2022-12-05 Hang in there – The English We Speak

Summary

Rob has a cold and is struggling to present the programme. Luckily, Jiaying has some words of encouragement. Learn more about what she says and how you can use it in your everyday English.

Transcript

Jiaying
Hello and welcome to The English We Speak. I’m Jiaying…

Rob
… and I’m Rob.

Jiaying
Oh dear, Rob, it sounds like you have a cold.

Rob
Yes, I have. I feel terrible – I don’t know if I could present the rest of this programme.

Jiaying
It’s only a cold, Rob, but hang in there. I’m sure you can make it to the end.

Rob
Hang in there? Hang where? In the cupboard? Do you think I’m infectious?

Jiaying
Probably. But don’t go anywhere – I’m giving you words of encouragement. When we tell someone to ‘hang in there’, we mean that despite the difficulties, they shouldn’t give up. We can also say ‘hang on in there’ as words of encouragement. So, Rob, here’s a tissue – blow your nose and let’s carry on.

Rob
Thanks. Now, could I have some examples as well, please?

Jiaying
OK then….

Examples
There are just a few miles to go, so hang in there and you’ll complete the race.

Studying for your exams is hard, but if you hang in there, they should go smoothly.

Hang in there – the doctors are doing their best and you should make a full recovery.  

Jiaying
This is The English We Speak from BBC Learning English. We’re learning about the phrase ‘hang in there’, which we can say to someone to encourage them to carry on despite difficulties. So, Rob, are you able to hang in there for just a little bit longer?

Rob
I’m trying my best.

Jiaying
Do you need anything to help you get to the end of the programme?

Rob
Oh, thanks – a nice hot cup of tea would be lovely, thanks.

Jiaying
OK, Rob – as you’re not feeling great. Oh no! Have I caught your cold now?

Rob
Hang in there, Jiaying. You’ll be fine.

Jiaying
Thanks, for the encouragement.

Rob
Now, how about that nice cup of tea?