Summary
As 2020 approaches, Rob’s decided to tidy up the office, clear out some old things and add some new touches to the workplace – like a vase of flowers. But for Feifei there’s just one old thing she’d like to replace with a new one. It sounds like a perfect excuse to teach a new English phrase that can be used at this time of year!
Transcript
Feifei
Hello. It’s time for The English We Speak, with you, Rob…
Rob
… and you, Feifei. Hello!
Feifei
So, Rob, another year over.
Rob
Yes, goodbye 2019. It’s been a good year, but it’s time for a clear up.
Feifei
Rob’s tidying up! Why, Rob?
Rob
Well, there’s so much junk lying around – let’s clear out the old stuff. I’d like to start the New Year with a tidy office.
Feifei
Oh right – we can say ‘out with the old, in with the new’.
Rob
Out with the old, in with the new. Yep - a good expression, Feifei. You mean leave old things or old ideas behind and start fresh with new things or ideas.
Feifei
I do! It’s often said around New Year.
Rob
Well, I had better get on with getting rid of old things while we hear some examples of this phrase in action…
Examples
It's time for me to get rid of my old boots and buy a new pair. Out with the old, in with the new!
The tech company released their new range last week. I've already bought something. It's out with the old chunky phone and in with the new lightweight touch screen one.
Last year I spent too much time eating cake – but now for 2020, I’m going to join a gym and get fit – it’s out with the old body and in with the new one!
Feifei
You're listening to The English We Speak from BBC Learning English. In this programme, we're looking at the expression 'out with the old, in with the new'. It means getting rid of old ideas or things and starting fresh with new ones. So what new things or ideas shall we have for 2020, Rob?
Rob
Hmmm… Well, for a new thing, I was thinking about some flowers in the studio.
Feifei
Nice.
Rob
And for my new idea, I thought I would start introducing the programme every week – it’s always been you, Feifei!
Feifei
Excuse me, Rob – I’ve always introduced the programme. It’s ladies first! Sorry, I’m not changing that. But actually I was thinking about another change.
Rob
Oh yes, what’s that?
Feifei
A new presenter. As we say – out with old (you, Rob), and in with the new (hi Dan).
Dan
Hi, Feifei!
Rob
Hi!
Feifei
Just joking! Happy New Year, Rob!
Rob
You too.