Today, in this episode, we're going to be a bit scared.

Well, not really.

We're going to listen to some super short, scary stories.

Each story is one sentence, more or less.

In the second part, we're going to listen to a point-of-view story,

to learn grammar in context,

without memorizing any boring rules.

You can get the transcript for this episode on my website, speakenglishpodcast.com.

How was your day? A lot is going on today. Some good, some okay, and some bad. Today I'd like to talk about fear. Well, I'm not going to get serious about it,

because we already have plenty of real scary stories in the news. I will actually talk about

some scary stories that can be told in a few words. Here's an example. We have to talk.

Indeed, the expression we have to talk can trigger all kinds of emotions, including fear,

especially if your couple says it. But that's another story.

Let's look at the first one. There's a party tonight, and the whole family is going to be here.

Well, here's a typical case of family-induced panic.

While it's usually a good thing to get together with family, it can be terrifying for some.

And if you don't believe me, we've all heard stories about families at Christmas.

Okay, let's continue with another super short, scary story. We know who you are and where you live.

Hmm, yes, it can be scary.

Imagine you get a phone call from a hidden number.

They tell you this and hang up.

Or maybe you receive a note with just that phrase.

...