Here on the Engoo blog, we've written about special uses of letters many times; for example, we've explained acronyms and slang as well as the different uses of a single letter in a wide variety of situations.

This post collects these articles in one convenient place. Read each one to learn how letters don't need to form full words to express ideas!

Old English Acronyms That Are Still Popular Today

Many of today's common acronyms became popular through social media. But others are much older and have been around for many, many years. 

This article introduces the history of these acronyms and gives examples of how to use them in everyday communication.

> Read the article

From HTTP to SEO: What Do Computer Abbreviations Mean?

There's an entire set of abbreviations used specifically for talking about technology. But you don't need to be a computer expert to use them. In fact, some of them you probably already know.

> Read the article

"All Correct"? - The History and Uses of "OK"

"OK" is easy to use, even if your English skills aren't perfect. But have you ever wondered why it's used the way it is? This article takes a look at the interesting history of this common expression.

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From GPS to SCUBA: Abbreviations in Everyday English

Codes and shortened words are very common in the military, where it's especially important to communicate quickly and clearly.

However, even if you aren't in the military, many of these abbreviations are useful to know since they appear often in everyday English conversations.

> Read the article

Everyday Latin Abbreviations Used in English

A lot of modern English has roots in Latin — and you don't need to look very far to find examples.

This article is all about the common abbreviations English speakers use when talking about things like résumés, degrees and even the times of day.

> Read the article

What 'K' and 'M' Mean on Social Media

Social media can be a powerful tool to help English learners improve their skills. One thing that many popular apps share is the use of the letters K and M to indicate important information about posts. Do you know what they mean?

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The Many Meanings and Uses of X

Have you ever noticed how often you see the letter X?

Each time it appears, X may have a completely different meaning than the last time you saw it. It's quite an incredible letter, and this article explains the many ways it can be used, together with helpful example sentences.

> Read the article

English Slang on Social Media

While this article isn't only about abbreviations, it does include some popular slang expressions based on letters whose meanings would be difficult to guess, such as "ofc" and "ngl." Read to learn all about them!

> Read the article

Wrap-up

To be a fluent English speaker, you need to be familiar with all of the ways letters are used, including in abbreviations, acronyms and slang. 

Focus on each of the themes presented in these articles one by one, practice using them in your conversations, and eventually you'll learn to use them like a pro!

The post Topic Focus: The Power of Letters appeared first on Engoo Blog.

Some, such as "stuff" and "thing," can refer to almost anything. Other words, such as "like," simply have many, many uses — which makes them very important for any learner to master.

We've written about these words several times on the Engoo blog, so we've decided to collect these articles in one convenient place. After reading each, practice using these words yourself in a lesson with an Engoo tutor!

How to Use "Like" …Like a Native Speaker

"I like this." "I don't like that."

These are only the most basic use of "like." In fact, you can also use it to make comparisons, introduce examples, talk about desires and a lot more.

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What Does "Stuff" Mean and How Do You Use It?

As we mentioned in the introduction, almost anything can be "stuff" — it can refer to physical things like clothes or to abstract things like ideas. It can be a verb, a noun and another way to say "etc."

Although it's mostly an informal word, you definitely need to learn "stuff" if you want to become fluent!

> Read the article

The Many Ways to Use "Even"

"Even" can be an adjective describing something smooth or flat, it can describe a type of number, it's an adverb that can add emphasis, and it's very useful for making comparisons. And that's not even everything it can do! 

> Read the article

How Many Different Ways Can You Use "Thing"?

What's a "thing"?

Well, it can be anything!

Just like "stuff," "thing" is a powerful word because of how it can represent items, ideas and much more. Read to find out just how much potential this simple word has.

> Read the article

How to Use "Mind" Like a Native Speaker

When you hear the word "mind," what do you think of?

The noun for the part of us that allows us to think and experience the world? The verb meaning "to care"? Or maybe you think of an idiom such as "mind over matter" or "have something in mind."

This simple word is used in various important ways, so make sure you're familiar with them all.

> Read the article

How to Use "You Know" Like a Native Speaker

The short phrase "You know?" appears often in everyday English. Although it might sound like a question, most of the time it isn't, which probably confuses many English learners. 

Like everything else on this list, it has a surprising variety of uses, from friendly and casual to more serious and direct.

> Read the article

Wrap-up

Mastering the uses of some simple but powerful words can help you improve your English skills dramatically. Start with the ones we've included here, but keep your eye on this post — we'll update it as we share more articles in the future.

In the meantime, don't forget to practice in a lesson with an Engoo tutor!

The post Topic Focus: Super English Words appeared first on Engoo Blog.

This time, however, we'd like to highlight articles that focus on the basics. The articles below contain essential information English speakers in the business world should know.

When you're ready for more advanced tips, we have what you need! But for now, study these fundamentals and build a strong foundation for your professional life in English.

What's the Difference Between Business English and Regular English?

One of the first things to know is what exactly "business English" is. Some students think of it like a completely separate language from the English people speak in their daily lives. However, the differences aren't as big as you might think.

> Read the article

5 Popular Greetings for English Business Emails

Writing emails is a big part of many professionals' everyday tasks. If you need ideas on how to start your own letters, this article has what you need.

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7 Ways to Politely Apologize for a Late Reply

You don't want to keep business partners waiting, but sometimes you can't respond as quickly as you would like. In situations like this, knowing the right phrases to use to apologize can help keep your relationship positive and moving forward smoothly.

> Read the article

5 Business English Expressions to Use Instead of "Contact"

Whether by email, phone or face-to-face meetings, making connections is important in the business world. This article introduces some useful alternatives to "contact" to keep your communication sounding fresh and appropriate for the situation.

> Read the article

English Expressions for Rescheduling Meetings

What if you've contacted someone to plan a meeting, but "something's come up" and you can't make it? Make sure you know these handy phrases when you need to let your partners know about a change in plans.

> Read the article

How to Write Formal Thank-You Emails in English

Sending a thank-you email after an important meeting with potential employers and business partners is a very good idea. This article presents several useful phrases along with some important tips to keep in mind when writing and sending these messages.

> Read the article

Wrap-up

These are just a small sample of the articles we have for professionals. To discover more, go to the top of any blog page and search for "Business & Work" under the Categories menu. We're sure you'll find something interesting and useful for your work life!

The post Topic Focus: Business English Basics appeared first on Engoo Blog.

This post collects articles explaining polite English usage for many situations, from business communication to sensitive conversations with friends.

If you'd like practice using anything you learn here, book a lesson with an Engoo tutor to try it in a real conversation!

Engoo Blog Articles on Politeness

8 Expressions for Making Urgent Requests Politely

It can be tough asking someone to hurry in a polite way, but it isn't impossible. This list of expressions will help you when you don't have much time to wait in a business situation.

> Read the article

7 Expressions for Making Demands Politely

Instead of making requests, it may sometimes be necessary to make demands. For times when you cannot accept alternatives, use these expressions to keep your English respectful and your relationships healthy.

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5 Tips on Saying "No" To Invitations in the Nicest Way Possible

When refusing an invitation, it's very important to choose your words carefully so you don't offend the person who invited you.

There are special phrases you can use to show appreciation while still communicating that you cannot accept. Learn them here.

> Read the article

What Does it Mean to "Soften" Your Language?

Using softer English means saying things in an indirect way so that you do not hurt anyone's feelings. Knowing how to do this well is an important skill not only in business but in all areas of life.

> Read the article

7 Ways to Politely Apologize for a Late Reply in English

It's not always possible to reply to messages when you'd like to. For example, you might've been very busy, you may have forgotten, or perhaps you temporarily lost your internet connection.

No matter the reason for your delay, these expressions will help you to apologize appropriately.

> Read the article

How to Politely Talk About Things You Don't Like in English

Everyone has their own tastes and preferences, so of course there will be some things that you aren’t very enthusiastic about. Use these phrases when you want to talk about them without sounding too negative or judgmental.

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10 Polite Ways to Ask People to Repeat Themselves

English learners may feel nervous about asking someone to repeat something they've said. However, even native speakers need to do this from time to time. Use these phrases when you find yourself in these situations.

> Read the article

10 Ways to Politely Ask for Clarification in English

Even when you've clearly heard your conversation partner, you may still be confused about what they're saying. When you need clarification, use the phrases introduced here.

> Read the article

How to Politely Say “No” When You’re Asked If You Have Any Questions

It's always best to answer honestly when you're asked if you have any questions. If you understand everything clearly, the phrases in this article are better alternatives than a simple "No."

> Read the article

16 Words for Describing Different Body Types

Bodies and body types can be a sensitive topic for many people, so having the correct vocabulary to discuss them respectfully is important. 

From small sizes to large ones, this article explains the most important terms for you to know, along with example sentences so you can see how they are used in real conversations.

> Read the article

Bonus: Daily News Lessons on Politeness

Before we wrap up this article, here are a few lessons from Engoo's popular Daily News service that relate to politeness, both in language and manners. 

• Sounding Polite in English: Easy Tips and Tricks (Level 6: Intermediate)
• Simple Tips to Get Better at Small Talk (Level 6: Intermediate)
• Put Your Phone Down: What is Phubbing? (Level 7: Advanced)

Wrap-up

Polite English isn't only used in business settings. Even when speaking with friends or family, you should know the right expressions to avoid being insensitive or too direct. Doing this helps to keep your relationships healthy and strong. 

This article will be updated as we post more articles on polite English, so be sure to check back for updates in the future!

The post Topic Focus: How to Sound Polite in English appeared first on Engoo Blog.