Author Archives: Dr. Jeff McQuillan

It’s important to know the meaning of idioms and slang expressions in English. But should you actually use them when you speak and write? In this video, I give you three reasons why sometimes *not* using idioms will actually make … Continue reading →

There are dozens of abbreviations used in English. Learn about some additional common ones here, including: TBA HQ IPO And check out our Unlimited English Membership for even more great English lessons! ~Jeff P.S. Like this English lesson? Get a … Continue reading →

“Zero” is obviously a number in English, but do you know how else it can be used? Learn some popular expressions with “zero,” including: To zero in (on) Zero tolerance To go from zero to hero Check out more examples … Continue reading →

“Short” has lots of uses in English. Learn about some of the most popular ones in this video, including: To be short on Nothing short of To make a long story short (Long story, short) The long and the short … Continue reading →

English uses a lot of abbreviations, especially in business English. Learn some common ones and when to use them in this video: YTD TBD ETA EOD COB To improve your English ASAP (as soon as possible), check our our Unlimited … Continue reading →

“Jack” has many different meanings and uses in English. Find out how to use them correctly in this video. I’ll explain how to use “jack” in different expressions, including: a man named John something for your car a playing card … Continue reading →

A “pair” refers to two things. But can you have a pair of pairs? And what words do you have to use “pair” with? Learn all about using “pair” in this video. For more information on pair and pairs, see … Continue reading →

What’s the difference between someone saying “I’m hungry” and “I’m hungryish”? You’ll hear a lot of words ending in “-ish” in conversational English, but what does this suffix (word ending) really mean? Find out about the differences in how we … Continue reading →

There are some nouns in English that are only used in the plural (with an -s at the end). Learn why you should never use these nouns in the singular: thanks/congratulations contents earnings amends For more on plural nouns, see … Continue reading →