303. The Count of Monte Cristo (extract) B2 Story

Practising English

Practising English
303. The Count of Monte Cristo (extract) B2 Story
Apr 01, 2026 Season 5 Episode 303
M. A. Bilbrough

These are the B2 phrases we are going to study in today's podcast:

thinking twice

  • Definition: Considering a decision carefully or hesitating before doing something. 
  • Example: I saw the cat in the tree and, without thinking twice , I climbed up to save it. 

lose his nerve

  • Definition: To suddenly become afraid or lose the courage to do something intended. 
  • Example: He wanted to go skydiving, but he lost his nerve as soon as he looked out of the plane door. 

it crossed his mind

  • Definition: To have a sudden or brief thought about something. 
  • Example: It never crossed my mind that I might actually win the competition. 

switch

  • Definition: An act of changing or swapping one thing for another. 
  • Example: We made a switch at the last minute and went to the cinema instead of the park. 

rip open

  • Definition: To tear something open quickly and forcefully. 
  • Example: He was so excited that he ripped open the present in seconds. 

shiver

  • Definition: To shake slightly because of cold, fear, or excitement. 
  • Example: The cold wind made me shiver as I waited for the bus. 

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