If you plan on moving from your home country to the United States, one of the most important things is finding a good job. Maybe that’s what’s pulling you to the U.S. in the first place! Either way, you don’t want to start your life in a new and exciting country struggling to find work.

We’re sure that while you plan your move, there are dozens of other things for you to worry over and focus your energy on. So we thought we’d make it easier for you to find a job in the USA by providing you with useful information and helpful tips to give you some footing in the often overwhelming world of job hunting.

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Without further ado, here’s our guide on how to find a job in the USA.

Table of Contents

1. Why Get a Job in the USA? What to Expect.
2. Best Cities to Find a Job in the USA
3. Finding Jobs Based on Type
4. Resumes, Cover Letters, and Interviews
5. Conclusion

1. Why Get a Job in the USA? What to Expect.

Getting a job anywhere can be both beneficial and frightening. So how does this apply to finding work in America?

1- Benefits

You may have heard the United States referred to as The Land of Opportunity; it’s often called this for good reason. Not only is there an array of potential job and career opportunities across the country, but also several paths to access them. Most jobs in the United States are readily attainable via the following:

• Job hunting websites
• Employment organizations

By utilizing any of the above tools, you can prepare to land yourself just about any job, assuming you have the skills, experience, and passion to carry it out well. And with these jobs come a range of benefits, some guaranteed no matter your field of work (and others variable across jobs and companies):

• Health insurance (varies)
• Dental insurance (varies)
• Vision insurance (varies)
• Life insurance (varies)
• Disability insurance
• COBRA
• Minimum wage + Overtime opportunities
• Unemployment benefits + Workers compensation

This list offers just a glimpse of what you can expect to gain from working in the United States.

2- What You Need

Indeed, there are certain privileges associated with working in the U.S. But for a foreigner hoping to find work here, there are some key qualifications that are required of them. These include:

• Green card
• EAD (Employment Authorization Document)
• A visa associated with the job you’ll be taking

When it comes to visas, we know that things can get a little bit hazy and confusing. It may be a good idea to brush up on the different work visas so that you know which one you should apply for.

Now that you have a little more info under your belt, let’s continue forward and learn more about how to attain jobs in the United States, based on type. Keep in mind that these are job-hunting skills you can ultimately take anywhere, and they’ll save you from a miserable time struggling to find work in a new country.

2. Best Cities to Find a Job in the USA

While looking for a job in America, it’ll be immensely helpful for you to know where to look.

If you already know where in the United States you’ll be relocating to, you probably have a good idea already of what work is available there. But if you’ve yet to make a firm decision, or have no idea where to start, you may find this short list of U.S. cities with the highest job demand quite helpful.

Note that there’s a lot of work available in the state of California in particular, perhaps making it the best place to find work in America in terms of job volume (though we’re sure you’ll want to consider multiple factors apart from this in your search).

Here are just a few of the best places to find work in the US, according to The Job Network:

• San Jose, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• San Diego, CA
• Los Angeles, CA
• Sacramento, CA
• Boston, MA
• Minneapolis, MN
• Miami, FL
• Seattle, WA
• Washington, D.C.

One thing that the majority of U.S. states and cities share in common is this: They’re nearly all looking for skilled workers in the Health/Science/Technology realm; this seems to be especially true of California. So if you happen to work in this field already, or are interested in beginning, moving to the United States for work may be just the right move for you.

3. Finding Jobs Based on Type

As stated earlier, the United States is a country with good job opportunities in numerous fields. These range from blue-collar jobs to those in teaching, and of course, Health/Science/Technology.

It’s important to know what to expect when searching for jobs in any of these fields:

• What’s the best way to find these jobs?
• Which cities have high demand for these types of jobs?
• What do I need to attain these jobs?

Let’s go through and try to answer your questions for each job category so that you can more easily find a job in the USA.

1- Teaching Jobs in the USA

Choosing to teach is a noble endeavor, and one of lasting value.Tack on to that the fact that there’s a large need for language teachers throughout the United States, and you’ve framed for yourself a couple of good reasons to pursue a teaching career in the U.S.—whether for the long- or short-term.

First things first, here’s a quick list of possible vehicles for finding the most ideal teaching job for yourself:

• USA Employment: A program that helps teachers from other countries find short-term teaching jobs in the United States.
• Indeed.com: This popular job-hunting site features numerous job postings for foreign language teachers. Definitely worth checking out.
• SimplyHired.com: Another website with a good array of foreign language teaching job postings.
• Glassdoor.com: One of the most popular U.S. job-searching sites, Glassdoor is a good place to look for quality teaching jobs.
• LinkedIn.com: A LinkedIn account is a great tool for finding a good job in any field, and is especially geared toward professionals (like teachers!).

Hopefully, utilizing the above tools will help you stumble upon the kind of job opportunities you’re looking for. But that’s only part of the journey. Next, you’ll have to make sure you meet a few specific qualifications for teaching in the United States:

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher for more opportunities)
• Teaching training
• Prior experience
• EAC (Employment Authorization Card)
• Work visa (H-1B)

Once you have everything set in order—be patient!—you should have a much easier time attaining the teaching job you want in the United States.

2- Blue-collar Jobs in the USA

You can find some decent and high-paying blue-collar jobs in the United States as a foreigner. You’ll find that if your skillset is fine-tuned and specialized, you can find a niche blue-collar job you’ll enjoy. Here are a few good sites to get you started on your search:

• Bluecollarjobs.us: This site provides good information in graph form of how each state compares in terms of blue-collar job availability. You’ll also find useful information about the various fields within this industry in its “commentary” section.
• Bluecollarjobs.com: Working with CareerBuilder, this site specializes in helping people find the best blue-collar jobs for themselves.
• Bluecollarcrossing.com: Here you’ll find a slighter broader range of blue-collar jobs in the United States.
• Glassdoor.com: This is a good site for finding just about any job.
• Indeed.com: Here you can find a nice variety of blue-collar work currently available throughout the country.
• LinkedIn.com: Creating a LinkedIn account and making connections can help you find a blue-collar job with your name on it.

There are a few requirements for working a blue-collar job in the United States, which are pretty standard across careers:

• Work visa
• Green card
• Work permit
• Social security card
• Verification (through an I-9 form)

3- Health/Science/Technology Jobs in the USA

This industry is pretty high in demand throughout the United States, particularly in the state of California. You’ll also find that Seattle, WA and Boston, MA are good areas of the country to find health, science, or technology jobs.

Your best bet when looking for jobs in this field in general, is probably Indeed.com. However, if you’re looking for something specific or want to work for a large company, these may be good options for you to look into:

• Google: Google is Google. This is a company with some pretty lucrative positions; if you’ve got the stuff and a desire to work with a company like this, pursuing a career with Google may be a great option for you.
• Apple: Everyone knows Apple, and finding a job with this top-notch company may be a good direction to take in your technology-geared career.
• Labs: Maybe you’re more interested in finding a career that allows you to experiment and work alongside others for the greater good. The United States has lots of lab jobs available to foreigners.
• Hospitals: If your heart and experience lead you to the healthcare industry, you can find several great job openings on HospitalCareers.com.

The standard requirements for health, science, and technology jobs in the United States are roughly similar to those for other types of jobs—though keep in mind that it’s good to be fluent in English, and you’ll need relevant education and experience to pick up one of these much-needed jobs.

4- Part-time Jobs in the USA

Depending on your circumstances and work preferences, a part-time job may be more up your alley than a full-time job. The options here are boundless, as part-time jobs in the USA can be had in just about any field of work.

In particular, part-time jobs in tourism seem to be in high demand in highly traveled-to U.S. cities such as Miami, FL. Here are a few good websites for finding good tourism jobs in the United States:

• Jobs.goabroad.com: Here you’ll find some fascinating tourism-related jobs just about anywhere in the world. You may want to check out this website, especially if the United States won’t be the last stop on your journey.
• Indeed.com: This website features several openings for tourism jobs in the United States.
• Glassdoor.com: Of course, you can also find a few great tourism jobs on Glassdoor.com.

5- Freelancing, Self-employment, and Owning a Business

The United States offers unique opportunities to those who wish to begin a freelancing career, become self-employed, or start/expand their small business. In this country that’s largely focused on the individual and the magic of becoming one’s best, the concept of “working for yourself” is being lived out by more and more people.

This said, it’s not too hard to find remote jobs in the USA, as long as you have the experience, skills, and equipment required.

If this is a direction you’re interested in heading in, know that the road may be tough (especially as a foreigner) but the rewards will be well worth the success you can reach.

If you’re looking to start or invest in a business in the United States, you will want to look into one of the following visas:

• E-2 Visa
• EB-5 Visa

The two differ in terms of requirements and expectations, so you may want to brush up on starting your business in the USA.

4. Resumes, Cover Letters, and Interviews

You now know where to find jobs in the United States and have more information on how to find a job in America as a foreigner. But the search itself is not enough. The art of communication via your resume, cover letter, and the interview(s) will have to carry you the rest of the way.

1- Resumes in the United States

Each resume should follow a certain set of basic characteristics and rules. Here are a few:

• Contact Information: This includes your full name, your address, your phone number, and your email address (if desired). Depending on the type of resume you’re writing and the job you’re after, you can also include a title for yourself (e.g. “Writer,” “Marketing Associate,” or “Sous chef”).
• One page: Let’s call this the Golden Rule of resumes. If at all possible, keep everything on just one page, as anything longer is more likely than not to bore your potential employer (or leave them unimpressed). What’s more impressive than the efficiency and precision of a one-page resume?
• Education/Experience first: Depending on your past experience in the job market (or lack thereof), your education or experience information should be the first thing (after your name and contact information). If you’re just out of school or currently a student without much work experience, put your education information first; if you do have prior work experience, be sure to include that first instead.
• Relevant Skills: After you’ve put down the information on your education and experience, the next thing you should include are your relevant skills. What are you good at or knowledgeable about that makes you ideal for this position? This information should typically be in bullet list format, with 3-5 bullets.
• Serves as Outline for Cover Letter: When crafting your resume, keep in mind that it should also serve as the outline for the next step: your cover letter. Everything in your cover letter will be drawn out and highlighted in your cover letter, to further impress your potential employer and help them get to know you better before the interview.

Also keep in mind that there are three basic types of resumes, and the one you choose to do will depend largely on your past experience and what field you’re going into. Here they are (with links to an example of what each one should basically look like and how to write it):

• Chronological
• Functional
• Combination

2- Cover Letters in the United States

Essentially, the cover letter is designed to fill in the details of your resume, and to expand upon it. It’s important to do this as concisely as possible, and in such a way that exudes confidence and interest in the company or position you’re applying for. Following the same suit of the resume, this should be only one page.

In the top left-hand corner of the page, you’ll need to address the person you’re contacting about the job. You do this by typing their name, their job title, and then the company’s address.

Start your cover letter with something along the lines of “Dear Mr. (Mrs.) Name,” insert a couple of line breaks, and begin writing.

Ensure that there’s enough room at the end of your letter for you to sign. You do this by typing something along the lines of “Sincerely,” inserting three to four line breaks to create white space, then typing out your full name. Once the page is printed out, sign your name with a pen in the white space between “Sincerely” and your typed name.

3- Interviewing in the United States

It’s easy to put things down on paper, but sometimes harder to write them in your body language and tone of voice. Once you’ve made it to the interview stage, it means your resume and cover letter sparked interest in your potential employer. The interview should reiterate your value to the company.

Honestly, the types of questions you can expect to be asked during your interview depends on several factors, from the company’s values, to your potential employer’s personality, and even what you put in your resume and cover letter.

1. Questions

When learning how to find a job in the USA, it’s important that you’re introduced to a few basic questions that seem to be asked almost universally, for the majority of jobs in the United States. These include, but aren’t limited to:

• What are your strengths/weaknesses?
• Why are you looking for a job? / Why did you quit your last job?
• What interests you about this job?
• What previous job was most like this one, and why?
• Do you have any questions?

However, some employers or companies have different standards when it comes to the interviewing process. So you may want to prepare yourself for some offbeat questions, especially if you plan on applying for a position with a large company.

Also, remember that you’ll definitely want to be fluent in the English language for this interview, as this will simplify the process as a whole and earn you some brownie points.

2. Dress

No matter the country you’re in, the way one dresses speaks volumes about that person. And a job interview is the most important situation in which to ensure you make a good impression through your physical appearance.

“Professional” is the key word when preparing to dress for an interview. This may look slightly different depending on the type of job you’re after, but the following is pretty typical for the majority of United States jobs:

• Males:
• Suit, tie, dress pants, and nice shoes.
• Females:
• Nice (and modest) blouse, dress pants or skirt at least knee-length, and nice shoes.

More things to be mindful of:

• Make sure your hair is tidy (including your facial hair)
• Jewelry is fine, but don’t overdo it
• A smile goes a long way

5. Conclusion

To find a job in the United States can be stressful for anyone, and requires more than its fair share of patience; this may be especially true as a foreigner coming to work here. We hope that this article was helpful to you and provided you with the information you need on how to get a job in the USA.

If you’re looking to improve your English language skills or want to learn more about the culture in the United States, EnglishClass101.com has plenty of information for you. From vocabulary lists to articles on U.S. culture, we have everything you need to make the most of your English-learning endeavors. If you’re the on-the-go type, also be sure to check out our mobile apps!

We know that to find a job in America for foreigners can be downright difficult. But with the right knowledge and enough practice, we know you’ll not only master the language, but find success in your career pursuit in the United States! We wish you the best of luck.

Why do we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?

Irish-Americans have contributed much to the United States, and St. Patrick’s Day, to a large extent, is about celebrating that. St. Patrick’s Day is also about celebrating the culture from which Irish-Americans come. While St. Patrick’s Day’s history may be a bit complex, it has affiliations with the Catholic Church and is also recognized as one of the biggest nights of the year to go out to the local pubs and taverns. In the U.S., you’ll find that Saint Patrick’s Day is just a big party.

Learn more about St. Patrick’s Day with EnglishClass101.com! We make it both fun and insightful. Let’s get started.

1. What is St. Patrick’s Day?

St. Patrick’s Day is an extremely popular United States holiday. It combines a celebration of Irish culture with a great excuse to get out, let loose, and have some fun. It has been celebrated since the eighteenth century, making it one of the most enduring holidays in the United States.

St. Patrick’s Day’s meaning in the United States is largely cultural, considering the significance of Irish Americans in U.S. history. St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of the Irish culture and just a day to enjoy oneself (while dressed in green, of course).

Continue reading to learn even more about Saint Patrick’s Day and its unique traditions.

2. When is St. Patrick’s Day?

What day is St. Patrick’s Day? Each year, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17. You can find a little more information on why this date is significant in the Additional Information section.

3. How is Saint Patrick’s Day Celebrated?

If you want to see a big St. Patrick’s Day parade, New York is the place to be. Every year since 1762, this parade has been put on, and it’s one of the country’s most vibrant, vivacious, and largest celebrations. There are parades held across the nation, and most of them date back to the nineteenth century or earlier. St. Patrick’s Day parades see a large attendance each year.

Green, the color most associated with Ireland, is a huge part of St. Patrick’s Day. Americans typically try to sport something green on St. Patrick’s Day to show their support for the Irish-American community and their acknowledgment of the importance of the day. One popular American tradition is to pinch anybody who fails to wear green on this holiday. In some cities, rivers and fountains are dyed green temporarily to celebrate this special day for Irish-Americans.

4. Additional Information

In 1780, George Washington gave March 17th to his troops as a day to celebrate the Irish fight for independence. He considered this an act of solidarity with the Irish people, of whom made up a large number in his army.

5. Must-know Vocab

Here’s some vocabulary you should know for St. Patrick’s Day!

• Guinness — A popular dry stout Irish alcoholic beverage.
• Irish Americans — People whose families came from Ireland to live in America.
• St. Patrick’s Day — A day observed by the Irish to commemorate the patron saint of Ireland.
• St. Patrick’s Day parade — A parade that takes place in America on St. Patrick’s Day.
• Pinch — To squeeze or compress between the finger and thumb.
• Leprechaun — Mythical, elf-like person from Ireland.

To hear these words pronounced, you can check out our St. Patrick’s Day vocabulary list. Here, you’ll find each word accompanied by an audio of its pronunciation, as well as a video about the holiday.

Conclusion

Now you know all about Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations in the United States! What do you think of this holiday? Is there a similar holiday in your own country? Let us know in the comments!

To learn more about the English language and culture in the United States, visit us at EnglishClass101.com. We offer an array of insightful blog posts, free vocabulary lists, and an online community where you can discuss lessons with fellow students. You can also upgrade your account to begin using our MyTeacher program, so that you can learn English one-on-one with your own personal English teacher.

Know that your hard work will prove worth it, and you’ll be speaking English like a native before you know it! For now, we’ll wish you a happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Do you often feel lonely and sad? Do you long for romance and are willing to do whatever it takes to meet that special person? Speaking another language could revolutionize your love life! So, why wait? Learning how to say ‘love’ in English could be just what you need to find it.

Or perhaps you were lucky, and have found your English partner already. Fantastic! Yet, a cross-cultural relationship comes with unique challenges. Learning how to speak your lover’s language will greatly improve your communication and enhance the relationship. At EnglishClass101, our team will teach you all the words, quotes and phrases you need to woo your English lover with excellence! Our tutors provide personal assistance, with plenty of extra material available to make English dating easy for you.

Table of Contents

1. Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date
2. The Most Romantic Ideas for a Date
3. Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary
4. English Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day
5. English Quotes about Love
6. Marriage Proposal Lines
7. 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines
8. Will Falling in Love Help You Learn English Faster?

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1. Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date

So, you have met your English love interest. Congratulations! Who knows where this could take you…?! However, the two of you have just met and you’re not ready to say the English word for love just yet. Great, it is better to get to know him/her first. Wow your prospective love by using these English date phrases to set up a spectacular first date.

Would you like to go out to dinner with me?

• Would you like to go out to dinner with me?

The important question! In most cultures, this phrase indicates: ‘I’m romantically interested in you’. Flirting in English is no different, so don’t take your date to Mcdonald’s!

Are you free this weekend?

• Are you free this weekend?

This is a preamble to asking your love interest on a date. If you get an immediate ‘Yes’, that’s good news!

Would you like to hang out with me?

• Would you like to hang out with me?

You like her/him, but you’re not sure if there’s chemistry. Ask them to hang out first to see if a dinner date is next.

What time shall we meet tomorrow?

• What time shall we meet tomorrow?

Set a time, and be sure to arrive early! Nothing spoils a potential relationship more than a tardy date.

Where shall we meet?

• Where shall we meet?

You can ask this, but also suggest a place.

You look great.

• You look great.

A wonderful ice breaker! This phrase will help them relax a bit - they probably took great care to look their best just for you.

You are so cute.

• You are so cute.

If the two of you are getting on really well, this is a fun, flirtatious phrase to use.

What do you think of this place?

• What do you think of this place?

This another good conversation starter. Show off your English language skills!

Can I see you again?

• Can I see you again?

So the date went really well - don’t waste time! Make sure you will see each other again.

Shall we go somewhere else?

• Shall we go somewhere else?

If the place you meet at is not great, you can suggest going elsewhere. It is also a good question to follow the previous one. Variety is the spice of life!

I know a good place.

• I know a good place.

Use this with the previous question. However, don’t say if you don’t know a good place!

I will drive you home.

• I will drive you home.

If your date doesn’t have transport, this is a polite, considerate offer. However, don’t be offended if she/he turns you down on the first date. Especially a woman might not feel comfortable letting you drive her home when the two of you are still basically strangers.

That was a great evening.

• That was a great evening.

This is a good phrase to end the evening with.

When can I see you again?

• When can I see you again?

If he/she replied ‘Yes’ to ‘Can I see you again?’, this is the next important question.

I’ll call you.

• I’ll call you.

Say this only if you really mean to do it. In many cultures, this could imply that you’re keeping the proverbial backdoor open.

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2. The Most Romantic Ideas for a Date

You learned all the English phrases to make a date - congratulations! Now you have to decide where to meet, which can be tricky. Discuss these options with your lover to gauge whether you like the same things. Check out romantic date ideas in English below!

museum

• museum

If you’re looking for unique date ideas that are fun but won’t break the bank, museums are the perfect spot! You won’t be running out of things to say in the conversations.

go to the aquarium

• go to the aquarium

Going to the aquarium is another good idea if you need topics for conversation, or if you need to impress your lover’s kids! Make sure your date doesn’t have a problem with aquariums.

walk on the beach

• walk on the beach

This can be a very romantic stroll, especially at night! The sea is often associated with romance and beauty.

have a picnic

• have a picnic

If you and your date need to get more comfortable together, this can be a fantastic date. Spending time in nature is soothing and calms the nerves.

cook a meal together

• cook a meal together

If you want to get an idea of your date’s true character in one go, this is an excellent date! You will quickly see if the two of you can work together in a confined space. If it works, it will be fantastic for the relationship and create a sense of intimacy. If not, you will probably part ways!

have dinner and see a movie

• have dinner and see a movie

This is traditional date choice works perfectly well. Just make sure you and your date like the same kind of movies!

candlelit dinner

• candlelit dinner

A candlelit dinner is perhaps best to reserve for when the relationship is getting serious. It’s very intimate, and says: “Romance!” It’s a fantastic choice if you’re sure you and your date are in love with each other!

go to the zoo

• go to the zoo

This is a good choice for shy lovers who want to get the conversation going. Just make sure your date likes zoos, as some people dislike them. Maybe not for the first date, but this is also a great choice if your lover has children - you’ll win his/her adoration for inviting them along!

go for a long walk

• go for a long walk

Need to talk about serious stuff, or just want to relax with your date? Walking together is soothing, and a habit you can keep up together always! Just make sure it’s a beautiful walk that’s not too strenuous.

go to the opera

• go to the opera

This type of date should only be attempted if both of you love the opera. It can be a special treat, followed by a candlelit dinner!

3. Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary

Expressing your feelings honestly is very important in any relationship all year round. Yet, on Valentine’s Day you really want to shine. Impress your lover this Valentine’s with your excellent vocabulary, and make his/her day! We teach you, in fun, effective ways, the meanings of the words and how to pronounce them. You can also copy the characters and learn how to write ‘I love you’ in English - think how impressed your date will be!

4. English Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day

So, you now have the basic Valentine’s Day vocabulary under your belt. Well done! But, do you know how to say ‘I love you’ in English yet? Or perhaps you are still only friends. So, do you know how to say ‘I like you’ or ‘I have a crush on you’ in English? No? Don’t worry, here are all the love phrases you need to bowl over your English love on this special day!

I love you.

• I love you.

Saying ‘I love you’ in English carries the same weight as in all languages. Use this only if you’re sure and sincere about your feelings for your partner/friend.

You mean so much to me.

• You mean so much to me.

This is a beautiful expression of gratitude that will enhance any relationship! It makes the receiver feel appreciated and their efforts recognized.

Will you be my Valentine?

• Will you be my Valentine?

With these words, you are taking your relationship to the next level! Or, if you have been a couple for a while, it shows that you still feel the romance. So, go for it!

You’re so beautiful.

• You’re so beautiful.

If you don’t know how to say ‘You’re pretty’ in English, this is a good substitute, gentlemen!

I think of you as more than a friend.

• I think of you as more than a friend.

Say this if you are not yet sure that your romantic feelings are reciprocated. It is also a safe go-to if you’re unsure about the English dating culture.

A hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you.

• A hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you.

You romantic you…! When your heart overflows with love, this would be the best phrase to use.

Love is just love. It can never be explained.

• Love is just love. It can never be explained.

If you fell in love unexpectedly or inexplicably, this one’s for you.

You’re so handsome.

• You’re so handsome.

Ladies, this phrase lets your English love know how much you appreciate his looks! Don’t be shy to use it; men like compliments too.

I’ve got a crush on you.

• I’ve got a crush on you.

If you like someone, but you’re unsure about starting a relationship, it would be prudent to say this. It simply means that you like someone very, very much and think they’re amazing.

You make me want to be a better man.

• You make me want to be a better man.

Gentlemen, don’t claim this phrase as your own! It hails from the movie ‘As Good as it Gets’, but it is sure to make your English girlfriend feel very special. Let her know that she inspires you!

Let all that you do be done in love.

• Let all that you do be done in love.

We hope.

You are my sunshine, my love.

• You are my sunshine, my love.

A compliment that lets your lover know they bring a special quality to your life. Really nice!

Words can’t describe my love for you.

• Words can’t describe my love for you.

Better say this when you’re feeling serious about the relationship! It means that your feelings are very intense.

We were meant to be together.

• We were meant to be together.

This is a loving affirmation that shows you see a future together, and that you feel a special bond with your partner.

If you were thinking about someone while reading this, you’re definitely in love.

• If you were thinking about someone while reading this, you’re definitely in love.

Here’s something fun to tease your lover with. And hope he/she was thinking of you!

5. English Quotes about Love

You’re a love champ! You and your English lover are getting along fantastically, your dates are awesome, your Valentine’s Day together was spectacular, and you’re very much in love. Good for you! Here are some beautiful phrases of endearment in English that will remind him/her who is in your thoughts all the time.

6. Marriage Proposal Lines

Wow. Your English lover is indeed the love of your life - congratulations! And may only happiness follow the two of you! In most traditions, the man asks the woman to marry; this is also the English custom. Here are a few sincere and romantic lines that will help you to ask your lady-love for her hand in marriage.

7. 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines

Instead of moving towards marriage or a long-term relationship, you find that the spark is not there for you. That is a pity! But even though breaking up is never easy, continuing a bad or unfulfilling relationship would be even harder. Remember to be kind to the person you are going to say goodbye to; respect and sensitivity cost nothing. Here are some phrases to help you break up gently.

8. Will Falling in Love help you Learn English faster?

Most people will agree that the above statement is a no-brainer - of course it will! Your body will be flooded with feel-good hormones, which are superb motivators for anything. EnglishClass101 is one of the best portals to help help make this a reality, so don’t hesitate to enroll now! Let’s quickly look at the reasons why falling in love will speed up your learning of the English language.

Three Reasons Why Having a Lover will Help you Learn English Faster!

1- Being in a love relationship with your English speaking partner will immerse you in the culture
EnglishClass101 uses immersive methods and tools to teach you English, but having a relationship with a native speaker will be a very valuable addition to your learning experience! You will gain exposure to their world, realtime and vividly, which will make the language come alive even more for you. The experience is likely to expand your world-view, which should motivate you to learn English even faster.

2- Having your English romantic partner will mean more opportunity to practice speaking
Nothing beats continuous practice when learning a new language. Your partner will probably be very willing to assist you in this, as your enhanced English language skills will enhance the relationship. Communication is, after all, one of the most important pillars of a good partnership. Also, you will get to impress your lover with the knowledge gained through your studies - a win/win situation!

3- A supportive English lover is likely to make a gentle, patient teacher and study aid!
With his/her heart filled with love and goodwill for you, your English partner is likely to patiently and gently correct your mistakes when you speak. This goes not only for grammar, but also for accent and meaning. With his/her help, you could sound like a native in no time!

Three Reasons Why EnglishClass101 helps you learn English Even Faster when you’re In Love

Start with a bonus, and download the ‘How To be a Good Lover Cheat Sheet’ for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)

1- All the Resources and Materials Will Help Both of You
Falling in love with a man or woman speaking English is an opportunity for both of you to learn a new language! For this reason, every lesson, transcript, vocabulary list, and resource at EnglishClass101 is translated into both English and English. So, while your partner can help you learn English faster, you can potentially also help him/her learn and master English!

2- Lessons Are Designed to Help You Understand and Engage with English Culture
At EnglishClass101, our focus is to help our students learn practical vocabulary and phrases used by everyday people in English speaking country. This means that, from your very first lesson, you can apply what you learn immediately! So, when your English partner wants to go out to a restaurant, play Pokemon Go, or attend just about any social function, you have the vocabulary and phrases necessary to have a great time!

3- Access to Special Resources Dedicated to Romantic English Phrases
You now have access to EnglishClass101’s specially-developed sections and tools to teach you love words, phrases, and cultural insights to help you find and attract your English soul mate. A personal tutor will assist you to master these brilliantly - remember to invite him/her to your wedding!

Can You Really Learn English Alone?

Learning a language on your own or without traditional classroom instruction may seem quite daunting at first. What if you run into questions? How do you stay motivated and on track to achieving goals?

Don’t worry, not only is it possible to learn English or any language without traditional classroom instruction: EnglishClass101 has created the world’s most advanced and extensive online language learning system. Not only is EnglishClass101 specifically designed to help you with learning a language on your own, it’s actually faster, more convenient, and less expensive than traditional classroom options!

Let’s look at some of the benefits of learning English or any language alone.

Also, don’t forget to download your free cheat sheet - How to Improve Your Language Skills too!

3 Reasons to Learn a Language Alone

1. Learn at Your Own Pace and On Your Schedule

In today’s fast-paced world, there just isn’t time for traditional classroom instruction. Between getting to class and studying on some professor or teacher’s schedule, traditional classroom learning is simply impossible to fit in. But when you learn English alone, you can study in bed if you like and whenever suits your schedule best, making it far easier to actually reach your goal of learning and mastering the language.

2. Learning a Language on Your Own Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Speaking in front of a class, pop quizzes, and tests are just a few of the stressors you will encounter when you learn a language in a traditional classroom setting. Specifically, these are external stressors that often derail most people’s dream of learning a new language. But when you learn English alone, there are no external stressors. Without the external stress and anxiety, it becomes much easier and more exciting to study English and reach your very own goals—all on your own!

3. Learning English Alone Helps Improve Cognitive Function and Overall Success

Learning a language on your own is indeed more challenging in some ways than being taught in a traditional classroom setting. In fact, while classroom instruction requires more rote memorization and following instructions, studying a language on your own requires more problem-solving and higher cognitive function to self-teach lessons and hit goals. So while it’s more challenging and requires higher levels of cognition, teaching yourself a language pays dividends throughout life by better preparing you for social/work opportunities that arise.

How to Learn a Language on Your Own with EnglishClass101

1. Access to the World’s Largest Collection of English Audio & Video Lessons

The best way to learn a language on your own is to study from native speaking instructors. Ideally, you want audio and/or video lessons that teach vocabulary, grammar, and provide actual English conversations and dialogue to help you with pronunciation. EnglishClass101 has hundreds of hours of HD audio and video lessons created by real English instructors and every lesson is presented by professional English actors for perfect pronunciation. Plus, all lessons can be accessed 24/7 via any mobile device with Internet access. And, if you download the PDF versions of each lesson, you can even study without Internet access once the lesson is stored on your device!

2. “Learning Paths” with English Courses Based Upon Your Exact Needs & Goals

Although EnglishClass101 has more than thousands of video and audio lessons, you need not review each and every one to learn the language. In fact, EnglishClass101 has developed a feature called “Learning Paths”. You simply tell us your goals and we will identify the best courses and study plan to help you reach them in the shortest time possible. So even though you are technically learning a language on your own, our team is always here to help and make sure you reach your goals FAST!

3. Advanced Learning Tools Reduce Learning Time and Boost Retention

When you have the right tools and English learning resources, it’s actually easy to teach yourself a language! In the past 10+ years, EnglishClass101 has developed, tested, and refined more than 20 advanced learning tools to boost retention and reduce learning time, including:

• Spaced Repetition Flashcards
• Line-by-Line Dialogue Breakdown
• Review Quizzes
• Voice Recording Tools to Help Perfect Pronunciation
• Teacher Feedback and Comments for Each Lesson
• English Dictionary with Pronunciation
• Free PDF Cheat Sheets
• And Much More!

Armed with our growing collection of advanced learning tools, it’s truly a breeze to learn English alone and reach your goals!

Conclusion

Learning a language on your own is not only possible, it’s actually easier and more beneficial for you than traditional classroom instruction. In fact, when you learn English on your own you can study at your own pace, eliminate stress, and actually increase cognitive function.

EnglishClass101 is the world’s most advanced online language learning system and a great resource to help you teach yourself a new language. With the world’s largest collection of HD audio and video lessons, more than 20 advanced learning tools, and customized “Learning Paths”, EnglishClass101 makes learning a new language easier, more convenient, and less expensive than traditional classroom instruction.

And the best part is: With EnglishClass101, you can study in bed, your car, or wherever you have a few spare minutes of time. Create your Free Lifetime Account now and get a FREE ebook to help “kickstart” your dream of learning a language on your own below!

Yes, even beginners can quickly learn conversational English well enough to carry on real conversations with native speakers. Of course, beginners won’t be able to carry a conversation the same way they could in their native language. But, just knowing a few tips like which questions to ask to keep a conversation going are all you need to speak and interact with real native speakers! But before we get to specific suggestions, let’s first take a closer look at how having real English conversations is so vital to your mastery of the language.

Learning to Carry a Conversation is Vital to Mastery of Any Language

Communicating with other people is the very point of language and conversation is almost second nature in our native tongue. For beginners or anyone learning a new language, conversations aren’t easy at all and even simple English greetings can be intimidating and awkward.

However, there are 3 vital reasons why you should learn conversational English as quickly as possible:

• Avoid Awkward Silences: Nothing kills a conversation faster than long periods of awkward silence, so you need practice and specific strategies to avoid them.
• Improve the Flow of Conversation to Make a Better Impression: When you know what to say to keep a conversation going, communication becomes much easier and you make a better impression on your listener.
• Master the Language Faster: Nothing will help you learn to speak English faster and truly master the language than having real conversations with native speakers. Conversations quickly expose you to slang, cultural expressions, and vocabulary that force you to absorb and assimilate information faster than any educational setting—and that’s a great thing!

But how can you possibly have real conversations with real English people if you are just starting out?

3 Conversation Strategies for Beginners

1. Ask Questions to Keep a Conversation Going

For beginners and even more advanced speakers, the key is to learn to ask questions to keep a conversation going. Of course, they can’t be just random questions or else you may confuse the listener. But, by memorizing a few key questions and the appropriate time to use them, you can easily carry a conversation with minimal vocabulary or experience. And remember, the more English conversations you have, the quicker you will learn and master the language!

2. Learn Core Vocabulary Terms as Quickly as Possible

You don’t need to memorize 10,000’s of words to learn conversational English. In fact, with just a couple hundred English words you could have a very basic English conversation. And by learning maybe 1,000-2,000 words, you could carry a conversation with a native speaker about current events, ordering in restaurants, and even getting directions.

3. Study Videos or Audio Lessons that You Can Play and Replay Again and Again

If you want to know how to carry a conversation in English, then you need exposure to native speakers—and the more the better. Ideally, studying video or audio lessons is ideal because they provide contextualized learning in your native language and you can play them again and again until mastery.

EnglishClass101 Makes it Easier and More Convenient Than Ever to Learn Conversational English

For more than 10 years, EnglishClass101 has been helping students learn to speak English by creating the world’s most advanced online language learning system. Here are just a few of the specific features that will help you learn conversational English fast using our proven system:

• The Largest Collection of HD Video & Audio Lessons from Real English Instructors: EnglishClass101 instructors have created hundreds of video and audio lessons that you can play again and again. And the best part is: They don’t just teach you English vocabulary and grammar, they are designed to help you learn to speak English and teach you practical everyday topics like shopping, ordering, etc!
• Pronunciation Tools: Use this feature to record and compare yourself with native speakers to quickly improve your pronunciation and fluency!
• 2000 Common English Words: Also known as our Core List, these 2,000 words are all you need to learn to speak fluently and carry a conversation with a native speaker!

In all, more than 20 advanced learning tools help you quickly build vocabulary and learn how to carry a conversation with native speakers—starting with your very first lesson.

Conclusion

Although it may seem intimidating for a beginner, the truth is that it is very easy to learn conversational English. By learning a few core vocabulary terms and which questions to ask to keep a conversation going, just a little practice and exposure to real English conversations or lessons is all it really takes. EnglishClass101 has created the world’s largest online collection of video and audio lessons by real instructors plus loads of advanced tools to help you learn to speak English and carry a conversation quickly.

Act now and we’ll also include a list of the most commonly used questions to keep a conversation going so you can literally get started immediately!

Today, classrooms are no longer the only or even best place to learn a new language like English. More and more people are finding that they can easily learn a language just about anywhere they have a few minutes of spare time, including their daily commute to work. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average American spends over 50 minutes a day commuting to and from work, or over 300 hours a year.

Rethinking Your Daily Commute to Work

But rather than simply sitting in traffic and wasting the time, you can instead use your daily commute to literally learn English in just a few short months! EnglishClass101 has developed specialized learning tools that you can use on your commute to work (and home again) to master the language in your spare time. Keep reading to learn how to get your free audiobook to use on your next commute so you can see for yourself how easy it is to transform “dead time” into realizing your dream of learning a new language!

But before we look at how to transform your commute home into a mini-classroom, let’s take a closer look at 4 reasons why traditional classroom settings just aren’t the best option for most people in today’s fast-paced world.

• Difficulty Getting to and From Class
• Learning on Someone Else’s Schedule
• Very Expensive and May Cost $1,000’s to Complete
• Can Take Years to Finally Complete Classes and Learn the Language

The simple truth is that traditional classroom instruction is simply not a viable option for most people in today’s very fast-paced, time-starved world. Now let’s examine how you can learn a language faster, more easily, and at far less expense than traditional classes—all during your commute to work and back home again!

3 Reasons Your Daily Commute Can Help You Master a Language

1. The Average Commute Time is More than 300 Hours Per Year

Between the commute to work and getting back home again, over 6 hours a week is completely wasted and not helping you reach any goals or objectives. But thanks to online language learning platforms with audiobooks and other resources that you can access during your commute, you can easily transform wasted time into tangible progress towards learning a new language. With over 300 hours available annually, your daily commute could provide you with enough time to literally master a new language each and every year!

2. Increase Your Earning Potential While Commuting to Work

How would you like to transform all those spare commuting hours each week into more money for a new car, house, or even a dream vacation? According to research, someone making $30,000 per year can boost their annual income by $600 or more per year by learning a second language. Added up over the course of a lifetime, you can boost your total earnings by $70,000 or more while achieving your dream of learning a new language during your daily commute!

How? From work-at-home translation jobs to working overseas, there are many ways to leverage your second language into more money in your bank account! So instead of wasting your precious time, you can make your commute more productive and profitable and the more languages you learn, the higher your income potential.

3. Repetition is Key to Mastering a New Language

Not sure if it’s practical to learn another language while commuting to and from work each day? Well not only is it possible—learning in your car on the way to and from work each day can actually help you learn and master English or any language much faster! The simple truth is that repetition is absolutely vital to truly internalizing and mastering any language. So, if you listen to audiobooks or even audio lessons on your commute to work and then repeat the same lesson on your commute home, the information is more likely to be “locked-in” to your long-term memory!

5 Ways EnglishClass101 Makes It Easy to Learn a Language On Your Commute

EnglishClass101 has been helping people just like yourself learn and master English in the comfort of their home, during their daily commute, or any place they have a few minutes of spare time. Here are five features provided by EnglishClass101 that make it easy to learn a new language while commuting to and from work:

1. The Largest Collection of Audio Lessons on Planet by Native Speaking Instructors
Every single week, EnglishClass101 creates new audio lessons by native speaking instructors. All lessons are short, to the point, and guaranteed to improve your mastery of English.

2. Word of the Day
Simply exposing yourself to new information and vocabulary terms helps increase your fluency and mastery of English. So every single day, EnglishClass101 adds a new Word of the Day for you to learn and memorize during your commute.

3. Daily Dose Mini-Lessons
Have a short commute to work but still want to make progress towards learning and mastering English? Not a problem! Our Daily Dose Mini-Lessons are 1-minute or less and designed to improve your grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

4. All Content Available on a Convenient Mobile App
You don’t need a PC or tablet to learn English during your daily commute. At EnglishClass101, all of our lessons, tools, and resources are available 24/7 via our Mobile App. That means you can access all of our audio lessons and other tools during your commute to work or any time you have a few spare moments!

5. Audiobooks and Other Supplemental Resources
In addition to the world’s largest online collection of HD audio lessons, EnglishClass101 has also created several audiobooks to enhance your understanding and make it more convenient than ever to learn a language during your commute!

Conclusion

The average commute time of most Americans is over 300 hours each year and it’s the perfect opportunity to learn and master a new language. In fact, you can use the “dead time” during your daily commute to learn a new language and potentially boost your lifetime earnings by up to $70,000 or more! Whatever your motivation, EnglishClass101 has the tools and resources necessary to help you learn a new language each year during your commute to and from work. Act now and we’ll even provide you with a free audiobook to try out on your next commute!

What is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in the United States? When is it celebrated, and why?

As one of the most important holidays in the United States, Martin Luther King Day (also called MLK Day) celebrates the birthday and life of Martin Luther King, Jr.—a slain civil rights leader and a strong voice in nonviolent social movements.

Find out more about this great U.S. historical figure and the holiday which seeks to commemorate him.

1. Why Should You Know About Martin Luther King, Jr. Day?

Learning about United States holidays is one of the first steps in understanding its culture and the history that made the country what it is. Each country has people and historical figures it celebrates, and the United States is no exception.

Why do we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day?

Martin Luther King, Jr. is considered one of the most important historical figures in the United States, and for good reason. Not only did he dedicate his life to social reform in the country, but he did so in a peaceful and respectful manner, serving as an example of how a quiet voice can create a loud echo.

He fought to end discriminatory laws, especially against people of color; he gained followers, and ultimately served as one of the greatest voices in the civil rights movement against discrimination. In particular, he sought to provide African Americans with rights they hadn’t known before.

The United States truly wouldn’t be as free and open a land as it is today without this man, and so we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday each year.

2. What is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day?

Martin Luther King Day is the celebration of this great figure’s birthday, as well as the commemoration of all he accomplished for the rights of colored people in the United States.

But is MLK Day a national holiday?

This is a federal holiday, meaning that most schools and places of business are closed. It’s a day to observe the sacrifices made and the example set forth by Martin Luther King, Jr.

3. When is MLK Day?

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day takes place on the third Monday of January as this is close to his January 15 birthday.

For your convenience, here’s a list of MLK Day’s date for the next ten years:

• 2019: January 21
• 2020: January 20
• 2021: January 18
• 2022: January 17
• 2023: January 16
• 2024: January 15
• 2025: January 20
• 2026: January 19
• 2027: January 18
• 2028: January 17

4. How is MLK Day Celebrated?

1- Is MLK Day a National Holiday?

While not a national holiday, MLK Day is observed in a variety of ways throughout the country, and its observation can vary from person to person.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a federal holiday in the United States, which means that the majority of schools are closed as well as some places of business. However, some schools see this as an opportunity to better inform students about Martin Luther King, Jr. and what he stood for, and decide to remain open with classes centered on this topic.

2- Martin Luther King Day of Service

In 1994, President Bill Clinton signed a document (the King Holiday and Service Act) which essentially asks United States citizens to use MLK Day as a day of charity and service.

In order to reflect the heart of service that King possessed, many people on this day choose to perform acts of service for others. This is often volunteer work, though it can take many forms.

One notable example of this is the Greater Philadelphia King Day of Service, where thousands are known to volunteer their time, energy, money, and goods for causes or charities they’re most passionate about.

3- Japan, Canada, Jerusalem, and The Netherlands

While Martin Luther King Junior day originated in the United States and is most widely celebrated here, there are a few other countries and cities which also choose to commemorate this day in some way.

• Hiroshima, Japan: This city celebrates MLK Day and seeks to point out similarities between its desire for peace and the life that King lived—what he stood for. The celebration is put on by its mayor, Tadatoshi Akiba.
• Toronto, Canada: In Toronto, Canada, this day is celebrated on a more personal level and businesses still remain open.
• Jerusalem: Jerusalem is a city which can relate to King and his ideals through the Bible; those who celebrate MLK Day in Jerusalem see a correlation between King’s assassination and the attempted murder of “the dreamer” Joseph in the Old Testament.
• Wassenaar, The Netherlands: The celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in Wassenaar, The Netherlands, is unique. Music is a large component of this day and the song “We Shall Overcome” is sung.

5. Must-Know Vocab for MLK Day

In order to celebrate Martin Luther King Day, here are some vocabulary words and phrases you should know:

• Martin Luther King, Jr.: The man behind the holiday.
• Activist: Someone who acts strongly for a particular cause.
• Freedom: Release from captivity; ability to live unhindered.
• Boycott: To completely stop using a certain product or buying from a certain company, usually because their beliefs or values differ greatly from one’s own.
• African American: Black citizens of the United States; peacefully Martin Luther King, Jr. fought for their rights.
• Human rights: The basic rights that it’s believed each person has, no matter who they are.
• Racial equality: People being treated equally, despite their race.
• Pastor: A church leader who usually gives sermons to the congregation and is in charge of various aspects of the church.
• Freedom Riders: People who rode on interstate buses in areas of the U.S. which were still segregated, as an act of opposition to these places’ failure to enforce non-segregation. They rode in groups of various races.
• Civil rights: Similar to human rights, though implementing a greater focus on ensuring that the government can’t take these rights away.
• I Have a Dream: Martin Luther King, Jr. gave a speech in 1963, called “I Have a Dream.” This is considered one of the most powerful speeches ever given; it focused on ending racism and allowing African Americans civil rights.
• The Sit-In Movement: Following in Martin Luther King, Jr.’s footsteps, many African American students used sit-ins as a nonviolent form of opposition and as a way of getting attention from the press. Essentially, they would go to a segregated location, ask for service, be denied, and refuse to leave after being denied.
• Racial segregation: Racial segregation involves people of different races being separated in daily life (e.g. in the United States, it used to be that white people rode on one part of the bus, and black people the other).
• Nonviolent resistance: Nonviolent resistance is a peaceful form of opposition, in which the opposing party or parties make a statement in a way that doesn’t harm anyone.
• Orator: An orator is a highly skilled public speaker, such as Martin Luther King, Jr.
• Nobel Peace Prize: The Nobel Peace Prize is a greatly commendable award given to someone who has established themself as a successful fighter for peace. King won this prize in 1964.
• The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom: This march took place in Washington, as a way of demanding more rights for African Americans; this is where King gave his “I Have a Dream” speech.
• Letter from a Birmingham Jail: This letter, written by King, is essentially an argument for nonviolent resistance.
• Civil disobedience: Noncompliance with laws, such as taxes, in order to peacefully resist.
• Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.: A holiday to celebrate the birth of Martin Luther King, Jr. each January.

To hear the pronunciation of each word, be sure to check out the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day vocab list on our website where you can listen to audio files with each word.

Conclusion

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day really is one of the most quintessential holidays in the United States as it marks a significant time for African Americans—a time when their voice was finally able to be heard and change began to take place for the better.

Martin Luther King, Jr. is honored for good reason; his involvement in progressing the civil rights movements for African Americans and his peaceful guidance towards racial equality continue to unravel today as the United States seeks equality in more ways than ever before.

To learn even more about U.S. culture, be sure to visit us at EnglishClass101.com! You’ll find an array of helpful blog posts, cultural information, and vocabulary lists. Also be sure to check out our MyTeacher app for a one-on-one language-learning experience!

We hope this article was helpful for you, and wish you the best of luck on your English-learning journey!

Greeting another is one of the most important things we do in social interaction. Did you know that even cats and dogs greet? They touch their noses together, even with other animals!

Therefore, greeting someone in their own language is probably the best way to win immediate favor. Nearly every language has different ways to say hello, depending on what time of the day it is, what the situation is, and also who you address. Greetings can also differ according to dialect, such as American English vs British English, etc.

For the purpose of the article, we will focus on American greetings. We will only look at greetings when you meet someone, not at ways to say goodbye.

So, let’s look at some of the many ways to say hello in American English.

1. Formal Greetings

As the name suggests, formal greetings are used in more formal situations. This would be when you address someone you don’t know well, or who is senior to you in some way.

You would use this, for instance, when addressing your boss, or your elderly neighbour or a complete stranger who is older than you.

1- Good morning / Good afternoon / Good evening

Other than these, there are not many formal or polite ways to say hello in English.

Literally, this greeting is a way to wish someone well. It is a short way of saying: “I wish you may have a good morning/afternoon/evening”.

How & When To Use It

• Say “Good morning” any time after sunrise.
• Use “Good afternoon” any time after 12pm.
• Use “Good evening” any time after sunset.

As mentioned, this is a polite way to greet someone who is senior to you in some way. It’s not an error to greet a friend like this though, so don’t worry if you do! Further, you may or may not wish to offer your hand for a handshake if you meet the person for the first time.

If you choose, you could follow this greeting with a phrase such as: “How are you?” This means you’re asking after the person’s wellbeing. It’s a short way of asking “How are you doing?”

You could also follow with: “How have you been?” This phrase means the same as “How are you?”, but you would use it only if you have met the person before. It is short for “How have you been since we last saw one another?”

Another phrase with which to follow this greeting, is “It’s nice to see you again”. This you also say only to someone you already know or have met before.

What are the formal ways of greeting in your language?

Informal greetings are much more abundant in English.

2. Informal Greetings

Informal greetings are usually OK for casual situations, and is used upon meeting or seeing someone.

1- Hello!

Hello is one of older greetings around, even though it wasn’t originally used as such. It’s said to come from the German word “Hoi”, which was a way to attract someone’s attention, or to express surprise. Such as in: “Hoi! Where are you going?” or “Hoi, what is this?!”

Hello was initially used in the same way, but over time, it turned into a way to greet someone. Previously, in western countries, it was polite for men to also lift their hats in greeting!

How & When To Use It

• It is suitable for use any time of the day.
• It’s certainly the most neutral and simplest way of greeting someone. It’s not completely unsuitable to use as a more formal greeting, such as when you address someone who is senior to you in some way.
• If you meet a person for the first time, ‘’Hello'’ is usually followed by a phrase such as: “It’s nice to meet you!”
• When you meet someone new, you can also offer your hand for a handshake.

2- Hi / Hey / Hi there!

This casual greeting is well known and popular around the world. You can use it in all informal situations, irrespective of who you address.

How & When To Use It

• This is a more casual way of saying hello, even when you meet new people. You can offer you hand for a handshake, if you choose.
• If you need a stranger’s attention, such as a shop assistant, you don’t need to shake hands with them. You can just say: “Hi there!”
• You can also say ‘’Hey!'’ when you run into a friend or someone you met before.
• “Hi there!” is particularly handy if you don’t know or cannot remember someone’s name!

3- Howdy!

Of all the different ways of saying hello, this one certainly brings up images of cowboys, belt buckles and the famous southern American drawl! It is said to have originated in Texas as an informal greeting. The word ‘’Howdy'’ is a contraction of the more formal greeting phrase: “How do you do?'’, and is a way to ask after someone’s wellbeing. It has become so popular that a Texan university uses it as a slogan.

How & When To Use It

Its use is pretty similar to “Hi”, in the sense that normally no answer is expected.

When you meet someone for the first time, or bump into a friend somewhere, this is an acceptable form of greeting in any casual situation. You could also offer your hand for a handshake.

If you really want to do it the Texan way, greet a group of friends with “Howdy, y’all!” Howdy can be used any time of the day. However, use it mostly with peers or older people you have already met and are on friendly terms with.

4- Hey, what’s up?!

This greeting serves a double purpose. It’s a way of saying hello, and it’s also a way of asking about what might be happening.

According to StackExchange, “What’s up?” has old origins: “In a letter written in 1838, the novelist Elizabeth Gaskell wrote I did not mention a word to Lucy but she must have guessed something was ‘up’“.

The phrase was made popular and probably widely known by the cartoon character, Bugs Bunny, with his signature phrase: “What’s up, Doc?” The contraction “Wassap?” is even more casual.

How & When To Use It

This phrase can be used any time of the day or night.

This way of saying hello is probably best used with people you know. That, or if you specifically want to know what’s going on with someone or something.

If you are friends with them, and your relationship is relaxed and casual, this is a suitable way to greet both young and old people.

5- Morning! / Evening!

This is the casual version of ‘’Good morning'’ and ‘’Good evening'’.

How & When To Use It

As previously pointed out, these forms of greeting are dependent on the time of day. After sunrise, till around noon (12pm), you will greet someone with “Morning!”. From around 6pm, you will say “Evening!”

It is fairly safe to greet anyone this way, no matter of their age. You might not want to meet a dignitary or royalty like this, though.

6- Hey, long time no see!

This phrase is thought to have originated from pidgin English, and some consider it offensive and racist. However, it is widely used across the Americas today, and it literally means you haven’t seen someone for a long time.

It seemed to have appeared the first time in literature in W.F. Drannan’s book, Thirty-one Years on Plains, which was published in 1901: ‘When It we rode up to him he said: ‘Good mornin. Long time no see you’.The speaker is an American Indian. However, the phrase became popular only the last ten years or so.

How & When To Use It

When you haven’t seen a friend for a long time, this is an appropriate greeting.

It is perhaps more suitable to address your younger friends this way. That’s not to say that older people will necessarily be offended—if you know them well, and you have a more relaxed friendship, it should be fine!

7- Hi, how’s it going?

This greeting is an informal version of “How are you?” or “How have you been?” It’s also a different way of asking: “What’s up?”

How & When To Use It

Probably best used for your younger friends, or when you’re greeting a group of friends in a general sort of way. Often, when friends meet up, the ‘’Hi'’ falls away.

This is maybe not the best greeting if you really want to know what is going on in someone’s life. It’s simply an expression or a rhetorical question to which the speaker usually doesn’t expect any reply other than “Fine, thanks!”

8- Hey, how’s everything?

This greeting is a contraction of “How’s everything going?” It means the same as “How’s it going?” and is used in the same way.

Here, the ‘’Hey'’ also falls away when friends who know one another well meet!

9- Yo!

‘’Yo!'’ was first used in the 1400s as an exclamation of incitement or warning. Apparently it originated among sailors. In the 1950s in the U.S., it became popular as a way to say ‘Hi!”’, or to show surprise. Much later, in the African-American community, it changed into an exclamation, “following or punctuating an utterance for emphasis or as a general conversational filler”, according to StackExchange.

How & When To Use It

• This is a very informal greeting! Best use it only with your friends of the same age, and younger.
• An appropriate response is usually also a “Yo!”

3. Why Choose EnglishClass101 To Teach You The Best Ways To Say Hello?

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We have many free resources to help you learn English easily! For instance, if you sign up now, you get access to:

1. New audio and video lessons every week.
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What’s not to love?! Learn so much more than the ways to say hello in English!

Any international student who wished to attend an English-speaking institution probably knows just how important the TOEFL test can be for their acceptance. If you’re interested in taking this test in order to start or continue your studies outside of your own country, you should know that there are some things you will definitely need to do if you wish to pass the test.

Studying and preparing for this exam doesn’t have to be as difficult as you imagine it. There are quite a few tips and tricks you can follow in order to make your preparation a lot more fun and interesting. In order to help you succeed, here are some steps you should definitely follow in order to pass the test with ease.

1. Knowing the format of the TOEFL test

The very first thing you should do when preparing for your exam is to make sure that you start out with seeing how the format of the test is. This is the only way for you to have an essential idea of what you are preparing for. By knowing the format of the test you will be able to know what to expect and you will also be able to pick the best test format for you.

First and foremost you should know that no matter which format you chose, there is always the same amount of content included in the test. This content is divided into three parts and those are reading, listening and writing. You can find more specified information and examples about each part on the official TOEFL website.

There are currently two different formats of the TOEFL test which you can choose from. The first one is the Internet-based test and the second one is the Paper-delivered test. Here is some important information on both.

2. Internet-based test

The Internet based test or otherwise known as TOEFL iBT, consists of the following sections:

• Reading: 60-80 minutes for 36-56 questions
• Listening: 60-90 minutes for 34-51 questions
• Break: 10 minutes
• Speaking: 20 minutes for 6 tasks
• Writing: 50 minutes for 2 tasks

This format is a better choice for you if you feel more comfortable with taking your test on the internet. It will require a total of 4 ½ to complete and could possibly save you from having to go out of your way in order to complete your test. As James Daily, a linguist for FlashEssay has said, “As a recommendation, I suggest that students set their expectations early so they have a clear goal in mind and pick the best type of test for their abilities”.

3. Paper-delivered test

The paper-delivered testing method is pretty new and has only started running since October 2017. This version of the test is more aligned to the iBT test and it came to completely replace the paper-based test which was used until this format came along. This format includes the following sections:

• Reading: 60 minutes for 42 multiple-choice questions
• Listening: approximately 60 minutes for 34 multiple-choice questions
• Writing: 50 minutes for 2 constructed-response questions

While the other format is online, this one is administered in a paper format. The problem is that you will have to find a test center near you in order to take the test during particular dates and that can be tough because not all test centers are always open for every test date. This test formal has a total duration of 20 hours 50 minutes.

4. Practicing your writing skills

After figuring out the format you wish to choose, you will need to start learning a few things about each section of the test in order to start preparing for them properly. While you can find plenty of practice tests which will include examples and keys for the reading, listening and even the speaking part, you will probably have a hard time with practicing when it comes to the writing part.

If you’re not someone who writes on the regular, you might find that you have some trouble with generating ideas on various subjects and expressing your thoughts easily. If you aren’t certain whether your writing is free of mistakes, you can always use the help of online forums such as the Word Reference “English Only” one, and even the very helpful EnglishLearning subreddit.

The good thing about online communities like these is that there will always be native speakers who will be able to help you out. On top of that, on platforms such as GetGoodGrade, you can even find professional linguists who you can ask for advice, as well as help on correcting your grammar and spelling issues. You can always make simple mistakes in a foreign language and a native speaker will truly help you spot them and get a better understanding of how to fix them.

On the other hand, if you feel a little awkward about asking for advice from strangers online, you can always try fixing your grammar mistakes by yourself. Probably the best tool for this job is Grammar, which not only offers a free online grammar checker but it can also help you practice the language more through various eBooks, tutorials and vocabulary games which are offered for free on this platform.

Improving your grammar isn’t the only thing that is important when it comes to acing your TOEFL exam. There are also some great, tools such as ProWritingAid, which can help you not only improve your grammar and spelling mistakes but also teach you new ways to express yourself in English and write in a way which will truly help you show that you know the language well.

5. Know what score you are aiming for

Last but not least, depending on which university you are aiming for, you should know how low the minimum score they accept is. This score should be your goal for this test which you should reach no matter what. On top of that though, you should keep in mind that the higher your grade is, the better it will be perceived by your preferred institution. As Amanda Sparks, professional editor for EssaySupply has advised, “It’s a good idea to get in touch with your future university and ask them for the minimal passing score they accept for the exam so you know how to gauge your expectations”.

On top of this, you should also make sure that your goal score is achievable and realistic. While it’s not bad to shot for the starts, you will need to make sure that you will be able to actually achieve your goal as otherwise you might end up disappointed and without any will to try harder.

6. Good preparation is the key to success

Once you have understood how the different formats work and which sections are included in each one of the two, you will be able to start actually practicing and preparing for your upcoming test. The TOEFL test is very important to the beginning or the continuation of your studies and you should make sure that you give it your all in order to get accepted to the institution of your choice.

As long as you have a clear goal in mind regarding your preferred score and you study consistently, you will have nothing to worry about. As Jessica Fender, content creator for OnlineWritersRating has said, “Its good practice to start preparing for your exam, even before you apply for it; that way you will only have to fill in the blanks once you’re clear on your goal”. Use this advice to your advantage and you will be able to get the result you are hoping for.

It’s a double benefit - get to entertain yourself and train your ear to the English language! From the previous century, here are some of the greatest US movies ever made. Working through this American movie list will keep you busy for hours and hours, polishing and integrating the English you learn at EnglishClass101!

1. Citizen Kane

The famous US movie Citizen Kane was an American drama released in 1941. The movie starts with the death scene of Charles Foster Kane, an extremely wealthy media mogul. In his last moments, Kane is heard mysteriously whispering only one word: “Rosebud”.

Kane’s death is national news, and sets off an epic tale of a man’s rising from rags to riches, through the abuse of power and, of course, love. In the end, the mystery of Rosebud is solved, but rather watch this evergreen classic to learn Kane’s secret yourself. The most famous quote from the film is obviously Kane’s deathbed utterance, but another unforgettable one is directed at Mr Bernstein, a bespeckled Jew who loves Kane unconditionally. Kane says: “You know, Mr. Bernstein, if I hadn’t been very rich, I might have been a really great man.”

2. E.T. The Extra Terrestrial

The Eighties brought an unforgettable US movie blockbuster, this time in the science fiction genre. Heartwarming E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial was directed by Oscar-winner Steven Spielberg, regales with the story of a cross-specie friendship between a wrinkled, knee-high alien and Elliot, a lonely 10-year-old boy. Elliot rescues E.T from a government search party, but soon E.T falls ill because Earth is not his home.

All ends well, though, with E.T. saying just before he leaves for his home planet while tapping on Elliot’s chest with a glowing forefinger: “I’ll be right here.”

3. Gone with the Wind

Gone with the Wind is a 1939 US movie that depicts the southern US state of Georgia during the Civil War and the Reconstruction period. It was adopted from Pulitzer-winner Margaret Mitchell’s novel of the same name.

The movie’s storyline gives us some insight into how the southern aristocracy viewed the Civil War and the ensuing political Reconstruction. Its storyline centers on Scarlett O’Hara and her struggles to find true love while maintaining her way of life and her beloved plantation. It is also the tale of true love lost, with its most famous quote coming from the lips of Rhett, the betrayed lover. Scarlett asks Rhett what she will do without him, and where she will go when he leaves, to which Rhett famously replies, “Frankly my dear, I don’t give a damn.”

4. Jaws

Another Spielberg success, super-scary Jaws topped nearly every US movie list in 1975, and was based on a novel by Peter Benchley. It tells the riveting story of an enormous killer shark with a taste for human blood, and, of course, the human hunt to kill it. The shark becomes a truly menacing entity in the film, appearing to target those who hunt it, and also eliciting one of cinema’s greatest understatements ever. Sheriff Brody, after ogling the monster for the first time, tells fellow shark-hunter Quint with wide eyes: “You’re gonna need a bigger boat”. If you like scary, this is one of the top US movies to watch in the thriller genre.

5. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

In 1937, Walt Disney animated the famous fairy tale, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, for which he received an honorary Oscar. The story itself needs no introduction, as most Westerners probably know it from childhood. One of its most famous quotes comes from the lips of Grumpy, the surly, pessimistic dwarf, as he grumbles about Snow White joining the Seven Dwarf family: “Pretty soon she’ll be tying your beards up in pink ribbons and spraying you down with that stuff called, uh, perfoom”.

6. Star Wars (A New Hope)

Star Wars (A New Hope) is one of six films released in the 1977 Star Wars saga, brainchild of screenwriter and director George Lucas. This US movie is part of a series that still proves of the most enduring hits of all time in the sci-fi genre. Basically, the film tells the tale of rebel freedom fighters in a civil war against the repressive Galactic Empire, and it even succeeded to land its own commemoration day - Star Wars Day. The date was derived from the movie’s most famous quote: “May the Force be with you”. These words were soon reworked to the mildly funny pun “May the Fourth be with you”.

7. The Godfather

The Godfather was an epic 1972 story about the rise of a mafia crime family, the Corleones, and specifically about the rise of Michael Corleone, who takes over from his aging father, Don Vito Corleone. It’s brutal, bloody and was a fantastic box office hit that led to another two Godfather movies. This one is replete with quotable quotes, but a lesser known, excellent quote came from the character Calo, who said: “In Sicily, women are more dangerous than shotguns”. True, that.

8. The Sound of Music

Few people don’t know The Sound of Music, and its wonderful score. This American musical film was released in 1965, and tells the story of the Von Trapp family and, Maria, beautiful singer-nun-turned-nanny. The Von Trapps are a family of seven children, and a sad, austere father who is a Captain in the army against Hitler’s forces. He’d lost his wife and the mother of his children too soon.

Obviously, Maria excels not only in her duties as a loving caretaker of the children, but also succeeds to win Captain von Trapp’s heart. Another evergreen, this US movie continues to regale all generations with its gentle love story and engaging tunes. One of the memorable quotes were uttered by Captain Von Trapp, addressing Maria: “You brought music back into the house. I had forgotten”.

9. The Wizard of Oz

Another film that still enchants children and adults alike hails from 1939. Who doesn’t know The Wizard of Oz, with its adventurous tale of tornadoes and witches and lions and scarecrows, and, of course, a Kansas farm girl called Dorothy. Dorothy lands by chance in an enchanted land on an adventure that both scares and challenges her, and teaches her, above all, that there’s no place like home.

The movie is filled with homegrown truths and quant sayings to quote at most any occasion. A lesser known one comes from the Cowardly Lion, who says: “What makes a King out of a slave? Courage!”

10. Ben-Hur

Ben-Hur (or Benhur) is a 1959 epic film directed by William Wyler, the third film version of writer Lew Wallace’s 1880 fictional novel, Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ. The story is about a Jewish prince who is battling the Roman empire in the time of Christ. The film went on to win a record of eleven Academy Awards, including Best Picture - a feat equaled only by Titanic and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.

One of the wiser quotes from the film comes from Messala, who tells his friend Ben-Hur: “It’s an insane world, but in it there’s one sanity, the loyalty of old friends”.

11. Casablanca

US movie Casablanca was made in 1942 and directed by Michael Curtiz. It’s a classic World War II movie with a story that centers on the life of a cynical nightclub owner, Rick Blaine, in the city of Casablanca in Morocco. The film relates the difficult, self-sacrificing choices Blaine must make for love when he has to choose between his love for an old flame, Ilsa, and helping her and her husband escape the Nazis and certain death.

Probably the most famous quote from this US movie was a quintessentially American toast, originating from an 1884 novel written by an anonymous author. In Casablanca, Blaine uses it when he toasts Ilsa with: “Here’s looking at you, kid”.

12. Forrest Gump

Forrest Gump is an award-winning 1994 American comedy-drama film based on a novel of the same name by Winston Groom. Anyone who doesn’t know Forrest Gump’s famous saying: “My momma always said, ‘Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get’”, has probably been living on a different planet all this time.

The film, directed by Robert Zemeckis, stars Tom Hanks, Robin Wright Penn, and Gary Sinise. The story centres around Forrest Gump, a simple man from Alabama, and his journey through life meeting historical figures, influencing popular culture, and experiencing firsthand historic events of the late 20th century.

13. The Matrix

Ah, The Matrix, a US movie that managed to gain a cult following, and inspired many copycats with its novel special effects. This 1999 film from the science fiction action genre, firmly placed actors Keanu Reeves and Laurence Fishburne in the international Hollywood stars firmament. The Matrix shows a future with an alternate reality controlled by machines, and attempts by humans to escape into actual reality. The film was the basis for a series of Matrix movies, video games, and other paraphernalia

Zen-like soundbites abound, like this one from the deep-voiced Morpheus talking to Neo, the main character: “…you are a slave, Neo. Like everyone else you were born into bondage. Into a prison that you cannot taste or see or touch. A prison for your mind.”

14. Rebel Without a Cause

Rebel Without a Cause was directed by Nicholas Ray in 1955, and tells the story of a rebellious teenager played by James Dean, who comes to a town, meets a girl, disobeys his parents, and defies the local high school bullies. It was an attempt to portray the moral decay of American youth, critique parental style, and exploit the differences between generations.

The main star, James Dean, died tragically in a car accident a month before the movie premiered. Prophetically, his troubled teenage character Jim Stark says about his situation with his parents: “I don’t know what to do anymore. Except maybe die”.

15. Singin’ in the Rain

The famous 1952 musical comedy movie Singing in the Rain, starred Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor. The film depicted the early Hollywood movie business with its transition from silent movies to “talkies.” Says Cosmo Brown in a bleak comment about “talkies”: “Talking pictures, that means I’m out of a job. At last I can start suffering and write that symphony”.

Gene Kelly’s rendition of the song, “Singing in the Rain”, is still considered one of the best dance scenes in movie history.

16. The Shawshank Redemption

The inspiring and emotionally moving American drama, The Shawshank Redemption, was released in 1994 and is based on a Stephen King novella called “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption.” The US blockbuster stars Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman as inmates at the fictional Shawshank State Prison in Maine, United States, and follows the story of mostly Robbins’ character, Andy Dufresne, who was imprisoned for a murder he didn’t commit.

Andy overcomes many obstacles in prison, famously deciding that: “I guess it comes down to a simple choice, really. Get busy living or get busy dying”. The type of move you’d want to watch more than once.

17. Psycho

Psycho is a yet another Alfred Hitchcock thriller, this time starring Janet Leigh and Anthony Perkins. The film, which was released in 1960, follows a female motel guest and the motel manager who turns out to be a deeply disturbed killer. The movie’s shower scene is one of Hitchcock’s most famous scenes.

Norman bates, the infamous killer, chillingly says: “We all go a little mad sometimes”. Watch what is considered to be one of Hitchcock’s best films to see just how mad Bates got.

Why Learning English through EnglishClass101 Will Help You Enjoy Movies More!

Any avid movie fan will miss out hugely if they don’t explore English films too. However, what’s the use if you can’t understand half of what’s being said! At EnglishClass101, you learn English in fun, easy ways. The lessons are interesting and culturally-relevant, and guarantees success if followed closely! Sign up now and get access to over 1,630 audio and video lessons, state-of-the-art vocabulary learning tools, and lots of free learning material. Learn this world-language now, and who knows, maybe you could become the screenwriter of the next top US movie!