199.- Double down. Profesor.

Double down

https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2022/ep-220711

Summary

Sometimes, trying to complete something needs extra effort and determination. Neil needs it to finish his heavy workload but luckily Feifei is about to offer some useful words. Will they work?

Transcript

Feifei
Hello and welcome to The English We Speak. I’m Feifei…

Neil
… and I’m Neil. Feifei, you’re very lucky I’m here – I have so much work to do, I haven’t got much time to talk to you.

Feifei
That’s a shame. I like presenting this programme with you.

Neil
Really? Well, that’s nice – let’s get on with it then and afterwards I’ll just get down to some hard work.

Feifei
So, you mean you need to get on with your work. To be honest, Neil, if you have lots to do, maybe you need to double down on your work.

Neil
Double down? Do you mean do my work twice?!

Feifei
Not exactly. When we double down on something, it means we increase our effort to do it – or we do it with more determination. So, I’m saying you need to work harder.

Neil
I already am. Look, I’ve made these examples…

Examples
I need to double down on my revision – I’ve got an exam tomorrow.

We’re going to double down on our work and finish the project by Friday.

You need to double down on your exercise regime – you’re getting unfit!

Feifei
This is The English We Speak from BBC Learning English, and we’re talking about the expression ‘to double down’ on something – which means make extra effort or focus on doing something. So, Neil, do you get it? You need to be more determined to get your work done… put more effort in…

Neil
OK, Feifei, I will double down on my work – but I still think it will take double the amount of time.

Feifei
Excuses! That is a shame because you’re going to miss the office drinks after work.

Neil
Office drinks?! I didn’t know about those. Right, I’m off to do my work now and I’ll be there at the double.

Feifei
‘At the double’ – you mean quickly! Good luck, Neil, I’ll see you later. Bye.

Neil
Bye.