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How do babies communicate? ⏲️ 6 Minute English

BBC Learning English • 2025-06-19T09:28:59Z • 6:18 • intermediate • Lifestyle

Lead

Have you ever wondered how babies communicate before they can speak? In this article, we'll explore the fascinating ways newborns express their needs and feelings.

Video

Quiz

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Q1. What is the main way babies communicate before they can speak?

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Q2. According to Marie Derome, what do babies want us to know?

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Q3. What percentage of a baby's movements are intentional, according to Marie?

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Q4. What does the idiom 'love at first sight' refer to?

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Q5. What does the term 'unhelpful cliche' mean?

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Vocabulary

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communicate

/kəˈmjunɪˌkeɪt/

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Definition

to share or exchange information, news, or ideas.

Example

Babies communicate their needs through crying and body movements.

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intentional

/ɪnˈtɛnʃənl/

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Definition

done on purpose; deliberate.

Example

Her intentional gestures made it clear that she wanted to play.

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cliche

/kliˈʃeɪ/

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Definition

an overused expression or idea that has lost its originality or impact.

Example

The phrase 'love at first sight' is often considered a cliche in romantic stories.

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emphasise

/ˈɛmfəˌsaɪz/

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Definition

to give special importance or prominence to something in speaking or writing.

Example

The teacher used bold text to emphasise the key points of the lesson.

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survival

/sərˈvaɪvəl/

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Definition

the state of continuing to live or exist, especially in spite of danger or hardship.

Example

The survival of the species depends on their ability to adapt to changing environments.

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jerky

/ˈdʒɜrki/

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Definition

characterized by abrupt, uneven movements.

Example

The car's jerky movements made the ride uncomfortable for the passengers.

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