Shadowing Practice: Topics For Daily Life Conversations | Real Life English - Learn English Speaking with Video

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383 sentences
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1
Morning, Larry.
2
Morning, Anna.
3
Another Monday, another day of monotony.
4
Hey, Larry.
5
You see that every Monday morning?
6
Is it just me, or does this office get more suffocating every day?
7
What's got you down this time?
8
Oh, you know, emails to answer, reports to file.
9
I see. I feel like I'm stuck in a hamster wheel.
10
Have you been thinking about your escape plan again, Larry?
11
Oh, you bet I have.
12
Every minute of every day.
13
I just can't shake the feeling that there's more to life than this.
14
Sometimes I just wish I could win the lottery and live a life of luxury.
15
Everyone wishes that not just you.
16
Sometimes I wonder if this is all there is to life.
17
Don't you ever dream of something more, Anna?
18
Of course I do.
19
But we've got bills to pay, responsibilities...
20
I know, but sometimes I catch myself daydreaming about quitting and starting a new life somewhere far away.
21
I couldn't agree more.
22
Yes, Anna. Just imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore instead of the ringing of phones.
23
No more deadlines.
24
No more office politics.
25
It sounds like Paradise, Larry.
26
But you know. This is life and we need to be realistic True, but a guy can dream, can't he?
27
Besides, what's the harm in a little fantasy every now and then?
28
None at all, my friend. None at all.
29
Yeah. And who knows, maybe one day those dreams will become reality.
30
I hope so, anyway.
31
We'll make it through another Monday together.
32
Yup. Thanks for listening, Anna.
33
That's what colleagues are for, right?
34
That's right.
35
What a boring day.
36
So hungry. What's this?
37
A lottery ticket?
38
Huh, must've been dropped by someone.
39
10, 01, 28, 49, 59, 21 Well, what's the harm in holding on to it?
40
What are you watching? Tom?
41
Oh, just checking out today's lottery results.
42
You buy a lottery ticket?
43
Yeah. Just thought I'd try my luck for once.
44
What's up America? I'm Linda Smith.
45
It's Monday, 1 April.
46
And tonight's mega jackpot is an estimated $1.3 billion.
47
To win the jackpot, you must be 5 white balls, plus that gold mega ball.
48
It's the first time you've bought a lottery ticket, right?
49
Yep. So tonight's winning numbers are 10, 01, 28, 49, 59.
50
And the gold mega ball is 21.
51
Seems like chasing wealth through the lottery is pointless.
52
We'll never win.
53
I think I won.
54
What did you say?
55
I've won the lottery!
56
1.3 billion.
57
1.3 billion.
58
Where's the ticket?
59
I left it in my pants pocket.
60
The pants I wore to work today.
61
Where are the pants?
62
Nothing. Really?
63
So where's the ticket?
64
I don't know.
65
Tom, we need to find that lottery ticket.
66
I know, I know.
67
Where did you last have it?
68
I remember putting it in my pocket, but then I changed clothes.
69
Did you check your backpack?
70
Wait a minute.
71
I think I left it in my backpack.
72
Thank goodness.
73
I can't believe we almost lost it.
74
Well, now we found it.
75
Can you imagine, Tom, we're going to be rich.
76
I know it's unbelievable.
77
Just think of all the things we can do with that kind of money.
78
We could travel the world, buy a fancy cars.
79
Live in a mansion.
80
I could finally quit my job and never have to worry about bills again.
81
Exactly. We’ll be living the dream.
82
We'll have the freedom to do whatever we want, whenever we want.
83
It's going to be amazing.
84
Good morning, Anna.
85
Oh. What's this?
86
I got this for you.
87
You bought this for me?
88
Remember what you said yesterday?
89
Buy me a hamburger if you win the lottery.
90
Well, here you go.
91
Thanks anyway.
92
Larry, can you finish the report today instead of tomorrow?
93
No. I'm sorry.
94
Why? I've got something more important to take care of today than that report.
95
What's that?
96
Quitting my job.
97
Come on, Larry, don't joke like that.
98
I'm not joking. I'm serious. Jack.
99
Okay. I heard from Jack that you want to quit, Larry.
100
I wanted to confirm this with you.
101
It's true. Peter.
102
I don't think it's a wise decision.
103
That is my final decision.
104
Is there an issue at the company that's bothering you?
105
Working in this boring place is the biggest issue.
106
It would be better if you give notice before leaving your position.
107
Not just like this.
108
This month's salary, I don't need it.
109
I just want to quit.
110
You can go.
111
Are you crazy?
112
Do you know what you're doing?
113
I'm doing what I should have done a long time ago.
114
You don't need this job anymore?
115
Why? You know why?
116
You really won the lottery?
117
Yep. How much?
118
$1.3 billion.
119
Congratulations.
120
That's amazing.
121
But it's not right to resign like this.
122
The boss is being very polite to you.
123
I think it's time for me to go.
124
I'll see you around, Anna.
125
Maybe I'll invite you to a yacht party this weekend.
126
Keep in touch.
127
Winning the lottery really changes a person?
128
in a not so good way....
129
I'm going to get the $1.3 billion Tom.
130
I'll wait for you to come back.
131
And then we'll have a great dinner tonight.
132
Sure thing.
133
Please check the information on this winning lottery ticket.
134
It belongs to me.
135
So. I'm sorry, but this isn't the winning ticket.
136
You're just kidding, right?
137
Please. Look.
138
You've got the wrong date.
139
The correct date is April 1st, 2024.
140
But your ticket is March 31st, 2024.
141
I'm sorry, but don't be too sad.
142
I am all ears, Alex.
143
John. How is the RV?
144
Except for the shell and the engine, Everything needs to be in the trash.
145
Oh, so there are tons to repair and replace.
146
That could take a whole month.
147
When will you come?
148
In the afternoon.
149
I am busy at the moment.
150
Fine. Well, well.
151
How long do you think it will take us to finish this?
152
If you do not miss any Saturday or Sunday, it will be a month.
153
Oh, well, that cannot be helped.
154
Now let's investigate it from the inside.
155
Will you take wooden floors or something else?
156
Just plywood.
157
Then we have to make it waterproof.
158
And we need to add lights.
159
Okay. Our bed will be in this corner.
160
There should be bunk beds to fit us all.
161
Fortunately, all the pipelines are still functioning.
162
Okay. and our kitchen will be at the back of the car, right?
163
Right. Call Kuroi and tell him to run the lights and electricity on the whole car.
164
Tires and glass also need replacing.
165
The shell should be repainted.
166
We do not need that, just plaster it.
167
With our destructive activities, the paint will peel off in no time.
168
Yes. That's fine.
169
I have plywood.
170
Now let's order all the listed materials, and then we can start laying the floor.
171
All done. Our month-long feat!
172
Neat. Try starting the engine, Alex.
173
Nice!!! The power line works.
174
And the water line also works.
175
I also installed an addtional awning, in case we want to stay outside during light rain.
176
Great. So when do we go?
177
Next week We will go to Mount Baker.
178
Hooray! Here we are.
179
The beautiful natural landscape of Mount Baker.
180
Fresh air it is!
181
Come on, let's prepare everything for a fun camping night.
182
Now, John and I will find some firewood.
183
Kuroi and Clay, you two prepare the tent, ok?
184
Clear. Oh, you set the table as well.
185
That didn't take much time.
186
Let's make a campfire.
187
Oh, no. I forgot to bring my torch.
188
It's okay. We can make a fire with some sticks.
189
It's time to do what I've been practicing.
190
Good job, Alex.
191
Let's grill the food.
192
Food cooked like this is so much tastier.
193
So warm. Yeah.
194
The steak is delicious.
195
Too bad there's no rosemary.
196
Next time I will bring it.
197
Hey, how the pot of potato soup, Alex?
198
It's done. We can eat now.
199
Kuroi, do not go too far.
200
I know, does it work?
201
It does, in around 50 meters range.
202
Do you want to try it?
203
Yes. Wow! It is bright as day.
204
Let me guess.
205
You made it yourself, right?
206
That's right.
207
Kuroi is truly our inventor.
208
Let's clean up the tables and chairs.
209
The rain is getting heavier and heavier.
210
Everyone, let's get in the car.
211
We'll go to bed soon.
212
Stunning. It rained heavily yesterday and today it's sunny.
213
Thanks to that, the sky is clear.
214
It's perfect to go to the beach now.
215
That's a great idea.
216
On the way back to Seattle, We will stop by Libbey Beach.
217
We will have lunch there and then return home in the evening.
218
Do you Deal?
219
Woo-hoo! The sky was even clearer than on the mountain.
220
Let's set up the party speaker, We're going to party hard this afternoon.
221
Oh, great. Let me get more drinks.
222
John, we still need to light the fire.
223
Yes, a party without a barbecue is not a party.
224
Hello, handsome guys.
225
Are you guys not from here?
226
True. We are from Seattle.
227
Nice to meet you guys.
228
Where do you come from?
229
We are all from Coupeville.
230
Is that near?
231
Yeah, it's pretty near.
232
Are you guys getting a party together?
233
Yeah, right.
234
We will start the fire and music in a few minutes.
235
Do you want to join in?
236
Of course. It's quite late.
237
We have to go home.
238
I wish you guys were here longer.
239
We'll be back. Don't worry.
240
See you guys soon.
241
We're also going to Seattle.
242
Can I have your contact?
243
Sure. It's been fun partying with you guys.
244
Thank you so much for having us.
245
We enjoyed it too.
246
See you. Bye.
247
Lucy. I'm really nervous about this company party.
248
I want to look nice, but I don't know what to wear.
249
Don't worry. Annie.
250
Let's look online for some ideas.
251
Oh, here are some suggestions.
252
What about a sexy look with a short skirt?
253
Hmm...I think something elegant would be more appropriate.
254
You are right.
255
How about a long dress for a formal look?
256
Like this one.
257
That looks good.
258
Let's find the store that has a dress like this.
259
Wow, there are so many beautiful dresses here.
260
Yes, but let's focus on finding something elegant and luxurious Like the ones we saw online.
261
Hello, ladies.
262
Can I help you find anything?
263
Yes, we're looking for a formal dress for my friend here.
264
Do you have any long dresses?
265
Absolutely.
266
We have a few options over here.
267
What color are you looking for?
268
Maybe something in black or white.
269
Perfect. Let me show you some elegant options.
270
What about this black dress?
271
It looks fancy but not too flashy.
272
Yes, that's perfect for a formal event.
273
Do you have it in my size?
274
Yes, we do have it in your size.
275
Would you like to try it on?
276
Yes, please.
277
It fits perfectly! What do you think, Lucy?
278
You look stunning, Annie.
279
That dress is definitely the one.
280
Let's get it.
281
How much is this dress?
282
That will be $200.
283
Do you want to pay via card or cash?
284
Credit card please.
285
Here you go.
286
Thank you. And here's your receipt.
287
Thank you so much.
288
Now that we have the dress sorted, let's find some shoes and a handbag to match.
289
Right. I want something classy but comfortable.
290
Maybe high heels.
291
Yes, let's look for elegant heels that you can dance in all night.
292
Haha, great.
293
Let's see what they have in this store.
294
Oh, look at these heels. They're so pretty.
295
Yes they are.
296
I'm sure there will be a pair that's right for you.
297
Hello, ladies.
298
Are you looking for shoes or handbags today?
299
Both, actually.
300
Do you have any elegant heels that are comfortable to walk in?
301
Certainly. We have a few styles that might interest you.
302
Perfect. Let's try them on.
303
How about that one?
304
It looks nice.
305
Are you sure it's not my style?
306
I'm afraid I won't look good wearing it.
307
Don't worry, just give it a try.
308
Do you have these heels in her size?
309
Let me check for you.
310
Please wait a moment.
311
Yes, we do have them.
312
Would you like to try them on?
313
Okay. Thank you.
314
Wow. I didn't think they would be this great.
315
Yes, your feet look more stunning and elegant when wearing this shoe.
316
How do they feel? Are they comfortable?
317
Yes they are.
318
How much does this pair of shoes cost?
319
Only 68$. Do you want them?
320
Yes. Please pack them up for me.
321
Now let's find a matching handbag.
322
How about this black clutch?
323
It complements the dress perfectly.
324
Oh, that looks elegant.
325
Let me see how it goes with the dress.
326
Go ahead, try it on.
327
Excuse me. Is there a fitting room here?
328
No, but we have a bathroom over there.
329
Okay. Thank you.
330
Wow. It's perfect.
331
What do you think, Lucy?
332
You look stunning, Annie.
333
Let's try the shoes on to.
334
Excuse me. Can she try the heels on again?
335
Of course. Here you are.
336
No need to think any more.
337
Take it all.
338
Do you really think so?
339
Absolutely.
340
It's like it all was made for you.
341
Let's grab it and head to the checkout.
342
Okay, I will take it.
343
Please wait for me for a moment.
344
I need to change my clothes.
345
Lucy, we've got the dress, shoes and handbag.
346
We're almost done.
347
Now we just need some accessories to complete the look.
348
Right. Let's find some jewelry that adds a touch of sparkle.
349
I don't want anything too flashy.
350
Just something elegant.
351
Okay. Anything you want.
352
Hello, ladies.
353
Are you looking for accessories today?
354
Yes, we need some jewelry to go with my friend's outfit for a company party.
355
Of course. We have pretty nice jewelry that would be perfect for a formal event.
356
That sounds exactly like what I'm looking for.
357
Let's take a look.
358
Ooh, I want to try that one.
359
Great choice.
360
Let me ring these up for you.
361
Thank you. I can't wait to wear them to the party.
362
That's perfect. Let's take it.
363
Okay, so you'll take these earrings, right?
364
Yes. Please pack them up for me.
365
Here you go.
366
Is there anything else I can assist you with?
367
Actually, do you have any elegant bracelets that would match these?
368
Certainly. Let me show you some options.
369
How about this one, Annie?
370
It complements the necklace and earrings perfectly.
371
You're right, Lucy. It's beautiful.
372
I will take it.
373
Excellent. Here's your item.
374
Is there anything else you need?
375
I think we're all set.
376
Thank you so much for your help.
377
It's my pleasure.
378
Have a wonderful time at the party.
379
Thank you. Goodbye.
380
Thank you so much for helping me, Lucy.
381
I feel much more confident now.
382
Any time. Annie.
383
You're going to look amazing at the party.

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Vocabulary and speaking notes for this lesson

This B1 speaking lesson is built on the video “Topics For Daily Life Conversations”. This video has 383 sentences and 2470 words to shadow. The speech runs for 21:53. The speaker talks at a steady 113 words per minute, a comfortable pace for shadowing. 85% of the words are among the 3,000 most common in English; the rest is worth studying before you start. 89 of its 383 sentences are questions, so it is good practice for question intonation and short answers.

Key vocabulary in this video

The 15 most advanced words in the video, with pronunciation and meaning:

WordPronunciationMeaning
lottery noun/ˈlɑtɚi/A scheme for the distribution of prizes by lot or chance, especially a gaming scheme in which one or more tickets bearing particular numbers draw prizes, the…
elegant adjective/ˈɛləɡənt/Characterised by or exhibiting elegance; having grace, refinement, or tasteful simplicity.
heel noun/hil/The rear part of the foot, where it joins the leg.
shoe noun/ˈʃu/A protective covering for the foot, with a bottom part composed of thick leather or plastic sole and often a thicker heel, and a softer upper part made of…
handbag noun/ˈhændˌbæɡ/A small bag used chiefly by women for carrying various small personal items, sometimes considered as a fashion accessory.
stun verb/stʌn/To incapacitate; especially by inducing disorientation or unconsciousness.
jewellery noun/ˈd͡ʒʊ-/Collectively, personal ornamentation such as rings, necklaces, brooches and bracelets, made of precious metals and sometimes set with gemstones.
mega adjective/ˈmɛɡə/Very large.
earring noun/ˈɪəɹɪŋ/A piece of jewelry worn on the ear.
flashy adjective/ˈflæʃi/Showy; visually impressive, attention-getting, or appealing.
plywood noun/ˈplaɪwʊd/Construction material supplied in sheets, and made of three or more layers of wood veneer glued together, laid up with alternating layers having their grain…
jackpot noun/ˈd͡ʒækpɒt/A money prize pool which accumulates until the conditions are met for it to be won.
accessory noun/əkˈsɛs.(ə.)ɹi/Something that belongs to part of another main thing; something additional and subordinate, an attachment.
complement noun/ˈkɑmpləmənt/The totality, the full amount or number which completes something.
backpack noun/ˈbæk.pæk/A knapsack, sometimes mounted on a light frame, but always supported by straps, worn on a person’s back for the purpose of carrying things, especially when…

Phrasal verbs you will hear

WordPronunciationMeaning
check out verbTo record the departure or withdrawal of someone or something (such as guests, employees, books, etc.).
clean up verbTo make an area or a thing clean; to pick up a mess; to tidy.
come back verbTo return to a place.
go ahead verb/ˌɡoʊ əˈhɛd/To proceed with; to begin.
set up verb/ˌsɛt ˈʌp/To make ready for use.

Sentences worth repeating

Short, complete lines from the video that you can reuse in everyday conversation:

  • What's got you down this time?
  • You buy a lottery ticket?
  • Do you know what you're doing?
  • You don't need this job anymore?
  • Are you sure it's not my style?

Grammar in this video

The structures the speaker uses most, with the exact words from the video:

StructureIn the video
Present perfect continuous have/has been + -ing — an action that started earlier and is still going onHave you been thinking · I've been practicing
Passive voice be + past participle — the focus is on what happens, not who does itmust've been dropped · cannot be helped · should be repainted
Present perfect have/has + past participle — a past action that still matters nowyou've bought · I've won · It's been
Advice with “should” should + verb — saying what is a good ideashould have · should be

Pronunciation to watch

The speaker uses 65 contractions and reduced forms, such as I'm, don't, we'll. Say them the short way, as you hear them.

  • The “sh” and “zh” sounds: shoe /ˈʃu/, flashy /ˈflæʃi/, luxurious /lʌɡˈʒʊəɹi.əs/, mansion /ˈmæn.ʃən/, suggestion /səˈd͡ʒɛst.ʃən/
  • Long words — get the stress right: accessory /əkˈsɛs.(ə.)ɹi/, monotony /məˈnɑtəni/, luxurious /lʌɡˈʒʊəɹi.əs/, fortunately /ˈfɔɹ.t͡ʃə.nɪt.li/, unbelievable /ˌʌnbɪˈliːvəbl̩/

How to practise with this video

  1. Listen to the whole video once without speaking and note the words you do not know.
  2. Shadow it sentence by sentence at normal speed, repeating each one until your rhythm matches the speaker.
  3. Record yourself and compare with the original, paying attention to words like lottery, elegant, heel.

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.

Shadowing technique: read the full step-by-step guide →