Shadowing Practice: Short English Dialogues for Beginners - Learn English Speaking with Video
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419 sentences
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1
What do you do for a living?
2
So, Patricia, what do you do for a living?
3
I'm a student at Boston University, studying psychology.
4
How about you?
5
I'm a marketing assistant in a shopping mall.
6
That sounds exciting.
7
Do you enjoy it?
8
Yeah, it's fun.
9
I'm always learning something new.
10
Where are you from originally?
11
I'm from a small town in Maine.
12
What about you?
13
I'm from New York City, but I moved here for work.
14
It's a big change, but I love Boston.
15
Nice.
16
How long have you been in Boston? About six months now.
17
I'm still getting to know the city.
18
What about you?
19
How long have you been in school?
20
I started last year, so just over a year now.
21
I love it here.
22
That's awesome.
23
Do you have any favorite spots in the city?
24
Definitely.
25
I love the Boston Public Library.
26
It's such a beautiful place to study.
27
I also adore the common and all the little cafes.
28
Yeah, me too.
29
Maybe we could explore together sometime?
30
I'd like that.
31
What do you like to do for fun?
32
So, Mary, what do you like to do for fun?
33
Well, I'm really into swimming.
34
There's just something about being in the water that relaxes me.
35
How about you?
36
That sounds great.
37
I'm more of a land person, I guess.
38
I play a lot of tennis.
39
It's such a good workout and so much fun.
40
Wow, tennis.
41
I've always wanted to learn.
42
Do you play often?
43
Yeah, I try to hit the courts at least a couple of times a week.
44
It's a great way to clear my mind.
45
What about music?
46
I heard you like karaoke.
47
Oh, absolutely.
48
I love singing.
49
It's my go -to activity with friends.
50
What about you?
51
Are you into music?
52
Absolutely.
53
I play the guitar.
54
It's my favorite hobby.
55
I love strumming while singing along to my favorite songs.
56
That's awesome!
57
We should have a karaoke night together sometime.
58
Guitar and singing!
59
I'd love that!
60
Let's make it happen!
61
Do you live in a house or an apartment?
62
Do you live in a house or an apartment?
63
Oh, I live in an apartment.
64
It's cozy and has a great view of the park.
65
it sounds nice do you like it yeah i love it it's low maintenance
66
and i can just call the landlord if something breaks plus the location is perfect for me that sounds convenient
67
i live in a house it's a bit more work but i like having my own space
68
i get that do you have a backyard yeah a small one i've started a little garden
69
It's a nice hobby.
70
That's awesome.
71
I wish I had outdoor space.
72
I'd love to grow some herbs.
73
You could always do a balcony garden.
74
True.
75
I might just try that.
76
Thanks for the idea.
77
Anytime.
78
Do you have any siblings? siblings?
79
So, Lucy, do you have any siblings?
80
Yeah, I've got four older siblings.
81
Wow, that's a big family.
82
How old are they?
83
Well, my oldest brother, Jake, is 22.
84
Then there's Emma.
85
She's 20.
86
Next is Sam.
87
He's 18.
88
And the last one is Mia.
89
And she's 16.
90
That's really cool.
91
So you're the youngest of them.
92
What do they do?
93
Jake just graduated and is working at a tech startup.
94
Emma is in college studying law.
95
while Sam and Mia are in high school.
96
Sam plays soccer and Mia is super into music.
97
She's in a band.
98
Sounds like you all have your own things going on.
99
What about your parents?
100
My dad is an engineer and my mom is a teacher.
101
They're always super busy, but they make time for us.
102
That's awesome!
103
It must be fun having so many siblings around.
104
It definitely is.
105
There's never a dull moment in our house.
106
What's your favorite food?
107
So, Sally, what's your favorite food?
108
Oh, that's easy.
109
I absolutely love macaroni and cheese.
110
It's the ultimate comfort food for me.
111
How about you?
112
I'm a big fan of roast turkey.
113
There's something about it that just feels like home.
114
And I can't resist a good baked potato on the side.
115
Yum!
116
That sounds delicious.
117
What about desserts?
118
Do you have a favorite?
119
Definitely.
120
I'm all about cheesecake.
121
It's creamy, rich, and just perfect.
122
What's your go -to dessert?
123
Chocolate mousse all the way.
124
It's so light and fluffy, I just can't get enough of it.
125
Yeah, that sounds amazing.
126
Now, how about drinks?
127
What do you like to sip on?
128
I love kombucha.
129
It's refreshing and has all those good probiotics.
130
Nice choice.
131
I'm a fan of mango lemonade.
132
It's sweet and tangy, perfect for a hot day.
133
Sounds like we both have great tastes.
134
We should definitely have a food day sometime.
135
I'm all in.
136
Let's plan it.
137
How often do you go to the gym?
138
So, James, how often do you go to the gym these days?
139
I usually go three times a week.
140
How about you?
141
I rarely go anymore.
142
I always say I will, but then I get too busy.
143
That's understandable.
144
I sometimes skip a day if I have a lot of work.
145
Yeah, I get that.
146
Unfortunately, I often choose to binge watch shows instead of exercising.
147
Same here.
148
I've never been able to stick to a strict routine.
149
Right?
150
I often tell myself I'll start fresh on Monday, but it never happens.
151
Well, I sometimes find motivation in group classes.
152
They help me stay accountable. That sounds great.
153
I've seldom tried classes, but I think I should give it a go.
154
You should.
155
It might be fun.
156
We could go together sometime.
157
That would be awesome.
158
Let's plan on it.
159
I'll try to make it a priority.
160
Perfect.
161
I always enjoy working out with a friend. Can you sing?
162
Do you like music, Laura?
163
I love it.
164
It's such a big part of my life.
165
Really?
166
Can you sing?
167
Yes, I can sing.
168
I enjoy it a lot.
169
How about you?
170
Well, I can't really sing.
171
I wish I could, but I just can't hit the right notes.
172
That's okay.
173
Not everyone can.
174
Can you play any instruments?
175
I can play the violin and the ocarina.
176
How about you?
177
Nice.
178
I can play the guitar and the piano.
179
Wow, those are beautiful instruments.
180
Can you play them well?
181
I can.
182
I've been playing the piano since I was a child.
183
What about you?
184
Can you play violin and ocarina well?
185
I can play some songs, but I'm still learning.
186
I hope to get better.
187
You will.
188
Practice makes perfect.
189
Maybe we can have a little jam session one day. That sounds amazing.
190
I can't wait.
191
Who are you going with?
192
So, Sam, what are you doing for your break?
193
I'm going to New Orleans next week.
194
Oh, that sounds fun.
195
Who are you going with?
196
I'm going with my girlfriend, Lisa.
197
Nice.
198
Are you staying in a hotel?
199
Yeah.
200
We booked a hotel near the French Quarter.
201
That's a great area.
202
How many days will you be there?
203
We'll be there for four days.
204
What do you plan to do while you're there?
205
We want to try the local food, visit some music spots, and maybe take a steamboat ride on the Mississippi.
206
Wow, that sounds amazing.
207
What kind of food are you excited to try?
208
I can't wait to have gumbo and beignets.
209
Yum, you're going to have a blast.
210
Thanks.
211
What about you?
212
Any plans for your break?
213
I'm just staying home with my husband and kids. That sounds nice.
214
Family time is important.
215
Yeah, it will be relaxing.
216
Enjoy your time.
217
You too.
218
Safe travels. Which one is she?
219
Hey, Sarah.
220
Do you know where the drama teacher is?
221
I need to talk to her.
222
Sure.
223
Miss Thompson is right over there. Which one is she?
224
The one with the curly brown hair.
225
Wearing that bright red scarf.
226
She's pretty tall and has glasses.
227
Oh, and she's wearing those funky earrings.
228
Is she the one by the bulletin board?
229
Yes, and she's talking to a group of students about the upcoming play.
230
Okay, I think I see her.
231
Is she smiling?
232
Yes, she's super enthusiastic.
233
Especially when she talks about drama.
234
Great, thanks Sarah.
235
I'll go introduce myself.
236
Good luck.
237
She's awesome.
238
Keep your back straight.
239
All right, everyone.
240
Let's start with squats.
241
Everyone stand with your feet shoulder width apart.
242
Now when I say go, sit back like you are sitting in a chair.
243
Keep your back straight.
244
Ready?
245
Go!
246
Good job!
247
Let's do that 10 more times.
248
1, 2, 3, 4, 5,
249
6, 7, 8, 9, 10.
250
Awesome!
251
Next, we're going to stretch to the side.
252
Stand up tall.
253
Now raise your right arm and lean to the left.
254
Feel that stretch.
255
Now switch sides.
256
Left arm up, lean to the right.
257
Great.
258
Now let's do some hamstring stretches.
259
Stand up straight.
260
Now reach down towards your toes.
261
Hold it for 10 seconds.
262
Ready?
263
Go!
264
Hold it there.
265
1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
266
Good job!
267
Perfect!
268
Now let's finish with jumping jacks.
269
Are you ready to jump?
270
Yes!
271
Okay, here we go.
272
Jump out and in.
273
1, 2, 3.
274
Fantastic job, everyone!
275
Milk, bread, eggs, veggies, you name it.
276
Got it.
277
What's next?
278
After that, I need to pick up my dry cleaning.
279
My suit is ready for the meeting tomorrow.
280
Important.
281
Anything else?
282
Yeah.
283
I have to drop off some packages at the post office.
284
Sounds fun.
285
And then, I have to take my car for an oil change.
286
Wow!
287
Busy day indeed!
288
And I can't forget to call my mom.
289
It's her birthday!
290
Give her a hug and tell her happy birthday for me. For sure!
291
I'll let her know that you said happy birthday.
292
Well, that's a lot to fit in.
293
I know, right?
294
I hope I can get it all done.
295
You've got this, man.
296
Just take it one step at a time.
297
Thanks, Mark.
298
I'll need it.
299
Setting the table.
300
Hey, Mom, what are you doing?
301
I'm setting the table for dinner.
302
Want to help me out?
303
Sure, but how do you do it?
304
We start with the plate.
305
Place it in the center of each setting.
306
Got it.
307
What's next?
308
Next, we add the forks.
309
They go to the left of the plate.
310
Okay, left side.
311
What about the knives?
312
Good question.
313
The knives go on the right side with the blades facing the plate. And spoons?
314
Spoons go next to the knives.
315
Perfect!
316
What about the glasses?
317
Right.
318
The glasses go above the knives.
319
This is fun.
320
What else?
321
And finally, don't forget the napkins.
322
They can go on the plates or to the left of the forks.
323
We did it.
324
The table looks great.
325
It really does.
326
Thanks for your help, Emily.
327
Thanks for understanding.
328
Hey, Mia, I just wanted to ask, what time is your baby shower on Saturday?
329
Oh, it starts at 2 p .m.
330
We're having it at my house.
331
Got it.
332
So, I might not be able to arrive right at 2, though.
333
Oh, why's that?
334
Well, I have another commitment earlier in the day that might run a bit long.
335
That's totally okay.
336
If you get there a little later, it won't be a problem at all.
337
Thanks for understanding.
338
I'll do my best to be there by 3, but it might be closer to 3 .30.
339
No worries.
340
Just come when you can.
341
We'll still be celebrating until the evening.
342
Perfect.
343
I wouldn't miss it for the world, even if I arrive late.
344
I appreciate that.
345
I can't wait to see you there, whether it's on time or later.
346
Same here.
347
I'm really looking forward to it.
348
I can't find my car keys.
349
Dave, I can't find my car keys anywhere.
350
They might be by the front door.
351
Sometimes you leave them on the hook.
352
They're not there.
353
I've already checked.
354
Have you checked under the couch?
355
Yes, I looked under the couch and behind the cushions.
356
What about the kitchen?
357
They might be on the counter.
358
I already checked there.
359
They're not on the counter or in the drawer.
360
What about the dining table?
361
Did you check underneath?
362
No, I didn't.
363
Okay, I'll take a look.
364
nope it's not there either how about inside your purse good idea
365
oh just my wallet and some receipts what if they're in the car let's check the garage
366
yes they might be on the passenger seat
367
There they are, right on the dashboard.
368
Thank goodness.
369
Thank you, Dave.
370
What time should we meet?
371
Hey, Ricky.
372
Are we still on for the movies tonight?
373
Definitely.
374
Where should we meet up?
375
How about the theater entrance?
376
It's easy to find.
377
Sounds good.
378
What time should we meet?
379
How about 6 .30 p .m.?
380
The movie starts at 7 .15, so that gives us enough time to grab tickets.
381
Perfect.
382
Speaking of tickets, do you know how much they cost?
383
Yeah, I checked online.
384
They're $12 each.
385
Alright.
386
Do you want to grab snacks before the movie? For sure.
387
I usually spend around $10 on snacks.
388
same here okay what about after the movie I was thinking we could hit
389
that new burger place nearby good idea I'll budget around fifteen dollars for food Me too.
390
Alright, so we each need to bring $37.
391
Sounds like a plan.
392
I'll see you at 6 .30 then.
393
Can't wait.
394
Can you give me directions?
395
Excuse me.
396
Hi there.
397
Hey, how can I help you?
398
I'm looking for a pharmacy.
399
Do you know where I can find one?
400
Sure.
401
There's a pharmacy not far away.
402
It's about a ten -minute walk from here.
403
Great.
404
Can you give me directions? Of course.
405
Just head straight down this road for two blocks.
406
You'll pass a cafe on your right.
407
Okay, cafe on the right.
408
Exactly.
409
After that, take a left at the next intersection.
410
You'll see it next to the sweet shop.
411
Got it.
412
So, straight for two blocks, then left.
413
Right.
414
Thank you so much.
415
I appreciate your help.
416
No problem.
417
Have a nice day.
418
You too.
419
Thanks again again.
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Vocabulary and speaking notes for this lesson
This speaking lesson is built on the video “Short English Dialogues for Beginners”. This video has 415 sentences and 2321 words to shadow. The speech runs for 21:09. The speaker talks at a steady 110 words per minute, a comfortable pace for shadowing. 83% of the words are among the 3,000 most common in English; the rest is worth studying before you start. 94 of its 415 sentences are questions, so it is good practice for question intonation and short answers.
Key vocabulary in this video
15 words from the video worth learning, with pronunciation and meaning:
| Word | Pronunciation | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| sibling noun | /ˈsɪb.lɪŋ/ | A person who shares a parent; one's brother or sister who one shares a parent with. |
| knife noun | /ˈnaɪ̯f/ | A utensil or a tool designed for cutting, consisting of a flat piece of hard material, usually steel or other metal (the blade), usually sharpened on one edge… |
| sometime adverb | /ˈsʌmˌtaɪm/ | At an indefinite but stated time in the past or future. |
| guitar noun | /ɡɪˈtɑɹ/ | A stringed musical instrument, of European origin, usually with a fretted fingerboard and six strings, played with the fingers or a plectrum (guitar pick). |
| stretch verb | /stɹɛt͡ʃ/ | To lengthen by pulling. |
| arrive verb | /əˈɹaɪv/ | To reach; to get to a certain place. |
| tennis noun | /ˈtɛnɪs/ | A sport played by two players (or four in doubles), who alternately strike the ball over a net using racquets. |
| piano noun | /piˈænɪː/ | A percussive keyboard musical instrument, usually ranging over seven octaves, with white and black colored keys, played by pressing these keys, causing hammers… |
| relax verb | /ɹɪˈlæks/ | To make something loose. |
| instrument noun | /ˈɪnstɹəmənt/ | A device used to produce music. |
| couch noun | /ˈkaʊ̯t͡ʃ/ | An item of furniture, often upholstered, for the comfortable seating of more than one person; a sofa. |
| lean verb | /ˈliːn/ | To incline, deviate, or bend, from a vertical position; to be in a position thus inclining or deviating. |
| fork noun | /fɔɹk/ | A utensil with spikes used to put solid food into the mouth, or to hold food down while cutting, or for serving food. |
| hobby noun | /ˈhɑ.bi/ | An activity that one enjoys doing in one's spare time. |
| snack noun | /snæk/ | A light meal. |
Phrasal verbs you will hear
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| stand up verb | To rise from a lying or sitting position. |
| drop off verb | To fall asleep. |
| go together verb | To be in a relationship. |
| jump out verb | To emerge suddenly. |
| look forward to verb | To anticipate, expect, or wait for, especially with a feeling of approval or pleasure; to be excited or eager to. |
| pick up verb | To lift; to grasp and raise. |
| reach down verb | To take an item down from a high shelf or the like. |
| sit back verb | To recline while still in a seated position, with one's back on the frame of the seat. |
Sentences worth repeating
Short, complete lines from the video that you can reuse in everyday conversation:
- What do you do for a living?
- Where are you from originally?
- How long have you been in school?
- What's your go -to dessert?
- What do you plan to do while you're there?
Grammar in this video
The structures the speaker uses most, with the exact words from the video:
| Structure | In the video |
|---|---|
| Present perfect have/has + past participle — a past action that still matters now | have you been · I've always wanted · i've started |
| Possibility with “might / may” might/may + verb — something that is possible but not certain | might just try · might be · might not be |
| Advice with “should” should + verb — saying what is a good idea | should have · should definitely have · should give |
| Superlatives the -est / the most … — the top or bottom of a group | my oldest · the youngest · my best |
Pronunciation to watch
The speaker uses 68 contractions and reduced forms, such as I'm, can't, I'll. Say them the short way, as you hear them.
- The “th” sounds: theater /ˈθi(ə)tɚ/, underneath /ˌʌndɚˈniθ/, width /ˈwɪtθ/, enthusiastic /ɪnˌθjuːzɪˈæstɪk/
- The “sh” and “zh” sounds: delicious /dɪˈlɪ.ʃəs/, garage /ɡəˈɹɑʒ/, motivation /ˈmoʊ.tə.veɪ.ʃən/, intersection /ˈɪntəɹˌsɛkʃən/, refresh /ɹɪˈfɹɛʃ/
- Long words — get the stress right: priority /pɹaɪˈɒɹɪti/, psychology /saɪˈkɑ.lə.d͡ʒi/, motivation /ˈmoʊ.tə.veɪ.ʃən/, intersection /ˈɪntəɹˌsɛkʃən/, enthusiastic /ɪnˌθjuːzɪˈæstɪk/
How to practise with this video
- Listen to the whole video once without speaking and note the words you do not know.
- Shadow it sentence by sentence at normal speed, repeating each one until your rhythm matches the speaker.
- Record yourself and compare with the original, paying attention to words like sibling, knife, sometime.
What is the Shadowing Technique?
Shadowing is a science-backed language learning technique originally developed for professional interpreter training and popularized by polyglot Dr. Alexander Arguelles. The method is simple but powerful: you listen to native English audio and immediately repeat it out loud — like a shadow following the speaker with just a 1–2 second delay. Unlike passive listening or grammar drills, shadowing forces your brain and mouth muscles to simultaneously process and reproduce real speech patterns. Research shows it significantly improves pronunciation accuracy, intonation, rhythm, connected speech, listening comprehension, and speaking fluency — making it one of the most effective methods for IELTS Speaking preparation and real-world English communication.