Our selected poem for Valentine's Day 2025: "i carry your heart with me"
Love is timeless. Across centuries, poets and dreamers have attempted to capture its essence in words. But few have expressed love with such intimacy, brevity, simplicity, clarity and tenderness as E. E. Cummings in his iconic poem "i carry your heart with me." More than a poem, "i carry your heart" is a love letter—a declaration that feels as fresh and authentic today as when it was published in 1952.
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
Director, The English Center
Published February 2025
For all the reasons above, this poem is popular as a reading at weddings and has, no doubt, appeared in many valentine's cards. In this post, we'll briefly explore the life of this remarkable poet, his rule-breaking use of language, and why his most famous love poem remains an enduring message about the heart’s deepest promise.
Please note that unusual spacing, lack of upper case letters, etc. are characteristic of Cummings' work. These elements are as integral to his story as his choice of words.
Table of contents
[i carry your heart with me(i carry it in]
i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear;and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you
here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart
i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)
ee cummings 1952
E. E. (Edward Estlin) Cummings was born in 1894 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, into a family that encouraged intellectual curiosity, social responsibility, and individuality. His father was a Harvard professor in the fledgling department of sociology, as well as a Unitarian minister at a leading Boston Congregationalist Church.
As a child, Cummings wrote a poem a day, and at Harvard, he excelled in literature and began experimenting with language and form. His life took a dramatic turn during World War I, when he volunteered to drive an ambulance in France. (This wartime assignment was often chosen by those who considered themselves pacifists.) While there, he was arrested and interned in a French detention camp for several months due to his outspoken views on the war. He was only released due to his influential father's entreaties. As a result of that internment, he wrote his first published first book, The Enormous Room. This experience deepened his belief in freedom and individuality—values that would define his poetry.
Want to read the book? You can download The Enormous Room for free at the Gutenberg Project.
After returning to the U.S., Cummings pursued a life of art, writing nearly 3,000 poems, painting, and traveling extensively. His work, often focused on love, nature, and human connection, broke every poetic rule and created a new kind of beauty. Cummings died in 1964.
E. E. Cummings was an inquisitive and playful free-thinker; his innovative, experimental style changed how we think about language and how it can be used to express emotion. How Cummings poetry breaks the rules to create intimacy and simplicity. For example:
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Cummings often merged words or created new expressions to evoke fresh emotions. His poems feel spontaneous and conversational, but every word is carefully chosen. His rejection of formal grammar allows his poetry to move freely, much like love itself.
This poem has become a cultural touchstone for weddings, love letters, and personal declarations. Its simplicity makes it universally accessible, while its emotional depth keeps readers coming back to it again and again. In a world full of fleeting connections, "i carry your heart with me" reminds us of the power of enduring love—a love that transcends time, space, and circumstance.
As you celebrate love this Valentine’s Day, let this poem inspire you. Share it with someone you love, write it in a card, or simply carry its words in your heart. Because love isn’t something we find. It’s something we carry—always.
For another dimension of the poem, experience it in song with Michael Hedges.
Copyright Credit: the poem, (more or less) as it appears on the Poetry Foundation page: “[i carry your heart with me(i carry it in]” Copyright 1952, © 1980, 1991 by the Trustees for the E. E. Cummings Trust, from Complete Poems: 1904-1962 by E. E. Cummings, edited by George J. Firmage. Source: Complete Poems: 1904-1962 (Liveright Publishing Corporation, 1991)
EE Cummings Free Poetry Archive
Poetry Foundation: EE Cummings
Historic Image EE Cummings: Wikimedia Commons
Looking for a more Shakespearean flavor of romance? Check out our post, Romeo and Juliet.
Or read our post, Shakespeare's Language of Love.
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About the author:
Brenda de Jong-Pauley is the founder of The English Center in the Netherlands, where she has worked with international professionals since 2009. Originally from the United States, she lives and works in the Netherlands, supporting professionals in developing clear, confident English for real business situations.
Brenda holds a Master’s degree in Psychology (focused on persuasive communication) and a Bachelor’s in Education. She specializes in high-level business communication and spoken English.
The English Center is a CEDEO-recognized training provider, working with professionals and teams from international and Dutch companies and municipalities.
This English-Dutch Vocabulary List B1-C1 presents 75 commonly used words at three CEFR levels (25 words per level): B1 Intermediate, B2 Upper Intermediate & C1 Advanced. Each word includes its part of speech, Dutch translation, and an example sentence to ensure clarity and usability.
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
Director, The English Center
Published February 2025
If you are looking for a vocabulary book, we recommend the Cambridge In Use Series.
Are you a Nederlander who is interested in improving your English accent?
Do you want to read about some funny mistakes that Nederlanders make in English?
The English Center. Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses.
About the author:
Brenda de Jong-Pauley is the founder of The English Center in the Netherlands, where she has worked with international professionals since 2009. Originally from the United States, she lives and works in the Netherlands, supporting professionals in developing clear, confident English for real business situations.
Brenda holds a Master’s degree in Psychology (focused on persuasive communication) and a Bachelor’s in Education. She specializes in high-level business communication and spoken English.
The English Center is a CEDEO-recognized training provider, working with professionals and teams from international and Dutch companies and municipalities.
Waarom Privé Bedrijfs Engels Training de Slimste Keuze is voor Nederlanders
Bedrijfs Engels (soms ook Zakelijk Engels genoemd) is de Engelse taal die wordt gebruikt in professionele omgevingen. Denk aan vergaderingen, e-mails, onderhandelingen en klantgesprekken. In Nederland spreken de meeste professionals al redelijk goed Engels (B1/B2-niveau), maar willen ze hun vaardigheden verfijnen om zelfverzekerd, professioneel en natuurlijk te klinken.
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
Director, The English Center
Published January 2025
Maar hoe verbeter je deze vaardigheden zonder tijd te verspillen aan een standaardcursus? Het antwoord: gepersonaliseerde coaching die zich richt op wat jij écht nodig hebt.
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Veel Nederlanders denken aan een groepscursus als ze hun Engels willen verbeteren. Maar als je al een degelijke basis hebt, is zo’n one-size-fits-all aanpak vaak te breed. Iedereen in de groep heeft een ander niveau, andere functie, en andere leerbehoeften. Wat jij écht nodig hebt, is een trainer die zich richt op jouw specifieke doelen.
Bekijk onze cursussen zakelijk Engels
Nederlanders staan bekend om hun sterke Engelse vaardigheden, maar veel professionals voelen zich onzeker over hun uitspraak, zakelijke toon en woordkeuze. Een goed niveau Engels is geen luxe; het is een must als je internationaal werkt of carrière wilt maken.
Maar hoe zorg je ervoor dat je echt vooruitgang boekt? Standaard groepscursussen leren je wat iedereen leert, maar privétraining richt zich op jouw persoonlijke doelen en uitdagingen.
Snel verbeteren met een spoedcursus
Bekijk onze locaties in Nederland
Elke professional heeft andere uitdagingen. Een privétrainer, altijd een native speaker, stemt de lesstof af op jouw specifieke behoeften.* Waarom uren verspillen aan algemene lessen als je kunt focussen op wat jij écht nodig hebt?
✔ Jouw doelen staan centraal – Wil je beter netwerken, presenteren of onderhandelen? Jouw trainer past zich aan. ✔ Persoonlijke feedback – Directe correcties helpen je sneller vooruit. ✔ Flexibiliteit – Je plant lessen wanneer het jou uitkomt. ✔ Geen steenkool Engels! – Werk aan een natuurlijkere uitspraak en vermijd “te Nederlands” klinken.
Met privé coaching boek je sneller en effectiever vooruitgang. Plan een vrijblijvende intake afspraak en ontdek hoe maatwerk training jouw carrière kan versterken!, omdat alle lessen zijn afgestemd op jouw werkveld, rol en persoonlijke uitdagingen.
Een-op-een training biedt een gerichte aanpak voor essentiële zakelijke vaardigheden:
1. Spreekvaardigheid en vloeiendheid
2. Uitspraak en accentreductie
3. Professionele e-mails en rapporten
4. Diplomatie en culturele nuances
Deze vaardigheden zijn essentieel in een internationale werkomgeving, en een privétrainer helpt je om ze doelgericht te ontwikkelen.
Een privétrainer is meer dan een leraar. Het is een mentor die je helpt groeien in je carrière. Denk aan een financial controller die technische jargon beheerst, maar moeite heeft met informeel Engels in gesprekken met collega’s. Of een manager die te direct klinkt en subtielere, diplomatieke taal moet leren.
Een-op-een coaching helpt je:
Privétraining met een native speaker zorgt ervoor dat je zelfverzekerd en professioneel communiceert. Veel bedrijven vergoeden deze trainingen omdat ze het cruciaal vinden dat hun medewerkers effectief in het Engels communiceren. Wij kunnen een voorstel opstellen dat je kunt delen met je HR-afdeling of manager. Bovendien zijn wij CEDEO-erkend, wat door sommige bedrijven als vereiste wordt gesteld.. Neem contact met ons op en start vandaag nog met jouw gepersonaliseerde training! ongeacht de situatie of gesprekspartner.
📞 Bel ons direct → +31 20 823 0569
Je Engels verbeteren is geen luxe, het is een noodzaak in de internationale zakenwereld. Een standaardcursus leert je wat iedereen leert—maar jij hebt unieke uitdagingen en doelen.
Met een privétrainer werk je gericht aan jouw Bedrijfs Engels vaardigheden, terwijl je profiteert van maatwerkondersteuning die direct aansluit bij je functie en werkcontext., zodat je sneller vooruitgang boekt en met vertrouwen communiceert. Wacht niet langer en investeer in je toekomst met maatwerk Bedrijfs Engels training! 🚀
Bekijk onze cursussen zakelijk Engels
Duizenden tevreden leerlingen gingen je sinds 2009 voor
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Over de auteur:
Brenda de Jong-Pauley is de oprichter van The English Center in Nederland, waar ze sinds 2009 werkt met internationale professionals. Oorspronkelijk afkomstig uit de Verenigde Staten, woont en werkt ze in Nederland, waar ze professionals ondersteunt bij het ontwikkelen van helder en zelfverzekerd Engels voor echte zakelijke situaties.
Brenda heeft een masterdiploma in Psychologie (met focus op overtuigende communicatie) en een bachelor in Onderwijs. Ze is gespecialiseerd in hoogwaardige zakelijke communicatie en gesproken Engels.
The English Center is een CEDEO-erkende opleidingsaanbieder die werkt met professionals en teams van internationale en Nederlandse bedrijven en gemeenten.
20 Practical Tips With Example Phrases. Business English conversation skills are essential for building relationships, networking, and making a positive impression. Whether you’re greeting colleagues before a meeting or following up after, the right words can help you connect professionally and set the tone for success. Here is a mini-lesson with 20 easy-to-use Business English conversation tips, each with three example phrases you can start using right away.
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
Director, The English Center
Published January 2025
Would you like to improve your spoken Business English with personalized conversation training for professionals?
Business English conversation includes all the spoken interactions in the workplace, from high-stakes meetings and negotiations to casual chats with colleagues and clients. It covers formal and informal communication, helping professionals speak clearly, confidently, and appropriately in any business setting—from the boardroom to the break room.
Meetings aren’t just about agendas and decisions—they’re also about building relationships. What you say before and after the formal discussion can help you network, establish rapport, and leave a great impression. If you ever struggle with small talk in Business English, these tips will help you feel more confident and natural in professional conversations.
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
Your greeting sets the tone for the conversation, so it’s important to choose the right level of formality. “Hello” is the safest and most professional option, making it ideal for formal meetings or first-time encounters. “Hi” is slightly more relaxed but still perfectly professional for most business settings, especially with colleagues or familiar contacts. “Hey” is the most casual and is best reserved for close colleagues or informal office settings. If you’re unsure, start with “Hello”—you can always adjust your tone based on how the other person responds.
Alternatively, use "good morning / afternoon / evening." These always work!
As a rule, you will want to avoid political news. Industry relevant news is a good, safe bet. (a good choice)
A sincere compliment is always appreciated!
Ask about their work-life balance.
Do you want to make a fast improvement? Explore our Intensive Business English training, available online and in person in the Netherlands. Always with a native-speaker trainer!
If you found these tips interesting, you might like to take this test. It's all about common idioms in spoken English.
Mastering business English conversation isn’t just about what you say—it’s also about how you say it.
It's about understanding the unspoken rules of workplace communication. In international settings, cultural differences can make small talk, greetings, and follow-ups more complex. What’s seen as friendly in one culture might feel too informal in another, and some professionals prefer to keep business and personal conversations completely separate! But you always need small talk, so if you find yourself in a unfamiliar context, you can try the following.
When you're in a new workplace and/or a new culture, a good rule of thumb is to start with observation, and adjust your style based on the behavior of others. Pay attention to their language, tone, and level of formality, and let it guide your social style while still being your authentic self. That can be hard, but with practice, you can find the right compromise.
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Want to speak more naturally and confidently in business settings? Would you like to get more Business English Conversation Tips plus training? Our expert-led courses help professionals communicate smoothly, whether in meetings, networking, or everyday work situations.
Browse our Business English Course options
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Not sure what to do next? Contact us! We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch.
About the author:
Brenda de Jong-Pauley is the founder of The English Center in the Netherlands, where she has worked with international professionals since 2009. Originally from the United States, she lives and works in the Netherlands, supporting professionals in developing clear, confident English for real business situations.
Brenda holds a Master’s degree in Psychology (focused on persuasive communication) and a Bachelor’s in Education. She specializes in high-level business communication and spoken English.
The English Center is a CEDEO-recognized training provider, working with professionals and teams from international and Dutch companies and municipalities.
Advanced Business English Training: Speak Like a Leader
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
Director, The English Center;
January 2025
In today’s European workplace – confident, professional English communication is highly valued. Whether you’re leading a meeting, negotiating a deal, or delivering a presentation, your ability to speak English like a leader is not an extra – it's expected.
But for non-native speakers, even those with strong English skills, a professional level of English is not easy to achieve. Fossilized errors, lack of confidence, a strong accent, and cultural habits can hold you back. That’s where advanced business English training comes in.
Advanced Business English training Is definitely not focused on grammar and vocabulary (though these may play a part) —it’s about refining your communication, sounding professional, and commanding respect in every interaction.
A recent Trustpilot Review for The English Center. Thank you, Montse!
If you want to speak like a leader, focus on these high-level communication skills:
Leaders speak with clarity and confidence. Advanced training helps you:
Sounding professional isn’t about using complicated words—it’s about using the right words. Training helps you:
Great leaders get their message across quickly and effectively. Learn how to:
Strong English skills help you navigate tough workplace situations with confidence. In advanced training, you’ll learn:
Even if your grammar is perfect, non-native pronunciation can really hold you back. Training can help you:
If you’re serious about improving your professional English skills, consider a private training program designed for non-native speakers. The English Center offers several options:
Weekly Business English Course
Perfect for professionals who want to develop skills over time while working.
Intensive Business English Course
Ideal if you need to upgrade your English quickly for a new job, promotion, or important event.
Corporate Business English Training
CEDEO-erkend, customized training that's perfect for companies that want their employees to communicate more effectively in English. Ask us for a proposal.
We offer flexible training options to suit your needs. Meet your native-speaker trainer online or attend face to face classes at one of our three locations in the Netherlands:
No matter where you are, you can enhance your business English skills in a way that fits your location and schedule. Contact us about quality online training.
Yes, our Amsterdam & Den Haag based Business English trainer teams serve both our face to face and online clients.
Yes, our courses are CEDEO-erkend.
Strong communication is one of the greatest keys to professional success. Whether you’re preparing for a career move, a leadership role, or an important presentation, investing in advanced business English training will give you the clarity, confidence, and credibility you need to stand out.
Take the next step today. Explore our courses and start your journey to professional English excellence. Ready to get started?
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Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses
What do our clients think about us? Just click the TrustPilot icon to read some reviews.
About the author:
Brenda de Jong-Pauley is the founder of The English Center in the Netherlands, where she has worked with international professionals since 2009. Originally from the United States, she lives and works in the Netherlands, supporting professionals in developing clear, confident English for real business situations.
Brenda holds a Master’s degree in Psychology (focused on persuasive communication) and a Bachelor’s in Education. She specializes in high-level business communication and spoken English.
Edited by A. Roberts, BA, English Trainer.
The English Center is a CEDEO-recognized training provider, working with professionals and teams from international and Dutch companies and municipalities.
In this post, "Funny English mistakes Dutch speakers make," we examine a few of the most common examples of Dunglish, and tell you why these mistakes are mistakes, and how to easily fix them!
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
Director, The English Center
Published January 2025
Wil je je Engels snel verbeteren?
Learning English as a second language has its challenges, its pleasures, and its moments of laughter. As we all know, when we speak a language that is not our own, we will make mistakes. Lots of mistakes! So when you speak your second language, whatever language that is, be sure to keep your sense of humor and don’t let little mistakes get you down. But what the heck is Dunglish?
"Dunglish" is a linguistic blend that combines the words "Dutch" and "English" into a single, new word. We call this kind of word formation, "blending." Blending happens when parts of two words are fused to create a new word, often capturing the essence of both original terms. In this case, "Dunglish" humorously describes the mix of Dutch and English, typically characterized by direct translations, grammatical errors, or idiomatic mismatches.
Dunglish is a humorous and lighthearted term, often highlighting the challenges Dutch speakers face when learning or using English, and it reflects the influence of Dutch linguistic structures on English sentence construction. While Dunglish can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, it’s generally viewed as an endearing and amusing part of language learning.
Common mistakes come primarily from direct translations or misleading patterns—things that make perfect sense in Dutch or any other L1 (first language), but sound comical to native speakers. These errors may go unnoticed by you for decades, but to an English ear, they really stand out. And although the person you are conversing will probably not correct you, they may still have a little suppressed chuckle at your expense. If you want corrections, you need an English trainer and a spoken English course.
Full disclosure: Of course, when English speakers speak Dutch, we know you Nederlanders are falling out of your klompen laughing at us. So it’s not that we feel superior. You Dutchies kick our butts at the language game. You win! But just allow us this little bit of friendly fun, OK?
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Why it’s funny: This is a direct translation of the Dutch "Jij hebt mij iets geleerd." But in English, the verbs learn and teach aren’t interchangeable, and this particular mistake is associated with hillbillies of low intelligence and even less education. It’s a real stinker. What you should say: "You taught me something."
Quick tip: Remember: Learn is what you do, and teach is what someone does for you. You can also remember that “Learners learn and teachers teach.” And although we could enter a philosophical discussion about how much one learns when one is teaching, this is not the time or place. Let’s move on…
Why it’s funny: In Dutch, serie is singular, but in English, the word series serves as both the singular and plural form. What you should say: "I am watching a series."
Quick tip: Always use series, whether you’re referring to one TV or streaming show, or many. A series (one series) – or several series, it’s the same.
Why it’s funny: To English speakers, “ID” (pronounced eye-dee) only refers to identification, like a passport or driver’s license. Saying this when you mean “idea” is a clear and funny pronunciation error. The added “r” that makes the word sound like “eye-dear” is related to the next sound, (It’s called a linking or intrusive r) but just don’t add it, OK? It sounds especially bad in the American ear. What you should say: "I have a good idea."
Quick tip: This word has 3 syllables and the stress is in the middle: eye-D-uh. The last syllable is expressed as a schwa (-uh).
Why it’s funny: This is a literal translation from Dutch ("Hoe noem je dit?"). In English, the structure is different. What you should say: "What do you call this?" or “What is that called?” Or simply say, “What is this / that?”
Quick tip: Start your questions with “what” when asking for the name of something in English.
Why it’s funny: The verb discuss already includes the meaning of “about,” so adding it is unnecessary and ungrammatical. What you should say: "Let’s discuss it."
Quick tip: If you want to use “about it,” then say, “Let’s talk about it.”
Why it’s funny: Without the proper adverb suffix of -ly (strangely), this word sounds incomplete or ungrammatical. What you should say: "She looked at me strangely."
Quick tip: Use an adverb (usually ending in -ly) to describe verbs (action words), but use an adjective to describe a noun. “The strange man looked at me strangely.”
Why it’s funny: “I’m boring” means that you are a boring person. That you are dull. But what you probably want to say is that you find something or someone uninteresting and as a result, you feel bored. What you should say: "I’m bored."
Quick tip: Use boring to describe something or someone else, and bored to describe how you feel. “He is so boring. He is boring me. I am so bored.”
Why it’s funny: “Advice” is uncountable in English, so adding an “-s” sounds unnatural. What you should say: "I need some advice."
Quick tip: Treat “advice” like “information”— it’s uncountable, so you should never try to make it “sound plural.” But also be aware there is a verb, “advises,” that is used in the third person singular, present tense. “The dean advises students about their academic performance. He advises lots of students.” In this usage, the “Ss” are pronounced like “Zs.”
Why it’s funny: The double past tense (with did and went) sounds wrong. So wrong. What you should say is: "I didn’t go there."
Quick tip: Use the base form of the verb after did in negative sentences. And hey, this rule also applies to questions. "Did you go there? I did not go there." But... "Yes, I went there."
Why it’s funny: English doesn’t use “am” with “agree.” We do not use “am, is, or are” with a verb in the present simple tense. You would not say “I am walk” or “I am talk,” right? This is the same. What you should say is simply: "I agree."
Quick tip: “I agree” is perfect. Like the very popular thumbs up. But in a formal situation, you can use the more elegant phrase, “I am in agreement.” Finally, you could say, “I am agreeing with you.” We DO use a form of “to be” with the continuous form of the verb.
We hope you enjoyed our article: "Funny English Mistakes Dutch Speakers Make." Correcting these little mistakes can greatly improve how professional your English sounds. The good news is that most of these errors are just habits you’ve picked up through the years, or they come from direct translation. In any case, habits can be changed. It all starts with awareness.
Want to improve your English? Our tailored English courses are designed to help Dutch and other speakers overcome big and small language challenges. Sign up for our weekly English course today and take the first step toward better English in the new year!
Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses
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About the author:
Brenda de Jong-Pauley is the founder of The English Center in the Netherlands, where she has worked with international professionals since 2009. Originally from the United States, she lives and works in the Netherlands, supporting professionals in developing clear, confident English for real business situations.
Brenda holds a Master’s degree in Psychology (focused on persuasive communication) and a Bachelor’s in Education. She specializes in high-level business communication and spoken English.
The English Center is a CEDEO-recognized training provider, working with professionals and teams from international and Dutch companies and municipalities.
Finding the right location for your English course is important. With English training in Amstelveen, you will experience a combination of friendly comfort, convenience, and effective English training tailored just for you – and always with a native-speaker trainer.
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
Director, The English Center
Published December 2024
The English Center was founded in Amstelveen in 2009, and we are proud of our long-standing commitment to excellence. Over the years, we have earned recognition for the quality of our courses, as demonstrated by our CEDEO certification and excellent reviews on TrustPilot. These reflect our dedication to providing top-tier English training that meets the needs of our clients, whether they're Dutch or Expats living or working near Amstelveen.
Let’s begin a conversation about improving your English today!
Go to our Amstelveen location page to view The English Center on Google Maps.
Take the next step in your English training journey with The English Center in Amstelveen. Schedule a free introductory meeting with our director, Brenda de Jong Pauley, MA, to discuss your goals and how we can help you achieve them. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or book a free trial lesson. Our team is here to help you reach your goals in a convenient, accessible, and serene setting.
Or give us a call. We are happy to speak with you! Call +31 20 823 0569 to speak to Brenda about your English language goals.
Driving to your lessons has never been easier. Our Amstelveen location provides free, hassle-free parking—a significant advantage for clients traveling from nearby cities such as Hoofddorp, Haarlem, Badhoevedorp, Diemen, Ouderkerk, Uithoorn, Laren, Hilversum, Huizen, Bussum, Blaricum, and Aalsmeer. Forget the stress of Amsterdam’s congestion and expensive, hard-to-find parking.
Public transport users will appreciate the accessibility of tram #25 and several buses (check your transport app), both stopping at the Poortwachter halte—just a three-minute walk from our center. Arriving for your English training couldn’t be easier.
For all you bikers, this location is ideal, with a bike path just minutes away. Enjoy a pleasant ride through Amstelveen’s green surroundings on your way to your lessons.
Escape the hustle & bustle of Amsterdam, and immerse yourself in Amstelveen’s calm atmosphere. Surrounded by lush parks and greenery, our location provides an inspiring setting to focus on your English training goals. Whether you take a break to walk in the nearby park or simply enjoy the view, the environment enhances your learning experience.
At The English Center in Amstelveen, you’ll find comfortable classrooms tailored specifically for adult learners. Our quiet spaces are designed to foster concentration and effective communication, ensuring you feel supported and motivated during every session. Customized training is available to meet your specific goals, from Business English to everyday fluency.
Our location isn’t just about learning—it’s about convenience too. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the Amstelveen Stadshart, a community hub with excellent shopping and dining options, as well as the renowned Cobra Museum of Modern Art. Enjoy movies and cafes before or after your lesson. Or visit the library above the excellent Venstra Book Store.
Do you prefer nature? Then unwind with a walk in one of Amstelveen's beautiful parks after your English training session. The large Middenhoven Park is right by our center.
We understand that our clients have busy lives, which is why we offer both day and evening course options. Whether you prefer to study during the day or after work, our flexible scheduling ensures you can find a time that fits your lifestyle. This flexibility allows you to focus on learning without compromising your other commitments.
To meet the diverse needs of our clients, we offer hybrid courses that allow you to combine in-person English training at our Amstelveen location with online appointments. This flexible approach ensures that you can maintain consistency in your learning schedule. With hybrid learning, you get the best of both worlds: face-to-face interaction with your instructor and the convenience of online sessions.
Our in-company training solutions are CEDEO-erkend and tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses in Amstelveen and the surrounding areas. Whether your team needs to improve Business English communication, prepare for international collaborations, or enhance overall fluency, our native-speaker trainers deliver customized training directly at your workplace. This service allows your employees to benefit from expert instruction at your office, making it a convenient and effective option for busy professionals. Visit our in-company training page to learn more.
Over the years, The English Center has had the privilege of working with many Japanese business professionals and their families. Amstelveen is home to a significant Japanese community, with many residing here due to the presence of prominent Japanese companies such as Nikon, Canon, and JTI. Additionally, the Dutch & Japanese Trade Federation (DUJAT) is based in Amstelveen, further strengthening ties between the two countries. The city even enjoys a sister-city relationship with a city in Japan, underscoring its welcoming environment for Japanese residents. Our experience with Japanese clients ensures that we understand their unique needs and goals, providing tailored support for business communication, cultural adaptation, and personal growth. This includes specialized Business English training with our native-speaker trainers.
Our Amstelveen center is perfect for:
Can I call The English Center? Sure! You can call us at +31 20 823 0569. We’re happy to speak with you in English or Dutch. Let’s talk!
Or fill in our contact form if you prefer an email response.
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About the author:
Brenda de Jong-Pauley is the founder of The English Center in the Netherlands, where she has worked with international professionals since 2009. Originally from the United States, she lives and works in the Netherlands, supporting professionals in developing clear, confident English for real business situations.
Brenda holds a Master’s degree in Psychology (focused on persuasive communication) and a Bachelor’s in Education. She specializes in high-level business communication and spoken English.
The English Center is a CEDEO-recognized training provider, working with professionals and teams from international and Dutch companies and municipalities.
This article provides some answers to the questions: "How can I improve my Business English fast, and Is now the right time?" In this post – which is aimed at B1 and higher level speakers – we consider the typical Business English speaker here in the Netherlands, the triggers that motivate them to improve their English, and how to best achieve that improvement.
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
Director, The English Center
December 2024
Why choose an intensive Business English course?
If you want the fastest possible progress, intensive courses offer total focus, daily interaction, and rapid feedback. Our customized Intensive Business English Courses in the Netherlands are ideal for professionals who need to improve quickly for interviews, client meetings, or leadership communication.
Are you ready to begin improving today?
The English Center provides high quality, CEDEO-erkend Business English courses. Our native-speaker trainers work with clients in Amsterdam, The Hague, Amstelveen, Hoofddorp, and online. We can usually begin your customized speed course within about one week. You can begin with an online meeting. This appointment is completely free and with no obligation.
In the Netherlands, most people speak pretty good English, and many professionals already use English every day at work. Their English is unquestionably intermediate to advanced level. And yet these professionals often feel self critical and embarrassed, aware that they are repeating the same old grammar and pronunciation errors they've had since high school, and struggling to concisely and quickly express their ideas. They never feel fully good enough. They never feel really confident.
If this resonates with you, you may have wondered how to improve your Business English fast and efficiently (yes, we know you're busy!) – how to achieve the higher English level that you really want. If this sounds like you, it might be time to take action and break through to the next level of business English fluency.
In this article, we’ll explore actionable strategies and proven methods for improving your business English fast, getting you on the road to the near-native proficiency that is probably your ultimate goal. Of course, some methods are faster than others.
If you experience one or more of these situations, you may be ready for the next step in your English journey:
Do you see yourself in any of these scenarios? Yes? Well, as we say in psychology, recognizing that you need help is the first step to getting better!
If you're unsure whether an intensive course is the right fit, read: Is an Intensive English Course Right for Me?
Contact The English Center today!
Fossilized errors are mistakes that have become ingrained (=habituated) through repetition over time. They often occur because you’ve never been corrected or you’ve picked up bad habits from colleagues or peers who also speak English as a second language. Common examples include:
While these errors may seem minor, they can:
The good news? Fossilized errors can be corrected—with the right approach. Yes, you can improve your Business English fast, but it does take focused attention and building new, correct habits that are stronger than your old habits.
Another common problem is a lack of vocabulary: just not enough words to express yourself. This problem can be signalled by the need for mental translation during speaking, and indicates that you don't have enough words and phrases in your productive vocabulary. In other words, while you may have good reading comprehension, your ability to spontaneously produce (spoken) words may be weak.
A structured, intensive course provides the fastest results. Unlike self-study, intensive training identifies and corrects your specific weaknesses, transforming your communication. Keep reading because in the next section you can find out how an intensive course can transform your English skills quickly.
An experienced coach provides immediate feedback, helping you refine your skills with precision. One-on-one sessions are particularly effective for advanced learners. While this is not as fast as an intensive course, if you commit, you will certainly make progress. Contact us about private quality weekly training with a native-speaker trainer.
Focus. On. Words. Learn the vocabulary that you need the most. Sometimes that's sector specific jargon, but often it's advanced vocabulary that you never learned or you've just forgotten. Read advanced business writing, analyze the language, and incorporate new phrases into your communication. Or choose a vocabulary book.
We recommend the English Vocabulary in Use series from Cambridge. If you are already intermediate to advanced, the upper intermediate and advanced volumes are good choices.
Record yourself speaking during presentations or meetings. Listening back can reveal repeated errors or areas for improvement that you might miss in real time. But this only works if you can identify the errors and figure out how to fix them. You could combine this with number 2 above, vocabulary study.
Many intermediate and advanced learners use self-study media, like movies, books or apps. While these methods certainly help support your skills (and give you some much deserved recreation ;-), they cannot address habituated mistakes. Watching, listening and reading are receptive activities. Without productive activities (speaking and writing) – with realtime corrections from an expert – your fossilized errors will persist, holding you back from true fluency.
But if you do want an app, ask us! We have an excellent language app that provides both receptive and productive (spoken English) feedback.
A targeted, intensive course is the fastest, most dependable way to make significant progress. Here’s how:
Curious about what you'll actually cover? Read What Will I Learn in My Intensive English Course?
Our Intensive Business English Course is specifically designed to help professionals like you break through language barriers and transform your English communication.
If you need to improve your general English fast (without the business focus), take a look at our Intensive English Course.
Improving your Business English fast is possible, but it requires a targeted, focused approach. For professionals who are serious about taking their skills from good to excellent or near-native, the key is breaking through fossilized errors and transforming your communication into something concise, elegant, and correct.
A high-quality, intensive course provides the structure and feedback needed to achieve this transformation. Ready to take the next step? Contact us today and discover how our Intensive Business English Course can help you reach your goals.
"How Can I Improve my Business English Fast?" by Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center.
Published December 2024
About the author:
Brenda de Jong-Pauley is the founder of The English Center in the Netherlands, where she has worked with international professionals since 2009. Originally from the United States, she lives and works in the Netherlands, supporting professionals in developing clear, confident English for real business situations.
Brenda holds a Master’s degree in Psychology (focused on persuasive communication) and a Bachelor’s in Education. She specializes in high-level business communication and spoken English.
The English Center is a CEDEO-recognized training provider, working with professionals and teams from international and Dutch companies and municipalities.
Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses
What do our clients think about us? Just click the TrustPilot icon to read some reviews.
In 2024, proficiency in Business English is no longer a professional plus, it's a career must! Whether closing international deals, presenting to diverse audiences, or just chatting with colleagues over coffee, effective communication in English is expected. But where did this Business English history begin?
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
Director, The English Center
December 2024
Develop your Business English with us!
This blog explores the history of Business English and Business English courses, tracing their journey from inception to their current role in empowering modern professionals, from interns to CEOs.
Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
Before the rise of Business English as a distinct discipline, language learning was primarily academic in nature. English was usually taught through the study of classic literature, grammar drills, and translation exercises. Access to language education was highly stratified into:
The transition from the academic, book-centric model to practical Business English training marked a democratization of language learning. As commerce expanded, so did the recognition that language proficiency was essential for broader economic participation.
Business English courses began emerging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coinciding with the rise of global trade. As Britain and the United States dominated commerce, the demand for non-native speakers to acquire basic English communication skills surged.
Historically, the Dutch have been quite proficient in English. Their maritime and trade traditions necessitated communication with other nations, particularly England. During the Dutch Golden Age (17th century), the Netherlands was a hub of international commerce and diplomacy, and therefore, fertile ground for multilingualism.
It follows, then, that the Dutch education system has long emphasized foreign languages, including English, as a critical skill for global engagement. The close linguistic relationship between Dutch and English, both Germanic languages, also makes learning English easier for Dutch speakers. In modern times, the role of English in media, business, and academia has further cemented the Dutch reputation for excellent English proficiency.
English for Specific Purposes (ESP) emerged in the 1960s as a branch of English language teaching, tailored to the specific linguistic and professional needs of learners in fields like business, science, technology, medicine, law, manufacturing, and healthcare. ESP was a response to the growing need for precise communication skills in specialized fields.
The late 20th century saw the inclusion of cultural awareness in Business English curricula. Learners were taught how to navigate cultural differences, adapt to diverse business practices, and approach negotiations with sensitivity. Role-plays, simulations, and interactive discussions became standard features of these programs.
English cemented its role as the global business language by the mid-20th century, driven by post-World War II globalization and the spread of multinational organizations. Early courses focused on practical skills like writing formal correspondence, negotiating terms, and handling trade documentation.
The term blended learning first came into use in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It emerged when educational institutions, companies and organizations began integrating online and digital learning components into traditional in-classroom instruction.
Blended learning is a "best of both worlds" scenario, combining traditional, face-to-face instruction with digital tools and online resources, creating a rich, flexible learning experience that reimagines "homework." This approach allows learners to independently practice language skills through interactive exercises, videos, apps, etc. while enjoying the advantages of in person training.
In 21st-century Europe, Business English has become a cornerstone of professional success, driven by the region's diverse linguistic landscape and interconnected economies. As English solidifies its position as the common language for cross-border trade, collaboration, and diplomacy, demand for Business English training has grown, especially among professionals in industries like finance, technology, and manufacturing.
European businesses increasingly prioritize employees' proficiency in English in order to maintain competitiveness in global markets. Additionally, the rise of remote work and international partnerships has heightened the need for clear and effective communication in English.
Business English courses in Europe now emphasize not only language fluency, but also cultural sensitivity, soft skills, and industry-specific terminology, thus ensuring that learners are prepared to navigate complex international business environments. Customized In Company courses allow businesses to train teams with the exact content and skills they need. Where there's not a need for group training, HR departments and managers often refer employees for company-paid, private training.
According to the 2024 edition of the EF English Proficiency Index, the Netherlands has retained the top spot for the sixth consecutive year, indicating the highest proficiency in English as a second language among non-native speaking countries.
The digital revolution transformed Business English training. E-learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and language apps now make education accessible to professionals worldwide. Zoom and Google Meet enable online programs, while AI-driven apps like Grammarly and EnglishCentral's VRT Voice Recognition Technology provide real-time feedback.
Today’s business English courses are often highly personalized, beginning with a detailed needs assessment. Training programs at institutions like The English Center start with a free online intake appointment and focus on the specific requirements of learners, tailoring content to industries, roles, and proficiency levels. Blended learning, which combines in-person sessions with digital tools, has become a preferred approach.
One-on-one training remains a cornerstone of effective Business English instruction. This approach offers several advantages:
For business professionals, personalized training ensures that their learning aligns directly with their job requirements, such as preparing for a high-stakes presentation or honing negotiation skills. This targeted approach fosters confidence and competence in real-world scenarios.
Prior to the Covid pandemic, remote training was widely available, but was often seen as an inferior alternative to in person training. For the most part, it was associated with big platforms offering uninspiring, pre-packaged, low quality content.
But with the arrival of lockdowns, many learners turned to online lessons with emergent platforms such as Zoom. And many of them have never gone back! The advantages of online learning became clear: convenience, savings (of cost and time). Not to mention avoiding weather and traffic issues.
As the pandemic receded and lockdowns were lifted, many learners returned to the classroom, hungry for human to human contact. But others chose to stay online, having found that the plusses of online outweighed the negatives.
By 2024, with the pandemic thoroughly in the rear view mirror, we see another trend emerging: hybrid courses. In this model, clients choose a mix of online and in person course hours, enabling them to enjoy the human connectedness of in person training combined with the convenience and savings of an online course.
Native-speaker trainers bring invaluable skills to Business English course training, particularly for professionals who need to communicate effectively in spoken English. Key benefits include:
The move from written to spoken English has been one of the most significant developments in Business English training. In the past, courses primarily addressed the ability to write emails, reports, and contracts. Today, however, professionals must “produce” English fluently and clearly to be understood, persuasive, and socially appropriate in business interactions.
For learners and educators:
The evolution of Business English courses mirrors the shifting needs of the global business landscape. From basic trade communication to advanced, tech-driven programs that incorporate cultural intelligence, personalized instruction, and spoken fluency, business English has become an essential tool for professionals worldwide.
At The English Center, we deliver quality 1:1 training with native-speaker expertise. We believe that, as the trend toward spoken communication continues, personalized training will remain invaluable, helping professionals not just “know” the language but use it effectively and appropriately with real people in real business environments. Ultimately, business communication is a human art.
Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses
What do our clients think about us? Just click the TrustPilot icon to read some reviews.
"History of Business English" Brenda de Jong-Pauley, Director, The English Center, edited by K. Finlayson
Published December 2024
About the author:
Brenda de Jong-Pauley is the founder of The English Center in the Netherlands, where she has worked with international professionals since 2009. Originally from the United States, she lives and works in the Netherlands, supporting professionals in developing clear, confident English for real business situations.
Brenda holds a Master’s degree in Psychology (focused on persuasive communication) and a Bachelor’s in Education. She specializes in high-level business communication and spoken English.
The English Center is a CEDEO-recognized training provider, working with professionals and teams from international and Dutch companies and municipalities.
Speak like the Bridgertons with elegant, "Received Pronunciation." So you want to speak posh English? Well, let's get on with it, shall we?
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA
Director, The English Center
Published December 2024
Posh English is a British English accent that we call Received Pronunciation, or RP for short. This accent can also be referred to as Standard Southern British, the Queen's English, "proper" English, Cambridge English, or BBC English. It’s the accent traditionally associated with the British aristocracy and well educated speakers in Southern England. It’s what you hear when you watch “The Crown!”
If you're serious about polishing your pronunciation, consider English Accent Training.
Received Pronunciation (RP) is noted for elegance and specific phonetic features. Here are some straightforward tips to help you sound posh, along with some useful comparisons to Standard American English (SAE).
For brevity, we will refer to RP and SAE.
Focus on the clarity of vowel sounds. For example, in RP, pronounce "bath" as "bahth" and "glass" as "glahss." Think about the sound the doctor asks you to make when he puts the tongue depressor in your mouth. He asks you to “Say ah.” That’s the RP sound in dance, glass and bath. By contrast, in American English, these words would typically have a very flat, short A sound.
Note: AE vowels are generally less breathy than RP vowels, where we hear a hint of an H sound in words like baahth.
In words like house, ground and cow, be sure to produce a rich, round OU sound. Note: OU is sometimes a diphthong. A diphthong is a sound composed of two, more or less merged vowel sounds and often includes a schwa in the second position. (Of course, OU and O make other sounds as well, so don't over-apply this rule.)
In RP, the R at the end of words is usually not pronounced. For instance, "car" sounds more like "cah" and "far" sounds like "fah." In contrast, American English is rhotic, meaning the R is pronounced clearly. Practice phrases like "Mr. Tartar’s car is far away" to form this new habit of deleting mid and final position Rs and adding a bit of breath to hint at where the R appears in the written word.
When speaking posh English, you should enunciate your consonants clearly. For example, in the tongue twister "Betty Batter bought a bit of butter," an RP speaker would pronounce it as "Betty Battah bought a bit of buttah," with clear T sounds and no R in butter!
In contrast, an American would say the same phrase as "Beddy Badder bod a bid a budder," where the 't' sounds are softened to 'd' sounds (also known as a flap T), and clearly express the R. The breathiness of the vowels, the missing Rs, and Ts that sound like proper Ts will produce a posh RP sound.
RP, like all dialects, has its own language music. Statements tend to have a falling (descending) intonation. American English generally features a more varied, up and down intonation, like jazz!
To sound RP, try saying aloud, "The cook served cold eggs today." Let each word fall a bit lower than the previous word. Avoid the temptation to emphasize the noun and the verb, as an SAE speaker would.
Need to get the sound of RP in your head? At Netflix, listen to episodes of “The Crown.” See if you can hear examples of this descending statement intonation pattern.
Avoid the glottal stop, where the 't' sound is replaced by a pause, as in common in Cockney and related accents. For example, say "bottle" clearly instead of "bo'le." In American English, a mid position T will usually shift to a D. But in any case, do not use the glottal stop if you are trying to sound posh!
Keep those Ts clear and true! See Betty Butter, tip #9.
Avoid slang and regional expressions. Instead of saying "mate," use "friend" or "colleague." This aligns your speech with the more formal tone that is prevalent in RP, but would sound snobby in American English. Word choice is a rather complicated aspect of mastering a language, so if this is a specific skill you need to improve then our English Speaking Course is for you!
If your focus is on professional communication, then look at a Spoken Business English Course instead.
Speak at a moderate pace. RP speakers often articulate words slowly and deliberately, which adds to their sophistication. Americans, on average, tend to speak more quickly, especially in casual settings. Practicing at a slower pace will help you sound more RP.
Spend time listening to native RP speakers. BBC news presenters or actors from classic British films often use this accent. Try to imitate their speech patterns and pronunciation, which may differ significantly from American media.
If you like, you can first try saying this famous tongue twister in RP and SAE to clarify many of the above tips.
But of course if your goal is RP, you'll want to repeat this – with your posh, RP accent – a lot. And then you can move on to other resources – from series to films to podcasts, there's lots of RP around.
But for the best results, you really need a native speaker British English trainer – a coach – to help you recognize, produce and perfect your elegant new English sound.
"Betty Botter bought a bit of butter;
But, she said, this butter’s bitter!
If I put it in my batter
It will make my batter bitter.
But a bit of better butter
Will make my batter better.
Then she bought a bit of better butter
Better than the bitter butter,
And it made her bitter batter better."
1. “The elegant, sparkling car parked by the grand Horton House is far more beautiful than any other.”
Focus on the clarity of vowels and consonants and dropping mid and final Rs. Keep a true T in “beautiful.”
2. "Henry, Harry and I visited Harrington House in Hampstead."
Pronounce the Hs (make them a bit breathy), and keep a steady, moderate pace with descending intonation. Produce a very round O in the word house.
3. “She danced gracefully across the stage, captivating everyone in the audience.”
Put the “ah” in danced. Pay attention to intonation and ensure crisp pronunciation of consonants. Note that the D at the end of danced sounds like a T. Say dahnct.”
4. “It’s important to maintain a calm demeanor while discussing sensitive matters.”
Work on eliminating glottal stops (which are common in some British English dialects. (Think Adele.) Maintain clear mid position Ts. Drop the R in matters and say mattahs.
Do you have a question for us? Don't be shy!
Do you need to improve your English in a hurry? Our English Language Short Course is designed to do just that! If you need to improve your English for work specifically, then an Intensive Business English Course is the perfect fit.
About the author:
Brenda de Jong-Pauley is the founder of The English Center in the Netherlands, where she has worked with international professionals since 2009. Originally from the United States, she lives and works in the Netherlands, supporting professionals in developing clear, confident English for real business situations.
Brenda holds a Master’s degree in Psychology (focused on persuasive communication) and a Bachelor’s in Education. She specializes in high-level business communication and spoken English.
The English Center is a CEDEO-recognized training provider, working with professionals and teams from international and Dutch companies and municipalities.
