Many people see an interesting news story, hear something on a podcast, or read a book in their own language and think:

“I’d like to talk about this in English.”

Then the next thought comes quickly:

“My English isn’t good enough.”

“I don’t know the right words.”

“I’ll get stuck.”

That feeling is very common. But often the problem is not the topic.

It may be the level of the material, or the idea that English must sound advanced before the conversation can begin.

It doesn’t.

A difficult topic can often be discussed in clear, simple English.

If something can be discussed in your own language, the ideas are already there. The next step may simply be to build the English around those ideas.

For example:

AI can save time, but people should use it carefully.

Simple grammar. Clear meaning. Good communication.

One Way to Start

There may be no need to read a long academic article or memorise specialist vocabulary.

Often it can help to start small.

You could try one short news story from NHK Easy News or BBC Learning English.

You could bring one short video.

One question.

One opinion.

That can already be enough for a full lesson.

If something interesting was read in your own language, it could be useful to explain the main point in two or three English sentences. That alone can be strong practice.

Where a Tutor Can Help

Sometimes students feel they need more English before discussing interesting subjects.

Often they may need better support, not more waiting.

A tutor can help by simplifying difficult material, choosing vocabulary that is actually useful, asking suitable questions, and helping organise answers naturally.

The topic can stay interesting, while the lesson becomes more manageable.

Example: Talking About AI

There may be no need to begin with complex theory.

It could start with questions such as:

• Is AI useful in daily life?
• Will some jobs change?
• Are there any risks?
• Would you use it at work?

That can already become a serious conversation.

Useful Phrases

Technical vocabulary is not always necessary. Often these are more useful:

• In my opinion...
• I think...
• It depends.
• That’s a good question.
• Let me think for a moment.
• For example...
• I see your point, but...
• There are advantages and disadvantages.

These phrases can work in many discussions: AI, business, health, education, culture, current events.

Many people wait until their English becomes better before talking about subjects they care about.

Often progress comes faster the other way round.

Using the English that is available now to discuss real ideas can be a very effective way to improve.

If there is something you’ve wanted to talk about, feel free to bring it to a lesson.

Useful English for Bigger Topics

Giving an opinion

• I think...
• In my opinion...
• From my point of view...

Adding balance

• It depends.
• There are advantages and disadvantages.
• It could be useful, but there are risks.

Buying time

• That’s a good question.
• Let me think for a moment.
• I haven’t thought about that before.

Responding

• I see your point.
• I partly agree.
• I’m not sure about that.

Explaining

• For example...
• What I mean is...
• In other words...