Summary
It’s almost Christmas but Feifei doesn’t seem in a festive mood. She’s stuck in the studio with just Rob for company. It’s time for a party and to learn a new phrase. Watch this and see if the meaning of the authentic English phrase really comes true!
Transcript
Feifei
Hello and welcome to a very festive The English We Speak. I’m Feifei…
Rob
…and I’m Rob. Happy Christmas everyone - and to you, Feifei.
Feifei
Oh thanks. But you know what, Rob, I don’t feel very festive.
Rob
Not festive?! Look, I’m wearing my Christmas jumper, we’ve got mince pies and, yeah, I think it’s snowing outside.
Feifei
That’s not snow, it’s rain, Rob. But I just think there is something missing – something that would make us feel more Christmassy.
Rob
Presents?
Feifei
Not presents.
Rob
Christmas crackers?
Feifei
No, it’s not those – I know what's missing - it’s people. We need more people to make it feel like a Christmas party!
Rob
What’s wrong with just me?
Feifei
You’re OK, Rob. But you know what they say? “The more the merrier”.
Rob
Right – you mean the situation or occasion would be better, or more enjoyable, if lots of people joined in. More people equals more fun!
Feifei
Exactly!
Rob
OK, well I’ll try to find some people for you, Feifei, while you enjoy some examples…
Examples
A: Is it OK if I bring some of my friends to the party tonight?
B: Of course it is – the more the merrier!
Why don't you come skiing with us? We’ve got room in the car. The more the merrier!
We’ve got our office brainstorm later. Please join us – the more the merrier!
Feifei
This is The English We Speak from BBC Learning English. It’s almost Christmas, so I want a party with lots of people in the studio. As the saying goes, the more the merrier – the more people there are, the more enjoyable the situation! Don’t you agree Rob? Rob? Oh, where’s he gone?
Rob
Don’t worry, Feifei, I’m here, I'm here. And I’ve found some people for you.
Roy
Hi Feifei!
Feifei
Hi Roy!
Catherine
Hello Feifei!
Feifei
Hello!
Dan
Hi Feifei!
Feifei
Hi! Wow! All my Learning English chums – but… it’s getting a bit crowded in here now.
Dan
Hello! Hi! Good to see you. Hey! Party time!
Rob
Yes, yes, save some room for me.
Feifei
Squeeze in, Rob – the more the merrier!
Rob
Ooo, OK. Excuse me... excuse me... alright. Oh Yeah, it is a bit of a squeeze. There, I’m in.
Everyone
Phwaoh! Not again, Rob!
What’s that? Have you been eating chicken?
What are you having for dinner?
Rob
Ooops sorry. Too many Brussels sprouts, I’m afraid.
Everyone
Is that the time? Yeah, I've gotta go.
I must breathe!
You ruined my life!
Rob
Bye. Bye.
Feifei
Now look what you’ve done – you’ve ruined our Christmas party! It’s not so merry now.
Rob
Oh well. Happy Christmas, Feifei!
Feifei
You too.