A face for radio

Hello and welcome to the English We Speak from BBC Learning English. I’m Li. Neil. Hey, where is Neil? Although he’s great presenter he’s often late. Oh, here he comes!

Sorry, sorry Li, I’m here now. Sorry, I’m a bit late.

Wow Neil, you look so different today: a suit and tie - what’s happening?

Well, I have to present our video: ‘The Perfect English Gentleman’ it’s called.

That sounds fun. Don’t you want to do it?

Not really.

Why not? You are a great presenter. Everyone loves your voice.

Well, it’s not my voice that’s the problem. Look at this massive, broken nose and spotty skin, my missing teeth, and long greasy hair. Li, I’m pretty ugly. I kept saying to my boss that I have a face for radio, but he insisted I present the video. What can I do?

Did you say you have a face for radio? But you don’t need to show your face as a radio presenter, do you?

That’s exactly the point, Li. If you say someone’s got a good face for radio, it’s an indirect way of saying they are not very good looking!

I see. I like this phrase ‘a face for radio’ - an indirect way of saying someone is not very attractive. Here are some examples:

Jane looked beautiful at her wedding.

Really? She must have had a good make-up artist because, to be honest, she’s got a face for radio.

No one’s going to choose me at this speed-dating event.

Why on earth not? You’re such a warm-hearted guy.

Thanks. But you have to admit, I’ve got a face for radio.

So that’s ‘a face for radio’ - our expression today. Hey Neil, I think I have got a solution for your video presenting problem. How about this for a good opening line? Do you want to hear it?

Go on then.

‘This modern English gentleman has got a face for radio. Just shut your eyes, relax and listen.’

Now you’re making fun of me, Li!

OK, seriously, I think you will be just as good on video as you are in front of a microphone. You have a unique way of saying things which is clear, funny and engaging. What face could beat that!

Thanks Li. I feel a lot more confident now! Just pass me that mirror. Actually I’m not that bad looking, am I?

No, you’re not. You’ve got a face for TV and a voice for radio!

Hey, thanks Li, you’ve made my day!

Bye!