The president will address the people about the new ceasefire.🕯️ Remains: What is left of a dead person’s body.: The remains of the victims were found under the building.⚰️ Deceased: Dead (formal).: The deceased were honored in a special ceremony.🧍‍♂️ Hostage: A person held by force during a conflict.: The group released the last hostages after the agreement.🏙️ Hostage Square: A public place where people gather to support or remember hostages.: Families waited at Hostage Square for news about their loved ones.💭 Perhaps: Maybe; not for sure.: Perhaps I will study my English today. Perhaps not. 🌙 Coincide: Happen at the same time.: The baseball game coincides with my meeting, so I will not be able to go.👀 Apparently: It seems like something is true.: Apparently, peace is coming to Gaza.👏 Crediting: Saying that someone deserves praise or thanks.: Many are crediting Egypt for helping to stop the fighting.🛡️ Securing: Making something safe or protected.: The guard was securing the building before going home for the night. 💬 Implied: Suggested something without saying it directly.: She didn’t say it directly, but she implied that she was angry.🕊️ Mediators: People who help two sides solve a problem peacefully.: The mediators worked for days to reach a deal.🌊 Coastal: Near the ocean or sea.: The coastal area is famous for its beaches and seafood.🔙 Head Back: To return to a place.: I forgot my phone, so I had to head back home to get it. 🧩 Pieces to the Puzzle: Parts that help explain or complete a situation.: The detective found the last piece to the puzzle and solved the case.🚑 Red Cross: An international organization that helps people in emergencies, such as wars or natural disasters.: The Red Cross is bringing medicine and food to Gaza.⏳ Phase: A stage or part of a process.: The baby is in a phase where she cries a lot before going to bed.🕊️ Resolution: The ending or solution to a problem or story.: The movie had a happy resolution when the families made peace.

✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. 🕊️ Vocabulary for B1 Students1. Handed Over – gave something or someone to another person or group.➡️ The soldiers were handed over to the other side after the peace deal.2. Underway – happening now; already started.➡️ Talks between the two countries are underway in the capital city.3. Sabotaging – trying to stop or damage something on purpose.➡️ She kept sabotaging her own success by showing up late to every interview.4. Summit – a meeting between leaders of countries.➡️ World leaders met at a summit to discuss climate change.5. Captives – people kept as prisoners, often during war.➡️ The captives were finally released after many months.6. Delaying – making something happen later than planned.➡️ The storm is delaying our flight, so we have to wait at the airport.7. Jubilation – great joy and happiness.➡️ There was jubilation in the streets after the team won the championship.8. Custody – being kept by the police or another authority.➡️ The suspect is now in police custody.9. Deal – an agreement between two or more sides.➡️ They made a deal to exchange prisoners for peace.10. Anxious – worried or nervous.➡️ She felt anxious before taking her driving test.11. Batch – a group of things or people that are handled together.➡️ A new batch of aid supplies arrived at the border.12. West Bank – a region in the Middle East that is part of the Israel–Palestine conflict.➡️ Many people live in the West Bank under difficult conditions.13. Reunited – brought back together after being apart.➡️ The families were reunited after the hostages were freed.14. Life Sentence – punishment of spending the rest of one’s life in prison.➡️ He received a life sentence for the crime.15. Occupied – controlled by another group or army.➡️ The city has been occupied by foreign troops for years.16. Emotional – full of strong feelings like sadness, happiness, or anger.➡️ The teacher was emotional when her students graduated.17. Swap – exchange one thing for another.➡️ The soccer players swapped jerseys after the game.18. Accused – said to have done something wrong or illegal.➡️ He was accused of stealing money from the company.

On October 10, 2025, early in the morning (around 7:48 a.m. CDT) a massive explosion struck a munitions / explosives manufacturing facility operated by Accurate Energetic Systems near Bucksnort / McEwen, Tennessee. The blast destroyed at least one building, scattered debris over a half-mile radius, and was felt several miles away.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. Link to original newscast: https://youtu.be/NtxbFti4x98?si=K7-Kmkwba_iAqm_p1. Munitions: Weapons and bullets used in war.: The soldiers loaded their munitions before the battle began.2. Community: A group of people who live in the same area or share something in common.: Our community helped clean the park after the storm.3. Rural: Relating to the countryside, not the city.: Many people in rural areas grow their own food.4. Accurate: Correct and without mistakes.: The teacher said my answer was accurate.5. Facility: A building or place made for a special purpose.: The new sports facility has a big swimming pool.6. Manufactured: Made in a factory using machines.: These shoes were manufactured in Vietnam.7. Assumption: Something you think is true without proof.: My assumption was wrong — he wasn’t late, he was early!8. Delicate: Easily broken or damaged; needing careful handling.: Be careful — the glass vase is very delicate.9. Methodical: Done carefully and in an organized way.: He was methodical when checking each student’s homework.10. Leveled: Destroyed or made flat.: The tornado leveled several houses in the small town.11. Charred: Burned and blackened by fire.: We could smell the charred smell of burned leaves in the air.12. Insulation: Material that keeps heat, sound, or electricity inside or outside.: Good insulation keeps your house warm in winter.13. ATF: The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives — a U.S. government agency.: The ATF investigated the fire at the munitions factory.14. Stressed : To say something with extra force or importance.: The teacher stressed the importance of studying for the test.

✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use Code SUMMER10 for 10% off your conversation💙 OVER 100 BONUS ENGLISH LESSONS? Become a channel member. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCakDTg9dhhAsr3WmHyJDa-g/join🌧 Wet Things VocabularyRain – Water that falls from the sky. It started to rain, so I opened my umbrella.Puddle – A small pool of water on the ground. The child jumped into the puddle with her boots.Pond – A small lake. Ducks were swimming in the pond.Lake – A large area of water surrounded by land. We went fishing at the lake.Ocean – The biggest body of salt water. Waves crashed loudly in the ocean.River – A long stream of water that flows to the sea. The river runs through the city.Stream – A small, narrow river. We crossed the stream by stepping on stones.Shower – Light or short rain. A quick shower wet the streets.Drizzle – Very light rain. It was only a drizzle, so I didn’t need my umbrella.Storm – Strong weather with heavy rain and wind. The storm knocked down some trees.Flood – Too much water covering the land. The flood filled the streets with water.Dew – Small drops of water on grass in the morning. The grass was wet with dew.Mist – Very light fog made of water. Mist covered the hills in the morning.Fog – Thick mist that makes it hard to see. The car drove slowly because of the fog.Ice – Frozen water. The pond was covered with ice in winter.Snow – Frozen water that falls as white flakes. The children built a snowman with the snow.Hail – Small balls of ice that fall from the sky. Hail hit the roof during the storm.Waterfall – Water falling down from a high place. We took a picture in front of the waterfall.Wave – Water moving up and down in the sea. The big wave splashed onto the beach.Spray – Water that is sent out in small drops. The garden hose made a spray of water.Splash – Water that flies when something hits it. He jumped into the pool with a big splash.Steam – Hot mist from boiling water. Steam rose from the pot of soup.Drop – A very small amount of water. A drop of rain fell on my hand.Tear – Water that comes from your eye when you cry. A tear rolled down her cheek.

✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code Fall15 for 15% off. 💙 OVER 100 BONUS ENGLISH LESSONS? Become a channel member. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCakDTg9dhhAsr3WmHyJDa-g/joinLink to original newscast: https://youtu.be/H-o-ysnnypc?si=960Pdy6QHeyr0aHt🏛️ Government Shutdown VocabularyBring In – to include or introduce someone or something The teacher decided to bring in a guest speaker to the class to talk about their nursing career.Bring Onboard – to welcome someone into a group or team The company brought her onboard to help with the new project.Standoff – when two sides refuse to agree There was a standoff between the two teams about the rules.Optimistic – hopeful; believing things will turn out well He stayed optimistic even though the exam was hard.Doubt – not being sure about something She had doubts about whether she could finish the race on time.Dug In – refusing to change your opinion Both sides of the government dug in and wouldn’t compromise.Moderate – not extreme; in the middle He has moderate political views — not too strong on either side.Leader Thune – a U.S. senator and Republican leader (John Thune) Leader Thune said both parties need to work together.Shutdown – when the government or a business stops working for a time The park was closed during the government shutdown.Get Over – to recover from something It took him weeks to get over his illness.Chuck Schumer – a U.S. senator and Democratic leader Chuck Schumer spoke about helping workers during the shutdown.Potentially – possibly; maybe It could potentially snow tomorrow, so we might not have school.Disrupted – stopped from working normally Classes were disrupted when the internet went down.Resolved – ended or solved Their marriage problems were resolved after they met with a counselor.Vulnerable – weak or easily hurt Elderly people can be vulnerable during a heat wave.Elderly – old people The elderly need extra care during the winter.Paycheck – the money someone earns for work He waited for his paycheck to buy groceries.Interruption – a break or stop in something There was an interruption in the movie when the power went out.Non-Essential – not necessary or not the most important During a snowstorm, non-essential travel is not allowed.Wasted – used in a way that gives no good result All the food went bad and was wasted.WIC Benefits – government help for women, infants, and children to buy food Low-income families use WIC benefits to buy milk and baby food.SNAP Benefits – food money from the government for families in need Many people rely on SNAP benefits to buy groceries.Run Out – to use all of something We ran out of milk, so we went to the store.Obamacare – a U.S. law that helps people get health insurance Through Obamacare, more Americans can see a doctor.