Coffee Break Italian

5 small changes to improve your Italian

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Francesca walks you through five common mistakes that are easy to fix but make a real difference to how natural your Italian sounds. From choosing between "favorito" and "preferito" to understanding why Italians say "mi lavo i denti", these are practical changes you can start using straight away.

➡️ Click here to watch the video version of this episode.

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Scenes Season 2 | Chapter 10: Chiuso per ferie

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to il Caffè di Tullio - our charming Italian café, where the aroma of fresh coffee lingers, conversations flow, and life unfolds around every table. In this immersive series, we follow a compelling story set in a local café and help you build your language skills naturally through storytelling.

In Chiuso per ferie, Lorenzo's exhaustion from a busy summer leads to a well-deserved, but unexpected, break thanks to la signora Rachele’s wisdom. La signora Rachele, infatti, nota la stanchezza di Lorenzo e, prima che lui se ne accorga, attacca un avviso molto importante sulla porta del locale…

Allora, sei pronto a leggere l’ultimo capitolo di Scenes 2? Non perdertelo!

Want to take your learning further? Click here to access support materials and get more out of each chapter.

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Scenes Season 2 | Chapter 9: La vita qui non è poi così male

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In Episode 9, La vita qui non è poi così male, Lorenzo’s friend talks about life in Berlin and his surprising new perspective on Italy.

Fabrizio è tornato in Italia per le vacanze e passa il suo tempo andando al mare e rilassandosi. Decide che forse rimarrà in Italia più del previsto…

Tune into Episode 9 of Scenes, where you’ll learn plenty of useful vocabulary and expressions to boost your Italian.

Want to take your learning further? Click here to access support materials and get more out of each chapter.

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Scenes Season 2 | Chapter 8: L’estate della maturità

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In L’estate della maturità, a small group of students go to il caffè di Tullio to celebrate the end of their maturità exams.

Ora che la scuola è finita, i tre studenti hanno progetti diversi per il futuro: c’è chi vuole studiare e chi, invece, preferisce andare subito a lavorare. E poi c’è anche chi vuole prendersi del tempo per decidere bene cosa fare…

Step into L’estate della maturità and enjoy the episode!

Want to take your learning further? Click here to access support materials and get more out of each chapter.

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Scenes Season 2 | Chapter 7: Il colloquio di lavoro

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In Chapter 7, Il colloquio di lavoro, the fate of a job interview hangs in the balance as Tommaso arrives at il Caffè di Tullio, seeking solace and an honest ear.

Tommaso si dirige al bar subito dopo il suo colloquio. Lorenzo ascolta le sue parole, lo rassicura e, ovviamente, gli offre qualcosa per tirarlo su di morale!

Join us for another exciting episode of Scenes, full of new vocabulary and interesting language points to boost your Italian. Non perderti il capitolo 7!

Want to take your learning further? Click here to access support materials and get more out of each chapter.

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Scenes Season 2 | Chapter 6: La vera amicizia non ha età

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In Episode 6, La vera amicizia non ha età, Gianni talks about his latest health diagnosis. Sono giorni di gran caldo e al bar vanno a ruba granite e caffè freddi, ma Gianni purtroppo ha ricevuto una brutta notizia dal suo dottore. Per fortuna, gli amici Mario e Anselmo dimostrano che l’amicizia può alleggerire anche i momenti più difficili!

Want to take your learning further? Click here to access support materials and get more out of each chapter.

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Scenes Season 2 | Chapter 5: Tutto è bene quel che finisce bene

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 16:15:00 GMT

In 'Tutto è bene quel che finisce bene', a young woman introduces her girlfriend to her parents over an aperitive at il Caffè di Tullio. Esatto! Una ragazza presenta la sua fidanzata ai genitori. E la reazione della sua famiglia la sorprenderà… non se l’aspettava proprio!

Join us for another exciting episode of Scenes, full of new vocabulary and interesting language points to improve your Italian skills. Non perderti il capitolo 5!

Want to take your learning further? Click here to access support materials and get more out of each chapter.

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Scenes Season 2 | Chapter 4: Problemi di cuore

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to il Caffè di Tullio - our charming Italian café, where the aroma of fresh coffee lingers, conversations flow, and life unfolds around every table. In this immersive series, we follow a compelling story set in a local café and build your language skills naturally through storytelling.

The latest episode of Scenes is here, and in this chapter, Problemi di cuore, Angelica learns of Mattia's summer plans and she's thrown into a turmoil of conflicting emotions.

Lorenzo, ovviamente, nota subito la tristezza negli occhi di sua sorella, ma solo più tardi ne scoprirà la causa: una scelta di Mattia che potrebbe cambiare tutto…

So, what has Mattia decided to do and how will it affect Angelica? Find out in Episode 4 of Scenes, where you’ll also learn plenty of useful vocabulary and expressions to boost your Italian.

Want to take your learning further? Click here to access support materials and get more out of each chapter.

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Scenes Season 2 | Chapter 3: Una simpatica coppia di scozzesi

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to il Caffè di Tullio - our charming Italian café, where the aroma of fresh coffee lingers, conversations flow, and life unfolds around every table. In this immersive series, you’ll follow a compelling story set in a local café and build your language skills naturally through storytelling.

Are you curious to find out what’s in store for you in Chapter 3, Una simpatica coppia di scozzesi?

Al bar è arrivata la stagione dei turisti. In particolare, Lorenzo fa quattro chiacchiere con una coppia di scozzesi che gli raccontano quello che hanno fatto la sera prima ad una sagra.

Join us for this exciting episode of Scenes, full of new vocabulary and interesting language points to boost your Italian. Episode 3 is now available: non perderlo!

Want to take your learning further? Click here to access support materials and get more out of each chapter.

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Scenes Season 2 | Chapter 2: Ricordando i vecchi tempi

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Lorenzo is puzzled when he goes to open the café and finds the shutter half open already. Chissà perché!

Lorenzo va ad aprire il bar come ogni mattina, ma questa volta nota che la saracinesca non è chiusa bene. Chi sarà arrivato al bar prima di lui?

Vuoi scoprire come continua la storia? Find out what happens in the this episode of Scenes, where you’ll also learn plenty of useful vocabulary and expressions to boost your Italian.

Want to take your learning further? Click here to access support materials and get more out of each chapter.

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Scenes Season 2 | Chapter 1: Un caffè tira sempre su di morale

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to Season 2 of Scenes from the Coffee Break Italian Café! Benvenuti alla Stagione 2 di Scenes!

The Coffee Break Italian team is excited to welcome you back to il Caffè di Tullio.

If you joined us in Season 1 then you will already be familiar with il Caffè di Tullio - our charming Italian café, where the aroma of fresh coffee lingers, conversations flow, and life unfolds around every table. In this immersive series, you’ll follow a compelling story set in a local café and build your language skills naturally through storytelling.

In the first chapter of this new season, Un caffè tira sempre su di morale, Lorenzo learns that even on quiet days, his café has its way of lifting spirits.

Nel primo episodio rivedremo Lorenzo, il proprietario del bar. Torneranno alcuni volti familiari come Gianni, Mario ed Anselmo, e scopriremo perché Mario è giù di morale. In seguito, conosceremo anche dei nuovi personaggi, ciascuno con mille storie da raccontare…

Join us to hear all about these new stories. This chapter also introduces useful words and expression such as andirivieni and il solito tran tran.

✨Allora, che aspetti? Non perderti questa nuova stagione di Scenes.

Want to take your learning further? Click here to access support materials and get more out of each chapter. Our 10-lesson premium course includes access to:

Chapter text
Audio discussion
Lesson notes / transcript featuring additional examples
Vocabulary lists
Exercises
Interactive quizzes to check your understanding
Downloadable files for offline use
Lifetime access to all lessons

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'Pandoro o panettone': the all Italian festive dilemma | A Coffee Break with Francesca

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 16:00:00 GMT

In today's mini-lesson, Francesca from the Coffee Break Italian team is here with a delicious espresso lesson all about Italy’s favourite festive sweet treats! 🎄🍰

She introduces you to two iconic holiday cakes:

➡️ il panettone, the classic Milanese Christmas staple

➡️ il pandoro, the soft, buttery favourite from Verona

Francesca shares a bit of history, how she likes to enjoy them, and of course… reveals her favourite! And you... Are you team panettone or team pandoro? 😉✨

🎯 You can receive regular free mini-lessons just like this straight to your inbox by signing up for our Coffee Break Italian newsletter.

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Discover how the holiday season begins in Italy | A Coffee Break with Francesca

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 16:00:00 GMT

We're back with a new episode, bringing you a festive espresso lesson to enjoy in between the main seasons of Coffee Break Italian! 🎄✨

In this mini lesson, you’ll discover that December in Italy is much more than Christmas itself. From regional customs to useful seasonal vocabulary, this episode is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Italy’s magical month of celebrations. 🎁

➡️ Don’t miss more content like this. Subscribe to the Coffee Break Italian newsletter!

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Non solo cinepanettone: Italian festive films | A Coffee Break with Francesca

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Join Francesca from the Coffee Break Italian team for a festive coffee break as she explores three very different Italian films that are traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season! 🎄🍿

In this little espresso lesson, you’ll discover:

🎬 Natale in casa Cupiello

🎬 Parenti Serpenti

🎬 Il cinepanettone

Whether you're looking for something heartwarming, dramatic or funny, this mini lesson will give you new vocabulary and a taste of Italy’s cinematic traditions. ✨

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Coffee Break Italian - All You Need To Know

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:15:00 GMT

Join Mark and Francesca for this special episode of Coffee Break Italian where we're talking about something a bit different.

We receive emails and messages all the time asking us "where should I start?", so we thought we'd answer that in this episode. We share details about how Coffee Break Italian first started and all of the resources we have released since then.

We hope you enjoy hearing about the history of Coffee Break, with a few secrets revealed along the way!

The links mentioned at the end of this episode are listed below:

Please note that the secret link mentioned was part of our Black Friday 2025 promotion which has now ended.

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All the words you need for a card game in Italian | A Coffee Break with Francesca

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Join Francesca from the Coffee Break Italian team for a coffee break and get ready to improve your Italian over just 10 minutes.

In this little espresso lesson, Francesca explores one of Italy’s favourite pastimes: giocare a carte, playing cards! You’ll also pick up useful phrases like fare le carte (to shuffle the cards), un mazzo (a deck), and even a fun memory trick, come quando fuori piove, to help you remember the order of the suits. ♣️♥️♦️♠️

➡️ To get more helpful content like this directly in your inbox, be sure to subscribe to the Coffee Break Italian newsletter!

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Bonus Episode: Clues Explained - La fantastica Caccia al Tresoro

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:00:00 GMT

We're back with a special bonus episode of the Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt! Join us for a detailed explanation of this year's Treasure Hunt clues. Sit back, relax and enjoy listening to this episode on your next coffee break. ☕️

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Clue #4 (italiano) | The Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt 2025

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 13:00:00 GMT

We have reached the last clue of our virtual treasure hunt - La fantastica Caccia al Tesoro di Coffee Break 2025 - which will lead us to the final location! Test your Italian and detective skills as we reveal everything you need to know to determine the last destination. Remember to submit your entry form listing the location from each episode to be in with a chance of winning a prize.

Click here to locate the entry form and for further details about the competition.

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Clue #3 (italiano) | The Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt 2025

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 12:00:00 GMT

It's time for the third clue of La fantastica Caccia al Tesoro di Coffee Break 2025, our virtual treasure hunt across Europe! Using the interesting facts we provide, and your language skills, can you work out where checkpoint number three is? In case you missed it - everyone who correctly identifies the four mystery locations will win a free month's subscription to the Coffee Break Club, as well as being entered into a prize draw to win lifetime access to our entire collection of Italian courses!

Don't miss out on this exciting adventure - click here for more details.

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Clue #2 (italiano) | The Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt 2025

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 12:00:00 GMT

We're back with the next episode of La fantastica Caccia al Tesoro di Coffee Break 2025, our virtual treasure hunt across Europe! Join us as we reveal clue number two which takes us one step closer to our final location. As we continue through this mini series we'll discover further clues to help you solve the mystery. Remember, you could be in with a chance of winning some great prizes!

For further details about how you can take part in the treasure hunt and enter the competition, click here.

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Clue #1 (italiano) | The Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt 2025

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the first episode of La fantastica Caccia al Tesoro di Coffee Break 2025, our virtual treasure hunt across Europe! Join us in this first episode as we reveal the initial clue. As you continue through this mini series you’ll discover further clues, solve the mystery and practise your Italian.

For further details about how you can take part, click here.

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Announcing the Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt 2025

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 12:00:00 GMT

New mini-series!

Starting on Monday 20th October, join Mark and the Coffee Break Italian Team for a virtual treasure hunt across Europe, in which we'll discover clues, solve the mystery and practise our Italian.

But this is not just a language lesson – it's a competition! By taking part you could win some amazing prizes to help you take your Italian to the next level. For everything you need to know about this mini series and how to take part in the competition, click here.

We hope you enjoy la fantastica Caccia al Tesoro di Coffee Break 2025!

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Non solo ‘in bocca al lupo’ - 8 Italian animal idioms | A Coffee Break with Michela

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Ready to learn new idioms in Italian? In this mini espresso lesson, Michela explores some Italian idioms inspired by animals, gli animali. 🐾

Just like in English, animals in Italian are used to describe traits, habits, and everyday situations. You’ll learn how to say things like:

lento come una lumaca 🐌
sano come un pesce 🐟
cavallo di battaglia 🎶
andare a letto con le galline 🌙🐓

➡️ To continue improving your Italian skills and receive helpful content straight to your inbox, subscribe to the Coffee Break Italian newsletter!

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'insegnare' & 'imparare' - What's the difference? | A Coffee Break with Francesca

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 15:00:00 GMT

We're back with a new episode, bringing you a little espresso lesson in between the main seasons of Coffee Break Italian. Today, Francesca explores two essential Italian verbs that often cause confusion: imparare (to learn) and insegnare (to teach). 👩‍🎓 👨‍🏫

While they may look similar, they have opposite meanings and different structures. By the end of the episode, you’ll know exactly when to use imparare and when to use insegnare and feel confident putting both into practice.

🎯 You can receive regular free mini-lessons straight to your inbox by signing up for our Coffee Break Italian newsletter. Just go to coffeebreaklanguages.kit.com/newsletter

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3 Italian idioms related to autumn | A Coffee Break with Michela

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Michela from the Coffee Break Italian team is back with another espresso-style episode, in which she will help you improve your Italian vocabulary! ☕

In this mini-lesson, you’ll learn three Italian idioms related to autumn:

prendere in castagna 🌰
venir su come i funghi 🍄
avere sale in zucca 🎃

Join us for this cosy episode and discover their meaning and how to use these expressions in context. 🍂

🎯 To keep improving your Italian and learn other useful vocabulary, subscribe to the Coffee Break Italian newsletter.

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Back to school in Italy | A Coffee Break with Francesca

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:00:00 GMT

In today's mini-lesson, Francesca takes us behind the scenes of the Italian rientro a scuola, the return to school. You’ll discover useful vocabulary and cultural insights that will help you feel more confident talking about school life in Italian.📚

By the end of this episode, you'll feel ready to step into any Italian classroom!

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Francesca's top travel tips for Sicily & Palermo | A Coffee Break with Francesca

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 15:00:00 GMT

We're back with a new episode, bringing you a little espresso lesson in between main seasons of Coffee Break Italian.

In this mini-lesson, join Francesca as she shares her travel tips for visiting Sicilia and its vibrant capital, Palermo. From curiosities about the island to the delicious local gastronomy, she shares useful Italian words and phrases. You'll be inspired to add Trinacria, as Sicily is also referred to, to your travel list. 🏛️🍋

✅ Access more content like this and subscribe to the Coffee Break Italian newsletter here.

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How to maximise your language learning every day | A Coffee Break with Mark

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 15:00:00 GMT

In this espresso episode, join Mark as he shares practical tips to help you make the most of the little moments in your day and turn them into powerful opportunities for language learning! 💪 Discover how his recent trip to Slovenia taught him how his small interactions can help you build confidence and momentum in your learning.

You’ll also get a taste of exclusive resources from the Coffee Break Club, our on-demand video library. The Coffee Break Club features over 1700 video lessons in French, Italian, German and Spanish, which you can access wherever you are, on our app and web platform, so that you always have a video lesson ready to accompany any time of your day.

✅ From 1st-15th September 2025, we're offering a special discount on subscriptions to the Coffee Break Club. You can get 15% off a monthly subscription or 25% off a yearly subscription. Just visit coffeebreakcourses.com/club to get your discount.

Finally, sign up to our newsletter to receive regular free mini-lessons straight to your inbox here. 📩

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When to use 'tu' & 'Lei' in Italian | A Coffee Break with Carolina

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Carolina from the Coffee Break Italian team for a coffee break, in which you'll have the chance to practise and improve your Italian under just 10 minutes.

In this episode, Carolina explains when to use tu and when to use Lei, the informal and formal ways of saying ‘you’ in Italian. You'll learn how to choose the right level of formality depending on the context, and how to avoid common cultural missteps. 🗣️👋

🎯 To access more Italian content and to keep improving your Italian, just click here.

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Carolina's travel tips for this enchanting Italian destination | A Coffee Break with Carolina

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Here at Coffee Break Italian, we're currently enjoying working on our next podcast series for you, but in the meantime, we hope you enjoy this mini espresso lesson with Carolina.☕

In this episode, she shares some of her top travel tips for exploring a beautiful Italian destination: Castelluccio di Norcia. You’ll not only discover what makes this place so special, but you’ll also pick up useful Italian words and phrases along the way! ✈️🌅

➡️ To continue improving your Italian skills, access more content like this and subscribe to the Coffee Break Italian newsletter, click here.

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'Metà' vs. 'mezzo' - How to say "half" in Italian | A Coffee Break with Michela

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Michela from the Coffee Break Italian team for a coffee break, in which you'll have the chance to practise and improve your Italian over just 10 minutes.

In this episode, she will take a closer look at how to say half in Italian, specifically the difference between metà and mezzo. While both words can be translated the same, they’re used in different contexts.➗

➡️ To continue improving your Italian skills, receive regular free content straight to your inbox and access more content like this, click here.

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6 fun Italian idioms about food & how to use them | A Coffee Break with Francesca

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Francesca from the Coffee Break Italian team for an espresso-style episode, in which you'll have the chance to practise and improve your Italian.

In this episode, she shares six fun Italian idioms – all based on food! Francesca explains the meaning behind expressions like parla come mangi and filare liscio come l’olio, and how to use them naturally in conversation. 🍅🫘

🎯 To access more Italian content and to keep improving your Italian, you can receive regular free mini-lessons straight to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter. Just click here now.

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5 tips to turn any trip into your language classroom | A Coffee Break with Mark

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Mark, the founder of Coffee Break Languages, for a coffee break, in which you'll hear tips and ideas to boost your language-learning journey in just a few minutes.

In this episode, Mark shares five tips to make any trip your language classroom, even if travelling is not an option for you just now. So, if you're planning a trip to an Italian-speaking destination or want to get some tips for immersing yourself in the language even when you're at home, this episode is perfect for you.✈️🌍🗣️

➡️ Stay inspired and receive regular language tips and free resources by signing up for our newsletter here.

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‘Sapere’ vs. ‘conoscere’ - 2 verbs meaning "to know" | A Coffee Break with Carolina

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 15:00:00 GMT

In these short, espresso-style episodes, we help you improve your Italian a little bit each time. 💪

Today, we're joined by Carolina from the Coffee Break Italian team, and we’re exploring the difference between the verbs sapere and conoscere, both of which mean 'to know', but in very different ways! By the end of this mini-lesson, you’ll have the knowledge (and the confidence!) to know when to use the right verb in everyday conversations. 🙌

✅ Click here to access more content like this and subscribe to the Coffee Break Italian newslette r.

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How to use the preposition 'da' | A Coffee Break with Francesca

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Here at Coffee Break Italian, we're currently enjoying working on our next podcast series for you, but in the meantime, we hope you enjoy this mini espresso lesson with Francesca.

In this episode, we're taking a closer look at the incredibly useful preposition da. It may be small, but it plays a big role in Italian and can have a range of meanings depending on the context. You’ll learn how to use it:

➡️ in time expressions

➡️ to express purpose

➡️ to tell which city you are from

➡️ to talk about being at or going to someone's place or shop

🎯 To keep improving your Italian skills, explore content like this and enjoy regular, free mini-lessons sent straight to your inbox click here.

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CBI Scenes 1.10 | L’inizio di un amore

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Francesca and Mark for the last Chapter of Scenes from the Coffee Break Italian Café! Summer has finally arrived, and as two high school students return, there's a noticeable shift in the atmosphere between them. What happens next could very well change everything for them...

Click here to access the premium course of Scenes, which includes access to lesson notes, vocabulary lists, exercises, quizzes (and much more!) to check your understanding.

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CBI Scenes 1.09 | In bocca al lupo per la verifica

Tue, 27 May 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Francesca and Mark for this Chapter of Scenes from the Coffee Break Italian Café! A high school student stops at a café before class, clearly troubled and reluctant to face the day ahead. As he confides in Lorenzo, we learn he’s ready to give up, but a gentle conversation may shift his course...

Click here to access the premium course of Scenes, which includes access to lesson notes, vocabulary lists, exercises, quizzes (and much more!) to check your understanding.

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CBI Scenes 1.08 | Che affare!

Tue, 20 May 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Francesca and Mark for this Chapter of Scenes from the Coffee Break Italian Café! In this episode, a familiar face comes to the bar with an unusually cheerful spirit! He shares his new idea: renting out his city apartment as a charming summer B&B. It sounds like a great deal could be worked out with the bar.

Click here to access the premium course of Scenes, which includes access to lesson notes, vocabulary lists, exercises, quizzes (and much more!) to check your understanding.

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CBI Scenes 1.07 | Un caffè fortunato

Tue, 13 May 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Conversations at the bar typically revolve around work, even during coffee breaks. However, tonight, with the arrival of three men carrying their laptops and big plans, something unusual could be about to happen… Join Francesca and Mark for this exciting Chapter of Scenes from the Coffee Break Italian Café!

Click here to access the premium course of Scenes, which includes access to lesson notes, vocabulary lists, exercises, quizzes (and much more!) to check your understanding.

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CBI Scenes 1.06 | Si balla alla sagra del cocomero

Tue, 06 May 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Francesca and Mark for the sixth Chapter of Scenes from the Coffee Break Italian Café! In this episode, the local festival season has begun and the festivities seem to attract quite a crowd. A particularly elegant couple catches everyone's attention, and their presence hints at a special evening ahead...

Click here to access the premium course of Scenes, which includes access to lesson notes, vocabulary lists, exercises, quizzes (and much more!) to check your understanding.

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CBI Scenes 1.05 | Un ritratto speciale

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Francesca and Mark for the fifth Chapter of Scenes from the Coffee Break Italian Café! In this episode, a young woman enters the café with a latte order and a sketchpad. As she leaves, something unexpected is left behind…

Click here to access the premium course of Scenes, which includes access to lesson notes, vocabulary lists, exercises, quizzes (and much more!) to check your understanding.

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CBI Scenes 1.04 | Una domenica al bar

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Francesca and Mark for the fourth Chapter of Scenes from the Coffee Break Italian Café! In this episode, we visit the café on a Sunday. The atmosphere is usually lively, but this Sunday, something in the air feels different as a playful question catches Angelica off guard. As it turns out, the day might hold more than just the usual routine.

Click here to access the premium course of Scenes, which includes access to lesson notes, vocabulary lists, exercises, quizzes (and much more!) to check your understanding.

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CBI Scenes 1.03 | Angelica e Mattia

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join Francesca and Mark for the third Chapter of Scenes from the Coffee Break Italian Café! In this episode, Angelica has just begun helping at the café, but it seems she’s already catching the eye of Mattia, the boy from the nearby tobacconist. However, when his boss finds out, things take an unexpected turn. As for Angelica, does she feel the same way about him?

In this lesson, we will explore interesting aspects of vocabulary and grammar alongside the story, helping you take your language skills to the next level!

Click here to access the premium course of Scenes, which includes access to lesson notes, vocabulary lists, exercises, quizzes (and much more!) to check your understanding.

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CBI Scenes 1.02 | Chi trova un amico, trova un cornetto alla Nutella

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Join us for the second episode of Scenes from the Coffee Break Italian Café! In this episode, the curious barista who owns Caffè di Tulli overhears a conversation between two worried students and offers a simple suggestion that changes everything.

Alongside the story, Francesca and Mark discuss interesting aspects of the vocabulary and grammar which appear in this chapter, helping you take your language skills to the next level.

Click here to access the premium course of Scenes, which includes access to lesson notes, vocabulary lists, exercises, quizzes (and much more!) to check your understanding.

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CBI Scenes 1.01 | Se vuoi un buon caffè, devi aspettare

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Scenes from the Coffee Break Café! In this first episode, we introduce you to Caffè di Tulli and to Lorenzo, the café’s enthusiastic new owner. As he settles into his role, we’re introduced to some fascinating regulars, come la signora Rachele.

Pour yourself a coffee and join us for the start of this journey, where every visit to the café reveals a new tale. This episode is just the beginning of what’s sure to be a rich and flavourful series!

Alongside the story, Mark and Francesca will highlight useful grammar and vocabulary, helping you take your language skills to the next level. Their explanations, examples and discussions are perfect for intermediate Italian learners. If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to improve your Italian, don’t miss this first chapter of Scenes!

Click here to access the premium course of Scenes, which includes access to lesson notes, vocabulary lists, exercises and quizzes (and much more!) to check your understanding.

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Introducing Scenes from the Coffee Break Café

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

We’re about to launch four brand-new intermediate Italian language course - Scenes from the Coffee Break Café.

Imagine yourself in a charming café, where the aroma of fresh coffee lingers, conversations flow, and life unfolds around every table. In this immersive new course, you’ll follow a compelling story set in a local café and build your language skills naturally through storytelling.

Here’s what makes it special:

10 engaging lessons, each with a new chapter in the café’s unfolding story.
Authentic stories featuring café owners, regulars, and intriguing newcomers.
A podcast series where you can learn anywhere, anytime!
Premium course materials available, including video lessons, detailed notes, quizzes, and targeted grammar exercises to deepen your understanding.
Cultural insights and real-world expressions that bring the language to life.

Imagine yourself sipping an espresso in Italy - you’ll feel like you’re right there, soaking up the language and culture in the most engaging, natural way possible.

In this promo episode, we share everything you need to know about Scenes and how you can experience language learning like never before! Are you ready to step inside?

Click here to pre-order the full course now and be the first to access Scenes from the Coffee Break Café on launch day - Monday, 24th March.

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Clue #4 (italiano) | The Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt 2024

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 12:00:01 GMT

We have reached the last clue of our virtual treasure hunt La fantastica Caccia al Tesoro di Coffee Break 2024, which will lead us to the final location! Test your Italian and detective skills as Mark and Carolina reveal everything you need to know to determine the last destination. Remember to submit your entry form listing the location from each episode to be in with a chance of winning a prize, you have until 9am UK time (4am Eastern) on 12th November to submit your entry.

Click here to locate the entry form and for further details about the competition coffeebreaklanguages.com/treasurehunt.

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Clue #3 (italiano) | The Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt 2024

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 12:00:51 GMT

It's time for the third clue of La fantastica Caccia al Tesoro di Coffee Break 2024, our virtual treasure hunt across Europe! Using the interesting facts provided by Carolina and your language skills, can you work out where checkpoint number three is? In case you missed it - everyone who correctly identifies the four mystery locations will win a free month's subscription to the Coffee Break Club, as well as being entered into a prize draw to win lifetime access to our entire collection of French, German, Italian or Spanish courses!

Don't miss out on this exciting adventure, click here for more details: coffeebreaklanguages.com/treasurehunt.

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Clue #2 (italiano) | The Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt 2024

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 12:00:19 GMT

We're back with the next episode of La fantastica Caccia al Tesoro di Coffee Break 2024, our virtual treasure hunt across Europe! In this episode join Francesca and Mark as they reveal clue number two and take us one step closer to our final location. As we continue through this mini series we'll discover further clues, solve the mystery and you could be in with a chance of winning some great prizes!

For further details about how you can take part in the treasure hunt and enter the competition, visit coffeebreaklanguages.com/treasurehunt.

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Clue #1 (italiano) | The Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt 2024

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 13:00:05 GMT

Welcome to the first episode of La fantastica Caccia al Tesoro di Coffee Break 2024, our virtual treasure hunt across Europe! Join Francesca and Mark in this first episode as they reveal the initial clue. As you continue through this mini series you’ll discover further clues, solve the mystery and practise your Italian.

For further details about how you can take part visit coffeebreaklanguages.com/treasurehunt.

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Announcing the Great Coffee Break Treasure Hunt 2024

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 20:34:09 GMT

New mini-series!

Starting on Monday 4th November, join Mark and the Coffee Break Italian Team for a virtual treasure hunt across Europe, in which we'll discover clues, solve the mystery and practise our Italian. But this is not just a language lesson – it's a competition, and by taking part you could win some amazing prizes for Italian learners. For everything you need to know about this mini series and how to take part in the competition, visit coffeebreaklanguages.com/treasurehunt.

We hope you enjoy la fantastica Caccia al Tesoro di Coffee Break 2024!

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Commonly misused Italian words - Panini, lasagna, bruschetta and more | CBI Show 2.10

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:00:08 GMT

In this final episode of Season 2 of The Coffee Break Italian Show we review misspelled, misused and mispronounced Italian words in English!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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Un amico vecchio o un vecchio amico? - Understanding Italian adjective placement | CBI Show 2.09

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Do you struggle with the placement of adjectives in Italian? In this episode of The Coffee Break Italian show we discuss why some adjectives come before or after nouns in Italian.

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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Un and un' - When do you use the apostrophe? | CBI Show 2.08

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 11:00:16 GMT

Do you know the difference between un and un' in Italian? Tune in to this episode of the Coffee Break Italian Show and learn all about indefinite articles.

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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Mastering the negative imperative in Italian | CBI Show 2.07

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 11:00:58 GMT

We're following on from the previous Coffee Break Italian Show episode and learning how to master the negative imperative in Italian in this episode! We discuss its negative forms, as well as how to conjugate verbs in the negative in the tu, voi and Lei forms. Be sure to enjoy episode 6 first!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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How to give commands, instructions and suggestions - The imperative in Italian | CBI Show 2.06

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 11:30:44 GMT

How confident are you with the imperative mood to give commands, instructions and suggestions in Italian? Join Francesca and Maurizio in this episode of the Coffee Break Italian Show and learn how to conjugate the imperative mood in tu, voi and Lei forms, as well as learning the irregularities!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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The power of 'fare' - Essential everyday expressions with 'fare' | CBI Show 2.05

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 11:00:32 GMT

In this episode of the Coffee Break Italian Show we are learning all about the versatile verb fare and it's many set expressions. We explore expressions to include in your next Italian conversation!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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A guide to irregular plurals in Italian | CBI Show 2.04

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:00:17 GMT

In this episode of The Coffee Break Italian Show we're discussing Italian plurals. You'll learn (or review) the regular pattern of pluralising nouns, and focus on other irregularities within this vast topic.

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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How do you pronounce the letters C and G in Italian? | CBI Show 2.03

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 11:00:43 GMT

Would you like to master the pronunciation of letters C and G in Italian? It's important to understand the distinction between hard and soft C and G sounds, so Mark and Francesca go over everything you need to know to perfect your pronunciation in this episode of The Coffee Break Italian Show!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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When to use 'di' and 'da' - Italian prepositions | CBI Show 2.02

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:00:41 GMT

Curious about Italian prepositions di and da? In this episode of the Coffee Coffee Break Italian Show we compare prepositions di and da so that you never mistake or misuse them again!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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How to say 'I like' in Italian - 'mi piace' or 'mi piacciono'? | CBI Show 2.01

Tue, 28 May 2024 15:00:17 GMT

Welcome back to Season 2 of The Coffee Break Italian Show! In this first episode of the Season we will be learning how to say "I like" in Italian and understand when to use 'mi piace' or 'mi piacciono'. We also focus on learning how to express other people's likings in Italian.

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

☕️ To purchase a Coffee Break mug, click here ☕️

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Introducing Season 2 of the Coffee Break Italian Show

Tue, 21 May 2024 15:00:07 GMT

We're back with Season 2 of the Coffee Break Italian Show! In this podcast series we help you take your intermediate Italian to the next level, one coffee break at a time. Throughout the 10-episode series we cover a range of topics to help you deepen your understanding of tricky grammar, broaden your vocabulary, and improve your pronunciation. You'll sound like a native speaker in no time!

You will also be able to watch these lessons for free on Coffee Break TV, and download the episodes to your device so you can access them on the go. Or, you can head to our Coffee Break Italian YouTube channel to access the video version of each podcast episode there, once they're released. Remember to subscribe to our channel so that you don’t miss an episode.

That's not all... each episode of the Show is accompanied by a blog article to increase your understanding of the topics covered.

See you next Tuesday 28th for the first episode!

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Tips to remember the gender of nouns | The Coffee Break Italian Show 1.10

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 16:00:23 GMT

Would you like to learn some tips and tricks to remember the gender of nouns in Italian? You're in luck! In this final episode of The Coffee Break Italian Show, Francesca and Maurizio share some useful guidelines to know the gender of nouns in Italian. By the end of this episode you won't panic when you need to know the gender of a noun and your online dictionary won't load!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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How to apologise, excuse yourself and ask for permission in Italian | The Coffee Break Italian Show 1.09

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:00:40 GMT

Do you know how to say "I'm sorry" in Italian? In this penultimate episode of The Coffee Break Italian Show, Mark and Maurizio discuss all you need to know about Italian apologies. By the end of this episode you will know when to use the different expressions for saying I'm sorry and excuse me in various situations.

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

☕️ To purchase a Coffee Break mug, click here ☕️

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How to pronounce 'gli' | The Coffee Break Italian Show 1.08

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 16:00:07 GMT

Do you struggle with the pronunciation of 'gli' in Italian? Do not fear, in this episode of The Coffee Break Italian Show Mark and Francesca discuss how to pronounce this tricky sound! By the end of this episode you will no longer feel tongue-tied when using 'gli'.

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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A guide to definite articles in Italian | The Coffee Break Italian Show 1.07

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 16:00:00 GMT

Do you know how to translate "the" in Italian? In this episode of The Coffee Break Italian Show, Mark and Francesca talk about everything you need to know about definite articles. By the end of this episode you will be able to confidently chose between the seven different options in Italian!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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Practising 'avere' expressions - Part 2 | The Coffee Break Italian Show 1.06

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 16:00:50 GMT

In this episode of The Coffee Break Italian Show we continue learning about the verb 'avere'. This is part two of our focus on 'avere', so, if you haven’t already enjoyed part one, click here. Francesca and Maurizio discuss some of the most common expressions featuring 'avere', which don’t translate using "to have" in English. By then end of this episode you will be able to use this verb naturally and confidently.

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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Useful expressions with 'avere' - Part 1 | The Coffee Break Italian Show 1.05

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 16:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the halfway point of The Coffee Break Italian Show series! In this episode we focus on the verb 'avere', its basic meaning being "to have". However in this episode we learn many useful everyday expressions that use 'avere' in which the verb does not translate as "to have".

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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‘Potere’, ‘sapere’, ‘riuscire’ - How to translate ‘can’ | The Coffee Break Italian Show 1.04

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 16:00:00 GMT

Do you know how to translate the English word "can" into Italian? In this episode of The Coffee Break Italian Show, Mark and Francesca discuss how verbs potere, sapere, and riuscire transform the simple idea of "can" in English. By the end of this episode you will know the different uses of these three verbs and also their irregular conjugations!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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‘In’ or ‘a’? - Italian prepositions | The Coffee Break Italian Show 1.03

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:00:58 GMT

In this episode of The Coffee Break Italian Show we are focusing on prepositions. By the end of this episode you will have learned five key rules to help you use 'a' and 'in' in Italian!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

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Tips for pronouncing double consonants | The Coffee Break Italian Show 1.02

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 15:00:00 GMT

Would you like to perfect the pronunciation of double consonants - le doppie - in Italian? In this episode of the Coffee Break Italian Show we share some tips for mastering this phonetic feature to make you sound more Italian when you speak!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this lesson ⬅️

☕️ To purchase a Coffee Break mug, click here ☕️

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‘Tu’ and ‘Lei’ - How to navigate informal and formal Italian | The Coffee Break Italian Show 1.01

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 15:00:30 GMT

Welcome to the very first episode of the Coffee Break Italian Show! Have you ever wondered whether to use 'tu' and 'Lei' when addressing someone in Italian? By the end of this episode, you'll sound more like a native speaker in your conversations!

➡️ Click here to access the blog article and worksheet that accompany this episode⬅️

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Introducing the Coffee Break Italian Show

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Welcome to our brand new podcast series - the Coffee Break Italian Show! Throughout this 10-episode series, Mark, Francesca and Maurizio will help you take your intermediate Italian to the next level, one coffee break at a time. We cover a range of topics to help you deepen your understanding of tricky grammar, broaden your vocabulary, and improve your pronunciation. You'll sound like a native speaker in no time!

Prefer to watch these lessons? You can do exactly that for free on Coffee Break TV, and download the episodes to your device so you can access them on the go. Or, you can head to our Coffee Break Italian YouTube channel to access the video version of each podcast episode. Don't forget to subscribe to our account while you're there so that you don't miss an episode.

That's not all... each episode of the Show is accompanied by a blog article to increase your understanding of the topics covered.

We'll see you next Tuesday, 17th October, for the first episode of the Show. A presto!

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CBI Mag 2.10 | Corsa alla Spada e Palio di Camerino: un tuffo nel passato

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 15:00:44 GMT

We have reached the tenth and final episode of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine Season 2! We're stepping back in time as we're discussing two Renaissance events which take place in the region of Marche in May. Join Mark and Francesca one last time in this series as they explore masculine words ending in -a and qualche (some) and ogni (each) + singular nouns. That's not all! We round off the series with a ciliegina sulla torta based on the word spada, the prize for the winner of the race described by Silvia in this episode.

There are a total of 10 episodes in Season 2 of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine. If you'd like to benefit from lesson notes, transcripts, vocabulary lists and exercises, you can access the premium version of the Magazine on the Coffee Break Academy.

Don't forget to follow Coffee Break Italian on Facebook where we post language activities, cultural points and review materials to help you practise your Italian. Remember - a few minutes a day can help you build your confidence in the language. Access the Coffee Break Italian Facebook page here.

If you'd like to find out what goes on behind the scenes here at Coffee Break Languages, follow @coffeebreaklanguages on Instagram, and check out our videos for language learners on our YouTube channel.

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CBI Mag 2.09 | La Serenata: una dedica musicale

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 15:00:17 GMT

Welcome back to the Coffee Break Italian Magazine! This time, we’re talking about the origins of a well-known romantic tradition - La Serenata. While listening to a text about this ancient tradition, we learn about the following grammar points: basta che + subjunctive, the ce n’è structure, and how to use il proprio / la propria as an alternative to il suo/ la sua. As always, there’s lots of new vocabulary to take note of along the way, such as chitarra, liuto and promessi sposi. In keeping with the theme of this episode, our ciliegina sulla torta is something musical! Listen until the end to hear this new Italian idiom.

There will be a total of 10 episodes in Season 2 of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine. If you'd like to benefit from lesson notes, transcripts, vocabulary lists and exercises, you can access the premium version of the Magazine on the Coffee Break Academy.

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CBI Mag 2.08 | I Monti Azzurri – I Sibillini

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 15:00:49 GMT

In this episode of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine, we're talking about the Sibillini Mountains - a mountain chain in central Italy which includes a beautiful natural park. Join Mark and Francesca as they discuss a text highlighting what these impressive mountains have to offer while talking about some key vocabulary and grammar points including: si dice che + present or imperfect subjunctive, and the present subjunctive in the passive form. We finish the episode with our ciliegina sulla torta about a common Italian saying which has something to do with mountains.

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CBI Mag 2.07 | Dante: il padre della lingua italiana

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 15:00:39 GMT

The topic of this Coffee Break Italian Magazine episode is the life and work of Italy’s greatest poet and ‘father’ of the Italian language: Dante Alighieri. We review various grammar points in this episode, including: the historical present, relative superlative adjectives, the passive with venire and si passivante. Be sure to listen until the end of the episode to hear our ciliegina sulla torta.

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CBI Mag 2.06 | Pandoro o Panettone? Questo è il dilemma!

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 15:00:42 GMT

Pandoro o Panettone? That is the question Mark and Francesca are discussing in this episode of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine! While listening to a text about these traditional Italian Christmas cakes, take note of any new words or phrases you hear, such as tanto che, dibattito infiammato and brevettare. We also learn about the passive structures with venire instead of essere; nonostante + subjunctive; and the irregular noun uovo. Be sure to listen until the end of the episode to hear this week’s ciliegina sulla torta!

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CBI Mag 2.05 | Tempio del Valadier: un tempio scavato nella roccia

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 15:00:58 GMT

In this episode of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine we're exploring a very special temple built inside a natural cave in the region of Marche. After hearing a text about this impressive piece or architecture, Mark and Francesca explain a variety of language points including: how to express nuances of colours; the present participle, and passive structures. We also encounter a range of new vocabulary relevant to this topic, such as Medioevo, grotta and roccia. To finish, we share an interesting phrase which can be used to express a state of shock.

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CBI Mag 2.04 | Samantha Cristoforetti: un’italiana alla Stazione Spaziale Internazionale

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 12:15:04 GMT

We're back with another episode of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine! This time, the topic of our text is all about the first female Italian astronaut, Samantha Cristoforetti! Join Mark and Francesca as they learn about her impressive life and work while discussing some interesting grammar points including: dopo + passive past infinitive; how the word ben is used before numbers; and the verb crescere in the past using both auxiliaries. Be sure to listen until the end so that you hear our Ciliegina sulla torta; an idiomatic expression which has something to do with Samantha Cristoforetti's job.

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CBI Mag 2.03 | La Festa del Primo Maggio

Thu, 26 May 2022 15:00:12 GMT

Welcome to another episode of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine! In this episode Mark and Francesca discuss how the 1st of May, also known as 'Labour Day' or 'May Day', is celebrated in Italy. After listening to a text about this celebration we take a closer look at the language covered, including the use of nessuno (no one) without a double negative and the use of infatti (in fact, indeed). We round off the episode by explaining the following expression: Forza e coraggio, che dopo aprile viene maggio!

Throughout this episode Mark and Francesca mention two videos available on our YouTube channel. These can be accessed by clicking here and here.

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CBI Mag 2.02 | Castelluccio di Norcia: la perla dell’Umbria

Thu, 12 May 2022 09:00:33 GMT

In this week's episode of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine we're heading to Castelluccio di Norcia, a village between the regions of Marche and Umbria in Central Italy. As we hear a text about this village, Mark and Francesca discuss the interesting language points along the way. We look at verbs requiring the addition of -isc-, superlative adjectives and then finish with our ciliegina sulla torta which is a saying including the word lenticchie.

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CBI Mag 2.01 | Italo Svevo: uno scrittore dalla doppia identità

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 15:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Season 2 of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine! Join our hosts Mark, Francesca and Silvia as they explore a range of cultural topics and grammar points to help you improve your language skills. In this episode we're talking about the famous 20th century Italian writer, Italo Svevo. We explore the language used in the text, including the use of the adjective grande before and after nouns; adjectives ending in -issimo/a (absolute superlative); as well as some interesting vocabulary like nome d’arte and doppia identità.

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Coffee Break Italian News - 4th April 2022

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 09:08:11 GMT

In this special episode, Mark provides an update on all things Coffee Break Italian including the return of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine in late April 2022; the launch of the Coffee Break books, available from June in your local bookshop and from online retailers; and the Coffee Break Italian Club, where you can get your daily dose of Italian activities.

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Introducing Coffee Break Italian Season 3

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 20:43:02 GMT

Siamo tornati! We're delighted to announce that, starting today, the 21st October 2021, Coffee Break Italian Season 3 is available. In this series you'll take your Italian to the next level, accompanied by your friendly teachers and hosts, Francesca and Mark. In each episode you'll learn about a language point and listen to Francesca and Mark explaining the aspects of the language. You'll then 'experience' this language in the context of a dialogue.

Please note that Coffee Break Italian Season 3 will NOT be published on the main Coffee Break Italian podcast feed. We've created a special podcast feed just for Season 3, and it's called Coffee Break Italian Advanced. Just search for Coffee Break Italian Advanced wherever you get your podcasts. You can find out more and access links on our website or on Acast.

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CBI Travel Diaries 2.10 | Grazie di tutto, Trentino-Alto Adige!

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 14:00:00 GMT

It's the 10th and final episode of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Season 2 and Simone and Anna are rounding off their trip with a visit to the city of Trento before enjoying one last traditional lunch with canederli, polenta, cheese, apple pie and bombardino. In between the food-related vocabulary featured in our final travel diary entry, Mark and Francesca discuss the pronominal verbs volerci and andarsene, the irregular noun mani and the verb mancare in the future tense.

Our premium version of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries includes lesson notes with additional examples and explanations of the language in each lesson, and a pronunciation practice video to help you improve your speaking. Click here to access the course on the Coffee Break Academy.

At Coffee Break Italian we provide content for beginners, intermediate and advanced learners, along with regular mini lessons on social media. Visit coffeebreakitalian.com for all the information you need to build your confidence in Italian, whatever your level.

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CBI Travel Diaries 2.09 | Tempesta sulla Marmolada

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 14:00:00 GMT

In the penultimate episode of the series, Simone and Anna are on the move again as they are hiking up Marmolada - the highest mountain of the Dolomites. Mark and Francesca pick up on many interesting grammar points along the way and discuss: dopo + past infinitive, stare + gerund, and the pronoun ci, both as a direct object pronoun and a reflexive pronoun. Don't miss this useful episode!

The podcast episodes will be published weekly from 12th February. However, if you would like to binge the entire season then you can access all 10 episodes on the Coffee Break Academy. Our premium version includes lesson notes with additional examples and explanations of the language in each lesson, and a pronunciation practice video to help you improve your speaking. Click here to access the course on the Coffee Break Academy.

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CBI Travel Diaries 2.08 | Il meritato riposo a Cortina d’Ampezzo

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 14:00:00 GMT

In the latest episode of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Season 2, Simone and Anna are in Cortina, one of the most popular ski destinations in the Dolomites, where they enjoy a trip to the spa. Join Mark and Francesca as they discuss the language featured in this episode, from relative pronouns and indirect object pronouns to demonstrative pronouns and more! We also hear some handy Italian phrases such as che meraviglia! and per niente.

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CBI Travel Diaries 2.07 | Un trekking intenso verso valle

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to Season 2 the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries! Having spent the night in the mountain retreat, Simone and Anna make their way down from the Le Tre Cime and encounter a deer on their way. Throughout Simone's diary entry, we hear a range of useful verbs including affrontare and scivolare, as well as some new idioms. Listen to the episode to find out more!

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CBI Travel Diaries 2.06 | Tre Cime di Lavaredo - Finalmente in vetta!

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 15:00:00 GMT

In Episode 6 of the Coffee Break Travel Diaries Season 2, Simone and Anna finally reach the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and make the most of the view before having lunch at a mountain retreat while enjoying a bombardino. There's much more food-related vocabulary in this episode as well as some interesting grammar points which Mark and Francesca explore.

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CBI Travel Diaries 2.05 | Un imprevisto al lago di Dobbiaco

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 15:00:00 GMT

We're halfway through our trip to the mountains in northern Italy, and this time, we're joining Anna and Simone for some ice skating on Lago di Dobbiaco after an unexpected detour changes their plan for the day. All’idea di, tanto che and per sicurezza are just some of the useful phrases which Mark and Francesca discuss in this episode.

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CBI Travel Diaries 2.04 | Un villaggio da favola: Ortisei

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 15:00:00 GMT

We're back with another episode from Season 2 of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries! This time, Simone and Anna are visiting the village of Ortisei where they go sledging and enjoy a traditional dinner with canederli. Listen out for a range of adjectives mentioned in this diary entry, including accogliente, fiabesco and innevato. As always, Coffee Break Italian hosts, Mark and Francesca will be on hand to explain the language featured in this episode.

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CBI Travel Diaries 2.03 | Terza tappa: la fredda Bolzano

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 15:00:00 GMT

It's time for another episode from Season 2 of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries, and this time, Simone and Anna head to Bolzano, the capital of Italy's northernmost region of South Tyrol. Here, they explore the market and taste polenta for the first time, before taking the cable car to the mountains to enjoy the view of the snow-capped city. Mark and Francesca pick up on some interesting vocabulary such as funivia and tetti a punta, and discuss the difference between mattina and mattinata.

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CBI Travel Diaries 2.02 | Il fantasma di Castel Thun

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to another episode of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries. This week, Simone and Anna are taking a break from skiing to visit the medieval castle above the town of Thun where they have a frightful encounter with a ghost! Listen out for the useful grammar points which Mark and Francesca discuss in this episode, including the indirect object pronoun ci, the irregular plural of the word muro, and the da + infinitive construction.

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CBI Travel Diaries 2.01 | Madonna di Campiglio: finalmente in vacanza!

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Season 2 of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries for intermediate learners. While it's not so easy to travel right now, why not do some virtual travelling with us? In this 10-episode series, we follow the adventures of Simone and his wife Anna as they enjoy una settimana bianca (a white week of winter activities) in the Trentino-Alto Adige region. In Episode 1, Simone and Anna make the most of their first day on the slopes. We hear lots of winter and skiing related vocabulary including works like: sciare, gli sci and pista. Join Mark and Francesca as they break down the language featured in Simone's first travel diary entry. Andiamo a sciare!

At Coffee Break Italian we provide content for beginners and intermediate learners, along with regular mini lessons on social media. Visit coffeebreakitalian.com for all the information you need to build your confidence in Italian.

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CBI To Go 2.10 | Qual è la tua città italiana preferita? - What is your favourite Italian city?

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian To Go, Francesca asks the question, qual è la tua città italiana preferita? - What is your favourite Italian city? You can use the answers of our interviewees to help you answer this question in Italian and Mark is back in the studio and he’ll help you understand all the responses. Please note all interviews were filmed before lockdown.

Our Coffee Break Italian To Go interviews are also available as videos on our website. Click here to watch, and we’d love to hear your answer to this week’s question, so why not leave a comment and let us know if travel is important to you.This season will feature 10 episodes and if you’d like to binge all our video interviews right now and access our comprehensive lesson notes and vocabulary for each lesson, check out our full course in the Coffee Break Academy.

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CBI To Go 2.09 | Qual è la cosa più strana che hai mai mangiato? - What's the strangest thing you've ever eaten?

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 16:00:36 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian To Go, Francesca asks the question, qual è la cosa più strana che hai mai mangiato? - what's the strangest thing you've ever eaten? You can use the answers of our interviewees to help you answer this question in Italian and Mark is back in the studio and he’ll help you understand all the responses. Please note all interviews were filmed before lockdown.

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CBI To Go 2.08 | Se potessi andare in qualsiasi posto del mondo, dove andresti? - If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian To Go, Francesca asks the question, se potessi andare in qualsiasi posto del mondo, dove andresti? - if you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? You can use the answers of our interviewees to help you answer this question in Italian and Mark is back in the studio and he’ll help you understand all the responses. Please note all interviews were filmed before lockdown.

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CBI To Go 2.07 | Cosa ti fa arrabbiare? - What makes you angry?

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 16:00:33 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian To Go, Francesca asks the question, cosa ti fa arrabbiare? (What makes you angry?)Do you prefer summer or winter?. You can use the answers of our interviewees to help you answer this question in Italian and Mark is back in the studio and he’ll help you understand all the responses. Please note all interviews were filmed before lockdown.

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CBI To Go 2.06 | Preferisci l’estate o l’inverno? - Do you prefer summer or winter?

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian To Go, Francesca asks the question, preferisci l’estate o l’inverno? Do you prefer summer or winter?. You can use the answers of our interviewees to help you answer this question in Italian and Mark is back in the studio and he’ll help you understand all the responses. Please note all interviews were filmed before lockdown.

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CBI To Go 2.05 | Pensi che sia importante studiare le lingue straniere? - Do you think that studying foreign languages is important?

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian To Go, Francesca asks the question, pensi che sia importante studiare le lingue straniere? Do you think that studying foreign languages is important?. You can use the answers of our interviewees to help you answer this question in Italian and Mark is back in the studio and he’ll help you understand all the responses. Please note all interviews were filmed before lockdown.

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CBI To Go 2.04 | Cos’hai fatto ieri? - What did you do yesterday?

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian To Go, Francesca asks the question, cos’hai fatto ieri? (What did you do yesterday?). You can use the answers of our interviewees to help you answer this question in Italian and Mark is back in the studio and he’ll help you understand all the responses. Please note all interviews were filmed before lockdown.

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CBI To Go 2.03 | Qual è la tua parola italiana preferita? - What's your favourite Italian word?

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 15:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian To Go, Francesca asks the question, qual è la tua parola italiana preferita? (What is your favourite Italian word?). You can use the answers of our interviewees to help you answer this question in Italian and Mark is back in the studio and he’ll help you understand all the responses. Please note all interviews were filmed before lockdown.

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CBI To Go 2.02 | Com’è la tua giornata tipica? - What is your daily routine?

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 15:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the second episode of our new Coffee Break Italian To Go podcast in which we’re in Stresa on the shores of Lake Maggiore, with Francesca, talking to native speakers about a variety of topics. In this episode we’re asking the question com’è la tua giornata tipica? (What is your daily routine?). We’ll listen to all of the interviews with Francesca out and about, while Mark is back in the studio and he’ll help you understand all the responses. Please note all interviews were filmed before lockdown.

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CBI To Go 2.01 | Per te è importante viaggiare? - Is travelling important to you?

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 16:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the first episode of our new Coffee Break Italian To Go podcast in which we’re in Stresa on the shores of Lake Maggiore, with Francesca, talking to native speakers about a variety of topics. In this episode we’re asking the question per te è importante viaggiare? (Is travelling important to you?) We’ll listen to all of the interviews with Francesca out and about, while Mark is back in the studio and he’ll help you understand all the responses. Please note all interviews were filmed before lockdown.

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A special thank you from Coffee Break on International Podcast Day

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 15:00:00 GMT

Every 30th September, the podcasting world comes together to celebrate podcasting on International Podcast Day. We're celebrating today by saying thank you to the Coffee Break community in this special podcast episode. International Podcast Day aims to raise awareness about podcasts and gives podcast creators and listeners a chance to celebrate the medium and the podcast industry.

But podcasting has been around for a lot longer than that! Back in 2004, broadcaster Adam Curry asked developer Dave Winer to develop an audioblogging system and without going into the technical side of things, or indeed who specifically “invented” podcasting, it was Curry and Winer who got the ball rolling. The word “podcast” however, was first mentioned in a newspaper article in the Guardian by technology reporter Ben Hammersley. It was declared Word of the Year by the New Oxford American Dictionary in 2005.

Of course, at this stage Coffee Break hadn't yet launched, but Coffee Break host Mark did start podcasting for an education project he was running at the time called Partners in Excellence or “PiE”, and The PiEcast was used to bring a community of learners together and help them develop their language skills. Mark quickly realised that podcasting was the perfect medium for publishing language lessons, and for sharing his passion for languages with a wider audience.

Coffee Break Spanish was launched in October 2006. As the very first Spanish podcast for beginners on iTunes, it quickly gathered an audience and learners around the world started learning with us. Since then we’ve gone on to produce Coffee Break French, German, Italian, Chinese, Swedish and English and we have plans to develop more Coffee Break languages in the future. We’ve also created shorter podcast series called One Minute Languages covering over 30 languages from Arabic to Zulu.

We’ve published well over 1,000 episodes across the different languages and our podcasts have been downloaded over 290 million times, and we currently deliver over 2 million free language lessons every month to a community of Coffee Break learners.

So that’s why today, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you, our podcast listeners, our Coffee Break community. Without you there wouldn’t be any Coffee Break! Thank you for choosing to listen to our shows, to learn with us and to share your 15 or 20 minute coffee break with me and my cohosts on each episode of the show.

Now just before we finish, a couple of important points: if you’d like to hear about the latest episodes and series from Coffee Break, make sure you join Mark on Sunday 4th October at 4pm UK time / 11am Eastern / 8am Pacific for a live broadcast on YouTube and our Facebook pages. You can go straight to our YT channel - Coffee Break Languages - and click the “Set Reminder” button.

And, if you’d like to help us celebrate International Podcast Day, why not simply tell a language-loving friend about what you’ve learned with our podcasts and help us grow the Coffee Break community even further?

Merci beaucoup - vielen, vielen Dank, muchísimas gracias, grazie molte, xiè xie nimen, tack så jättemycket and thank you! There’s lots more coming from Coffee Break and we hope you continue to enjoy learning with us. Happy International Podcast Day!

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Ultima fermata: Piombino - Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Episode 10

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Our virtual journey through Tuscany is coming to an end! Join Giulia and Paolo in the tenth and final episode of this series of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries as they round off their trip by the sea in the beautiful coastal town of Piombino. Listen to the episode to hear what they get up to and look out for some interesting vocabulary as well as a discussion about the structure da passare and an example of the pronoun ci.

Travel Diaries will be published in one season of ten episodes weekly from 5th June. If you'd like to access lesson notes and a video version which features pauses after each sentence to allow you to practise your pronunciation, check out the full course on the Coffee Break Academy.

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Sulle orme di San Galgano - Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Episode 9

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 15:00:00 GMT

After taking some time to rest his ankle, Paolo is ready to move on to the penultimate stop on their journey: l’Abbazia di San Galgano. The pair take the time to explore the roofless walls of the 13th-century Abbey church and even see the famous spada nella roccia! Mark and Francesca also discuss when to use pronto a and pronto per, as well as the use of the direct object pronoun lo.

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Incontri inaspettati - Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Episode 8

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Following an unexpected trip to the hospital in last week's episode, Giulia and Paolo continue their journey as they drive through the beautiful countryside of The Val d'Orcia and find the perfect spot for a picnic. In this eighth episode of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries, we'll learn some interesting new vocabulary as well as the difference between the verbs godersi and divertirsi. Andiamo!

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Incidenti di percorso... a Saturnia - Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Episode 7

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 17:00:00 GMT

It's time for the next stop on our Italian adventure! Giulia and Paolo enjoy a trip to the famous spa in Saturina when all of a sudden things take a turn and they end up in hospital. Tune in to Episode 7 to find out what happens and don't forget to listen out for the subjunctive in the text!

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Vicoli, torri, e formaggi - Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Episode 6

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 17:00:00 GMT

In the latest episode of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries, Giulia and Paolo leave Siena and head to the medieval hill town of San Gimignano.

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Un Palio... affollato! - Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Episode 5

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries! Find out what Giulia and Paolo get up to when they finally reach Siena in this week's episode.

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Un piacevole imprevisto - Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Episode 4

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Join Giulia and Paolo in the latest episode of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries as they venture through the beautiful area of Tuscany. This week, find out how a problem on their train to Siena leads to an unexpected afternoon in the Valle del Chianti.

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Firenze, bellezza infinita - Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Episode 3

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries! This week, Giulia and Paolo take the train from Lucca to Florence and experience some new adventures. Find out what they get up to in this latest episode.

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Sosta per le vie di Lucca - Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Episode 2

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 17:00:00 GMT

In our second episode of the Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries, join Giulia and Paolo as they travel on towards Lucca. We'll accompany them for some lunch and the resulting abbiocco - that sleepy feeling you get after a delicious meal.

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Prima tappa: Pisa! Coffee Break Italian Travel Diaries Episode 1

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 15:00:00 GMT

Welcome to this brand new series from Coffee Break Italian for intermediate learners. While it's not so easy to travel right now, why not do some virtual travelling with us? Join Giulia and her friend Paolo as they travel by train through the beautiful region of Tuscany in Italy. In this first episode they have just arrived in Pisa and we'll hear about their plans for their trip.

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CBI Mag 1.10 | Adesso pedala!

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 18:30:02 GMT

Often described as "the other Italian national pastime" (in addition to il calcio, football) cycling is huge in Italy. In this final episode of this season of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine, we take a closer look at the sport which is one of the most practised and watched in the country. In response to listener Nicole's question, Francesca explains the interesting word infatti and how, in fact, it isn't always the correct choice for translating "in fact"!

This episode marks the end of Season 1 of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine. If you'd like to benefit from lesson notes, transcripts, vocabulary lists and exercises, you can access the premium version of the Magazine on the Coffee Break Academy.

Do you have a question for the team? Head over to https://radiolingua.com/cbi-magazine/ and use the voicemail link there to send us your question. You may feature in a future episode!

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI Mag 1.09 | La Ricetta di Francesca

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 20:14:16 GMT

By the time you've listened to this episode you'll have l'acquolina in bocca - your mouth will be watering! Francesca shares a recipe for the rice dish panissa which involves beans, onion, Italian sausage and Arborio rice, and there's a question from listener Donna who is confused about the difference between the verbs potere and riuscire.

There will be a total of 10 episodes in Season 1 of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine. If you'd like to benefit from lesson notes, transcripts, vocabulary lists and exercises, you can access the premium version of the Magazine on the Coffee Break Academy.

Do you have a question for the team? Head over to https://radiolingua.com/cbi-magazine/ and use the voicemail link there to send us your question. You may feature in a future episode!

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI Mag 1.08 | A Carnevale ogni scherzo vale

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 16:00:35 GMT

In this episode of the Coffee Break Magazine we're heading to the north of Italy to the town of Ivrea, known for its peculiar way of celebrating Carnevale. Our listener's question in this episode comes from Zack and concerns the tricky word mica which seems to pepper the conversation of native speakers, but is difficult to use as a learner.

Do you have a question for the team? Head over to https://radiolingua.com/cbi-magazine/ and use the voicemail link there to send us your question. You may feature in a future episode!

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI Mag 1.07 | Amore per il passato...

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 17:00:00 GMT

... e tanta voglia di futuro. The city of Matera in the Basilicata region of Italy celebrates an incredibly rich heritage, with the word famous Sassi, cave dwellings carved into the mountainside, and looks to the future with the redevelopment of these caves into museums and hotels. In 2019, together with the Bulgarian city of Plovdiv, Matera has been named European Capital of Culture. In this episode of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine Francesca tells us more about Matera, and there's a question from a listener about the difference between po', poco and più.

Do you have a question for the team? Head over to https://radiolingua.com/cbi-magazine/ and use the voicemail link there to send us your question. You may feature in a future episode!

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI Mag 1.06 | Ti viene voglia di ballare?

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 17:00:00 GMT

It's time for a new episode of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine and in this episode Francesca and Mark talk about their summer breaks and where they travelled to. The text for this episode focuses on the traditional Italian dance, la Tarantella, and there's an interesting question from listener Gianna on the difference between restare and rimanere.

Do you have a question for the team? Head over to https://radiolingua.com/cbi-magazine/ and use the voicemail link there to send us your question. You may feature in a future episode!

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI Mag 1.05 | Cuciniamo le orecchiette

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

We're heading to the kitchen for this episode and learning about the popular pasta dish, le orecchiette. Mark and Francesca also discuss their recent trip to Milan and Stresa to film some content for the forthcoming Coffee Break Italian To Go video series. There's also an explanation of how to translate "some" into Italian, based on a listener's question. After this episode we're taking a break and we'll be back with the next episode of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine in August.

Do you have a question for the team? Head over to https://radiolingua.com/cbi-magazine/ and use the voicemail link there to send us your question. You may feature in a future episode!

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI Mag 1.04 | Leggiamo un po'

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 16:30:00 GMT

In this episode Francesca and Mark discuss one of Italy's most famous authors, Italo Calvino. Calvino's work can be read on many levels, and as a result of the type of language used, his books are very accessible for learners of Italian. In our Q&A segment, Francesca explains the difference between stare and essere.

Do you have a question for the team? Head over to https://radiolingua.com/cbi-magazine/ and use the voicemail link there to send us your question. You may feature in a future episode!

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI Mag 1.03 | La Comunità Walser

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 17:00:00 GMT

In episode 3 of the Coffee Break Italian Magazine we're heading to the north of Italy to find out more about the Walser Community. In addition we'll be looking at the best way to move from using Lei to using tu when you're getting to know someone.

Do you have a question for the team? Head over to https://radiolingua.com/cbi-magazine/ and use the voicemail link there to send us your question. You may feature in a future episode!

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI Mag 1.02 | Il Gargano - la Perla della Puglia

Mon, 20 May 2019 17:00:00 GMT

In this episode we're heading south to the region of Puglia and, more specifically, to the area known as Il Gargano. Known for its crystalline waters and golden beaches, there is much to see and do in Il Gargano. Find out more in the episode. Francesca and Mark also have some advice on how to learn vocabulary, based on Tricia's question. The episode concludes with a scioglilingua - a tongue twister - which will help you practise the 'gl' sound in Italian.

Do you have a question for the team? Head over to https://radiolingua.com/cbi-magazine/ and use the voicemail link there to send us your question. You may feature in a future episode!

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI Mag 1.01 | La Bocca della Verità

Mon, 06 May 2019 17:00:00 GMT

The Coffee Break Italian team is back with a new series, the Coffee Break Italian Magazine. In each episode of this 10-lesson season for intermediate learners you can build your vocabulary, increase your understanding of grammar and learn to use the Italian language in a more natural way. This series follows on from Seasons 1 and 2 of Coffee Break Italian.

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI 2.40 | Ognuno vivrà l'estate che aveva sognato

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 20:45:00 GMT

And so our series, and our soap opera, reach their conclusion and we're delighted to bring you episode 40 of Coffee Break Italian Season 2. In this episode you'll enjoy the finale of La Mia Estate and, as ever, Mark and Francesca are on hand to help you understand everything. We hope you've enjoyed this second season of Coffee Break Italian!

This season of Coffee Break Italian features a total of 40 episodes. If you'd like to benefit from lesson notes, bonus audio recordings and video versions of the lessons featuring 'synchronised video flashcards' to help you understand how the words and phrases are written, you can access the premium version of Coffee Break Italian on the Coffee Break Academy.

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI 2.39 | Che scenetta romantica...

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 21:00:00 GMT

In the previous instalment of La Mia Estate which featured in episode 38 of Coffee Break Italian, we left our characters at a dramatic point. In episode 39, it's time to see if the night of Ferragosto will help to thaw relations and if the stars finally align for Riccardo and Maria - and for Giorgio and Mia! As usual Francesca and Mark are on hand to discuss the language contained in the episode.

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI 2.38 | Adesso esprimi un desiderio!

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 20:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian, the big day has arrived, La Notte di San Lorenzo. Mia, Anna and Giorgio are full of expectations for the romance of the evening ahead and hope that it will be the perfect opportunity for Maria and Riccardo to get together. Not only that, but Mark and Francesca are joined by a very special guest in the introduction to this episode...

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI 2.37 | Chissà quali sorprese ci regaleranno le stelle!

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 20:05:20 GMT

In the latest lesson of Coffee Break Italian, it's the day of preparation for the famous Notte di San Lorenzo, and it's all hands on deck at the campsite. This episode provides further practice of direct object pronouns, and we'll also learn the verb servire which is used in a similar way to piacere. As usual, Francesca and Mark are on hand to explain everything.

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI 2.36 | La Mia Estate ep6 - Incredibile, sembrano due piccioncini!

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 21:57:57 GMT

In the latest lesson of Coffee Break Italian we're listening to episode 6 of our soap opera, La Mia Estate. Riccardo and Maria seem to be getting on well, much to the surprise of Mia, Anna and Giorgio, and Riccardo has some exciting news regarding his search for a house. The episode provides an opportunity to look further into imperatives and there is more practice of the pronouns ci and ne, and how they affect different verbs.

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI 2.35 | La Mia Estate ep5 - Perché non ci diamo del tu?

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 21:00:28 GMT

It's time for a new episode of Coffee Break Italian, and the latest episode of our soap opera, La Mia Estate. In this instalment Riccardo and Maria are on their way to Vipiteno, but they end up missing the train. Is this a recipe for disaster, or is it the perfect opportunity for them to get to know each other a little better? As ever, the episode is rich in complex grammar and useful vocabulary, and Mark and Francesca discuss everything to help you build your language skills.

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI 2.34 | La Mia Estate ep4 - Dobbiamo escogitare un piano!

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 21:39:14 GMT

In this latest episode of Coffee Break Italian, join Francesca and Mark for the fourth instalment of our Italian soap opera, La Mia Estate. Preparations are underway for a summer concert at the campsite and Mia, Anna and Giorgio are busy putting the final arrangements in place. Even Riccardo and Maria seem to be getting on well, but things don't go quite as smoothly at the concert. In additional to lots of useful Italian expressions and vocabulary, you'll also learn a little about the subjunctive in this lesson.

Find out everything you need to know about Coffee Break Italian at http://coffeebreakitalian.com

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CBI 2.33 | La Mia Estate ep3 - Accipicchia! Che sbadato...

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 21:23:02 GMT

In lesson 33 of Coffee Break Italian Season 2 you'll hear the latest instalment of our Italian soap opera, La Mia Estate. Mia is now fully involved at the campsite, helping Anna and Giorgio, and in this episode Mia's father, Riccardo, gets to know Anna's mother, Maria, a little more. From a grammatical point of view, this episode introduces some examples of various types of pronoun. As usual, Mark and Francesca are on hand to explain everything.

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CBI 2.32 | La Mia Estate ep2 - Sognare non costa niente!

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 18:40:16 GMT

In lesson 32 of Coffee Break Italian Season 2 you'll listen to the second instalment in our Italian soap opera, La Mia Estate. Mia and her father are now on their way to Italy and in this episode they arrive in Verona where they're met by Mia's friend Anna and her mother, before heading to the campsite in Trento. The episode includes some examples of new grammar points, and Francesca and Mark are there to explain everything.

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CBI 2.31 | La Mia Estate ep1 - Facciamo le Valigie!

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 17:00:00 GMT

We're back with another lesson of Coffee Break Italian, and in lesson 31 we're presenting the first episode of our Italian soap opera, La Mia Estate. You'll meet three of our characters: Mia, her friend Anna, and her overprotective father Riccardo. In each of the ten episodes of La Mia Estate, you'll be hearing Italian in context and you'll be able to build your knowledge and confidence, and Francesca and Mark are on hand to help you understand everything.

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CBI 2.30 | Review episode

Tue, 22 May 2018 10:12:57 GMT

This episode of Coffee Break Italian is a review episode, covering many of the topics discussed in lessons 1-29. With Francesca, Isla and Mark you'll review the pronouns ci and ne, how to form the perfect, how to choose between the perfect and imperfect, and much more.

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CBI 2.29 | Ho molti amici molto simpatici

Sat, 12 May 2018 06:12:22 GMT

It's time to take a detailed look at a topic which, on the surface, can seem straightforward, but when you get into it in more detail it can get a bit more complicated. We're talking about adverbs: words which "describe" a verb, or which give more information as how quickly, effectively, badly etc., you're doing whatever it is you're doing! We'll look at the Italian equivalent of adding "-ly" to an adjective, but we'll also consider other types of adverbs, and we'll look at those tricky adverbs like molto. Are you 100% sure when to use molto and when to use molti/molte/molta? By the end of this lesson you'll be confident with all kinds of Italian adverbs!

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CBI 2.28 | Dopo aver fatto colazione, vado al lavoro

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 22:14:34 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian we're looking at two constructions which will help you increase your range of expression easily and effectively. You'll learn to use prima di + infinitive and dopo + past infinitive with both avere and essere verbs. Once you've mastered these expressions you'll be able to talk about "before doing something" and "after doing something", and understand the nuances of each of these expressions in their Italian translations.

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CBI 2.27 | Fra 10 minuti dobbiamo essere da tuo zio!

Tue, 10 Apr 2018 20:58:35 GMT

We're back with the second instalment of our two-part preposition marathon. In this episode you'll learn all you need to know about the prepositions di, da, con, per and tra/fra. Once again, there are some crucial nuances with certain prepositions which can completely change the meaning, so listen carefully in this lesson! As usual, Francesca and Mark provide plenty of examples to help, and Isla puts what she learns to the test with a translation challenge. By the time you've completed this lesson you'll be a preposition pro!

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CBI 2.26 | Preferisci andare in palestra o a teatro?

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 16:00:36 GMT

This is the first of our two-part preposition marathon! In this episode you'll learn all you need to know about the prepositions a, in and su. Using prepositions in Italian can be quite tricky, particularly because they don't work the same way as in English. There's also the fact that, when combined with the definite articles, the prepositions take on different forms. Through this lesson about (su) prepositions, you'll learn to (a) use the prepositions in (in) the correct way!

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CBI 2.25 | Chi è quella persona che lavora in biblioteca?

Mon, 12 Mar 2018 18:00:04 GMT

In this episode you'll learn everything you need to know about asking questions in Italian. We'll cover come, dove, quando, chi, perché, quale, quali, quanto/a/e/i and, of course, che, che cosa and cosa! By the time you've completed this lesson you'll be able to satisfy your curiosity in Italian by asking any question.

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CBI 2.24 | Chi va a Roma perde la poltrona

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 02:00:00 GMT

Coffee Break Italian is the show which helps you learn Italian. Mark and Francesca are the teachers who teach Isla in Season 2. This is the episode in which we're looking at relative pronouns, and through which you'll master this new grammar point! See what we did there? All will become clear in lesson 24!

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CBI 2.23 | Cosa facevi quando ti ho telefonato?

Mon, 12 Feb 2018 18:00:00 GMT

In this lesson we're focusing on combining the Perfect and the Imperfect which together allow us to tell stories in the past. You'll consolidate what you already know about each of the tenses and you'll recognise certain words and expressions which trigger the Perfect or the Imperfect. Francesca also has some mystery Italian personalities for us to identify in the Caffè Culturale.

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CBI 2.22 | Preparavo la cena quando Luca è arrivato

Mon, 29 Jan 2018 18:00:00 GMT

We've now learned both the Perfect Tense and the Imperfect Tense in Italian, but when do you use which tense? In this episode of Coffee Break Italian we'll be talking about "thtooms" and "dum-de-dum-de-dums". This is Mark's method of explaining how you can combine the Perfect Tense and the Imperfect Tense in one sentence to talk about what was happening when something else happened. You'll also learn an alternative translation of the Imperfect which involves beaches at sunset!

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CBI 2.21 | C'era molta gente e non faceva troppo freddo

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 18:00:00 GMT

In this lesson we're focusing on a new tense, the imperfect, which is used for descriptions and to talk about repeated actions in the past. It's a very straightforward tense, and Francesca shares some great news about the Imperfect in this episode! As usual, there are lots of examples and Mark and Francesca will test Isla on her understanding by the end of the lesson.

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CBI 2.20 | Non ha mai provato la pizza napoletana!

Mon, 20 Nov 2017 18:00:00 GMT

In this lesson you'll learn to use four very useful adverbs: mai (ever), già (already), appena (just) and ancora (still/yet) to talk about what you've just done, what you've already done, what you've never done and what you've not yet done. This very useful lesson builds on what you've learned in previous episodes, and it marks the half-way point of our course.

This season of Coffee Break Italian features a total of 40 episodes, published every two weeks. Lessons 21-40 will be published during 2018. Stay subscribed to the podcast to enjoy each episode. If you'd like to benefit from lesson notes, bonus audio recordings and video versions of the lessons featuring 'synchronised video flashcards' to help you understand how the words and phrases are written, you can access the premium version of Coffee Break Italian on the Coffee Break Academy.

If you'd like to find out what goes on behind the scenes here at Coffee Break Languages, follow @coffeebreaklanguages on Instagram.

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CBI 2.19 | Ti è piaciuta la pastiera?

Tue, 07 Nov 2017 18:00:00 GMT

In this episode we're looking at how you say you liked something in the past using the verb piacere. This verb is conjugated with essere and you have to be careful with how you agree the past participle. We'll also be taking a look at how reflexive verbs work in the Perfect Tense in this lesson. Again, pay close attention to the past participles!

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CBI 2.18 | A che ora sono arrivati?

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 18:00:00 GMT

So far we've been learning how to talk in the past by using the Perfect Tense with avere. In this lesson we'll be learning about a specific group of verbs which use essere in the Perfect Tense. There's something in particular we need to remember about these verbs, and all will become clear once you've listened to this lesson.

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CBI 2.17 | Abbiamo visto tutto

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 17:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian, we're continuing to learn about the Perfect Tense, this time focusing on verbs which have irregular past participles. You'll learn to form past participles for irregular verbs and you'll also learn about the groupings of irregular verbs which form their past participles in similar ways.

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CBI 2.16 | Abbiamo imparato molto!

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 16:00:00 GMT

It's time to think about the past. We've already seen examples of the Perfect Tense, one of the main Italian tenses used to talk about what happened in the past, but so far we've not learned exactly how to use it. In this lesson you'll be learning to form the past participle of -are, -ere and -ire verbs and how you combine these with the verb "avere" to form the Perfect Tense.

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CBI 2.15 | Adoro il calcio - ci penso giorno e notte

Mon, 28 Aug 2017 17:00:00 GMT

In this lesson we're continuing our study of "ne" and introducing a new pronoun, "ci". Both of these words are small, but exceptionally useful, and you'll learn how to use them in many situations.

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CBI 2.14 | Abbiamo delle belle mele rosse

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 18:00:00 GMT

In this lesson we'll be looking at the partitive article - the technical name for how to translate "some" in Italian. We're using the context of buying food so you'll learn how to ask for some cheese, "del formaggio", some cream, "della panna", and lots more. This topic also enables us to look at the word "ne", and we'll see how easy it is to use this tiny, but powerful, word.

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CBI 2.13 | Questo libro è in italiano, ma quello è in francese

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 17:00:00 GMT

In this lesson you'll learn to use the demonstrative adjectives questo and quello, meaning "this" and "that". You'll also learn to use the demonstrative pronoun forms, meaning "this one" and "that one". There are a few things you need to remember, particularly with quello, because the forms change slightly depending on whether you're using the adjective or pronoun forms. You'll build on what you know already with this lesson, and there's further practise with the help of translations and a dialogue.

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CBI 2.12 | Che belle scarpe e che bell'orologio!

Mon, 17 Jul 2017 17:00:00 GMT

Paying compliments is a key part of Italian culture and society, and in this lesson of Coffee Break Italian you'll learn to compliment native speakers on their beautiful clothes, their delicious ragù, and their delightful children using the tricky adjectives bello and buono. You'll discover a trick which will help you to know exactly which form of these adjectives to choose for any noun, and Francesca explains the very Italian concept of la bella figura in the Caffè Culturale.

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CBI 2.11 | I pantaloni blu sono molto eleganti!

Mon, 03 Jul 2017 17:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian you'll be learning about Italian adjectives and how they agree in gender and number with the noun they describe. You'll learn about Four-Ending, Two-Ending and Invariable adjectives, and how to change the adjectives so that they "agree" with the noun. Join Mark as he goes clothes shopping in Milano (!) and build your vocabulary in the process.

If you'd like to find out what goes on behind the scenes here at Coffee Break Languages, follow @coffeebreaklanguages on Instagram.

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CBI 2.10 | Esci stasera? Vengo anch'io!

Mon, 12 Jun 2017 17:00:00 GMT

In this lesson you'll learn to conjugate and use three very common -ire verbs which are irregular: venire (to come), uscire (to go out) and dire (to say/tell). Pay particular attention to the spelling changes which happen in these verbs!

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CBI 2.09 | Sai che vado a Londra domani?

Mon, 29 May 2017 17:00:00 GMT

In this lesson we'll be taking a look at four common irregular verbs which end in -ere: bere (to drink), tenere (to hold/keep), sapere (to know) and conoscere (also to know). You'll also learn the difference between the two verbs which can be translated as "to know" and when to use them.

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CBI 2.08 | Hai bisogno di aiuto?

Wed, 17 May 2017 17:00:00 GMT

In this episode you'll learn to use avere and essere, two of the most important Italian verbs. In addition to the normal uses you'll also learn to use the verbs in a number of idiomatic expressions. By the end of this lesson you'll be a master of "being" and "having" in Italian!

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CBI 2.07 | Faccio colazione, e poi vado in spiaggia perché fa bello!

Wed, 03 May 2017 20:00:00 GMT

This lesson focuses on two very important irregular verbs, andare ("to go") and fare which means "to do" or "to make", but is used in many other expressions. You'll learn to conjugate these verbs and through a series of dialogues between Mark, Francesca and Isla, you'll practise using the verbs, helping you to consolidate what you've learned.

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CBI 2.06 | Cosa facciamo stasera?

Tue, 18 Apr 2017 17:00:00 GMT

In this lesson you'll consolidate what you already know about regular -are, -ere and -ire verbs and you'll also review reflexive verbs. One of the most common uses of the present tense is in making arrangements, and in the dialogues of the lesson you'll learn to make arrangements, identifying what you're doing, when you're doing it and where you're meeting your Italian-speaking friends.

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CBI 2.05 | Mario pulisce la casa

Mon, 03 Apr 2017 17:00:00 GMT

In this lesson you'll master verbs in the 3rd conjugation - those ending in -ire. There are two groups of these verbs: ones which form their endings as you would expect, and another group which introduce -isc- in the middle of certain forms. You'll already be familiar with verbs such as capisco, but this lesson will explain how to conjugate all of these verbs.

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CBI 2.04 | Dipingo a modo mio ...

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 20:00:00 GMT

In this lesson you'll master regular verbs in the second conjugation, those ending in -ere. You'll have met a few of these verbs before, but this episode gives you the chance to practise these verbs further and understand when to use them. Also covered are some verbs which involve spelling or pronunciation changes.

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CBI 2.03 | A che ora ti alzi? Talking about your daily routine

Mon, 06 Mar 2017 19:00:00 GMT

This episode of Coffee Break Italian will help you talk about the things you do on a regular basis, including aspects of your daily routine. Francesca and Mark introduce the concept of reflexive verbs and you'll learn to conjugate these verbs in the present tense. In the practice session Isla is put to the test and asked about her daily routine.

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CBI 2.02 | Che cosa fai al fine settimana? Talking about the weekend.

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 21:00:00 GMT

In lesson 2 of Coffee Break Italian Season 2 you'll further your knowledge of -are verbs within the context of talking about what you do at the weekend. Francesca and Mark introduce more -are verbs including some verbs which have spelling changes, and then talk about what they do at the weekend - in Italian, of course! Isla practises what she has learned by talking about her weekend in Italian, and there are some translation challenges to help you consolidate the new language in the lesson.

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CBI 2.01 | Ricominciamo! Using Italian -are verbs

Mon, 06 Feb 2017 20:30:00 GMT

In lesson 1 of Coffee Break Italian Season 2 you'll take the first steps in learning to manipulate the language and say what you want to say! Lesson 1 focuses on regular -are verbs, and you'll learn to conjugate these verbs in the present tense. Join teacher Mark, native speaker Francesca and learner Isla in this first episode of our new series.

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Introducing Coffee Break Italian Season 2

Thu, 02 Feb 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Siamo tornati! We're back with a new season of Coffee Break Italian and in this short preview episode Mark and Francesca will be telling you what you can expect to learn in Season 2 which launches 6th February 2017.

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CBI 1:40 | Abbiamo imparato molto!

Mon, 11 Jul 2016 09:45:23 GMT

It’s time for the final episode of Coffee Break Italian in this season, and the team is back in the studio reflecting on what they’ve done in Italy. This gives us the opportunity to think about how you talk about the past in Italian. Mark and Francesca also test Katie on what she’s learned in the course so far.

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CBI 1:39 | Ho l’acquolina in bocca!

Mon, 04 Jul 2016 20:49:18 GMT

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by a special guest: la mamma di Francesca! Katie is drafted in to help make the tiramisù and Mark is on hand to explain everything.

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CBI 1:38 | La mia amica non si sente molto bene

Mon, 20 Jun 2016 21:23:18 GMT

Hopefully you’ll not have to visit the doctor or the pharmacy while you’re in Italy, but in case you do, this lesson will help you prepare! Katie hasn’t been feeling too well and she visits the pharmacy in this lesson. We’ll listen in to the conversation and Mark is on hand to explain everything.

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CBI 1:37 | Ho qualche domanda…

Mon, 13 Jun 2016 18:08:47 GMT

When you’re travelling, one of the most common situations encountered is that you need to ask for information. In this episode of Coffee Break Italian Mark is asking for information in his hotel in Stresa. You’ll review some of the language areas already covered and learn new words and phrases through the conversation.

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CBI 1:36 | Cercate qualcosa in particolare?

Mon, 06 Jun 2016 18:04:59 GMT

In this episode Mark is buying “delle cartoline” and Katie and Francesca are shopping for clothes. Join them and practise your language skills and learn new words and phrases associated with shopping.

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CBI 1:35 | Avete bisogno di informazioni?

Mon, 23 May 2016 16:35:43 GMT

Join Mark and Katie as they visit the town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore. In order to find out about the town they head straight to the tourist information office and you can listen in on their conversation, practising language you’ve learned previously in the course and learning new words and phrases.

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CBI 1:34: | Fate colazione?

Mon, 16 May 2016 22:17:06 GMT

In this latest episode of Coffee Break Italian, Mark and Katie have breakfast in their hotel and get chatting to one of the other guests. This lesson gives you the chance to build your vocabulary, practise the words and phrases you already know and experience a regional Italian accent.

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CBI 1:33 | Ho una prenotazione

Mon, 09 May 2016 16:18:14 GMT

Having arrived in Italy and found her way to the town of Orta, Katie checks into the hotel and in this episode we listen in on the conversation she has with the receptionist. There’s a little problem, but this is quickly solved with the use of some of the language previously learned in our course. This episode also features a chat between Mark, Katie and Francesca about how things are going at the end of the first day of our trip: an excellent opportunity to review some further expressions.

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CBI 1:32 | C’è un autobus per Stresa?

Mon, 02 May 2016 21:50:06 GMT

In this episode Katie takes up the sfida (challenge) set by Francesca and speaks to a lady in the information office at the airport to ask about transport options to Stresa. This conversation will give you the chance to review much of the vocabulary you have learned in previous episodes.

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CBI 1:31 | Arriviamo in Italia!

Mon, 25 Apr 2016 17:08:08 GMT

We’re back with another episode of Coffee Break Italian, and it’s time to put Katie’s Italian to the test. Mark and Katie have travelled to Italy to meet up with Francesca and together they’ve recorded a series of conversations. In lesson 31 you’ll join the team as they arrive in Italy and prepare for the coming visit, learning a few new phrases along the way.

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CBI 1:30 | Talking about clothes in Italian

Tue, 22 Dec 2015 07:22:25 GMT

In the latest episode of Coffee Break Italian you’ll be learning to talk about clothes and taking your ability to describe people a bit further. Francesca will put your comprehension skills to the test with an identity quiz in which you have to guess the identity of well known people from her Italian descriptions.

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CBI 1:29 | Describing people in Italian

Mon, 14 Dec 2015 17:27:00 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian you’ll be learning how to describe people in Italian and use adjectives in their different forms. We even have a challenge for you in our Caffè Culturale.

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CBI 1:28 | Talking about likes and dislikes in Italian

Wed, 09 Dec 2015 14:50:38 GMT

In lesson 28 of our course you’ll learn how to talk more about your job. You’ll also learn to talk about what you like doing – and what you don’t like doing! This lesson will help you to develop your confidence in using Italian and making small talk with native speakers.

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CBI 1:27 | Talking about your job in Italian

Mon, 30 Nov 2015 20:58:32 GMT

In our latest lesson of Coffee Break Italian you’ll learn to talk about your job, to say what you do, where you work and whether or not you like your job. This lesson is another episode in our mini-series which helps you to make small talk with native speakers and improve your Italian in the process.

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CBI 1:26 | Talking about yourself in Italian

Mon, 23 Nov 2015 22:30:50 GMT

In lesson 26 of Coffee Break Italian you’ll be joining the team to learn more about informal telephone conversations and how to talk about yourself and your family. Making small talk is one of the best ways to improve your Italian and this lesson will help you to achieve this in effective, accurate Italian.

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CBI 1:25 | Using the phone in Italian

Mon, 09 Nov 2015 16:58:27 GMT

In the latest episode of Coffee Break Italian you’ll be learning the important skill of using the phone in Italian and in the Caffè Culturale, Francesca talks about Italian opera.

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CBI 1:24 | Spelling in Italian and an introduction to verbs

Mon, 02 Nov 2015 22:03:06 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian you’ll learn more about the patterns of the language and how to form verbs in Italian. We look at the present tense of -are verbs and with this lesson you’ll begin to form a solid foundation in this vital part of the language. You’ll also learn to spell in Italian.

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CBI 1:23 | Visiting the doctor’s or pharmacy in Italian

Mon, 26 Oct 2015 21:50:41 GMT

It’s time to continue our topic of aches and pains as we take our next steps in Italian with Coffee Break Italian. In this episode you’ll learn to describe your symptoms and to understand the recommendations give to you by the doctor or pharmacist.

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CBI 1:22 | Talking about aches and pains in Italian

Mon, 19 Oct 2015 16:00:19 GMT

Hopefully this won’t happen to you while you’re travelling in Italy, but sometimes we have to visit the doctor or a pharmacy and explain our aches and pains. In this episode you’ll learn the words for different parts of the body and how to say that something is sore or that you have headache, stomachache, backache, etc. You’ll also learn how to use the verb avere, meaning “to have”.

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CBI 1-21 | Talking about the weather in Italian

Mon, 12 Oct 2015 16:00:14 GMT

Bentornati! We’re back with another lesson of Coffee Break Italian. If there’s one topic which everyone loves talking about, it has to be the weather. It’s a great conversation starter, and it also will help you plan your activities while travelling in an Italian-speaking country! In lesson 21 you’ll learn to talk about the weather.

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CBI 1-20B | Top-up episode

Thu, 08 Oct 2015 18:17:02 GMT

In this special “top-up” episode of Coffee Break Italian, Mark will test you on some of the words and phrases you’ve learned so far in the series with some translation challenges.

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CBI 1-20 | Buying train tickets and Review

Mon, 06 Jul 2015 16:06:53 GMT

In lesson 20 of Coffee Break Italian you’ll continue to learn useful words and phrases to deal with buying tickets for public transport. You’ll also join Katie in a conversation which puts to the test much of the Italian you’ve learned so far on the course.

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CBI 1-19 | Using public transport in Italian

Mon, 29 Jun 2015 17:45:41 GMT

In this latest episode of Coffee Break Italian you’ll learn to use Italian in the context of taking public transport and understanding train and bus departure and arrival times. As usual, you’ll build on what you’ve learned in previous lessons and develop your confidence further in Italian.

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CBI 1-18 | Asking for directions in Italian

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 16:34:34 GMT

In this episode of Coffee Break Italian you’ll learn more ways to ask questions and understand information. We cover opening and closing times and complex directions to help you cope on a trip to Italy.

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CBI 1-17 | Asking for information in Italian

Mon, 15 Jun 2015 15:44:28 GMT

In lesson 17 of Coffee Break Italian, you’ll learn to construct a number of phrases which will be useful for a shopping trip in Italy. You’ll build on previously learned language and learn to use new vocabulary in existing structures for shopping and tourist information.

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CBI 1-16 | Shopping in Italian

Mon, 08 Jun 2015 19:59:11 GMT

In this latest episode of Coffee Break Italian we’re heading to the “negozio” – the shop – to learn how to go shopping in Italian. You’ll develop a range of new structures which will help you increase your confidence and mastery of Italian, and you’ll learn how to use Italian in a variety of situations where you need to buy things while in Italy.

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CBI 1-15 | Counting in Italian

Mon, 01 Jun 2015 19:00:29 GMT

One thing which is vital when you’re learning a language is being able to count and deal with numbers in many situations including paying for things and dealing with dates and appointments. In this episode you’ll learn to count in Italian and you’ll learn the words for the days of the week and the months of the year.

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CBI 1-14 | Booking into a hotel in Italian

Mon, 25 May 2015 19:16:31 GMT

In this episode you’ll take what you’ve learned so far about ordering food a step further. You’ll learn to deal with dietary requirements and other situations encountered in a restaurant. You’ll also learn about the infinitive of Italian verbs and how you can use this to express a variety of concepts such as talking about what you like to do – or indeed to eat!

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CBI 1-13 | Visiting an Italian restaurant

Mon, 11 May 2015 19:08:13 GMT

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CBI 1-12 | Ordering food in Italian

Mon, 04 May 2015 18:29:58 GMT

In this lesson of Coffee Break Italian you’ll learn how to talk about food in Italian. You’ll also learn more about how to use the indefinite article (the word for “a”) and the definite article (the word for “the”) in Italian.

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CBI 1-11 | Ordering drinks in Italian

Mon, 27 Apr 2015 23:17:42 GMT

It’s time for a new lesson of Italian. Join teacher Mark, learner Katie and native speaker Francesca in lesson 11 in our series and learn to order drinks in an Italian café.

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CBI 1-10B | Coffee Break Italian Competition

Fri, 10 Apr 2015 18:38:33 GMT

Salve a tutti! It’s time to put into practice what you’ve learned so far in Coffee Break Italian – and you can win a fantastic prize by doing so! What we’d like you to do is leave us a voicemail in Italian.

Please note that this competition runs from April 10th – 24th 2015.

UPDATE, 25 April 2015

Please note that the competition is now closed. We’ll be announcing the winner on Monday 27th.

What do you have to do?

Here are some ideas. You can tell us:

your name (first names only please);
where you live (village, town or city, no addresses!);
where you’re from;
your nationality.

You may also consider telling us some of the following things:

a bit about your family, e.g. saying how many brothers / sisters / sons / daughters you have;
what the family members are called;
when talking about your town you could perhaps let us know what there is in your town, e.g. “there’s a swimming pool, a beach, a castle”, and so on;
you could also tell us about which languages you speak.

Finally, we’d love you to include:

what you like most about learning Italian with Coffee Break Italian.

This competition is aimed at beginners who have started learning with Coffee Break Italian, so we’d prefer you to stick to what you’ve learned on Coffee Break Italian.

How to enter

Leave your voicemail by clicking on the “Start recording” button below and use your computer or webcam microphone to record your message. If you don’t like what you do, you can simply record it again. Only send us your voicemail when you’re happy with it!

What can you win?

We’re giving away a brand new Amazon Kindle Voyage Wifi edition, and we’re throwing in the forthcoming first two books of Coffee Break Italian notes, covering lessons 1-5 and 6-10.

Listen to the show

Listen to the special edition of Coffee Break Italian to find out more and to hear a sample voicemail from Coffee Break Italian learner Katie.

Terms and Conditions

This competition is organised by Radio Lingua Ltd.
Employees of Radio Lingua Ltd or their family members or anyone else connected in any way with the competition shall not be permitted to enter the competition.
There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter the competition.
Details on how to enter the competition are listed on this page.
The closing date for entry will be Friday 24th April 2015 at 23:59 UK time. After this date no further entries to the competition will be permitted.
No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason.
The prize for this competition will be one Amazon Kindle Voyage Wifi only. In addition, the winner will receive access to the lesson notes of Coffee Break Italian in Kindle format for lessons 1-10.
Radio Lingua Ltd reserves the right to cancel or amend the competition and these terms and conditions without notice in the event of a catastrophe, war, civil or military disturbance, act of God or any actual or anticipated breach of any applicable law or regulation or any other event outside Radio Lingua Ltd’s control. Any changes to the competition will be notified on the Radio Lingua site as soon as possible.
Radio Lingua Ltd is not responsible for inaccurate prize details supplied to any entrant by and third party connected with this competition.
No cash alternative to the prize will be offered. The prize is not transferable. The prize is subject to availability and we reserve the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice.
The winner will be chosen from all qualifying...
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CBI 1-10 | Lessons 1-10 Review

Tue, 31 Mar 2015 08:03:47 GMT

Join native speaker Francesca, learner Katie and teacher Mark in this latest lesson of our series for beginners in Italian. It’s time to test your understanding of everything we’ve learned so far in the series in this review episode.

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CBI 1-09 | Language problems and talking about which languages you speak

Wed, 25 Mar 2015 10:24:52 GMT

Join native speaker Francesca, learner Katie and teacher Mark in this latest lesson of our series for beginners in Italian. In this episode we’re talking about language problems: saying which languages you speak and solving problems when you don’t understand what people are saying to you.

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CBI 1-08 | Talking about what there is to do in the town in Italian

Tue, 17 Mar 2015 01:26:49 GMT

Join native speaker Francesca, learner Katie and teacher Mark in this latest lesson of our series for beginners in Italian. In this lesson we’re learning more useful language for getting around in the town and we’ll also be looking at some simple aspects of Italian grammar.

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CBI 1-07 | Asking for directions in Italian

Tue, 10 Mar 2015 01:05:20 GMT

Join native speaker Francesca, learner Katie and teacher Mark in this latest lesson of our series for beginners in Italian. In this lesson you’ll learn to ask for directions in the town and understand some simple answers.

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CBI 1-06 | More about family, counting and phone numbers in Italian

Mon, 02 Mar 2015 19:00:06 GMT

Join native speaker Francesca, learner Katie and teacher Mark in this latest lesson of our series for beginners in Italian. In this lesson you’ll learn to talk more about your family, and you’ll learn the numbers from zero to ten, allowing you to talk about phone numbers in Italian.

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CBI 1-05 | Talking about your family in Italian

Mon, 23 Feb 2015 22:24:07 GMT

Join teacher Mark, learner Katie and native speaker Francesca in the latest lesson of our series for beginners in Italian. In this lesson you’ll learn to introduce members of your family and give their names.

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CBI 1-04 | Talking about where you live in Italian

Mon, 16 Feb 2015 22:15:32 GMT

Take your first steps in learning Italian with teacher Mark, learner Katie and native speaker Francesca. In this lesson you’ll learn to say where you live in Italian. You’ll also learn some appropriate answers for this question, and discover more about Italian culture.

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CBI 1-03 | Talking about where you come from in Italian

Mon, 09 Feb 2015 20:36:41 GMT

Join teacher Mark, learner Katie and native speaker Francesca in this third lesson of Coffee Break Italian. In this lesson you’ll learn to say where you’re from, to talk about nationalities and lots more.

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CBI 1-02 | Greetings in Italian

Mon, 02 Feb 2015 20:00:57 GMT

Join Mark, Katie and Francesca in the latest lesson of Coffee Break Italian. In this lesson you’ll learn to greet people at different times of the day. You’ll also learn to introduce yourself and ask the question “what is your name?”

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CBI 1-01 | Saying ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ in Italian

Mon, 26 Jan 2015 19:54:06 GMT

Take your first steps in learning Italian with teacher Mark, learner Katie and native speaker Francesca. In this lesson you’ll learn to say “hello” and ask the question “how are you?” You’ll also learn some appropriate answers for this question, and discover more about Italian culture.

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CBI 1-00 | Introductory Episode

Sun, 25 Jan 2015 09:56:13 GMT

If you can learn how to pronounce spaghetti, tagliatelle and bruschetta properly in Italian, you’ll have no bother with the 40 episodes of our first season of Coffee Break Italian. Join Mark, Francesca and Katie in this introductory episode.

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Coffee Break Italian – What you will learn

Thu, 22 Jan 2015 10:35:58 GMT

In this short episode, Mark outlines the structure of the Coffee Break Italian course. Season 1 is organised into four blocks of ten lessons:

Lessons 1-10: you’ll be learning how to greet people, introduce yourself, talk about where you’re from, introduce your friends or members of your family, use Italian in basic travel situations like buying things, getting around and coping with language difficulties;
Lessons 11-20: you’ll learn more travel language and will be able to order drinks and food, check into hotels, go shopping, ask for information and use public transport;
Lessons 21-30: you’ll perfect your travel language, learn to deal with a visit to the doctor or pharmacy in Italy, use the phone, and also talk more about yourself, your job, and your hobbies and pastimes;
Lessons 31-40: we’ll be recording these episodes in Italy and you’ll join us in a series of conversations putting all the language you’ve covered so far into practice and extending your vocabulary and understanding of Italian grammar.

Listen to the episode More information

Coffee Break Italian launches with lesson 1 on Monday 26th January.

If you'd like to find out what goes on behind the scenes here at Coffee Break Languages, follow @coffeebreaklanguages on Instagram.

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Coffee Break Italian – Preview Episode

Wed, 14 Jan 2015 16:23:24 GMT

Join teacher Mark, learner Katie and native speaker Francesca in this preview episode of Coffee Break Italian.

Listen to the episode More information

Coffee Break Italian launches with lesson 1 on Monday 26th January.

If you'd like to find out what goes on behind the scenes here at Coffee Break Languages, follow @coffeebreaklanguages on Instagram.

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