How Adverts Use English to Catch Your Attention
This is a fun episode where we look at some famous advertising slogans from different companies and analyse why they work so well, but also take from interesting English lessons from each one.
We’ll be learning things like alteration, oxymorons, and also some very smart wordplay that makes use of words that have multiple meanings.
I’ll also be sharing lots of phrases and terms that are used when advertising or talking about a product or service.
Episode Summary
Dollar Shave Club – “Shave Time. Shave Money.” 🪒
A clever pun on “save time, save money” — highlights both convenience and affordability.
HSBC – “The World’s Local Bank” 🌍
An oxymoron that combines global reach with local trust. Creates a paradox that suggests international support with personal service.
McDonald’s – “I’m Lovin’ It” 🍔
Casual tone using the grammatically incorrect “lovin’.” Helped normalize this phrasing in everyday speech.
Taco Bell – “Think Outside the Bun” 🌮
A play on “Think outside the box,” linking creativity with their unique approach to fast food (no burgers).
Apple – “Think Different” 🍏
Intentionally uses “different” (an adjective) instead of “differently” (an adverb). Minimalist and slightly rebellious — reflects Apple’s brand identity.
Stella Artois – “Reassuringly Expensive” 🍺
Flips the common idea that expensive is bad. Implies luxury and quality without saying it directly.
⭐️ Transcript & Bonus Lesson
What are your favourite slogans or adverts?
Comment your thoughts below.