10 TV shows that will help you learn American Conversational English

Television is a useful tool to help a student becoming conversationally fluent in English. A wide variety of television shows expose students to material and situations they may not otherwise encounter. When selecting TV shows to watch, one should seek content that features good grammar, relevant cultural references, and useful information about a country’s culture. In the U.S., there are many quality television shows that possess each of these qualities that are perfect for anyone learning American conversational English.

Want to master American Conversational English? Watch these 1o TV shows.

1) Friends

Lighthearted, witty, and engaging, Friends is a great show for practicing one’s English. Though the last episode aired in 2004, Friends has remained an iconic sitcom due to its relatable characters and engaging plotlines. The actors do a tremendous job of representing average Americans through their actions, opinions, and language. The show utilizes basic language while also referencing many aspects of American culture. For someone learning American conversational English, the 20-minute episodes are the perfect length to avoid overwhelming amounts of foreign language exposure.

2) Prison Break

This gripping thriller shows the uglier side of the American justice system. Though dramatized, many of the themes addressed in the show are real issues. Viewers follow the protagonist as he devises a master plan to help his brother escape from prison. Despite being filmed in America, Prison Break quickly became a worldwide phenomenon. English students will be exposed simultaneously to technical language and street slang, making synonymous phrases apparent. Overall, Prison Break is a great TV series to improve American conversational English!

3) The Simpsons

This show utilizes basic American conversational English to address cultural and political issues in a light, humorous manner. Anyone with a family can relate to the often-dysfunctional Simpsons and find humor in their reckless behavior. More importantly, The Simpsons creates an engaging environment in which the viewer can become familiar with modern and past issues.

4) Stranger Things

This thriller became an instant hit after its release in 2016. Featuring lovable characters and a complex storyline, Stranger Things may quickly become your next addiction. The show takes place in a small town and does a great job capturing some of the unique cultural and linguistic aspects of rural areas. The main characters, primarily children, expose English learners to younger voices , slightly different pronunciations and real life American conversational English

5) The Big Bang Theory

Featuring more cultural references than any other show listed, The Big Bang Theory is excellent for immersing English learners into American culture. This popular comedy presents an interesting dynamic between its distinctive characters, covering a broad spectrum of personality. This feature provides an opportunity for viewers to become familiar with the linguistic styles of both extroverted (social) and introverted (reserved) individuals. The Big Bang Theory also contains a variety of different forms of humor, especially sarcasm.

6) The Office

Considered by many to be one of the funniest shows on television, The Office is full of awkward moments and loveable personalities. None of the characters are particularly extraordinary, making it easy for viewers to relate on a personal level. The show is primarily set in a corporate office, where people of different backgrounds are forced to interact. Although many scenes are overly-dramatic for comedic effect, The Office represents the experiences and struggles of many average Americans, and great insight to real world American conversational English.

7) How I Met Your Mother

Another popular sitcom, How I Met Your Mother chronicles the lives of a group of friends living in urban America. This show exposes viewers to the full spectrum of the American experience, featuring both members of traditional families and lifelong bachelors. Dialogue is kept simple and any obscure cultural references are made clear using props and situational context, providing non-native English speakers ample opportunities to learn new phrases popular in American conversational English

8) Adventure Time

This cartoon is aimed at younger audiences. Bright colors and creative characters are perfect for engaging the children of English learners. However, Adventure Time also addresses deep philosophical issues and features witty dialogue that even adults can appreciate. As it is devoid of racy, mature content, viewers can feel comfortable watching with their family.

9) Saturday Night Live

First airing in 1975, Saturday Night Live has maintained its basic format for over four decades. Starring innumerable pop stars, musicians, politicians, and actors, Saturday Night Live will familiarize English students with important American celebrities. Based on comedic sketches, this show has creative liberty to address topics that may be avoided on traditional television. Oftentimes, guests to the show will poke fun at themselves and others, granting the viewer insight into the issues surrounding pop culture and politics. Additionally, SNL (Saturday Night Live) features reoccurring sketches that address current issues in an entertaining way. For cultural exposure and language learning, few shows provide more opportunities.

10) House of Cards

This hot new drama highlights the career of a ruthless politician who will stop at nothing to acquire power. House of Cards draws clever parallels to current political figures and issues. The show also provides explanations accompanying highly technical political, legal, and business terminology. For English learners wanting to learn vocabulary often used in professional environments, House of Cards is a great choice.