Fun or Funny? — Sparks Plus, Week 11

Welcome to this week’s Sparks Plus — your quick, practical boost for clearer, more confident English.
Six short sections, all easy to read and use right away.

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1️⃣ Quick Win

Fun and funny aren’t the same.

• Fun = something enjoyable
  ✔ The party was fun.

• Funny = something that makes you laugh
  ✔ The party was funny. Everyone wore costumes.

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2️⃣ Real-World English in Action

Denglish rescue:
A client said: I’m working since two hours on this presentation.

In English, we say:
✔ I’ve been working on this presentation for two hours.

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3️⃣ Christine’s Pick

VOA Learning English – Words and Their Stories
Short, clear audio stories that explain everyday English phrases and idioms. Perfect if you enjoy learning where expressions come from and how to use them naturally.
Explore it here.

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4️⃣ Reader Question

Q: Should I say explain me this?

A: No. In English, we say:
✔ Explain this to me.

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5️⃣ AI Prompt to Test

Copy this into ChatGPT and see what comes back:

“Give me 5 simple, polite ways to disagree in English at work. Keep them short and clear, B1/B2 level.”

Try it and see which one you’d actually use!

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6️⃣ Spotlight

Need to sound clearer and more confident in meetings?
My guide Real-World English for Meetings is especially for professionals who sometimes feel like the only non-native speaker in the room.
Inside, you’ll find phrases and strategies to help you:

• Speak up (even if you’re nervous)
• Ask for clarity without apologising
• Stay calm and clear, even when others speak fast

Get it here.