Many learners build a sentence in their own language first, then translate it word by word. It is slow, and the result sounds strange: "The problem is that is that the oven not works." Americans don't build every sentence from zero. They use ready-made chunks. In this episode: • Why chunks beat translation • Starters for explaining • Starters for plans and asking • Starters for news and surprise • Collect, build, drill • Practice • Self-check questions with answers Key phrases from this episode: The thing is... — introduces the real issue (neutral) — The thing is, I already ate. The problem is... — names a problem (neutral) — The problem is, the dryer's broken. It depends on... — the answer changes (neutral) — It depends on the weather. I'm trying to... — an effort in progress — I'm trying to eat more vegetables. I was just about to... — very soon, almost now — I was just about to call you! Do you mind if I...? — asks permission (polite) — Do you mind if I open the window? Is it okay if...? — asks permission (neutral) — Is it okay if I borrow your ladder? Have you ever...? — asks about experience — Have you ever made bread? I'm not sure if... — shows doubt — I'm not sure if the store's open. Collect — write down any new starter you hear. Build three — make three personal sentences for each one, about your real life. Season 2 · Real American English: the complete spoken course for learners worldwide — accent, everyday grammar, prepositions, articles, phrasal verbs, idioms, slang and real conversations at home. Listen, repeat out loud, then take the 52-question quiz. Audio voiced with AI from an original script by Dr. Rashmi R Nair.