China, Russia, Taiwan, and the New Global Power Game

🌍 Can you improve your English while learning about one of the most important geopolitical stories in the world today?

This week, China and Russia declared their relationship stronger than ever, while tensions surrounding Taiwan continue to shape global politics. In this episode, we use this fascinating international story to help you improve your English naturally through real-world content.

In LISTEN: Online English, we don't learn English through isolated grammar exercises. Instead, we learn through authentic topics that native speakers discuss every day.

🎧 In this episode, you'll improve your understanding of grammar, phrasal verbs, vocabulary, idioms, and pronunciation while exploring the growing relationship between China and Russia, the Taiwan question, and the future of global power.

In this episode:

✅ How to use the Present Perfect to describe change over time ✅ When to use the Past Simple for historical events ✅ Present Continuous for current developments ✅ Modal verbs for making predictions (may, might, could) ✅ Passive Voice in news reporting ✅ Useful phrasal verbs used in politics and current affairs ✅ Idioms and expressions used by native speakers ✅ Advanced vocabulary for discussing international news

Grammar Focus:

📚 Present Perfect

• China and Russia have become closer.
• China has increased its influence.

📚 Past Simple

• Xi Jinping welcomed Vladimir Putin.
• Countries imposed sanctions.

📚 Present Continuous

• China is expanding its influence.
• Governments are monitoring developments.

📚 Modal Verbs

• China may become more influential.
• Taiwan could strengthen its position.
• The situation might change.

📚 Passive Voice

• Sanctions were imposed.
• Agreements were signed.
• Trade routes were disrupted.

Phrasal Verbs Featured:

• Build up
• Carry out
• Set up
• Carry on
• Fall behind
• Step up
• Bring about
• Hold back
• Turn into
• Work out
• Think aheadIdioms and Expressions:
• Play the long game
• Keep your eye on the ball
• On someone's side
• Think ahead

Why Listen?

This episode helps intermediate and upper-intermediate English learners understand how grammar and vocabulary work in real situations. By hearing these structures used naturally, you'll improve your listening skills, speaking confidence, and overall fluency.

🎙️ Hosted by Gary, a British English teacher who has lived in Colombia since 2010 and has spent the last 16 years helping learners across Latin America and around the world improve their English through real-world topics and practical communication.

🔗 Also explore our sister podcasts:

• LISTEN: Global English https://rss.com/podcasts/listen-global-english
• LISTEN: Business English https://rss.com/podcasts/listen-business-english

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