Salzbug For the Holidays
Explore another well-known Christmas market south of Salzburg at Hellbrunn Palace. Enjoy the beauty of the Baroque structure as well as view reindeer, sheep and goats wandering the grounds. Visit craft exhibitions, and admire the huge Advent calendar created from 24 of he windows on the palace facade. The palace's fame arises mainly from its beautiful grounds and trick fountains. The elaborate grounds were meant for the pleasure of the extremely rich Prince Archbishop of Salzburg and his guests. One "trick" of the garden is a marble table with seats that are part of a hidden fountain.
Each seat, with the exception of the Archbishop's, contains a water jet. When the Archbishop held a dinner at Hellbrunn, he could turn on the water and squirt his guests. As nobody could stand up until the Archbishop did, imagine the chagrin of his guests! For a more enjoyable wet adventure, pay a visit to Alpentherme Gastein, a large spa that features six different health and adventure worlds. In winter, visitors can swim outside in the freezing temperatures and yet stay deliciously warm in the thermal water. Salzburg and the surrounding area offer lots to see, taste and touch any time of the year!
facade n. 宏偉的建築物的正面
eg: The beautifully designed facade of the palace needs to be redone every ten years.
eg: The facade of this cathedral is under renovation now.
eg: Many tourists took photos of the beautiful facade of the square.
jet n. 噴嘴/噴口
eg: A jet of water broke through the window and flooded the house during the heavy rainfall.
eg: The gas jet in the oven might be jammed. It won't light.
jet n. 噴出的液體或汽油
eg: Jets of water kept coming out of the broken pipe. Even the street had to be closed.
chagrin n. 懊惱/苦惱
to one's chagrin 強調某人很懊惱或是苦惱
eg: Everyone saw the chagrin on Michael's face when he missed the baseket and caused his team to lose the game.
eg: Much to Ricky's chagrin, the company didn't accept his proposal.
=> 讓Ricky很懊惱的是公司並沒有接受他的提案。
spa n. 礦泉/溫泉浴場/礦泉治療地
eg: After a hard day at work, Michelle and Margaret went to the spa to relax in the warm water.
reindeer n. 馴鹿
squirt v. 噴射/噴出
thermal adj. 溫泉的/保暖的
//== Chat Room ==//
novice n. 新手/初學者
amateur n. 外行/業餘的運動員/業餘的愛好者
professional n. 專家/專業人士/職業的選手
professional adj. 很內行的/極稱職的/高水準的
expert n. 專家
eg: He is a language expert.
expert adj. 需要專門技術的
eg: an expert surgeon 一位專業的外科醫生
2009年12月30日 星期三
2009年12月29日 星期二
20091229 Salzbug For the Holidays (2)
Salzbug For the Holidays
While many visitors enjoy Salzburg in the summer and flock to the Salzburg Festival Christmastime sees almost as many people come to town. In winter, skiing enthusiasts take advantage of nearby mountain resorts. Decorations adorn the town and the Christmas markets. Salzburg's most famous market Salzburger Christkindlmarkt usually opens for business five weeks before Christmas. Groups of instrumentalists and singers entertain market-goers, and the smell of roasted almonds, hot chestnuts and Christmas pastry - Lebkuchen - wafts through the market area. The spicy gingerbread comes in many different shapes and sizes, often with nuts and dried fruit inside.
Merchants sell figurines for nativity scenes, toys, warm sweaters and other specialties of Salzburg. For some local culture, take in a performance of "Salzburger Adventsingen." This traditional play features local children performing a nativity play and singing in regional dialects. In addition, the most famous Christmas carol of all time, Silent Night, was composed in Oberndorf, a small town north of Salzburg. You can visit Salzburg's Silent Night Museum and enlighten yourself on the song's history or travel to Oberndort to see where the carol was first performed.
adorn v. 裝飾/使生色
eg: Ribbons and bows adorned the litle girl's dress and hair.
eg: The hall was adorned with beautiful paintings and mirrors.
eg: The director adorned the storyline in the movie with exotic settings and special effects.
waft v. 吹送/飄送/使飄蕩
eg: The smell of baking bread wafted down the hallway.
eg: The scent(香氣) of roses wafted along with the breeze.
eg: The smell of freshly baked cookies wafted up from the downstairs bakery.
take in
=> experiences with your senses
eg: We took in several Breadway(百老匯) plays when we went to New York.
en- 使如何
enlighten v. 啟發/啟迪/教導
=> teach
eg: The professor enlightened his class on the differences in the chemical makeup of the acids.
eg: The trip to Africa really enlightened Paul as he learned how to care about people.
eg: Can you enlighten me - I don't understand how to access the main computer.
instrumentalist n. 樂器演奏者
goer n. 參加者
almond n. 杏仁
chestnut n. 栗子
Salzbug
=> Salz:south
=> bug:castle
figurine n. 小雕像
=> tiny little statue of a person or thing
nativity n. 出生/誕生
specialty n. 特製品/特產/名產
Christmas carol 聖誕節頌歌
//== Chat Room ==//
(The spicy gingerbreod comes)(in many different shapes and sizes).
(擺設出來的薑餅) ======= (有各式有樣的形狀及大小)
=> 注意斷句
come into the room 進入房間
=> enter the room
come into a lot of money 繼承財產
=> inherit a lot of money
come down with something 罹瘓疾病
=> become sick, falling ill
eg: Many people come down with flu during the winter.
come out with something 出版/推出
eg: The company come out with new products(推出新產品).
//== More INFO ==//
In October 1731, thousands of Salzburg citizens were forced to either reject their beliefs in God or leave the city. The thousands who refused to reject their faith flied north through a merciless Austrian winter. Over the next few years about 150 of the Salzburg exiles found their way to the British American colonies. Ten years later, in 1741, they officially founded the town of Ebenezer, Georgia.
merciless adj. 無情的/殘酷的
While many visitors enjoy Salzburg in the summer and flock to the Salzburg Festival Christmastime sees almost as many people come to town. In winter, skiing enthusiasts take advantage of nearby mountain resorts. Decorations adorn the town and the Christmas markets. Salzburg's most famous market Salzburger Christkindlmarkt usually opens for business five weeks before Christmas. Groups of instrumentalists and singers entertain market-goers, and the smell of roasted almonds, hot chestnuts and Christmas pastry - Lebkuchen - wafts through the market area. The spicy gingerbread comes in many different shapes and sizes, often with nuts and dried fruit inside.
Merchants sell figurines for nativity scenes, toys, warm sweaters and other specialties of Salzburg. For some local culture, take in a performance of "Salzburger Adventsingen." This traditional play features local children performing a nativity play and singing in regional dialects. In addition, the most famous Christmas carol of all time, Silent Night, was composed in Oberndorf, a small town north of Salzburg. You can visit Salzburg's Silent Night Museum and enlighten yourself on the song's history or travel to Oberndort to see where the carol was first performed.
adorn v. 裝飾/使生色
eg: Ribbons and bows adorned the litle girl's dress and hair.
eg: The hall was adorned with beautiful paintings and mirrors.
eg: The director adorned the storyline in the movie with exotic settings and special effects.
waft v. 吹送/飄送/使飄蕩
eg: The smell of baking bread wafted down the hallway.
eg: The scent(香氣) of roses wafted along with the breeze.
eg: The smell of freshly baked cookies wafted up from the downstairs bakery.
take in
=> experiences with your senses
eg: We took in several Breadway(百老匯) plays when we went to New York.
en- 使如何
enlighten v. 啟發/啟迪/教導
=> teach
eg: The professor enlightened his class on the differences in the chemical makeup of the acids.
eg: The trip to Africa really enlightened Paul as he learned how to care about people.
eg: Can you enlighten me - I don't understand how to access the main computer.
instrumentalist n. 樂器演奏者
goer n. 參加者
almond n. 杏仁
chestnut n. 栗子
Salzbug
=> Salz:south
=> bug:castle
figurine n. 小雕像
=> tiny little statue of a person or thing
nativity n. 出生/誕生
specialty n. 特製品/特產/名產
Christmas carol 聖誕節頌歌
//== Chat Room ==//
(The spicy gingerbreod comes)(in many different shapes and sizes).
(擺設出來的薑餅) ======= (有各式有樣的形狀及大小)
=> 注意斷句
come into the room 進入房間
=> enter the room
come into a lot of money 繼承財產
=> inherit a lot of money
come down with something 罹瘓疾病
=> become sick, falling ill
eg: Many people come down with flu during the winter.
come out with something 出版/推出
eg: The company come out with new products(推出新產品).
//== More INFO ==//
In October 1731, thousands of Salzburg citizens were forced to either reject their beliefs in God or leave the city. The thousands who refused to reject their faith flied north through a merciless Austrian winter. Over the next few years about 150 of the Salzburg exiles found their way to the British American colonies. Ten years later, in 1741, they officially founded the town of Ebenezer, Georgia.
merciless adj. 無情的/殘酷的
2009年12月28日 星期一
20091228 Salzbug For the Holidays (1)
Salzbug For the Holidays
This small Austrian city offers lots to enjoy during the holidays
The hills are alive with the sound of music ... and not just the hills. In Salzburg, melodies of great composer and native son Mozart (1756-91) fill the city's churches and concert halls. Musicians perform more than 2,000 classical concerts annually, many featuring Mozart's music.
Fans can visit his birthplace, where the boy wonder composed many of his early works. All kinds of musical artifacts fill the home, which also contains an apartment that is furnished from Mozart's time. Across the Salzach River, which runs through Salzburg, the Mozart Wohnhaus also welcomes visitors and provides insights into the great composer and his life.
Mozart's family moved here when he was 17. A fascienating 30-minute movie details the live of Mozart and his interesting family. Besides Mozart, this lovely old Austrian city offers a gloriously preserved old town, charmig gardens, ornate churches and Europe's largest and most complete medieval castle. Hohensalzburg Fortress sits on a rock high above the river. You can hike up or ride the funicular to the 900-year-old castle. From the courtyard, enjoy impressive views of the city and then visit the palatial interior. Climb to the top of a tower for a commanding city view.
artifact n. 人工製品/手工藝品/加工品
eg: There are many artifacts from medieval times in this museum.
fascinate v. 強烈地吸引/迷住/使神魂顛倒
fascinating adj. 迷人的/極美的/吸引人的
eg: Helena tells fascinating stories about the many places she has been and the people she has met.
eg: The photographer took pictures of the fascinating waterfall.
eg: The singer's fascinating performance amazed everyone present.
ornate adj. 裝飾華麗的/過分修飾的
=> cover with decorations
eg: The Orient Hotel has vey ornate decorations from the last century.
eg: The ornate carvings in the church are excellent works of art.
eg: The ornate style of the castle represents the peak of the Baroque era(巴洛克時期).
palace n. 皇宮/宮殿
palatial (adj) 像宮殿一樣的/廣大的/宏尾的
eg: The prince lives in a palatial mansion on a hill overlooking the city.
eg: The palatial presidential suite(總統套房) costs over $5000 per night.
funicular n. 電纜車/纜索鐵路/登山鐵道
=> small railway that carry people up and down on very steep hill using a cable
//== Chat Room ==//
musically inclined 有音樂天賦的
=> be good with music and be talented in this area
inclined adj. 傾向的/傾斜的(延伸出的意思為性格上傾向於...)
=> here "inclined" means intended to be good with music
be musically inclined 很有音樂天賦的
be artistically incliened 有藝術天賦的
inclined adj. 想要
incliened to do something 想要做某事
eg: I'm incliened for a walk.
=> 我想要散散步
decline v. 拒絕
eg: decline the offer
eg: She declined the invitation.
decline n. 下坡
in decline 衰微/沒落
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
the Mozart Wohnhaus also welcomes visitors and provides insights into the great composer and his life.
=> the Mozart Museum help visitors to have a deeper understanding of great composer and his life.
provide insight into
=> give deeper information about something
eg: Sam's meeting with the famous scientist provided him insight into the latest discoveries in genetic engineering.
eg: Ada felt that an internship at the film company would provide her greater insights into the media industry.
This small Austrian city offers lots to enjoy during the holidays
The hills are alive with the sound of music ... and not just the hills. In Salzburg, melodies of great composer and native son Mozart (1756-91) fill the city's churches and concert halls. Musicians perform more than 2,000 classical concerts annually, many featuring Mozart's music.
Fans can visit his birthplace, where the boy wonder composed many of his early works. All kinds of musical artifacts fill the home, which also contains an apartment that is furnished from Mozart's time. Across the Salzach River, which runs through Salzburg, the Mozart Wohnhaus also welcomes visitors and provides insights into the great composer and his life.
Mozart's family moved here when he was 17. A fascienating 30-minute movie details the live of Mozart and his interesting family. Besides Mozart, this lovely old Austrian city offers a gloriously preserved old town, charmig gardens, ornate churches and Europe's largest and most complete medieval castle. Hohensalzburg Fortress sits on a rock high above the river. You can hike up or ride the funicular to the 900-year-old castle. From the courtyard, enjoy impressive views of the city and then visit the palatial interior. Climb to the top of a tower for a commanding city view.
artifact n. 人工製品/手工藝品/加工品
eg: There are many artifacts from medieval times in this museum.
fascinate v. 強烈地吸引/迷住/使神魂顛倒
fascinating adj. 迷人的/極美的/吸引人的
eg: Helena tells fascinating stories about the many places she has been and the people she has met.
eg: The photographer took pictures of the fascinating waterfall.
eg: The singer's fascinating performance amazed everyone present.
ornate adj. 裝飾華麗的/過分修飾的
=> cover with decorations
eg: The Orient Hotel has vey ornate decorations from the last century.
eg: The ornate carvings in the church are excellent works of art.
eg: The ornate style of the castle represents the peak of the Baroque era(巴洛克時期).
palace n. 皇宮/宮殿
palatial (adj) 像宮殿一樣的/廣大的/宏尾的
eg: The prince lives in a palatial mansion on a hill overlooking the city.
eg: The palatial presidential suite(總統套房) costs over $5000 per night.
funicular n. 電纜車/纜索鐵路/登山鐵道
=> small railway that carry people up and down on very steep hill using a cable
//== Chat Room ==//
musically inclined 有音樂天賦的
=> be good with music and be talented in this area
inclined adj. 傾向的/傾斜的(延伸出的意思為性格上傾向於...)
=> here "inclined" means intended to be good with music
be musically inclined 很有音樂天賦的
be artistically incliened 有藝術天賦的
inclined adj. 想要
incliened to do something 想要做某事
eg: I'm incliened for a walk.
=> 我想要散散步
decline v. 拒絕
eg: decline the offer
eg: She declined the invitation.
decline n. 下坡
in decline 衰微/沒落
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
the Mozart Wohnhaus also welcomes visitors and provides insights into the great composer and his life.
=> the Mozart Museum help visitors to have a deeper understanding of great composer and his life.
provide insight into
=> give deeper information about something
eg: Sam's meeting with the famous scientist provided him insight into the latest discoveries in genetic engineering.
eg: Ada felt that an internship at the film company would provide her greater insights into the media industry.
2009年12月24日 星期四
20091224 The First Christmas (1)
The First Christmas
The humble birth that changed the world
About 2,000 years ago, the birth of a baby in Israel changed the world. At that time, Rome ruled the territory, and the Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus declared that a census should be taken throughout the Roman world. That meant everyone had to go to their ancestral homes to reigster. A couple from Nazareth, Joseph and Mary made the three-day journey to Bethlehem to be counted. When the weary couple arrived, they searched in vain for a place to stay, but every inn was full. And to make matters worse, Mary was expecting. Finally, a kind innkeeper took pity on them and allowed them to sleep in his stable.
There, Mary gave birth to her firstborn, a son she named Jesus. She wrapped him in cloths and laid him in a manger. That same night in a nearby field, and angel from God appeared to some shepherds. How terrified they were! But the angel told them not to be afraid and that he had good news for all people. He told them that in Bethlehem a Savior had been born: Christ the Lord. And so the shepherds went and found Jesus just as the angel had said - the Son of God! That night, the birth of Jesus changed history and the lives of millions, allowing people to know God and the forgiveness he freely offers.
census n. 人口普查/人口調查
eg: The city took a census last year and found out that its population had doubled.
vain adj. 無用的/徒勞的
in vain 徒勞無功地(當副詞片語使用)
eg: Robert tried to get Barb to go to the dance with him, but it was in vain because she went with Sam.
eg: We tried in vain to contact George. He probably turned off his cell-phone accidentally.
eg: I apologized to Brenda in vain. She's still angry.
=> 我向Brenda道歉但是沒有用。她還是在生氣。
cloth n. 布/布料
eg: The cloth that she chose to make her dress out of was brightly colored.
eg: Since the new curtains are not ready yet, we hung some cloth to cover the windows.
cloths n. (當可數名詞)布塊/布料
eg: Jen bought new white towels and cloths for her bathroom.
terrify v. 使害怕/使驚嚇
=> 常用被動式
eg: The children were terrified of their teacher because he yelled at them all the time.
eg: The lawyer tried to terrify us with all those legal terms, but didn't succeed.
eg: I was terrified by the sight of the car accident.
stable n. 馬棚
manger n. 馬槽
//== Chat Room ==//
Mary was expecting.
=> Mary有喜了
=> 當使用expect進行式且後面沒有受詞時，此時為懷孕的意思。
The woman is expecting.
eg: The woman is pregnant 懷孕
deliver v. (正式)生產/分娩
have v. (口語)生產/分娩
eg: Where are you going to have the baby? 你要在那裡生你的小孩?
bear
bear born born
eg: The baby is born. 小孩出生了
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
throughout prep. 遍及/遍佈/從頭到尾
eg: You looked throughout the entire house but couldn't find them.
eg: It could be heard throughout the entire neighborhood.
The humble birth that changed the world
About 2,000 years ago, the birth of a baby in Israel changed the world. At that time, Rome ruled the territory, and the Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus declared that a census should be taken throughout the Roman world. That meant everyone had to go to their ancestral homes to reigster. A couple from Nazareth, Joseph and Mary made the three-day journey to Bethlehem to be counted. When the weary couple arrived, they searched in vain for a place to stay, but every inn was full. And to make matters worse, Mary was expecting. Finally, a kind innkeeper took pity on them and allowed them to sleep in his stable.
There, Mary gave birth to her firstborn, a son she named Jesus. She wrapped him in cloths and laid him in a manger. That same night in a nearby field, and angel from God appeared to some shepherds. How terrified they were! But the angel told them not to be afraid and that he had good news for all people. He told them that in Bethlehem a Savior had been born: Christ the Lord. And so the shepherds went and found Jesus just as the angel had said - the Son of God! That night, the birth of Jesus changed history and the lives of millions, allowing people to know God and the forgiveness he freely offers.
census n. 人口普查/人口調查
eg: The city took a census last year and found out that its population had doubled.
vain adj. 無用的/徒勞的
in vain 徒勞無功地(當副詞片語使用)
eg: Robert tried to get Barb to go to the dance with him, but it was in vain because she went with Sam.
eg: We tried in vain to contact George. He probably turned off his cell-phone accidentally.
eg: I apologized to Brenda in vain. She's still angry.
=> 我向Brenda道歉但是沒有用。她還是在生氣。
cloth n. 布/布料
eg: The cloth that she chose to make her dress out of was brightly colored.
eg: Since the new curtains are not ready yet, we hung some cloth to cover the windows.
cloths n. (當可數名詞)布塊/布料
eg: Jen bought new white towels and cloths for her bathroom.
terrify v. 使害怕/使驚嚇
=> 常用被動式
eg: The children were terrified of their teacher because he yelled at them all the time.
eg: The lawyer tried to terrify us with all those legal terms, but didn't succeed.
eg: I was terrified by the sight of the car accident.
stable n. 馬棚
manger n. 馬槽
//== Chat Room ==//
Mary was expecting.
=> Mary有喜了
=> 當使用expect進行式且後面沒有受詞時，此時為懷孕的意思。
The woman is expecting.
eg: The woman is pregnant 懷孕
deliver v. (正式)生產/分娩
have v. (口語)生產/分娩
eg: Where are you going to have the baby? 你要在那裡生你的小孩?
bear
bear born born
eg: The baby is born. 小孩出生了
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
throughout prep. 遍及/遍佈/從頭到尾
eg: You looked throughout the entire house but couldn't find them.
eg: It could be heard throughout the entire neighborhood.
2009年12月23日 星期三
20091223 The Christmas Caravan (2)
The Christmas Caravan
Slowly Humphrey got to his feet.
He was still carrying a grudge,
but he wanted to find a better way to get even.
Soon the caravan headed out.
The days were hot.
The way was long.
The camels grew weary.
"We can't go on," they sighed.
"Just think about finding the king." Sandy said.
"And carry on." So they kept following the star, searching for the king.
Finally they found him.
"Is this the king?" snorted Humphrey.
"He's only a child."
"But they say he's the Son of God!" said Sunny.
"And one day he'll carry the weight of the world."
"he'll die, so that others can live," added Sandy.
"Master says so."
Sunny and Sandy fell on their knees and honored the king.
Their burdens were lifted and given to the child.
But Humphrey stood firm.
"Now is the time to get even," he thought.
"I won't bow down. I won't give up my burden. No one can make me."
And he was right.
No one could bring the stubborn camel to his knees.
Humphrey had gotten even.
How proud he was.
Until he heard the little king crying, that is.
Had he made the child cry?
Suddenly he felt awful.
He knew how wrong he had been.
He bowed before the boy. "I'm sorry," he said.
And his burden was taken away.
Everyone was delighted. "Whew," said Sunny.
"Carrying that burden was the hardest thing I've ever done."
"Giving up mine was the hardest," smiled Humphrey.
"But I'm so glad I did."
And the three camels went away singing even though they couldn't carry a tune.
grudge Un. 怨恨/嫌隙/妒忌
grudge against
=> if you cannot forgive someone, you probably carry/hold grudge
eg: Rick has a grudge against the boss that fired him.
eg: After all these years, Cindy still bears a grudge against her boyfriend who left her.
eg: The accident victims don't hold any grudges against the driver.
weary adj. 疲倦的/疲勞的
=> physical/emotional very tired
eg: Sam was weary after playing basketball all day.
bring to one's knees 迫使某人屈服或崩潰
=> make one become humble
eg: The proud man's unexpected failure brought him to his knees.
eg: The economic crisis almost brought the country to its knees.
eg: The long tournament brought many competitors to their knees.
tune n. 曲調
carry a tune 唱準音調
eg: Even though dad can't carry a tune, he loves to sing in public.
eg: Strangely enough, the popular band's singer couldn't even carry a tune.
lift v. 被提(或舉)起
get even with someone 向某人報復
snort v. 哼著鼻子說(或表示)
fall on one's knees 跪下(乞求等)
bow down 壓彎
//== Chat Room ==//
Slowly Humphrey got to his feet.
get to one's feet 站起來/起立
= stand up
get cold feet 膽怯
= feel afraid
=> 某人因為過度緊張而嚇得兩腿發軟
eg: I get cold feet when I go on TV.
itchy feet (發癢的腳)指非常想去旅遊
eg: I get itchy feet whenever I watch travel channel.
get back on one's feet 重新站起來
two left feet 形容動作不協調/笨拙
=> 一個不擅長跳舞的人，可以說他有two left feet
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Until he heard the little king crying, that is.
that is
= that is to say
= in other words
eg: Everyone must turn in their reports on Friday - before five o"clock, that is.
eg: The dog can show you what his favorite toys are, that is, if you open the cabinet door.
Slowly Humphrey got to his feet.
He was still carrying a grudge,
but he wanted to find a better way to get even.
Soon the caravan headed out.
The days were hot.
The way was long.
The camels grew weary.
"We can't go on," they sighed.
"Just think about finding the king." Sandy said.
"And carry on." So they kept following the star, searching for the king.
Finally they found him.
"Is this the king?" snorted Humphrey.
"He's only a child."
"But they say he's the Son of God!" said Sunny.
"And one day he'll carry the weight of the world."
"he'll die, so that others can live," added Sandy.
"Master says so."
Sunny and Sandy fell on their knees and honored the king.
Their burdens were lifted and given to the child.
But Humphrey stood firm.
"Now is the time to get even," he thought.
"I won't bow down. I won't give up my burden. No one can make me."
And he was right.
No one could bring the stubborn camel to his knees.
Humphrey had gotten even.
How proud he was.
Until he heard the little king crying, that is.
Had he made the child cry?
Suddenly he felt awful.
He knew how wrong he had been.
He bowed before the boy. "I'm sorry," he said.
And his burden was taken away.
Everyone was delighted. "Whew," said Sunny.
"Carrying that burden was the hardest thing I've ever done."
"Giving up mine was the hardest," smiled Humphrey.
"But I'm so glad I did."
And the three camels went away singing even though they couldn't carry a tune.
grudge Un. 怨恨/嫌隙/妒忌
grudge against
=> if you cannot forgive someone, you probably carry/hold grudge
eg: Rick has a grudge against the boss that fired him.
eg: After all these years, Cindy still bears a grudge against her boyfriend who left her.
eg: The accident victims don't hold any grudges against the driver.
weary adj. 疲倦的/疲勞的
=> physical/emotional very tired
eg: Sam was weary after playing basketball all day.
bring to one's knees 迫使某人屈服或崩潰
=> make one become humble
eg: The proud man's unexpected failure brought him to his knees.
eg: The economic crisis almost brought the country to its knees.
eg: The long tournament brought many competitors to their knees.
tune n. 曲調
carry a tune 唱準音調
eg: Even though dad can't carry a tune, he loves to sing in public.
eg: Strangely enough, the popular band's singer couldn't even carry a tune.
lift v. 被提(或舉)起
get even with someone 向某人報復
snort v. 哼著鼻子說(或表示)
fall on one's knees 跪下(乞求等)
bow down 壓彎
//== Chat Room ==//
Slowly Humphrey got to his feet.
get to one's feet 站起來/起立
= stand up
get cold feet 膽怯
= feel afraid
=> 某人因為過度緊張而嚇得兩腿發軟
eg: I get cold feet when I go on TV.
itchy feet (發癢的腳)指非常想去旅遊
eg: I get itchy feet whenever I watch travel channel.
get back on one's feet 重新站起來
two left feet 形容動作不協調/笨拙
=> 一個不擅長跳舞的人，可以說他有two left feet
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Until he heard the little king crying, that is.
that is
= that is to say
= in other words
eg: Everyone must turn in their reports on Friday - before five o"clock, that is.
eg: The dog can show you what his favorite toys are, that is, if you open the cabinet door.
2009年12月22日 星期二
20091222 The Christmas Caravan (1)
The Christmas Caravan
Crossing the desert to follow a star
Sandy and Sunny were excited.
The happy camels were going on their first big adventure.
"Master said we could join the caravan someday," Sunny beamed,
"and finally he's carrying through on his promise."
"Better drink up," Sandy reminded him.
"Crossing the desert isn't easy.
We can't carry it off if we don't drink plenty."
The two camels took a big drink from the stream.
"So where are we going?" Sunny slurped.
"I heard we're going to follow a star..." answered Sandy,
"and search for a king."
"Ooh," sighed Sunny. "What a fine idea!"
"Hmph! What a foolish idea" said Humphrey, another young camel who was nearby.
"Following some star... searching for some king ... ridiculous!
Masters want their camels to do everything under the sun.
But this time they're carrying things too far."
"Shh," whispered Sandy. "Let's carry on this conversation another time."
"Here come our masters."
The masters came with packs for the camels.
Each camel had to pull his own weight.
Sandy's master smiled and said,
"Your pack has sweet-smelling perfume - a gift fit for a king."
Sunny's master patted him. "And your pack is full of gold!" he said.
"A royal gift indeed."
"As for you," said Humphrey's master,
"here is a pack full of myrrh. A sign of death."
Humphrey was so angry that he could spit.
"Why, no king wants that,' he complained.
"I won't carry it. I'll show them who carries weight around here."
Then he lay down and refused to get up.
"What are you carrying on about?" asked Sandy.
But Humphrey wasn't talking. "Share your troubles," said Sunny.
"We can help carry your burdens.
Lying down on the job isn't going to get you anwhere."
slurp v. 吃或喝的時候發出聲音
eg: You make funny sounds when you slurp your soup.
eg: The boy slurped his soup and caused everyone to look at him.
=> 這個男孩喝湯的時候發出咋咋的聲音，因此每個人都看著他。
eg: Mom told my little brother to stop slurping his juice.
carry on 繼續做某件事
=> continue
eg: Everyone carried on with their work after the electricity came back on.
carry on about something 吵吵鬧鬧/抱怨
eg: Please stop carrying on about your job assignment!
pull one's own weight 盡自己的本分
=> do one's own part of work
eg: Pull your own weight when we go hiking. Don't expect me to carry your supplies.
eg: Pamela hasn't been pulling her own weight lately, and it has affected other people in the department.
carry through on something 履行承諾
=> say what you would do, you do what you will say
caravan n. (來往於沙漠的)商隊/香客隊伍/移民隊伍
carry it off
=> pull it off
=> complete the journey successfully
beam v. 堆滿笑容/眉開眼笑
myrrh n. 沒藥(用作香料或藥品的一種樹脂)
//== Chat Room ==//
everything under the sun 世界上的一切
=> under the sun means in the world
eg: talk everything under the sun 天南地北的閒聊
He is knowledgable in every subject under the sun.
=> 他對所有的科目都很了解
There is nothing new under the sun
=> 太陽底下沒有新鮮事
a place in the sun 有利的處境
//== Did you know ==//
The word Caravan comes from the Persian word KARVAN meaning "a group of desert travelers." The English adopted it to describe a vehicle - something like a covered cart. Today the British use CARAVAN to describe something like a mobile home. Incidentally, the English word VAN - a shortened form of CARAVAN - means covered truck or wagon - something you might want to be in when you travel through a hot desert!
Crossing the desert to follow a star
Sandy and Sunny were excited.
The happy camels were going on their first big adventure.
"Master said we could join the caravan someday," Sunny beamed,
"and finally he's carrying through on his promise."
"Better drink up," Sandy reminded him.
"Crossing the desert isn't easy.
We can't carry it off if we don't drink plenty."
The two camels took a big drink from the stream.
"So where are we going?" Sunny slurped.
"I heard we're going to follow a star..." answered Sandy,
"and search for a king."
"Ooh," sighed Sunny. "What a fine idea!"
"Hmph! What a foolish idea" said Humphrey, another young camel who was nearby.
"Following some star... searching for some king ... ridiculous!
Masters want their camels to do everything under the sun.
But this time they're carrying things too far."
"Shh," whispered Sandy. "Let's carry on this conversation another time."
"Here come our masters."
The masters came with packs for the camels.
Each camel had to pull his own weight.
Sandy's master smiled and said,
"Your pack has sweet-smelling perfume - a gift fit for a king."
Sunny's master patted him. "And your pack is full of gold!" he said.
"A royal gift indeed."
"As for you," said Humphrey's master,
"here is a pack full of myrrh. A sign of death."
Humphrey was so angry that he could spit.
"Why, no king wants that,' he complained.
"I won't carry it. I'll show them who carries weight around here."
Then he lay down and refused to get up.
"What are you carrying on about?" asked Sandy.
But Humphrey wasn't talking. "Share your troubles," said Sunny.
"We can help carry your burdens.
Lying down on the job isn't going to get you anwhere."
slurp v. 吃或喝的時候發出聲音
eg: You make funny sounds when you slurp your soup.
eg: The boy slurped his soup and caused everyone to look at him.
=> 這個男孩喝湯的時候發出咋咋的聲音，因此每個人都看著他。
eg: Mom told my little brother to stop slurping his juice.
carry on 繼續做某件事
=> continue
eg: Everyone carried on with their work after the electricity came back on.
carry on about something 吵吵鬧鬧/抱怨
eg: Please stop carrying on about your job assignment!
pull one's own weight 盡自己的本分
=> do one's own part of work
eg: Pull your own weight when we go hiking. Don't expect me to carry your supplies.
eg: Pamela hasn't been pulling her own weight lately, and it has affected other people in the department.
carry through on something 履行承諾
=> say what you would do, you do what you will say
caravan n. (來往於沙漠的)商隊/香客隊伍/移民隊伍
carry it off
=> pull it off
=> complete the journey successfully
beam v. 堆滿笑容/眉開眼笑
myrrh n. 沒藥(用作香料或藥品的一種樹脂)
//== Chat Room ==//
everything under the sun 世界上的一切
=> under the sun means in the world
eg: talk everything under the sun 天南地北的閒聊
He is knowledgable in every subject under the sun.
=> 他對所有的科目都很了解
There is nothing new under the sun
=> 太陽底下沒有新鮮事
a place in the sun 有利的處境
//== Did you know ==//
The word Caravan comes from the Persian word KARVAN meaning "a group of desert travelers." The English adopted it to describe a vehicle - something like a covered cart. Today the British use CARAVAN to describe something like a mobile home. Incidentally, the English word VAN - a shortened form of CARAVAN - means covered truck or wagon - something you might want to be in when you travel through a hot desert!
2009年12月21日 星期一
20091221 How to Choose the Perfect Present (1)
How to Choose the Perfect Present
Make gift giving easter with these six, simple tips
Birthdays, Mother's Day,
Father's Day and Christmas all offer great chances for giving gifts. But choosing the perfect present for a friend or family member can sometimes be difficult! Here are six tips to make your gift giving easier:
* Watch for ideas
Has your friend been looking at the same earrings for months but hasn't bought them? You already know she likes them, so why not buy them and surprise her!
* Listen for hints
Get into the habit of carrying a small notebook. The next time someone talks about a favorite CD or book, write yourself a note.
* Consider their hobbies
Your dad plays sudoku and would enjoy a new gameboard but won't get one for himself. He'll love your thoughtful gift, though, and enjoy his hobby even more.
* Notice the things they collect
If your sister collects teapots, keep a watch out for a nice one. Then buy it for her set.
* Check their to-do list
Maybe your mother needs help running some errands or cleaning the house. You could give her a printed coupon promising to do those tasks.
* Plan and shop early
Don't wait until the last minute. Start looking in January for the perfect gifts for those special people in your life.
present n. 現在/目前
eg: Rita's favorite birthday present was the new dress she got from her sister.
hint n. 暗示
eg: I asked for some hints, but I still can't guess what the surprise is.
eg: The host was looking at his watch so I knew I should take the hint and get going.
eg: Dad dropped me a hint to stop talking by coughing.
errand n. 短程的差使(跑銀行、郵局或是乾洗店等等的差使)
eg: I ran some errands after work and got home later than usual.
eg: Running errands(跑腿) for the boss is part of a secretary's job.
eg: I'll meet you of 2 pm. I have some errands to run first.
thoughtful adj. 細心的/體貼的/考慮周到的
eg: It was so thoughtful of you to buy me coffee!
eg: The thoughtful gesture of cooking dinner for Mom really made her happy.
//== Chat Room ==//
window-shopping n. 在商店的櫥窗前瀏覽不買任何東西
shop around 貨比三家
the best bargain 最划算的價格
hang out 非常放鬆無所事事地在閒逛
=> relax and have fun together
joe n. 咖啡
a cup of joe (口語)一杯咖啡
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Get into the habit of carryig a small notebook.
=> Learn to get used to carrying a small notebook.
get into the habit of
=> learn to get used to doing something
develop a habit
eg: Vincent needs to get into the habit of drinking eight glasses of water every day.
how a habit hasn't formed
eg: Mark just moved to Asia a month ago; he hasn't gotten into the habit of taking off his shoes before he steps into a house.
break a habit
eg: Charlie is always lying: he needs to break that habit.
eg: Lora is trying to break the habit of biting her nails.
Make gift giving easter with these six, simple tips
Birthdays, Mother's Day,
Father's Day and Christmas all offer great chances for giving gifts. But choosing the perfect present for a friend or family member can sometimes be difficult! Here are six tips to make your gift giving easier:
* Watch for ideas
Has your friend been looking at the same earrings for months but hasn't bought them? You already know she likes them, so why not buy them and surprise her!
* Listen for hints
Get into the habit of carrying a small notebook. The next time someone talks about a favorite CD or book, write yourself a note.
* Consider their hobbies
Your dad plays sudoku and would enjoy a new gameboard but won't get one for himself. He'll love your thoughtful gift, though, and enjoy his hobby even more.
* Notice the things they collect
If your sister collects teapots, keep a watch out for a nice one. Then buy it for her set.
* Check their to-do list
Maybe your mother needs help running some errands or cleaning the house. You could give her a printed coupon promising to do those tasks.
* Plan and shop early
Don't wait until the last minute. Start looking in January for the perfect gifts for those special people in your life.
present n. 現在/目前
eg: Rita's favorite birthday present was the new dress she got from her sister.
hint n. 暗示
eg: I asked for some hints, but I still can't guess what the surprise is.
eg: The host was looking at his watch so I knew I should take the hint and get going.
eg: Dad dropped me a hint to stop talking by coughing.
errand n. 短程的差使(跑銀行、郵局或是乾洗店等等的差使)
eg: I ran some errands after work and got home later than usual.
eg: Running errands(跑腿) for the boss is part of a secretary's job.
eg: I'll meet you of 2 pm. I have some errands to run first.
thoughtful adj. 細心的/體貼的/考慮周到的
eg: It was so thoughtful of you to buy me coffee!
eg: The thoughtful gesture of cooking dinner for Mom really made her happy.
//== Chat Room ==//
window-shopping n. 在商店的櫥窗前瀏覽不買任何東西
shop around 貨比三家
the best bargain 最划算的價格
hang out 非常放鬆無所事事地在閒逛
=> relax and have fun together
joe n. 咖啡
a cup of joe (口語)一杯咖啡
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Get into the habit of carryig a small notebook.
=> Learn to get used to carrying a small notebook.
get into the habit of
=> learn to get used to doing something
develop a habit
eg: Vincent needs to get into the habit of drinking eight glasses of water every day.
how a habit hasn't formed
eg: Mark just moved to Asia a month ago; he hasn't gotten into the habit of taking off his shoes before he steps into a house.
break a habit
eg: Charlie is always lying: he needs to break that habit.
eg: Lora is trying to break the habit of biting her nails.
20091219 Is Organic Food Really Better (2)
Is Organic Food Really Better?
Conversation B
Beth: Well. Better safe than sorry. Organic farmers don't use any chemicals. They use manure and compost for fertilizer and crop rotation to keep the soil healthy. They let nature take care of the pests.
Adam: Be that as it may, I don't think you can taste a difference between organic and nonorganic produce though many people claim you can. Taste is subjective, so how do you know if organic food is really better?
Beth: Look at the facts, Adam, if pesticides and taste won't change your mind,
consider the environmental impact. Organic farmers use methods that conserve water and take care of the soil. They don't contaminate water sources like conventional farmers do.
Adam: That may be true, but organic farming has its faults too. For example, organic products are more likely to contain E.coli. These harmful bacteria can be found in the manure organic farmers use. And besides, organic food costs so much more!
Beth: That’s true, it is more expensive, but you get what you pay for. And other people think so too. They’re willing to pay the price to protect their bodies and the environment. For example, demand for organic dairy products has grown by 20 percent over the past few years. In the end, it depends on what you value most. No one can decide that but you.
rotate v. 輪流
rotation n. 輪流/循環/交替
eg: The discjockey put the new song into the song rotation and it became an immediate hit among listeners.
eg: crop rotation 農作物輪作耕種
eg: The job rotation system works really well in our company. Everyone get familiar with different job duties.
eg: the rotation of the earth 地球在自轉或公轉
objective adj. 客觀的
subjective adj. 主觀的/個人的
eg: As a movie critic, he is far too subjective. He needs to support his opinions with more facts.
eg: The report is mostly based on the student's subjective observation.
eg: As a critic, he tries his best to not be subjective.
contaminate v. 弄髒/污染/毒害
eg: Carbon dioxide from cars contaminates the air and contributes to pollution.
eg: The bacteria may have contaminated our water tank. Now we have to sterilize(消毒) it.
eg: The area was seriously contaminated by nuclear waste.
you get what you pay for 一分錢一分貨
Josh: I got this MP3 player for a really cheap price, but it broke the second day I had it.
Karen: Well, I guess you get what you pay for.
//== Chat Room ==//
besides 何況/況且
=> besides提出的論點要和前一句的論點相符
eg: Let's cancel the picnic because everyone is sick. Besides, the forecast calls for rain.
moreover 此外
=> 可以有自己的主張，要呼應前一句話
further
furthermore
additionally
What's more 何況
=> informal way to say besides
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Be that as it may, I don't think you can taste a difference between organic and nonorganic produce though many people claim you can.
=> What you said may be true, but I don't think you can taste a difference between organic and nonorganic produce...
Be that as it may
=> it may be true but
eg: Be that as it may, we'd have to clean up the whole place afterwards.
eg: Be that as it may, you're at least getting paid and are able to pay your monthly bills.
Conversation B
Beth: Well. Better safe than sorry. Organic farmers don't use any chemicals. They use manure and compost for fertilizer and crop rotation to keep the soil healthy. They let nature take care of the pests.
Adam: Be that as it may, I don't think you can taste a difference between organic and nonorganic produce though many people claim you can. Taste is subjective, so how do you know if organic food is really better?
Beth: Look at the facts, Adam, if pesticides and taste won't change your mind,
consider the environmental impact. Organic farmers use methods that conserve water and take care of the soil. They don't contaminate water sources like conventional farmers do.
Adam: That may be true, but organic farming has its faults too. For example, organic products are more likely to contain E.coli. These harmful bacteria can be found in the manure organic farmers use. And besides, organic food costs so much more!
Beth: That’s true, it is more expensive, but you get what you pay for. And other people think so too. They’re willing to pay the price to protect their bodies and the environment. For example, demand for organic dairy products has grown by 20 percent over the past few years. In the end, it depends on what you value most. No one can decide that but you.
rotate v. 輪流
rotation n. 輪流/循環/交替
eg: The discjockey put the new song into the song rotation and it became an immediate hit among listeners.
eg: crop rotation 農作物輪作耕種
eg: The job rotation system works really well in our company. Everyone get familiar with different job duties.
eg: the rotation of the earth 地球在自轉或公轉
objective adj. 客觀的
subjective adj. 主觀的/個人的
eg: As a movie critic, he is far too subjective. He needs to support his opinions with more facts.
eg: The report is mostly based on the student's subjective observation.
eg: As a critic, he tries his best to not be subjective.
contaminate v. 弄髒/污染/毒害
eg: Carbon dioxide from cars contaminates the air and contributes to pollution.
eg: The bacteria may have contaminated our water tank. Now we have to sterilize(消毒) it.
eg: The area was seriously contaminated by nuclear waste.
you get what you pay for 一分錢一分貨
Josh: I got this MP3 player for a really cheap price, but it broke the second day I had it.
Karen: Well, I guess you get what you pay for.
//== Chat Room ==//
besides 何況/況且
=> besides提出的論點要和前一句的論點相符
eg: Let's cancel the picnic because everyone is sick. Besides, the forecast calls for rain.
moreover 此外
=> 可以有自己的主張，要呼應前一句話
further
furthermore
additionally
What's more 何況
=> informal way to say besides
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Be that as it may, I don't think you can taste a difference between organic and nonorganic produce though many people claim you can.
=> What you said may be true, but I don't think you can taste a difference between organic and nonorganic produce...
Be that as it may
=> it may be true but
eg: Be that as it may, we'd have to clean up the whole place afterwards.
eg: Be that as it may, you're at least getting paid and are able to pay your monthly bills.
2009年12月18日 星期五
20091218 Is Organic Food Really Better (1)
Is Organic Food Really Better?
Why buy organic food?
As you stand in front of the produce section at your local store, you are faced with a decision. In one hand you hold an organically grown tomato, and in the other you hold its traditionally grown counterpart. Both tomatoes are red, ripe and ready to be eaten, and both provide important health benefits. But is one better than the other? The debate between organic food and conventionally grown food has no easy answers but often sparks differing opinions.
Conversation A:
Adam: Wow, Beth. You have really been on a health kick lately. I've noticed you've been exercising more and eating healthier food. You look great.
Beth: Thanks. I feel great! You know, switching to organic food has made all the difference.
Adam: Really? Organic food seems so overrated to me. What's wrong with nonorganic food?
Beth: For starters, most famers rely on pesticides to kill crop-eating pests. Personally, I would rather not eat food that's covered in poisonous chemicals.
Adam: Be realistic. You've been eating food grown like this your whole life and have not had any problems to speak of yet. Besides, the FDA's ongoing Total Diet Study found pesticide residue on nonorganic food to be between 0.0001 and 2.4 parts per milion. That's nothing - and it's even less if you wash your fruit and vegetables before you eat them.
counterpart n. 極相像的人(或物)/(契約等的)副本/複本
=> it's different but still alike
eg: Our country's president is the counterpart to your country's prime minister.
overrate v. 過高評價/過度重視
=> give too much credits
eg: The new movie was so overrated, The special effects may have been good, but the plot was terrible!
eg: In our society, one's appearance is often overrated.
eg: Be confident, but don't overrate yourself in next week's competition.
pesticide n. 殺蟲劑
eg: The farmer used a pesticide on his cornfield to kill the bugs that were eating his crop.
residue n. 殘餘的物質/渣滓
=> a part that is left after something remain/gone
eg: After I finished reading the newspaper, I noticed that it had left a black residue on my fingers.
eg: This kind of shampoo is used to remove the residue that builds up on hair.
eg: Use cool, running water to clean the residue off vegetables before cooking.
kick n. 狂熱或衝勁
be on kick
eg: Lawrence has been on an exercise kick lately. He spends over 3 hours a day in the gym.
eg: Janet is on a cooking kick now. She buys all kinds of recipe books.
kick v. 踢
FDA
=> Food and Drug Administration
switch
=> change
rely on
=> depend on
pest n. 有害的動物/害蟲/有害的植物
//== Chat Room ==//
starters n. 開胃菜/第一道菜
=> appetizer
for starters 首先/做為開頭
= to begin with 首先(常用於句首)
eg: That's just for starters
=> 這只不過是一個起頭(表示後面還有很多其他的項目)
starter
= starting pitcher 先發投手
relief pitcher 後援投手
reliever 後援投手/接替者
relieve 救援
Why buy organic food?
As you stand in front of the produce section at your local store, you are faced with a decision. In one hand you hold an organically grown tomato, and in the other you hold its traditionally grown counterpart. Both tomatoes are red, ripe and ready to be eaten, and both provide important health benefits. But is one better than the other? The debate between organic food and conventionally grown food has no easy answers but often sparks differing opinions.
Conversation A:
Adam: Wow, Beth. You have really been on a health kick lately. I've noticed you've been exercising more and eating healthier food. You look great.
Beth: Thanks. I feel great! You know, switching to organic food has made all the difference.
Adam: Really? Organic food seems so overrated to me. What's wrong with nonorganic food?
Beth: For starters, most famers rely on pesticides to kill crop-eating pests. Personally, I would rather not eat food that's covered in poisonous chemicals.
Adam: Be realistic. You've been eating food grown like this your whole life and have not had any problems to speak of yet. Besides, the FDA's ongoing Total Diet Study found pesticide residue on nonorganic food to be between 0.0001 and 2.4 parts per milion. That's nothing - and it's even less if you wash your fruit and vegetables before you eat them.
counterpart n. 極相像的人(或物)/(契約等的)副本/複本
=> it's different but still alike
eg: Our country's president is the counterpart to your country's prime minister.
overrate v. 過高評價/過度重視
=> give too much credits
eg: The new movie was so overrated, The special effects may have been good, but the plot was terrible!
eg: In our society, one's appearance is often overrated.
eg: Be confident, but don't overrate yourself in next week's competition.
pesticide n. 殺蟲劑
eg: The farmer used a pesticide on his cornfield to kill the bugs that were eating his crop.
residue n. 殘餘的物質/渣滓
=> a part that is left after something remain/gone
eg: After I finished reading the newspaper, I noticed that it had left a black residue on my fingers.
eg: This kind of shampoo is used to remove the residue that builds up on hair.
eg: Use cool, running water to clean the residue off vegetables before cooking.
kick n. 狂熱或衝勁
be on kick
eg: Lawrence has been on an exercise kick lately. He spends over 3 hours a day in the gym.
eg: Janet is on a cooking kick now. She buys all kinds of recipe books.
kick v. 踢
FDA
=> Food and Drug Administration
switch
=> change
rely on
=> depend on
pest n. 有害的動物/害蟲/有害的植物
//== Chat Room ==//
starters n. 開胃菜/第一道菜
=> appetizer
for starters 首先/做為開頭
= to begin with 首先(常用於句首)
eg: That's just for starters
=> 這只不過是一個起頭(表示後面還有很多其他的項目)
starter
= starting pitcher 先發投手
relief pitcher 後援投手
reliever 後援投手/接替者
relieve 救援
2009年12月17日 星期四
20091217 Gingerbread Houses(2)
Gingerbread Houses
The world's largest
In 2006, Roger Pelcher constructed the world's largest gingerbread house in Bloomington, Minn. Measuring over 60 feet tall, the house took Pelcher's team 1,700 hours to complete. To capture the world record, Guinness World Records said 95 percent of the outside must be edible. So Pelcher used 14,250 pounds of gingerbread and over a ton of candy on the house!
Winning houses
At Christmastime, people from Sweden to Seattle enter their creations in gingerbread-house contests. Winners receive prizes for the most difficult to build, most creative, most beautiful and more. But winning contests isn't the main reason why making these houses is so popular. The wonderful smell as the gingerbread bakes and the joy of eating it are the real reasons!
DIY
Online directions and ready-to-assemble kits make creating gingerbread houses easier than ever before. You can make them as simple or as complex as you choose. Experience a "taste" of the holidays with your own gingerbread house this year!
-struct 建造
construct v. 建造/構成
=> build
eg: They have constructed a newer, wider bridge across the river.
eg: The engineers spent years constructing this building.
eg: Brenda is still constructing her speech.
construction n. 建造/構成
The construction of this bridge is almost an impossible mission.
ton n. 噸/公噸
eg: You'll need a ton of bricks to build a wall that long.
creative adj. 創造的/創造性的/有創造力(或想像力)的
eg: The teacher said my story was the most creative and interesting.
kit n. 工具箱
eg: The birthday party kit has everything you'll need for the party games and prizes.
edible n. 可以吃的/食用的
=> need to be able to be eaten
eg: The chef used some edible, flowers to decorate the dessert.
eg: The homeless men and women looked through the garbage trying to find something edible.
kit n. 成套的工具或配件
eg: Dad bought a tool kit but never once used it.
eg: I put a first-aid kit(急救箱) in the trunk of my car(後車箱).
eg: All the art kits are on sale for the beginning of the new semester.
//== Chat Room ==//
smell n. 聞到的氣味
eg: a wonderful smell 很好的味道
smell v. 有臭氣
eg: It smells. 很臭/很難聞
smell + adv 聞起來...
eg: The flowers smell nice.
eg: The cake smells delicious.
eg: It smells good. 聞起來不錯
eg: It smells bad. 聞起來很糟糕
smelly adv. 很臭地/很難聞地
eg: smelly socks
eg: smelly trash
stinky adj. 臭的/發惡臭的
eg: stinky tofu 臭豆腐
fragrant adj. 香的/芳香的
=> pleasing smell
eg: fragrant spices
eg: fragrant candles
scented adj. 灑有香水的
rose-scented lotion 玫瑰香的乳液
scent n. 氣味/香味
=> 通常只香味
=> 產品有添加某種味道，可以用scented這個形容詞
=> the thing it smells, usually a pleasant one
unscented n. 毫無味道
=> a product doesn't have any particular scent
//== More INFO ==//
Just how delicious is gingerbread made with sweet molasses and ginger? Listen to the words of the famous William Shakespeare, who wrote in his comedy Love's Labor's Lost, "And I had but one penny in the world. Thou should'st have it to buy gingerbread." In other words, if you've got just one dollar left in your pocket use it to buy a piece of yummy gingerbread!
molasses n. 糖蜜/糖漿
yummy adj. 好吃的/美味的
The world's largest
In 2006, Roger Pelcher constructed the world's largest gingerbread house in Bloomington, Minn. Measuring over 60 feet tall, the house took Pelcher's team 1,700 hours to complete. To capture the world record, Guinness World Records said 95 percent of the outside must be edible. So Pelcher used 14,250 pounds of gingerbread and over a ton of candy on the house!
Winning houses
At Christmastime, people from Sweden to Seattle enter their creations in gingerbread-house contests. Winners receive prizes for the most difficult to build, most creative, most beautiful and more. But winning contests isn't the main reason why making these houses is so popular. The wonderful smell as the gingerbread bakes and the joy of eating it are the real reasons!
DIY
Online directions and ready-to-assemble kits make creating gingerbread houses easier than ever before. You can make them as simple or as complex as you choose. Experience a "taste" of the holidays with your own gingerbread house this year!
-struct 建造
construct v. 建造/構成
=> build
eg: They have constructed a newer, wider bridge across the river.
eg: The engineers spent years constructing this building.
eg: Brenda is still constructing her speech.
construction n. 建造/構成
The construction of this bridge is almost an impossible mission.
ton n. 噸/公噸
eg: You'll need a ton of bricks to build a wall that long.
creative adj. 創造的/創造性的/有創造力(或想像力)的
eg: The teacher said my story was the most creative and interesting.
kit n. 工具箱
eg: The birthday party kit has everything you'll need for the party games and prizes.
edible n. 可以吃的/食用的
=> need to be able to be eaten
eg: The chef used some edible, flowers to decorate the dessert.
eg: The homeless men and women looked through the garbage trying to find something edible.
kit n. 成套的工具或配件
eg: Dad bought a tool kit but never once used it.
eg: I put a first-aid kit(急救箱) in the trunk of my car(後車箱).
eg: All the art kits are on sale for the beginning of the new semester.
//== Chat Room ==//
smell n. 聞到的氣味
eg: a wonderful smell 很好的味道
smell v. 有臭氣
eg: It smells. 很臭/很難聞
smell + adv 聞起來...
eg: The flowers smell nice.
eg: The cake smells delicious.
eg: It smells good. 聞起來不錯
eg: It smells bad. 聞起來很糟糕
smelly adv. 很臭地/很難聞地
eg: smelly socks
eg: smelly trash
stinky adj. 臭的/發惡臭的
eg: stinky tofu 臭豆腐
fragrant adj. 香的/芳香的
=> pleasing smell
eg: fragrant spices
eg: fragrant candles
scented adj. 灑有香水的
rose-scented lotion 玫瑰香的乳液
scent n. 氣味/香味
=> 通常只香味
=> 產品有添加某種味道，可以用scented這個形容詞
=> the thing it smells, usually a pleasant one
unscented n. 毫無味道
=> a product doesn't have any particular scent
//== More INFO ==//
Just how delicious is gingerbread made with sweet molasses and ginger? Listen to the words of the famous William Shakespeare, who wrote in his comedy Love's Labor's Lost, "And I had but one penny in the world. Thou should'st have it to buy gingerbread." In other words, if you've got just one dollar left in your pocket use it to buy a piece of yummy gingerbread!
molasses n. 糖蜜/糖漿
yummy adj. 好吃的/美味的
2009年12月16日 星期三
20091216 Gingerbread Houses (1)
Gingerbread Houses(薑餅屋)
A popular, classic holiday treat
You can cook with it. You can make candy from it. You can put it into drinks or take it as medicine. Ginger has many uses, but none as beautiful as when it is used in a gingerbread house.
Past and present
Ginger - the key ingredient in gingerbread and the houses themselves - has a long history. It is believed that ginger was used as early as 2,000 B.C. in China. Gingerbread houses were first written about during the 15th century.
But it was the 19th-century fairy tale "Hansel and Gretel" that started a trend. As European immigrants made their way around the world, so did gingerbread houses! One example occurred in the town of Belleville, III.. in the 1850s. As large numbers of German immigrants moved there, many brought along their gingerbread-house recipes. Today, during the holidays, Belleville hosts a "Giangerbread Walk" through its downtown area. Along the path, shop owners display beautifully made gingerbread houses and other gingerbread creations. The event allows visitors and locals alike to enjoy Belleville's tastiest tradition.
ginger n. 生薑/薑/薑製調味品
eg: My mom puts a litle ginger in her cookies to make them taste good.
ingredient n. 烹調的原料
=> a thing you would put into a food
eg: Cheese is a key ingredient for many Mexican dishes.
eg: The ingredients of this cake include flour, eggs, sugar and milk.
ingredient n. 不可或缺的東西/要素
eg: Mutual understanding is a key ingredient for a good marriage.
im- 進來
emigrant n. 移出的移民
immigrant n. 移入的移民
=> someone move from their country into another country
eg: Many Italian immigrants settled in the northeastern part of the U.S.
eg: Many Italian immigrants live in Little Italy in Manhattan, New York.
eg: The illegal immigrants will be deported today.
creation n. 創作的作品(當可數名詞)
=> a creation is something has been created or made
eg: Paul's chocolate creations were unique and delicious too!
eg: Picasso's art creations were copied and studied by many people.
creation n. 創造/創作(不可數名詞)
eg: The creation of this symphony(交響樂曲) took over 5 years.
fairy tale 童話故事
//== Chat Room ==//
ginger ale 薑汁汽水
hot ginger tea 熱的薑茶
ginger cookies
gingerbread cookies
ginger snap
gingerbread man 薑餅人
=> a cookie shaped like a person
Ginger 女生名字
gingerly adv. 極為謹慎地/小心翼翼地
=> do something with great care
=> do it cautiously
ginger n. 土黃色
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
As European immigrants made their way around the world, so did gingerbread houses!
=> As European immigrants went in a direction around the world, so did gingerbread houses!
make one's way
=> in today's article it means "go in a certain direction"
make one's way
=> show how travelling in a certain direction or a certain destination requires some effort
eg: With all these shoppers in the store, it's hard for Martha to make her way to the cashier's counter.
eg: It was hard for Paula to make her way down the airplane aisle while holding her baby and pulling a carry-on suitcase.
A popular, classic holiday treat
You can cook with it. You can make candy from it. You can put it into drinks or take it as medicine. Ginger has many uses, but none as beautiful as when it is used in a gingerbread house.
Past and present
Ginger - the key ingredient in gingerbread and the houses themselves - has a long history. It is believed that ginger was used as early as 2,000 B.C. in China. Gingerbread houses were first written about during the 15th century.
But it was the 19th-century fairy tale "Hansel and Gretel" that started a trend. As European immigrants made their way around the world, so did gingerbread houses! One example occurred in the town of Belleville, III.. in the 1850s. As large numbers of German immigrants moved there, many brought along their gingerbread-house recipes. Today, during the holidays, Belleville hosts a "Giangerbread Walk" through its downtown area. Along the path, shop owners display beautifully made gingerbread houses and other gingerbread creations. The event allows visitors and locals alike to enjoy Belleville's tastiest tradition.
ginger n. 生薑/薑/薑製調味品
eg: My mom puts a litle ginger in her cookies to make them taste good.
ingredient n. 烹調的原料
=> a thing you would put into a food
eg: Cheese is a key ingredient for many Mexican dishes.
eg: The ingredients of this cake include flour, eggs, sugar and milk.
ingredient n. 不可或缺的東西/要素
eg: Mutual understanding is a key ingredient for a good marriage.
im- 進來
emigrant n. 移出的移民
immigrant n. 移入的移民
=> someone move from their country into another country
eg: Many Italian immigrants settled in the northeastern part of the U.S.
eg: Many Italian immigrants live in Little Italy in Manhattan, New York.
eg: The illegal immigrants will be deported today.
creation n. 創作的作品(當可數名詞)
=> a creation is something has been created or made
eg: Paul's chocolate creations were unique and delicious too!
eg: Picasso's art creations were copied and studied by many people.
creation n. 創造/創作(不可數名詞)
eg: The creation of this symphony(交響樂曲) took over 5 years.
fairy tale 童話故事
//== Chat Room ==//
ginger ale 薑汁汽水
hot ginger tea 熱的薑茶
ginger cookies
gingerbread cookies
ginger snap
gingerbread man 薑餅人
=> a cookie shaped like a person
Ginger 女生名字
gingerly adv. 極為謹慎地/小心翼翼地
=> do something with great care
=> do it cautiously
ginger n. 土黃色
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
As European immigrants made their way around the world, so did gingerbread houses!
=> As European immigrants went in a direction around the world, so did gingerbread houses!
make one's way
=> in today's article it means "go in a certain direction"
make one's way
=> show how travelling in a certain direction or a certain destination requires some effort
eg: With all these shoppers in the store, it's hard for Martha to make her way to the cashier's counter.
eg: It was hard for Paula to make her way down the airplane aisle while holding her baby and pulling a carry-on suitcase.
2009年12月15日 星期二
20091215 The Terrafunia Transition (2)
The Terrafunia Transition
One look at the Transition tells you that, at heart, it really is an airplane. In fact, Terrafugia doesn't call the Transition a "flying car" at all. Instead, the company uses the term "roadable aircraft." Like other airplanes, the Transition has wings, a tail and a propeller. It is powered by an aircraft engine and has an optional parachute. More importantly, you need a pilot's license to fly it. Still, the Transition is also very much a car. Like other cars, it has a steering wheel, four wheels and crash protection.
It runs on normal premium auto gasoline, and you can't drive it unless you have a driver's license. With an expected price of $194,000 and seating limited to two, the Transition won't replace airlines or family cars any time soon. But it does provide a whole new range of travel choices. Transition drivers will no longer be confined to land. Moreover, if bad weather prevents a flight, Transition pilots can always just drive home.
parachute n. 降落傘/翅膜
eg: Don't forget to open your parachute when you jump out of a plane.
steering wheel n. 方向盤/駕駛盤
eg: The video game lets you use the steering wheel to control where you are going.
pre- 之前的
premium adj. 高級的/優質的
=> higher quality
premium gasoline 高級汽油
eg: My aunt gave me a premium membership to the health spa!
eg: This premium beef costs twice the price of regular beef.
eg: The house is located on a premium site.
confine v. 限制/使局限
confine to
eg: We usually confine the kids to the backyard because we don't want them to play in the street.
eg: Please confine your remarks to our private discussion.
eg: He was confined to bed for months due to his injuries.
option n. 選擇
optional adj. 可選擇的
eg: When buying a new car, adding on a GPS system is optional.
eg: Math class is compulsory(必修的) for all students, but French and art are optional(選修的).
at heart
=> at its core
=> at its center
//== Chat Room ==//
roadable adj. 可以行駛在路上的
roadable aircraft 可行駛道路飛行器
=> a vehicle able to move on a road
-able
=> 一般都是用在動詞
washable 可洗的
microwaveable 可微波的
recyclable 可回收的
rechargeable adj. 可充電的
searchable adj. 透過搜查能找到的/可被搜查的
acceptable adj. 可以接受的
enjoyable adj. 快樂的/有樂趣的
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Still, the Transition is also very much a car.
very much a ...
very much a + noun
=> talk about how something show a great degree or a amount of certain quality
eg: Paul is very much a natural leader and enjoys coordinating team projects.
eg: Although my friends think this sculpture is ugly, I think it's very much a masterpiece.
One look at the Transition tells you that, at heart, it really is an airplane. In fact, Terrafugia doesn't call the Transition a "flying car" at all. Instead, the company uses the term "roadable aircraft." Like other airplanes, the Transition has wings, a tail and a propeller. It is powered by an aircraft engine and has an optional parachute. More importantly, you need a pilot's license to fly it. Still, the Transition is also very much a car. Like other cars, it has a steering wheel, four wheels and crash protection.
It runs on normal premium auto gasoline, and you can't drive it unless you have a driver's license. With an expected price of $194,000 and seating limited to two, the Transition won't replace airlines or family cars any time soon. But it does provide a whole new range of travel choices. Transition drivers will no longer be confined to land. Moreover, if bad weather prevents a flight, Transition pilots can always just drive home.
parachute n. 降落傘/翅膜
eg: Don't forget to open your parachute when you jump out of a plane.
steering wheel n. 方向盤/駕駛盤
eg: The video game lets you use the steering wheel to control where you are going.
pre- 之前的
premium adj. 高級的/優質的
=> higher quality
premium gasoline 高級汽油
eg: My aunt gave me a premium membership to the health spa!
eg: This premium beef costs twice the price of regular beef.
eg: The house is located on a premium site.
confine v. 限制/使局限
confine to
eg: We usually confine the kids to the backyard because we don't want them to play in the street.
eg: Please confine your remarks to our private discussion.
eg: He was confined to bed for months due to his injuries.
option n. 選擇
optional adj. 可選擇的
eg: When buying a new car, adding on a GPS system is optional.
eg: Math class is compulsory(必修的) for all students, but French and art are optional(選修的).
at heart
=> at its core
=> at its center
//== Chat Room ==//
roadable adj. 可以行駛在路上的
roadable aircraft 可行駛道路飛行器
=> a vehicle able to move on a road
-able
=> 一般都是用在動詞
washable 可洗的
microwaveable 可微波的
recyclable 可回收的
rechargeable adj. 可充電的
searchable adj. 透過搜查能找到的/可被搜查的
acceptable adj. 可以接受的
enjoyable adj. 快樂的/有樂趣的
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Still, the Transition is also very much a car.
very much a ...
very much a + noun
=> talk about how something show a great degree or a amount of certain quality
eg: Paul is very much a natural leader and enjoys coordinating team projects.
eg: Although my friends think this sculpture is ugly, I think it's very much a masterpiece.
2009年12月14日 星期一
20091214 The Terrafunia Transition (1)
The Terrafunia Transition
The airplane you can fly or drive
Are you sick of commutes to the airport? Exhausted by the search for airport parking? Tired of trying to find ground transportation at your destination? A flying car may be just what you need. While the concept of flying cars has been around for decades, the cars themselves have never really caught on. Now, the Massachusetts-based company Terrafugia is changing that.
The company recently received publicity from around the world with the introduction of the Transition. A true hybrid, the Transition combines the abilities of an automobile with those of a small aircraft. However, the Transition doesn't require users to drive an airplane down the street. Instead, it can be converted from aircraft to road mode in less than 30 seconds. By entering a PIN number, pilots can make the wings fold against the side of the vehicle. Power then moves from the propeller to the front wheels. Drivers who wish to fly simply reverse the process before taking off.
commute n. 通勤
eg: Trina has a two-hour commute to work each day.
catch on 流行
=> become very popular
eg: The idea of riding bicycles to work is really starting to catch on.
eg: PDA cellphones caught on really fast once they were invented.
eg: The new user-friendly software will probably catch on very soon.
publicity n. 宣傳/宣揚
=> a lot of attention
eg: The store has received lots of publicity because of its excellent customer service.
mode n. 形式/型/種類
eg: Michelle changed her cell phone's setting to silent mode during the meeting.
trans- 越過/通過
transition n. 轉換/變革/過渡的階段
=> change from one thing to another
eg: The transition from childhood to adulthood can be very confusing for teenagers.
eg: People expect a smooth transition to a full democracy.
hybrid n. 混合物/合成物
=> something combine two things
eg: This car is a hybrid which uses both gasoline and natural gas.
hybrid n. 混種的植物或是動物
eg: This kind of tomato is a large and sweet hybrid.
Terrafunia
=> comes from Latin meaning "escape from the land"
propeller n. 螺旋槳/推進器
PIN number
=> Personal Identification number
//== Chat Room ==//
Are you sick of commutes to the airport?
be sick of something 受不了某事/某物
=> be annoyed with something
eg: I'm sick of the noise.
be sick from 因為...而生病
eg: He got sick from the food he ate.
=> 他生病是因為吃到不乾淨的食物.
be tired of something 厭倦...
be sick and tired of something 對某事非常受不了
=> 比be sick of something還要強烈
eg: I'm tired of eating the same thing every day.
eg: I'm tired of watching TV. Let's go outside to take a walk.
eg: I'm sick and tired of driving. 我對開車忍無可忍
eg: I'm tired of driving.
fed up with something 對某事非常受不了
=> face something you don't like for a while
The airplane you can fly or drive
Are you sick of commutes to the airport? Exhausted by the search for airport parking? Tired of trying to find ground transportation at your destination? A flying car may be just what you need. While the concept of flying cars has been around for decades, the cars themselves have never really caught on. Now, the Massachusetts-based company Terrafugia is changing that.
The company recently received publicity from around the world with the introduction of the Transition. A true hybrid, the Transition combines the abilities of an automobile with those of a small aircraft. However, the Transition doesn't require users to drive an airplane down the street. Instead, it can be converted from aircraft to road mode in less than 30 seconds. By entering a PIN number, pilots can make the wings fold against the side of the vehicle. Power then moves from the propeller to the front wheels. Drivers who wish to fly simply reverse the process before taking off.
commute n. 通勤
eg: Trina has a two-hour commute to work each day.
catch on 流行
=> become very popular
eg: The idea of riding bicycles to work is really starting to catch on.
eg: PDA cellphones caught on really fast once they were invented.
eg: The new user-friendly software will probably catch on very soon.
publicity n. 宣傳/宣揚
=> a lot of attention
eg: The store has received lots of publicity because of its excellent customer service.
mode n. 形式/型/種類
eg: Michelle changed her cell phone's setting to silent mode during the meeting.
trans- 越過/通過
transition n. 轉換/變革/過渡的階段
=> change from one thing to another
eg: The transition from childhood to adulthood can be very confusing for teenagers.
eg: People expect a smooth transition to a full democracy.
hybrid n. 混合物/合成物
=> something combine two things
eg: This car is a hybrid which uses both gasoline and natural gas.
hybrid n. 混種的植物或是動物
eg: This kind of tomato is a large and sweet hybrid.
Terrafunia
=> comes from Latin meaning "escape from the land"
propeller n. 螺旋槳/推進器
PIN number
=> Personal Identification number
//== Chat Room ==//
Are you sick of commutes to the airport?
be sick of something 受不了某事/某物
=> be annoyed with something
eg: I'm sick of the noise.
be sick from 因為...而生病
eg: He got sick from the food he ate.
=> 他生病是因為吃到不乾淨的食物.
be tired of something 厭倦...
be sick and tired of something 對某事非常受不了
=> 比be sick of something還要強烈
eg: I'm tired of eating the same thing every day.
eg: I'm tired of watching TV. Let's go outside to take a walk.
eg: I'm sick and tired of driving. 我對開車忍無可忍
eg: I'm tired of driving.
fed up with something 對某事非常受不了
=> face something you don't like for a while
2009年12月13日 星期日
20091212 Hop Up to Victoria's Bug Zoo for some Creepy Crawly Fun (3)
Hop Up to Victoria's Bug Zoo for some Creepy Crawly Fun
The tarantula's bite isn't deadly, but it is painful, and some spiders may shoot spiny hairs that irritate eyes or mucous membranes toward anything they deem threatening, so the zoo staff handles them with care. And stinkbugs do cause a stink if they feel endangered. The bugs don't take up much space, only a couple bedroom-size chambers. Clear plastic tubes meander up, down and across the walls of one room, a see-through ant farm that Maier bills as the largest in Canada. Assorted mantises, millipedes, grasshoppers, crickets, spiders and cockroaches occupy the other room. Insect life and culture may be puzzling to humans, but it isn't as disgusting as the kids would sometimes like the old folks to think.
It's a myth, for instance, that female mantises always bite the heads off the males after mating. It happens, but usually only in captivity and if they don't have enough to eat. He's just another bug or snack - to her.
News of the fun is getting around. Public boadcasting camera crews shot footage that was aired in the summer of 2008. Maier didn't know exactly what footage they were planning to show at the time of filming. But it's a cinch the cameraman would have focused on a millipede trying its best to help a 4-year-old grow a thick, black bandito mustache.
deem v. 認為/視作
=> 常用被動語態
=> consider to be
eg: After deeming the project unnecessary, the organization cut its funding.
eg: Since this area is deemed dangerous, only authorized persons can enter.
eg: He was deemed the most likely contestant to win the competition.
meander v. 曲折/迂迴
=> 不及物動詞，後面加介係詞再加受詞
eg: The calm river meandering throgh the town forms a beautiful scene.
eg: The path meanders through the garden and leads to a cottage.
meander v. 漫步
eg: The visitors can meander along the river.
assorted adj. (常構成複合詞)相配的/合適的
=> a large of variety
eg: For Valentine's Day, Simon got his wife a box of assorted chocolates.
cinch n. 簡單的事/很肯定的事
=> 大多用單數形
=> It's very easy
=> 但是本課的意思為They will definitely do it.
eg: As the most gifted actress in the entire school, Amy was a cinch for the lead role.
eg: Samuel is one of the top students of his class. Getting good grades is a cinch for him.
eg: It's a cinch that Patrick will win the swimming competition.
eg: I'll do it. It's a cinch.
mucous membrane 黏膜
mantis n. 螳螂
bandito mustache
=>
//== Chat Room ==//
Clear plastic tubes meander up, down and across the walls of one room, a see-through ant farm that Maier bills as the largest in Canada.
=> billing something as something means describing something in a particular way
bill v. 以傳單海報來宣佈
be billed as
= be described as
eg: disney land bills itself as the happiest place on earth.
eg: The president's visit to Germany was billed as nonpolitical.
eg: Anne Hathaway has been billed as the next Julia Roberts.
top billing 主要演員
=> 電影人員排名表排名最高的位置
=> 通常主要會是top billing
the credits 電影人員排名表
=> the list of people who participate in the show/movie
=> 電影片頭或是片尾列出的人員排名表
=> 用意為給予這些人credits(讚揚/表揚)
opening credits 片頭人員排名表
closing credits 片尾人員排名表
The tarantula's bite isn't deadly, but it is painful, and some spiders may shoot spiny hairs that irritate eyes or mucous membranes toward anything they deem threatening, so the zoo staff handles them with care. And stinkbugs do cause a stink if they feel endangered. The bugs don't take up much space, only a couple bedroom-size chambers. Clear plastic tubes meander up, down and across the walls of one room, a see-through ant farm that Maier bills as the largest in Canada. Assorted mantises, millipedes, grasshoppers, crickets, spiders and cockroaches occupy the other room. Insect life and culture may be puzzling to humans, but it isn't as disgusting as the kids would sometimes like the old folks to think.
It's a myth, for instance, that female mantises always bite the heads off the males after mating. It happens, but usually only in captivity and if they don't have enough to eat. He's just another bug or snack - to her.
News of the fun is getting around. Public boadcasting camera crews shot footage that was aired in the summer of 2008. Maier didn't know exactly what footage they were planning to show at the time of filming. But it's a cinch the cameraman would have focused on a millipede trying its best to help a 4-year-old grow a thick, black bandito mustache.
deem v. 認為/視作
=> 常用被動語態
=> consider to be
eg: After deeming the project unnecessary, the organization cut its funding.
eg: Since this area is deemed dangerous, only authorized persons can enter.
eg: He was deemed the most likely contestant to win the competition.
meander v. 曲折/迂迴
=> 不及物動詞，後面加介係詞再加受詞
eg: The calm river meandering throgh the town forms a beautiful scene.
eg: The path meanders through the garden and leads to a cottage.
meander v. 漫步
eg: The visitors can meander along the river.
assorted adj. (常構成複合詞)相配的/合適的
=> a large of variety
eg: For Valentine's Day, Simon got his wife a box of assorted chocolates.
cinch n. 簡單的事/很肯定的事
=> 大多用單數形
=> It's very easy
=> 但是本課的意思為They will definitely do it.
eg: As the most gifted actress in the entire school, Amy was a cinch for the lead role.
eg: Samuel is one of the top students of his class. Getting good grades is a cinch for him.
eg: It's a cinch that Patrick will win the swimming competition.
eg: I'll do it. It's a cinch.
mucous membrane 黏膜
mantis n. 螳螂
bandito mustache
=>
//== Chat Room ==//
Clear plastic tubes meander up, down and across the walls of one room, a see-through ant farm that Maier bills as the largest in Canada.
=> billing something as something means describing something in a particular way
bill v. 以傳單海報來宣佈
be billed as
= be described as
eg: disney land bills itself as the happiest place on earth.
eg: The president's visit to Germany was billed as nonpolitical.
eg: Anne Hathaway has been billed as the next Julia Roberts.
top billing 主要演員
=> 電影人員排名表排名最高的位置
=> 通常主要會是top billing
the credits 電影人員排名表
=> the list of people who participate in the show/movie
=> 電影片頭或是片尾列出的人員排名表
=> 用意為給予這些人credits(讚揚/表揚)
opening credits 片頭人員排名表
closing credits 片尾人員排名表
2009年12月11日 星期五
20091211 Hop Up to Victoria's Bug Zoo for some Creepy Crawly Fun (2)
Hop Up to Victoria's Bug Zoo for some Creepy Crawly Fun
Kids and a few parents fight for the chance to don a thick, black Pancho Villa-style mustache. We're famous for millipede mustaches more than anything else, says Carol Maier, who started the zoo in 1997. And there's always a whole lot of bug holding going on. You think having a wormy millipede stretch its bazillion legs across your upper lip is creepy and beyond disgusting? Nope. It's tickly, not slimy, and it wouldn't think of taking a nip from a lip.
The new canopy grasshoppers are about five inches long and really are lovely, Maier says. Red legs with big jumping hind legs. They live in the canopy of the jungle, hence the name. We've been breeding them in captivity for a few years, but the eggs took about three years to hatch this time. We had all but given up on them and then one day, puff, 200 baby grasshoppers to take care of.
Many of the bugs are safe enough for kids to handle, but the stingers and biters aren't allowed out to play when folks com to visit. The new Sydney funnel-web spider, a native of Australia, has a four-inch leg-span and a toxic bite. She doesn't spin a web, says Maier, She hunts.
creepy adj. 令人毛骨悚然的/不寒而慄的
eg: The creepy old house looked like it came right out of a horror movie.
slimy adj. 黏搭搭的/泥濘的
eg: After handling all those fish, Peter's hands were extremely slimy.
eg: The fish has a slimy texture but tastes delicious.
eg: This trail becomes really slimy after it rains, so be careful if you go hiking.
eg: The eggs were covered with some sort of slimy substance.
captivity n. 囚禁/被俘/束縛
=> not free
eg: Animals that have grown up in captivity often have difficulty adjusting to life in the wild.
eg: The hostages were held in captivity for over 10 hours. Fortunately, they were all released unharm.
eg: Animals that were raised in captivity might not survive in the wild.
toxic adj. 中毒的/毒(性)的/有毒的
=> have poison
eg: Large amounts of chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats.
eg: The toxic waste of nuclear facilities needs to be professionally handled.
eg: The toxic effect of alcohol nearly took his life.
eg: When the paint was tested, toxic substances were found in it.
Pancho Villa-style
mustache n. 髭/小鬍子
bazillion
=> unlimitedness
millipede n. 節肢動物
canopy n. 遮雨篷
//== Chat Room ==//
puff/poof v. 噗的一聲
=> 魔術師變魔術的時候拿著他的魔術棒，然後puff，女助理就消失了
=> show something suddenly vanish
onomatopoeia n. 擬聲詞
=> word imitate sound
hiss v. (蛇等或氣體漏出時)發出嘶嘶聲
buzz v. (蜂等)嗡嗡叫
pop
boom
=> something heavily hit the ground
bang
=> a explosion
//== More INFO ==//
At Victoria's bug zoo the dangerous bug and insects aren't allowed out- not so much because they're a threat to the children but because the creatures need to be protected from the young visitors! For example, kids can get excited and drop an insect. In the case of a tarantula, that can cause a broken spider leg, which can be fatal - to the spider.
tarantula n. 鳥蛛
Kids and a few parents fight for the chance to don a thick, black Pancho Villa-style mustache. We're famous for millipede mustaches more than anything else, says Carol Maier, who started the zoo in 1997. And there's always a whole lot of bug holding going on. You think having a wormy millipede stretch its bazillion legs across your upper lip is creepy and beyond disgusting? Nope. It's tickly, not slimy, and it wouldn't think of taking a nip from a lip.
The new canopy grasshoppers are about five inches long and really are lovely, Maier says. Red legs with big jumping hind legs. They live in the canopy of the jungle, hence the name. We've been breeding them in captivity for a few years, but the eggs took about three years to hatch this time. We had all but given up on them and then one day, puff, 200 baby grasshoppers to take care of.
Many of the bugs are safe enough for kids to handle, but the stingers and biters aren't allowed out to play when folks com to visit. The new Sydney funnel-web spider, a native of Australia, has a four-inch leg-span and a toxic bite. She doesn't spin a web, says Maier, She hunts.
creepy adj. 令人毛骨悚然的/不寒而慄的
eg: The creepy old house looked like it came right out of a horror movie.
slimy adj. 黏搭搭的/泥濘的
eg: After handling all those fish, Peter's hands were extremely slimy.
eg: The fish has a slimy texture but tastes delicious.
eg: This trail becomes really slimy after it rains, so be careful if you go hiking.
eg: The eggs were covered with some sort of slimy substance.
captivity n. 囚禁/被俘/束縛
=> not free
eg: Animals that have grown up in captivity often have difficulty adjusting to life in the wild.
eg: The hostages were held in captivity for over 10 hours. Fortunately, they were all released unharm.
eg: Animals that were raised in captivity might not survive in the wild.
toxic adj. 中毒的/毒(性)的/有毒的
=> have poison
eg: Large amounts of chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats.
eg: The toxic waste of nuclear facilities needs to be professionally handled.
eg: The toxic effect of alcohol nearly took his life.
eg: When the paint was tested, toxic substances were found in it.
Pancho Villa-style
mustache n. 髭/小鬍子
bazillion
=> unlimitedness
millipede n. 節肢動物
canopy n. 遮雨篷
//== Chat Room ==//
puff/poof v. 噗的一聲
=> 魔術師變魔術的時候拿著他的魔術棒，然後puff，女助理就消失了
=> show something suddenly vanish
onomatopoeia n. 擬聲詞
=> word imitate sound
hiss v. (蛇等或氣體漏出時)發出嘶嘶聲
buzz v. (蜂等)嗡嗡叫
pop
boom
=> something heavily hit the ground
bang
=> a explosion
//== More INFO ==//
At Victoria's bug zoo the dangerous bug and insects aren't allowed out- not so much because they're a threat to the children but because the creatures need to be protected from the young visitors! For example, kids can get excited and drop an insect. In the case of a tarantula, that can cause a broken spider leg, which can be fatal - to the spider.
tarantula n. 鳥蛛
20091210 Hop Up to Victoria's Bug Zoo for some Creepy Crawly Fun (1)
Hop Up to Victoria's Bug Zoo for some Creepy Crawly Fun
Hug a bug today
It would be a shame if the inhabitants of the leaf-cutter-ant farm mistook that flat green thing on a nearby branch for something good to eat. It's their new neighbor, a giant shield mantis, which looks exactly like a leaf if you don't count those enormous bug eyes out front. The mantis, which is about six inches long, and the leaf-cutter-ant colony are among an infestation of new insect residents brought to the Victoria But Zoo in December 2007 from the Amazon. New, too, is a canopy grasshopper with bright red legs, from Trinidad, some exotic katydids and two yellow and black millipedes.
The zoo houses 2 million ants and about 70 species of swarming, squirming, crawling, leaping, flying, hissing wildlife from all over the world in a two-room storefront just a few blocks from the famous Empress Hotel in downtown Victoria.
Over the past decade, thousands of bug-loving kids - and a few squeamish parents - have visited the zoo to learn about insect romance and potty habits from knowledgeable guides who lead tours every day of the week. The millipedes are by far the crowd favorites at this creepy-crawly version of a petting zoo.
inhabitant n. (某地區、部位等)棲居的動物/(某地區的)居民/居住者
=> something live somewhere
eg: That old house looks like it hasn't had any inhabitants for 50 years.
infestation n. (動、植物的)寄生蟲侵擾
=> a large number of something going all the same area
eg: The restaurant's rat infestation seriously damaged its reputation around town.
eg: It's hard to ease the pain and the itching caused by a flea infestation.
eg: An infestation of rats in the building caused the bureau of public health to shut it down.
hiss v. (蛇等或氣體漏出時)發出嘶嘶聲
eg: Vivian scroamed in fear when the snake hissed at her.
eg: The snake hissed to threaten its enemy.
eg: The steam(蒸氣) hissed loudly because the pipe was broken.
squeamish adj. 易受驚嚇的/神經質的
eg: While the thought of eating insects makes most people feel squeamish, it makes Bill hungry.
eg: Sean is too squeamish to be a doctor. He feels faint when he sees blood.
eg: This horror movie is definitely not for the squeamish.
exotic adj. 異國情調的/奇特的
eg: exotic food 異國料理
creepy crawly
=> if something is creepy and crawly, we are probably talking about insects.
=> The way the insects move
creepy adj. 令人毛骨悚然的
crawly adj. 令人毛骨悚然的
cutter n. 切割者/裁剪者
mantis n. 螳螂
canopy n. 遮雨篷
colony n. 殖民地
millipede n. 節肢動物
katydid n. 美洲大螽斯
swarm v. 成群地來回移動
squirm v. 蠕動/扭動
crawl v. 爬/爬行/蠕動
storefront n. 店面
potty adj. 嬰兒的便盆
=> refer to toilet, small toilet for children
potty habit
=> bathroom habit
//== Chat Room ==//
milli- 毫/千分之一
=> one-thousandth
millisecond
= one thousandth (0.001) of a second
millimeter n. 一公釐/一千分之一尺
= one thousandth of a meter
millennium
=> the period of thousand year
millipede n. 類似蜈蚣的節肢動物
pedal n. 腳踏板
pedicure n. 修趾甲/做腳步的護理
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
It's their new neighbor, a giant shield mantis, which looks exactly like a leaf if you don't count those enormous bug eyes out front!
out front
=> that are out on the front of its face
eg: There is a "for sale" sign out front.
eg: I'll see you at the theater; we'll meet out front.
Hug a bug today
It would be a shame if the inhabitants of the leaf-cutter-ant farm mistook that flat green thing on a nearby branch for something good to eat. It's their new neighbor, a giant shield mantis, which looks exactly like a leaf if you don't count those enormous bug eyes out front. The mantis, which is about six inches long, and the leaf-cutter-ant colony are among an infestation of new insect residents brought to the Victoria But Zoo in December 2007 from the Amazon. New, too, is a canopy grasshopper with bright red legs, from Trinidad, some exotic katydids and two yellow and black millipedes.
The zoo houses 2 million ants and about 70 species of swarming, squirming, crawling, leaping, flying, hissing wildlife from all over the world in a two-room storefront just a few blocks from the famous Empress Hotel in downtown Victoria.
Over the past decade, thousands of bug-loving kids - and a few squeamish parents - have visited the zoo to learn about insect romance and potty habits from knowledgeable guides who lead tours every day of the week. The millipedes are by far the crowd favorites at this creepy-crawly version of a petting zoo.
inhabitant n. (某地區、部位等)棲居的動物/(某地區的)居民/居住者
=> something live somewhere
eg: That old house looks like it hasn't had any inhabitants for 50 years.
infestation n. (動、植物的)寄生蟲侵擾
=> a large number of something going all the same area
eg: The restaurant's rat infestation seriously damaged its reputation around town.
eg: It's hard to ease the pain and the itching caused by a flea infestation.
eg: An infestation of rats in the building caused the bureau of public health to shut it down.
hiss v. (蛇等或氣體漏出時)發出嘶嘶聲
eg: Vivian scroamed in fear when the snake hissed at her.
eg: The snake hissed to threaten its enemy.
eg: The steam(蒸氣) hissed loudly because the pipe was broken.
squeamish adj. 易受驚嚇的/神經質的
eg: While the thought of eating insects makes most people feel squeamish, it makes Bill hungry.
eg: Sean is too squeamish to be a doctor. He feels faint when he sees blood.
eg: This horror movie is definitely not for the squeamish.
exotic adj. 異國情調的/奇特的
eg: exotic food 異國料理
creepy crawly
=> if something is creepy and crawly, we are probably talking about insects.
=> The way the insects move
creepy adj. 令人毛骨悚然的
crawly adj. 令人毛骨悚然的
cutter n. 切割者/裁剪者
mantis n. 螳螂
canopy n. 遮雨篷
colony n. 殖民地
millipede n. 節肢動物
katydid n. 美洲大螽斯
swarm v. 成群地來回移動
squirm v. 蠕動/扭動
crawl v. 爬/爬行/蠕動
storefront n. 店面
potty adj. 嬰兒的便盆
=> refer to toilet, small toilet for children
potty habit
=> bathroom habit
//== Chat Room ==//
milli- 毫/千分之一
=> one-thousandth
millisecond
= one thousandth (0.001) of a second
millimeter n. 一公釐/一千分之一尺
= one thousandth of a meter
millennium
=> the period of thousand year
millipede n. 類似蜈蚣的節肢動物
pedal n. 腳踏板
pedicure n. 修趾甲/做腳步的護理
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
It's their new neighbor, a giant shield mantis, which looks exactly like a leaf if you don't count those enormous bug eyes out front!
out front
=> that are out on the front of its face
eg: There is a "for sale" sign out front.
eg: I'll see you at the theater; we'll meet out front.
2009年12月9日 星期三
20091209 Shoes With Soul (1)
Shoes With Soul
The charity Soul of Africa produces shoes to help people in South Africa
In small factories in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, women stitch leather shoes. Before these factories opened, the women were unemployed, but now they earn money for their families. Shoes from these factories are sold online or sent to the U.S. or U.K., where people buy them. The profits from the sales go back to South Africa. The money helps to keep community centers in KwaZulu-Natal running. These centers serve children and families affected by AIDS. Soul of Africa makes this all possible.
In 2003, Lancelot Clark, a sixth generation member of the family that began Clarks shoes visited South Africa. The visit opened his eyes to the effects of the AIDS crisis. Deciding to help, Clark designed a shoe that could be made by women in their homes. He then teamed up with South African shoe manufacturers Mike and Sarah Gedye. Together they formed Soul of Africa, which employs over 70 women and helps children through 30 centers and other projects. By providing jobs and helping children, this charity proves shoes can "have soul" as well as soles.
stitch v. 縫/繡/編結
eg: I want to stitch together a small blanket for my baby.
eg: Mom stitched my little brother's name on his schoolbag.
eg: I stitched a new button on my trousers(褲子) after the original one fell off.
eg: It only took the doctor 5 minutes to stitch up my wound(傷口).
profit n. 利潤/盈利/收益/紅利
=> the money you make by selling something or by doing services for someone
eg: Even though we spent a lot on supplies, we still made a profit at the bake sale.
open one's eyes
=> help one realize the truth about something
eg: The semester I spent studying in Europe really opened my eyes to other cultures.
manufacturer n. 製造業者/廠商/廠主/製造公司
eg: This company is a major car manufacturer and has many factories.
un- 否定
emplyed adj. 受僱佣的
unemployed adj. 失業的/沒有工作的
eg: Larry has been unemployed for over 6 months now.
unemployed n. 失業者
eg: The unemployed of the country have become a social problem.
sole n. 腳底/鞋底/襪子的底部
eg: The sole of this shoe needs to be repaired.
eg: There are several holes in the soles of his socks.
eg: The soles of these boots are starting to get worn out.
homophone n. 異義同音字
//== Chat Room ==//
team up with someone 和某人協力合作
=> join someone or a group of people to help them do something
team n. (球)隊
on the team 屬於這個隊
teamwork 團隊精神
team player 有團隊精神的隊員
=> work well with other players
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Soul of Africa makes this all possible.
=> Soul of Africa cause all these charitable things to become possible.
make something possible
=> cause something to become possible
eg: The new law makes it possible for children from low-income families to receive free education.
eg: The alarm system was broken, making it possible for the thief to break into the house.
The charity Soul of Africa produces shoes to help people in South Africa
In small factories in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, women stitch leather shoes. Before these factories opened, the women were unemployed, but now they earn money for their families. Shoes from these factories are sold online or sent to the U.S. or U.K., where people buy them. The profits from the sales go back to South Africa. The money helps to keep community centers in KwaZulu-Natal running. These centers serve children and families affected by AIDS. Soul of Africa makes this all possible.
In 2003, Lancelot Clark, a sixth generation member of the family that began Clarks shoes visited South Africa. The visit opened his eyes to the effects of the AIDS crisis. Deciding to help, Clark designed a shoe that could be made by women in their homes. He then teamed up with South African shoe manufacturers Mike and Sarah Gedye. Together they formed Soul of Africa, which employs over 70 women and helps children through 30 centers and other projects. By providing jobs and helping children, this charity proves shoes can "have soul" as well as soles.
stitch v. 縫/繡/編結
eg: I want to stitch together a small blanket for my baby.
eg: Mom stitched my little brother's name on his schoolbag.
eg: I stitched a new button on my trousers(褲子) after the original one fell off.
eg: It only took the doctor 5 minutes to stitch up my wound(傷口).
profit n. 利潤/盈利/收益/紅利
=> the money you make by selling something or by doing services for someone
eg: Even though we spent a lot on supplies, we still made a profit at the bake sale.
open one's eyes
=> help one realize the truth about something
eg: The semester I spent studying in Europe really opened my eyes to other cultures.
manufacturer n. 製造業者/廠商/廠主/製造公司
eg: This company is a major car manufacturer and has many factories.
un- 否定
emplyed adj. 受僱佣的
unemployed adj. 失業的/沒有工作的
eg: Larry has been unemployed for over 6 months now.
unemployed n. 失業者
eg: The unemployed of the country have become a social problem.
sole n. 腳底/鞋底/襪子的底部
eg: The sole of this shoe needs to be repaired.
eg: There are several holes in the soles of his socks.
eg: The soles of these boots are starting to get worn out.
homophone n. 異義同音字
//== Chat Room ==//
team up with someone 和某人協力合作
=> join someone or a group of people to help them do something
team n. (球)隊
on the team 屬於這個隊
teamwork 團隊精神
team player 有團隊精神的隊員
=> work well with other players
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Soul of Africa makes this all possible.
=> Soul of Africa cause all these charitable things to become possible.
make something possible
=> cause something to become possible
eg: The new law makes it possible for children from low-income families to receive free education.
eg: The alarm system was broken, making it possible for the thief to break into the house.
2009年12月8日 星期二
20091208 Life Above The Clouds (2)
Life Above The Clouds
SC: How have security changes affected your job over the last several years?
JF: After the 9/11 tragedy, the airline industry developed all kinds of products and procedures to make flights even safer than they already were. For example, they have introduced new bulletproof cockpit doors and airport procedures for dealing with bomb threats.
SC: How do you deal with troublesome passengers?
JF: Pilots are entitled to take all reasonable measures to protect the safety of the aircraft, passengers, crew and property on board. Pilots should consider restraining a violent or unruly passenger if he or she is becoming a hazard to safety.
SC: Do pilots eat the airplane food?
JF: Yes, we do eat airplane food! We eat the business class food. Airplane food changes every season and is very delicious unless you get tired of eating lobster every day! The pilot and co-pilot are supposed to make different meal choices so that if one of the dishes causes food poisoning, only one of them will be sick. That way, at least one pilot will always be well enough to fly the plane!
tragedy n. 悲劇體裁
=> a very sad/shocking event that often involve many death
eg: The quick-thinking police officer helped provent a major tragedy.
en- 使如何如何
title n. 資格/權力
entitle v. 給...權力(或資格)做某件事情
=> has the right to do something
eg: Because Emily was the oldest child, her parents felt she was entitled to her own room.
eg: Being sick doesn't entitle you to say harsh words to others.
eg: The shareholders(股東) are entitled to know the latest information on the company's condition.
re- 回來
restrain v. 限制行動/遏制
restrain someone from doing something
eg: Terra and Jason restrain their dog with a leash when they take it for walks.
eg: I couldn't restrain my laughter when I heard him sing - it was awful!
eg: The doctor had to restrain the patient from hurting herself.
food poisoning n. 食物中毒
eg: If you eat chicken that isn't fully cooked, you might get food poisoning.
bullet n. 子彈
proof adj. 能防某種東西的
bulletproof adj. 能防子彈的
eg: a bulletproof vest 防彈的背心
eg: a waterproof watch 防水的手錶
eg: a waterproof paint 防水油漆
eg: a windproof jacket 防風的夾克
eg: a soundproof room 隔音的房間
cockpit n. 駕駛員座艙
=> a very small part of the airplane where the pilot sits
unruly adj. 難駕馭的/任性的/不守規矩的
=> somebody might be a little bit of out of control
eg: an unruly child 一個任性的孩子
hazard n. 危險/危害物/危險之源
//== Chat Room ==//
perk n. 公司以外的津貼/(工作所給予的)特殊待遇/特權
= perquisite
= fringe benefit 附加的福利
=> 比方公司提供免費商務手機給員工，這樣可稱fringe benefit
perks
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
That way, at least one pilot will always be well enough to fly the plane!
that way
=> it refers what was just mentioned
eg: Janice always puts her keys by the door. That way, she can be sure she will never forget them when she leaves the house.
eg: Always stretch and warm up before you start swimming. That way, you can avoid getting a cramp.
SC: How have security changes affected your job over the last several years?
JF: After the 9/11 tragedy, the airline industry developed all kinds of products and procedures to make flights even safer than they already were. For example, they have introduced new bulletproof cockpit doors and airport procedures for dealing with bomb threats.
SC: How do you deal with troublesome passengers?
JF: Pilots are entitled to take all reasonable measures to protect the safety of the aircraft, passengers, crew and property on board. Pilots should consider restraining a violent or unruly passenger if he or she is becoming a hazard to safety.
SC: Do pilots eat the airplane food?
JF: Yes, we do eat airplane food! We eat the business class food. Airplane food changes every season and is very delicious unless you get tired of eating lobster every day! The pilot and co-pilot are supposed to make different meal choices so that if one of the dishes causes food poisoning, only one of them will be sick. That way, at least one pilot will always be well enough to fly the plane!
tragedy n. 悲劇體裁
=> a very sad/shocking event that often involve many death
eg: The quick-thinking police officer helped provent a major tragedy.
en- 使如何如何
title n. 資格/權力
entitle v. 給...權力(或資格)做某件事情
=> has the right to do something
eg: Because Emily was the oldest child, her parents felt she was entitled to her own room.
eg: Being sick doesn't entitle you to say harsh words to others.
eg: The shareholders(股東) are entitled to know the latest information on the company's condition.
re- 回來
restrain v. 限制行動/遏制
restrain someone from doing something
eg: Terra and Jason restrain their dog with a leash when they take it for walks.
eg: I couldn't restrain my laughter when I heard him sing - it was awful!
eg: The doctor had to restrain the patient from hurting herself.
food poisoning n. 食物中毒
eg: If you eat chicken that isn't fully cooked, you might get food poisoning.
bullet n. 子彈
proof adj. 能防某種東西的
bulletproof adj. 能防子彈的
eg: a bulletproof vest 防彈的背心
eg: a waterproof watch 防水的手錶
eg: a waterproof paint 防水油漆
eg: a windproof jacket 防風的夾克
eg: a soundproof room 隔音的房間
cockpit n. 駕駛員座艙
=> a very small part of the airplane where the pilot sits
unruly adj. 難駕馭的/任性的/不守規矩的
=> somebody might be a little bit of out of control
eg: an unruly child 一個任性的孩子
hazard n. 危險/危害物/危險之源
//== Chat Room ==//
perk n. 公司以外的津貼/(工作所給予的)特殊待遇/特權
= perquisite
= fringe benefit 附加的福利
=> 比方公司提供免費商務手機給員工，這樣可稱fringe benefit
perks
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
That way, at least one pilot will always be well enough to fly the plane!
that way
=> it refers what was just mentioned
eg: Janice always puts her keys by the door. That way, she can be sure she will never forget them when she leaves the house.
eg: Always stretch and warm up before you start swimming. That way, you can avoid getting a cramp.
2009年12月7日 星期一
20091207 Life Above The Clouds (1)
Life Above The Clouds
Come fly with me
SC: How much time do pilots actually spend flying a plane?
JF: It varies from about 20 minutes on some domestic flights to as much as 18 hours on international flights. It all depends on if the flight is a short- or long-haul flight.
SC: Do pilots take breaks during flights or do they fly the whole time?
Jf: Yes, we take breaks during long-haul flights. Airlines assign three or four pilots to long flights. Since jets like the Boeing 47 and 777 only need two pilots, we fly the plane in shifts.
SC: If pilots are traveling all the time, how do they deal with jet lag
JF: Jet lag is annoying for almost all pilots and there are hundreds of ways to deal with it. I try to keep to the same schedule as I would at home.
SC: How important is it to know the weight and size of the plane you're flying?
JF: Knowing the weight of an airplane is very important because it affects how high and how long you can fly. We weight almost everything put into the airplane and make estimates based on the number of people on each flight.
haul 運送的時間和距離
short-haul adj. 短距的
eg: Marc plans to take a short-haul flight from Boston to New York this weekend.
eg: a short-haul aircraft 專飛近程的飛機
eg: short-haul route 近距離的路線
a short-haul flight
=> a flight that is very short
long-haul adj. 長距的
eg: Airlines usually serve serveral meals on their long-haul routes.
eg: The long-haul flight from Taipei to New York is really exhausting.
assign v. 分配/分派/派定/指定/選派
eg: Mrs. Frankin assigns work to her staff every morning.
jet n. 噴射機
lag n. 退後/延遲
jet lag n. 搭飛機產生的時差
eg: Marcy will be suffering from jet lag after her flight from London.
eg: Mark travels a lot so he is used to having jet lag.
eg: Vivian still hasn't recovered from her jet lag after returning from France last week.
estimate v. 估計/估量
estimate n. 估出來的價格/估計的數量
=> take a guess
eg: According to Theo's estimate, the company needs to increase its sales.
eg: According to the mechanic's estimate, I will have to pay over $200 to repair my air-conditioner.
eg: The estimates far next month's sales figures look good.
flight simulator 飛行模擬器
//== Chat Room ==//
airline commercial 航空公司廣告
=> an ad that promotes a particular airline
commerce n. 商業/貿易
commercial adj. 商業的/貿易的
commercial airlines 航空公司
=> a company that carries passengers or a cargo(貨物) for money
advertisement n. 廣告
= ad
=> 任何的廣告都可以叫做ad
=> commercial是ad的一種，指的是電視或是廣播的廣告，當名詞用。
commercial airline pilots 商務客機的駕駛
military pilots 軍方的飛行員
//== DID YOU KNOW ==//
The first 747 jumbo jet was built in 1969. Since then more than 1,400 747s have rolled out of the Boeing factory in Everett Washington, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, and Japan Airlines are among the primary users of the 747. As popular as it has been, the famous 747 is expected to be replaced by the boeing Y3 in the near future.
roll out 推出
eg: The company rolls out its new product.
Come fly with me
SC: How much time do pilots actually spend flying a plane?
JF: It varies from about 20 minutes on some domestic flights to as much as 18 hours on international flights. It all depends on if the flight is a short- or long-haul flight.
SC: Do pilots take breaks during flights or do they fly the whole time?
Jf: Yes, we take breaks during long-haul flights. Airlines assign three or four pilots to long flights. Since jets like the Boeing 47 and 777 only need two pilots, we fly the plane in shifts.
SC: If pilots are traveling all the time, how do they deal with jet lag
JF: Jet lag is annoying for almost all pilots and there are hundreds of ways to deal with it. I try to keep to the same schedule as I would at home.
SC: How important is it to know the weight and size of the plane you're flying?
JF: Knowing the weight of an airplane is very important because it affects how high and how long you can fly. We weight almost everything put into the airplane and make estimates based on the number of people on each flight.
haul 運送的時間和距離
short-haul adj. 短距的
eg: Marc plans to take a short-haul flight from Boston to New York this weekend.
eg: a short-haul aircraft 專飛近程的飛機
eg: short-haul route 近距離的路線
a short-haul flight
=> a flight that is very short
long-haul adj. 長距的
eg: Airlines usually serve serveral meals on their long-haul routes.
eg: The long-haul flight from Taipei to New York is really exhausting.
assign v. 分配/分派/派定/指定/選派
eg: Mrs. Frankin assigns work to her staff every morning.
jet n. 噴射機
lag n. 退後/延遲
jet lag n. 搭飛機產生的時差
eg: Marcy will be suffering from jet lag after her flight from London.
eg: Mark travels a lot so he is used to having jet lag.
eg: Vivian still hasn't recovered from her jet lag after returning from France last week.
estimate v. 估計/估量
estimate n. 估出來的價格/估計的數量
=> take a guess
eg: According to Theo's estimate, the company needs to increase its sales.
eg: According to the mechanic's estimate, I will have to pay over $200 to repair my air-conditioner.
eg: The estimates far next month's sales figures look good.
flight simulator 飛行模擬器
//== Chat Room ==//
airline commercial 航空公司廣告
=> an ad that promotes a particular airline
commerce n. 商業/貿易
commercial adj. 商業的/貿易的
commercial airlines 航空公司
=> a company that carries passengers or a cargo(貨物) for money
advertisement n. 廣告
= ad
=> 任何的廣告都可以叫做ad
=> commercial是ad的一種，指的是電視或是廣播的廣告，當名詞用。
commercial airline pilots 商務客機的駕駛
military pilots 軍方的飛行員
//== DID YOU KNOW ==//
The first 747 jumbo jet was built in 1969. Since then more than 1,400 747s have rolled out of the Boeing factory in Everett Washington, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, and Japan Airlines are among the primary users of the 747. As popular as it has been, the famous 747 is expected to be replaced by the boeing Y3 in the near future.
roll out 推出
eg: The company rolls out its new product.
2009年12月6日 星期日
20091205 Can I Get a Refund (2)
Can I Get a Refund?
Conversation A
Laura: Hey, Jack, look at the laptop on this webpage.
It's only $499 - what a great deal!
I'm going to buy it.
Jack: Have you read the return policy yet?
Laura: Not yet. Let's see...
"You may return new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund.
Items should be in their original product pockaging.
Jack: OK. But what if you"ve opened the item?
Laura: Uh, for any opened laptop or desktop computer a 15 percent restocking fee will apply.
So I'd only get a partial refund.
Jack: Then be sure you really want it.
Conversation B
In a store
Jack: This stereo is 35 percet off right now.
And I have the cash on me to pay for it
Laura: If you buy it, don't pay cash. Use your credit card.
Jack: Why? How I pay for it is no big deal.
Laura: It could be. What if something goes wrong with the stereo?
Jack: I'll return it for a refund.
Laura: But maybe the store won't give you a refund for some reason.
Or maybe you'll only get part of your money back.
If you charge it, you can dispute the charge with your credit card company.
They may help you get your money back.
Jack: That's good thinking, Laura.
webpage n. 網頁
=> a page in the internet
eg: While on the computer, Marilyn read about the company on their webpage.
original adj. 原本的/原始的
eg: The original plan was to have the party here, but we changed it.
eg: The original design of the building was changed several times.
eg: The original inhabitants of the area were forced out by the troops.
original adj. 有創意的
eg: He is an original writer who wrote many best-sellers.
stereo n. 立體音響裝置/立體聲/立體聲效果
eg: Tim loves to listen to music on his stereo.
dis- 分開/除去
dispute v. 提出質疑/提出反對的意見
eg: Rex thinks he deserves a better grade. He's going to dispute it with the school.
eg: I don't dispute his enthusiasm toward his job, but I do question his qualification.
re- 再一次
stcok v. 儲存/進貨
restock v. 重新進貨/重新回到庫存裡
=> prepare it to be sold
eg: We need to restock out pantry and freezer before Christmas.
eg: The librarian(圖書館員) spent hours restocking the shelves with the returned books.
//== Chat Room ==//
I have cash on me.
= I have cash with me.
=> 我身上有錢
I have my credit card on me.
Do ou have your credit card on you?
Do you have your credit card?
=> 提到身上有有信用卡時，要用所有格
你身上有...嗎
=> Do you have ... on you?
=> 任何可以隨身攜帶的東西都可以套用在這個句子
Do you have a pen or pencil on you?
=> 你身上有沒有筆
Do you have your wallet on you?
Do you have any gum on you?
Do you have any tissues on you?
Conversation A
Laura: Hey, Jack, look at the laptop on this webpage.
It's only $499 - what a great deal!
I'm going to buy it.
Jack: Have you read the return policy yet?
Laura: Not yet. Let's see...
"You may return new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund.
Items should be in their original product pockaging.
Jack: OK. But what if you"ve opened the item?
Laura: Uh, for any opened laptop or desktop computer a 15 percent restocking fee will apply.
So I'd only get a partial refund.
Jack: Then be sure you really want it.
Conversation B
In a store
Jack: This stereo is 35 percet off right now.
And I have the cash on me to pay for it
Laura: If you buy it, don't pay cash. Use your credit card.
Jack: Why? How I pay for it is no big deal.
Laura: It could be. What if something goes wrong with the stereo?
Jack: I'll return it for a refund.
Laura: But maybe the store won't give you a refund for some reason.
Or maybe you'll only get part of your money back.
If you charge it, you can dispute the charge with your credit card company.
They may help you get your money back.
Jack: That's good thinking, Laura.
webpage n. 網頁
=> a page in the internet
eg: While on the computer, Marilyn read about the company on their webpage.
original adj. 原本的/原始的
eg: The original plan was to have the party here, but we changed it.
eg: The original design of the building was changed several times.
eg: The original inhabitants of the area were forced out by the troops.
original adj. 有創意的
eg: He is an original writer who wrote many best-sellers.
stereo n. 立體音響裝置/立體聲/立體聲效果
eg: Tim loves to listen to music on his stereo.
dis- 分開/除去
dispute v. 提出質疑/提出反對的意見
eg: Rex thinks he deserves a better grade. He's going to dispute it with the school.
eg: I don't dispute his enthusiasm toward his job, but I do question his qualification.
re- 再一次
stcok v. 儲存/進貨
restock v. 重新進貨/重新回到庫存裡
=> prepare it to be sold
eg: We need to restock out pantry and freezer before Christmas.
eg: The librarian(圖書館員) spent hours restocking the shelves with the returned books.
//== Chat Room ==//
I have cash on me.
= I have cash with me.
=> 我身上有錢
I have my credit card on me.
Do ou have your credit card on you?
Do you have your credit card?
=> 提到身上有有信用卡時，要用所有格
你身上有...嗎
=> Do you have ... on you?
=> 任何可以隨身攜帶的東西都可以套用在這個句子
Do you have a pen or pencil on you?
=> 你身上有沒有筆
Do you have your wallet on you?
Do you have any gum on you?
Do you have any tissues on you?
2009年12月4日 星期五
20091204 Can I Get a Refund (1)
Can I Get a Refund?
You can get your money back if your're not satisfied
It happens to everyone. You buy something and a few days later, you're not happy with the product or service. What can you do? You can usually return the product or cancel the service and get your money back. Many companies have good refund policies. But before buying anything, find out about a company's policy - better safe than sorry. In addition, be sure the company is reputable. In the United States, you can check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to get that information.
By law, a company's return or refund policy must be posted by cash registers or printed on sales receipts. Usually there is a time limit for refunds or exchanges. Be careful to stay within that time period. If you shop oline, be sure to read the return or refund policy on the company's website. And most important, get a receipt and keep it. That's you proof that you actually paid for an item.
better safe than sorry 有備無患
=> 寧可小心求安全，不可冒險而後悔
=> It's better to be safe than to be sorry.
eg: Take an umbrella in case it rains. Better safe than sorry.
cash register n. 收款機
eg: The clerk opened the drawer of the cash register to get Alex some change.
exchange n. 交換/交流/交易
eg: Paul did an exchange and got a blue coat instead of a red one.
eg: The workers were given food and shelter in exchange for their labor.
ex- 向外
exchange v. 交換/交易
eg: We bought the wrong type of software and had to exchange it the following day.
proof n. 證明/證據
eg: Here's my sales receipt. That's proof I paid for dinner.
eg: The police have concrete proof to charge the suspect.
eg: You'd better keep the receipt as your proof of purchase.
eg: Do you have any proof of identity?
reputable n. 聲譽好的/可尊敬的
=> have good reputation
eg: The lawyer is one of the partners at a reputable firm.
eg: We insured our house through a reputable insurance company.
eg: The reputable airline company has never had an accident.
refund n. 退還/歸還/償還
//== Chat Room ==//
better safe than sorry 有備無患
I've never been better. 我從來沒有這麼好過/我非常的好
=> I'm doing very well.
better late than never 亡羊補牢/遲到總比不到好
=> It's better to do something late than not to do it at all.
the sooner the better 越快越好
better safe tha sorry 有備無患
It's better to give than to receive. 施比受更有福
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
By law, a company's return or refund policy must be posted by cash registers or printed on sales receipts.
by law
=> according to the law
eg: The Smith brothers play by Grandpa Smith's card game rules.
eg: Timothy must be home before ten by his mother's watch.
You can get your money back if your're not satisfied
It happens to everyone. You buy something and a few days later, you're not happy with the product or service. What can you do? You can usually return the product or cancel the service and get your money back. Many companies have good refund policies. But before buying anything, find out about a company's policy - better safe than sorry. In addition, be sure the company is reputable. In the United States, you can check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to get that information.
By law, a company's return or refund policy must be posted by cash registers or printed on sales receipts. Usually there is a time limit for refunds or exchanges. Be careful to stay within that time period. If you shop oline, be sure to read the return or refund policy on the company's website. And most important, get a receipt and keep it. That's you proof that you actually paid for an item.
better safe than sorry 有備無患
=> 寧可小心求安全，不可冒險而後悔
=> It's better to be safe than to be sorry.
eg: Take an umbrella in case it rains. Better safe than sorry.
cash register n. 收款機
eg: The clerk opened the drawer of the cash register to get Alex some change.
exchange n. 交換/交流/交易
eg: Paul did an exchange and got a blue coat instead of a red one.
eg: The workers were given food and shelter in exchange for their labor.
ex- 向外
exchange v. 交換/交易
eg: We bought the wrong type of software and had to exchange it the following day.
proof n. 證明/證據
eg: Here's my sales receipt. That's proof I paid for dinner.
eg: The police have concrete proof to charge the suspect.
eg: You'd better keep the receipt as your proof of purchase.
eg: Do you have any proof of identity?
reputable n. 聲譽好的/可尊敬的
=> have good reputation
eg: The lawyer is one of the partners at a reputable firm.
eg: We insured our house through a reputable insurance company.
eg: The reputable airline company has never had an accident.
refund n. 退還/歸還/償還
//== Chat Room ==//
better safe than sorry 有備無患
I've never been better. 我從來沒有這麼好過/我非常的好
=> I'm doing very well.
better late than never 亡羊補牢/遲到總比不到好
=> It's better to do something late than not to do it at all.
the sooner the better 越快越好
better safe tha sorry 有備無患
It's better to give than to receive. 施比受更有福
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
By law, a company's return or refund policy must be posted by cash registers or printed on sales receipts.
by law
=> according to the law
eg: The Smith brothers play by Grandpa Smith's card game rules.
eg: Timothy must be home before ten by his mother's watch.
2009年12月3日 星期四
20091203 The twitter Trio (3)
The twitter Trio
How does it work?
Twitter asks members one simple question: What are you doing right now? Unlike Facebook and MySpace users, Twitter users don't need to manage complicated profile pages. And different from blogs, Twitter messages aren't lengthy, time-consuming posts. Because user updates, known as "tweets," are limited to 140 characters information can be written - and read - quickly. But the site does more than just keep friends connected or let celebrities mingle with fans. It's also a place for people to set up business connections, share information and find answers to questions in a quick, informal way.
Why call it "Twitter"?
Dorsey, Stone and Williams wanted a name for their product that encompassed the idea of users updating statuses from anywhere. This concept included sending updates to friends' mobile devices causing the devices to twitch. While checking a dictionary, the team found the word "twitter" in a nearby entry. The definition? "A short burst of information" - exactly what people share on Twitter. Since 2006, more than 17 million users have joined Twitter to socialize, express political opinions and even report breaking news. The network is a "tweet" for everyone.
mingle v. 交往/往來
mingle with someone
=> fix
eg: The company president mingled with his employees at the office Christmas party.
eg: The famous movie star still loves to mingle with his childhood friends.
eg: Helen rarely mingles with her colleagues.
encompass v. 包含/包括
=> completely include
eg: Billy and ling's wedding encompassed aspects of both the East and the West.
eg: The proposal encompasses renewing(重建) the community center and the garden.
eg: This magazine encompasses articles of many different subjects.
twitch v. 抽動/抽搐/痙攣
=> tweet, short shaking motion
eg: After a long run, sometimes the muscles in my leg twitch.
eg: My legs twitched constantly after climbing the mountain.
eg: Nancy could feel her lips twitching when she was giving the speech.
socialize v. 參與社交/交際
eg: During freshmen orientation, students have many opportunities to socialize and make new friends.
Trio
=> the three men behind twitter
//== Chat Room ==//
twitter n. 突然迸出的簡短訊息
=> a short burst of information
twitter (鳥)吱吱叫
=> a chirping sound of a bird
tweet n. 推文(使用者在twitter更新的訊息)
retweet
=> 把看到的訊息轉發到你的twitter上
pheeter 假推文
= phony tweeter 假推文
How does it work?
Twitter asks members one simple question: What are you doing right now? Unlike Facebook and MySpace users, Twitter users don't need to manage complicated profile pages. And different from blogs, Twitter messages aren't lengthy, time-consuming posts. Because user updates, known as "tweets," are limited to 140 characters information can be written - and read - quickly. But the site does more than just keep friends connected or let celebrities mingle with fans. It's also a place for people to set up business connections, share information and find answers to questions in a quick, informal way.
Why call it "Twitter"?
Dorsey, Stone and Williams wanted a name for their product that encompassed the idea of users updating statuses from anywhere. This concept included sending updates to friends' mobile devices causing the devices to twitch. While checking a dictionary, the team found the word "twitter" in a nearby entry. The definition? "A short burst of information" - exactly what people share on Twitter. Since 2006, more than 17 million users have joined Twitter to socialize, express political opinions and even report breaking news. The network is a "tweet" for everyone.
mingle v. 交往/往來
mingle with someone
=> fix
eg: The company president mingled with his employees at the office Christmas party.
eg: The famous movie star still loves to mingle with his childhood friends.
eg: Helen rarely mingles with her colleagues.
encompass v. 包含/包括
=> completely include
eg: Billy and ling's wedding encompassed aspects of both the East and the West.
eg: The proposal encompasses renewing(重建) the community center and the garden.
eg: This magazine encompasses articles of many different subjects.
twitch v. 抽動/抽搐/痙攣
=> tweet, short shaking motion
eg: After a long run, sometimes the muscles in my leg twitch.
eg: My legs twitched constantly after climbing the mountain.
eg: Nancy could feel her lips twitching when she was giving the speech.
socialize v. 參與社交/交際
eg: During freshmen orientation, students have many opportunities to socialize and make new friends.
Trio
=> the three men behind twitter
//== Chat Room ==//
twitter n. 突然迸出的簡短訊息
=> a short burst of information
twitter (鳥)吱吱叫
=> a chirping sound of a bird
tweet n. 推文(使用者在twitter更新的訊息)
retweet
=> 把看到的訊息轉發到你的twitter上
pheeter 假推文
= phony tweeter 假推文
2009年12月2日 星期三
20091202 The twitter Trio (2)
The twitter Trio
In 2006, eager to pitch his idea, Dorsey approached the podcasting company Odeo, based in San Francisco. There he met Stone, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur who had already published two books about social media. Stone, a native of Boston, had also co-founded Xanga.com a website that hosts blogs and social networking profiles. Within a few weeks of their first meeting, Dorsey and Stone created a prototype of Twitter. The pair was soon joined by Odeo's co-founder. Williams, a veteran Silicon Valley executive and co-inventor of Blogget.com.
The son of a Nebraska farmer, Williams had displayed an interest in business and marketing even as a teen. Sensing Twitter's business potential, he enthusiastically got involved. The excited trio of Dorsey, Stone and Williams launched a full-scale version of Twitter in the summer of 2006. Fueled by Dorsey's brilliantly simple concept, Stone's communication and marketing skills and William's technology business sense, Twitter soon grew into a multi-use media platform. Dorsey said, "My whole philosophy is making tech more accessible and human." By connecting people so quickly and conveniently, Twitter is doing just that.
entrepreneur n. 企業家/事業創辦者/承包人
eg: After building several restaurants and hotels, the young entrepreneur started his own grocery store chain.
veteran adj. 老兵的/經驗豐富的/老資格的/久經使用的
eg: The veteran politician lost the election to a younger, less experienced candidate.
enthusiastic adj. 充滿熱誠的/熱情的
enthusiastically adv. 充滿熱誠地/熱情地
eg: Eager to improe his English, Greg enthusiastically signed up for the three-day speech camp.
eg: The new quarterback(四分衛) was enthusiastically welcomed by the team.
eg: The students discussed the new project enthusiastically.
accessible adj. 可(或易)得到的/可(或易)使用的
eg: The governor wants to make higher education more accessible to low-income students.
proto- 首先
-type 樣式
prototype n. 原型/模型/藍本
=> a kind of first form
=> something that would give people an idea of what it is like
eg: The company finished designing the prototype of their new car last month.
prototype n. 模範/楷模
eg: He is the prototype of a good father.
veteran n. 老手/經驗豐富的人
veteran adj. 經驗豐富的/老資格的
=> someone with experiences
eg: Bob is a veteran campaign fundraiser.
eg: Charlie is a veteran baseball pitcher. He can handle all sorts of situations.
fuel v. 激起/刺激
brilliant adj. 優秀的/輝煌的/出色的
brilliantly adv. 燦爛地/出色地
eg: For the touch problem, I came out with a brillant idea to solve it.
//== Chat Room ==//
networking n. 建立人脈/拉關係
network n. 網狀系統/電腦網絡/網狀物/
social networking 社群
=> 一群因為某種因素和你建立關係的人
social networking site 社群網站
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
The excited trio launched a full-scale version of Twitter in the summer of 2006.
=> The excited trio launched a complete version of Twitter in the summer of 2006.
full-scale adj. 徹底的/完全的
=> complete and using all resources
=> describe things involved in system or organization of many parts.
eg: The police chief ordered a full-scale investigation to find out how the bank robbery had occurred.
eg: There might be full-scale war if the hostile nations can't agree at the peace talks.
In 2006, eager to pitch his idea, Dorsey approached the podcasting company Odeo, based in San Francisco. There he met Stone, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur who had already published two books about social media. Stone, a native of Boston, had also co-founded Xanga.com a website that hosts blogs and social networking profiles. Within a few weeks of their first meeting, Dorsey and Stone created a prototype of Twitter. The pair was soon joined by Odeo's co-founder. Williams, a veteran Silicon Valley executive and co-inventor of Blogget.com.
The son of a Nebraska farmer, Williams had displayed an interest in business and marketing even as a teen. Sensing Twitter's business potential, he enthusiastically got involved. The excited trio of Dorsey, Stone and Williams launched a full-scale version of Twitter in the summer of 2006. Fueled by Dorsey's brilliantly simple concept, Stone's communication and marketing skills and William's technology business sense, Twitter soon grew into a multi-use media platform. Dorsey said, "My whole philosophy is making tech more accessible and human." By connecting people so quickly and conveniently, Twitter is doing just that.
entrepreneur n. 企業家/事業創辦者/承包人
eg: After building several restaurants and hotels, the young entrepreneur started his own grocery store chain.
veteran adj. 老兵的/經驗豐富的/老資格的/久經使用的
eg: The veteran politician lost the election to a younger, less experienced candidate.
enthusiastic adj. 充滿熱誠的/熱情的
enthusiastically adv. 充滿熱誠地/熱情地
eg: Eager to improe his English, Greg enthusiastically signed up for the three-day speech camp.
eg: The new quarterback(四分衛) was enthusiastically welcomed by the team.
eg: The students discussed the new project enthusiastically.
accessible adj. 可(或易)得到的/可(或易)使用的
eg: The governor wants to make higher education more accessible to low-income students.
proto- 首先
-type 樣式
prototype n. 原型/模型/藍本
=> a kind of first form
=> something that would give people an idea of what it is like
eg: The company finished designing the prototype of their new car last month.
prototype n. 模範/楷模
eg: He is the prototype of a good father.
veteran n. 老手/經驗豐富的人
veteran adj. 經驗豐富的/老資格的
=> someone with experiences
eg: Bob is a veteran campaign fundraiser.
eg: Charlie is a veteran baseball pitcher. He can handle all sorts of situations.
fuel v. 激起/刺激
brilliant adj. 優秀的/輝煌的/出色的
brilliantly adv. 燦爛地/出色地
eg: For the touch problem, I came out with a brillant idea to solve it.
//== Chat Room ==//
networking n. 建立人脈/拉關係
network n. 網狀系統/電腦網絡/網狀物/
social networking 社群
=> 一群因為某種因素和你建立關係的人
social networking site 社群網站
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
The excited trio launched a full-scale version of Twitter in the summer of 2006.
=> The excited trio launched a complete version of Twitter in the summer of 2006.
full-scale adj. 徹底的/完全的
=> complete and using all resources
=> describe things involved in system or organization of many parts.
eg: The police chief ordered a full-scale investigation to find out how the bank robbery had occurred.
eg: There might be full-scale war if the hostile nations can't agree at the peace talks.
2009年12月1日 星期二
20091201 The twitter Trio (1)
The twitter Trio
Meet the men behind one of the world's fastest-growing social networks
Your favorite singer tells you what she just had for lunch. Then your favorite actor lets you know his Christmas plans. Next, your former classmate informs you that he's watching a movie, and your cousin tells you her latest test score. All of this information is delivered to you on one simple webpage courtesy of Twitter, the micro-blogging site that's taking the world by storm. Thanks to the Twitter trio - Jack Dorsey, Biz Stone and Evan Williams - people around the world are connecting at the speed of a "tweet," a short update.
Dorsey has always loved cities and the way information travels through them. In 1991 at age 14, Dorsey held his first - but not his last - part-time job designing dispatching software for taxi companies in St. Louis. By 2000, he had started his own company to dispatch taxis ambulances and couriers via the Internet. The fact that the users of his software - drivers - were simply reporting their locations gave Dorsey an idea. Add to that a desire to stay better connected with friends, and he conceived the concept of Twitter.
take by storm 風靡/大獲成功
=> you attract it completely
eg: That designer's unique, environmentally friendly clothes are taking the fashion world by storm.
eg: The new movie took audiences in Asia by storm.
eg: This new teacher took her classroom by storm.
dispatching adj. 派遣的
eg: Rob works in the dispatching department of taxi company, so he is constantly communicating with the drivers.
dis- 分開
dispatch v. 分派/派遣
=> sending someone/something out to a specific place/location
eg: Companies that offer electricity, phone or cable TV services often dispatch technicians to clients' homes.
eg: The ambulance was dispatched to the scene of the car accident.
eg: Within seconds, the police dispatched two police officers to the house that reported theft.
ambulance n. 救護車
eg: Several ambulances arrived at the scene of the accident.
conceive v. 構想/想像/構思
=> think of, imagine
eg: How did the inventor conceive this creative idea?
eg: The musician took a year to conceive his latest album.
eg: The popular play was conceived by a group of young college students.
courier n. 送遞急件(或外交信件)的信差
//== Chat Room ==//
twitter v. 唧唧喳喳地講述事情
=> 原意:鳥叫聲 bird chirping
micro 超迷你的(用顯微鏡才看得到)
micro-blogging
microscope n. 顯微鏡
micro-blog 微網誌
mini 迷你的(micro比mini小)
the Mini
mini vacation
//== More INFO ==//
With new technology comes new vocabulary!
Some new twitter-inspired vocabulary includes the word tweet.
As a noun is means a user's status update.
As a verb it means to write a status update.
RT or retweet is a verb and it means to "tweet" content from another user's update.
To DM or direct message someone is to send a private message to another user.
Meet the men behind one of the world's fastest-growing social networks
Your favorite singer tells you what she just had for lunch. Then your favorite actor lets you know his Christmas plans. Next, your former classmate informs you that he's watching a movie, and your cousin tells you her latest test score. All of this information is delivered to you on one simple webpage courtesy of Twitter, the micro-blogging site that's taking the world by storm. Thanks to the Twitter trio - Jack Dorsey, Biz Stone and Evan Williams - people around the world are connecting at the speed of a "tweet," a short update.
Dorsey has always loved cities and the way information travels through them. In 1991 at age 14, Dorsey held his first - but not his last - part-time job designing dispatching software for taxi companies in St. Louis. By 2000, he had started his own company to dispatch taxis ambulances and couriers via the Internet. The fact that the users of his software - drivers - were simply reporting their locations gave Dorsey an idea. Add to that a desire to stay better connected with friends, and he conceived the concept of Twitter.
take by storm 風靡/大獲成功
=> you attract it completely
eg: That designer's unique, environmentally friendly clothes are taking the fashion world by storm.
eg: The new movie took audiences in Asia by storm.
eg: This new teacher took her classroom by storm.
dispatching adj. 派遣的
eg: Rob works in the dispatching department of taxi company, so he is constantly communicating with the drivers.
dis- 分開
dispatch v. 分派/派遣
=> sending someone/something out to a specific place/location
eg: Companies that offer electricity, phone or cable TV services often dispatch technicians to clients' homes.
eg: The ambulance was dispatched to the scene of the car accident.
eg: Within seconds, the police dispatched two police officers to the house that reported theft.
ambulance n. 救護車
eg: Several ambulances arrived at the scene of the accident.
conceive v. 構想/想像/構思
=> think of, imagine
eg: How did the inventor conceive this creative idea?
eg: The musician took a year to conceive his latest album.
eg: The popular play was conceived by a group of young college students.
courier n. 送遞急件(或外交信件)的信差
//== Chat Room ==//
twitter v. 唧唧喳喳地講述事情
=> 原意:鳥叫聲 bird chirping
micro 超迷你的(用顯微鏡才看得到)
micro-blogging
microscope n. 顯微鏡
micro-blog 微網誌
mini 迷你的(micro比mini小)
the Mini
mini vacation
//== More INFO ==//
With new technology comes new vocabulary!
Some new twitter-inspired vocabulary includes the word tweet.
As a noun is means a user's status update.
As a verb it means to write a status update.
RT or retweet is a verb and it means to "tweet" content from another user's update.
To DM or direct message someone is to send a private message to another user.
2009年11月30日 星期一
20091130 In Love With Coffee, Dating the Library (1)
In Love With Coffee, Dating the Library
My friends, I still miss you
With a cup of coffee and my laptop, I am sitting in the library - my new home. My friends believe I live in the library because I am here all the time. I am trying hard not to live up to the typical Asian stereotype - nerdy. But I still need to put a lot of effort into my studies because English is not my first language. Since my university has short semesters, my schedule is tight. Despite finishing midterms not too long ago - late October - my finals are quickly approaching - early December.
I feel close to going over the edge because of my schedule and all of the homework. And the cultural differences are also dragging me toward frustration and fatigue. I am suffering from depression. However, I also know I am learning and growing.
Thanksgiving was last week. So most students went home to celebrate with their families and friends - we had a four-day vacation. Where did I go? Nowhere. All I have are memories of friends and family back home. I miss them so much. I still remember all the fun times with my friends. Do they still remember me? I cannot forget our friendships. I am obsessed with my memories.
stereotype n. 刻板印象
eg: The most common stereotype of men is that they don't emotion.
eg: He doesn't fit the stereotype of an athlete. He's considerably studious and quiet.
eg: The film exposes the many ways that racial stereotypes can hurt people.
despite prep. 不管/儘管/任憑
eg: Despite training hard for the race, Hilary came in 3rd place.
over the edge 瀕臨精神崩潰
eg: The last work assignment Shelley was given put her over the edge. So she quit her job immediately.
eg: He went over the edge after his girlfriend broke up with him.
eg: I'm afraid he might be pushed over the edge when he finds out he's getting fired.
fatigue n. 疲勞/勞累
eg: Paul's first four weeks in the army were filled with pain and fatigue, so all he thought about was sleep.
obsess v. 使著迷/纏住
eg: Horrible childhood memories obsessed Debra for years.
eg: Ellen is obsessed with money. She doesn't care about anything else.
//== Chat Room ==//
hit home 擊中要害/觸擊痛處
homesick
=> 重音在前是"想家"
=> 重音在後是"在家生病"
hit bottom 跌到谷底
=> 廣義用在國家經濟或個人表現
hit the nail on the head 一針見血/說得中肯/打中要害
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
I feel close to going over the edge because of my schedule and all of the homework.
=> He feels like he is almost going over the edge because of his schedule and all of the homework.
feel close to + verb-ing
=> how an action or situation is almost happening
eg: Fred is close to solving the riddle.
eg: The research team is close to discovering a cure for the disease.
eg: Tina is not close to being done with her project.
eg: The secretary is not close to finishing his morning assignments.
My friends, I still miss you
With a cup of coffee and my laptop, I am sitting in the library - my new home. My friends believe I live in the library because I am here all the time. I am trying hard not to live up to the typical Asian stereotype - nerdy. But I still need to put a lot of effort into my studies because English is not my first language. Since my university has short semesters, my schedule is tight. Despite finishing midterms not too long ago - late October - my finals are quickly approaching - early December.
I feel close to going over the edge because of my schedule and all of the homework. And the cultural differences are also dragging me toward frustration and fatigue. I am suffering from depression. However, I also know I am learning and growing.
Thanksgiving was last week. So most students went home to celebrate with their families and friends - we had a four-day vacation. Where did I go? Nowhere. All I have are memories of friends and family back home. I miss them so much. I still remember all the fun times with my friends. Do they still remember me? I cannot forget our friendships. I am obsessed with my memories.
stereotype n. 刻板印象
eg: The most common stereotype of men is that they don't emotion.
eg: He doesn't fit the stereotype of an athlete. He's considerably studious and quiet.
eg: The film exposes the many ways that racial stereotypes can hurt people.
despite prep. 不管/儘管/任憑
eg: Despite training hard for the race, Hilary came in 3rd place.
over the edge 瀕臨精神崩潰
eg: The last work assignment Shelley was given put her over the edge. So she quit her job immediately.
eg: He went over the edge after his girlfriend broke up with him.
eg: I'm afraid he might be pushed over the edge when he finds out he's getting fired.
fatigue n. 疲勞/勞累
eg: Paul's first four weeks in the army were filled with pain and fatigue, so all he thought about was sleep.
obsess v. 使著迷/纏住
eg: Horrible childhood memories obsessed Debra for years.
eg: Ellen is obsessed with money. She doesn't care about anything else.
//== Chat Room ==//
hit home 擊中要害/觸擊痛處
homesick
=> 重音在前是"想家"
=> 重音在後是"在家生病"
hit bottom 跌到谷底
=> 廣義用在國家經濟或個人表現
hit the nail on the head 一針見血/說得中肯/打中要害
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
I feel close to going over the edge because of my schedule and all of the homework.
=> He feels like he is almost going over the edge because of his schedule and all of the homework.
feel close to + verb-ing
=> how an action or situation is almost happening
eg: Fred is close to solving the riddle.
eg: The research team is close to discovering a cure for the disease.
eg: Tina is not close to being done with her project.
eg: The secretary is not close to finishing his morning assignments.
2009年11月28日 星期六
20091128 I Bought It From a Vending Machine (1)
I Bought It From a Vending Machine
Vending machines don't just sell junk food anymore
For years now, vending machines have offered convenience and comfort to rushed travelers, students and business people alike. But at a vending machine in the Mondrian South Beach Hotel in Miami, Florida, guests can get much more than toothbrushes and snack foods.
The Mondrian Semi-Automatic, a $250,000 high-end vending machine, offers 90 items ranging in price from $5 to $1.2 million. Among other things, the Semi-Automatic peddles T-shirts, consumer electronics and dinner cruises.
The giant purple and white machine holds rows of shiny, white boxes. The machine also has two small screens that let customers view images and details of each product. To make a purchase, customers swipe a credit card and make a selection.
For larger items, the machine issues cards that can be exchanged for the purchases at the hotel's front desk. The largest items - such as cars and condominiums - require a non-refundable $1,500 deposit. Once the deposit has been paid, staff take customers to view their item before they make the final purchase.
So don't be surprised the next time you ask someone where she got her designer dress and she says, "I bought it from a vending machine."
vendor n.
=> a person that sell things
vending machine n.
=> a machine that you put your money into, push a buttom and something come out of it
eg: Ted is angry because the vending machine took his money - again.
peddle v. 叫賣/兜售
=> try to sell you something
eg: The shops in the market peddle a variety of local foods.
eg: Vacuum cleaner salesmen peddle from door to door(挨家挨戶) trying to sell their product.
eg: The drup dealer was arrested last weekend for peddling drugs to an undercover police officer(假扮買家的警察).
swipe v. 刷卡的動作
swipe swiped swiped swiping
swipe a credit card 刷卡
eg: To get onto the train, passengers need to swipe their tickets at the gate.
eg: All you have to do to enter the office building is swipe your ID card.
eg: The clerk swiped the credit card several times but it was continuously rejected.
refundable adj. 可以退還的
eg: The apartment deposit is only refundable for two weeks. After that you can't get your money back.
non-refundable adj. 不可退還的/不可償還的
=> you cannot get your money back
eg: Charlene can return the bottled water to the store, but the fruit is non-refundable.
eg: The applicantion fee is non-refundable whether you're accepted or not.
condominium n. 【美】各戶有獨立產權的公寓(大廈)
=> a place that you would live, kind of like a apartment
//== Chat room ==//
semi-
=> 來自拉丁語指"half"
=> used to mean partly
=> 表示一半或是部份的
eg: semi-chocolate
eg: semi-finals 準決賽
eg: semi-automatic 半自動的
eg: semi-sweet 微甜的
bi-
=> twice or every two
=> 兩次或是每兩個
=> 如果要避免混淆則
=> 每週兩次最好用 semiweekly
=> 兩週一次最好用 every two weeks
eg: biweekly 兩週一次或是每週兩次
monthly 每個月一次地
semimonthly 每個月兩次地
//== Grammer on the go ==//
Among other things, the Semi-Automatic peddles T-shirts, consumer electronics and dinner cruises.
among other things 除了別的以外
eg: The art exhibition was, among other things, a very creative expression of the artist's interpretation
of current events.
eg: Janie is responsible for many chores; she needs to do the dishes, mop the floor, and take out the trash,
among other things.
//== Did You Know ==//
How old is the vending machine? Believe it or not, the first document vending dates back to about 215 B.C., when the mathematician hero invented a device that accepted bronze coins and dispensed holy wather in the temples of Alexandria, Egypt. In A.D. 1076, Chinese inventors developed a coin-operated pencil vendor. Coin-activated tobacco boxes appeared in English taverns during 1700s.
dispense v. 分配/分發/施給
tavern n. 小酒館/小客棧
Vending machines don't just sell junk food anymore
For years now, vending machines have offered convenience and comfort to rushed travelers, students and business people alike. But at a vending machine in the Mondrian South Beach Hotel in Miami, Florida, guests can get much more than toothbrushes and snack foods.
The Mondrian Semi-Automatic, a $250,000 high-end vending machine, offers 90 items ranging in price from $5 to $1.2 million. Among other things, the Semi-Automatic peddles T-shirts, consumer electronics and dinner cruises.
The giant purple and white machine holds rows of shiny, white boxes. The machine also has two small screens that let customers view images and details of each product. To make a purchase, customers swipe a credit card and make a selection.
For larger items, the machine issues cards that can be exchanged for the purchases at the hotel's front desk. The largest items - such as cars and condominiums - require a non-refundable $1,500 deposit. Once the deposit has been paid, staff take customers to view their item before they make the final purchase.
So don't be surprised the next time you ask someone where she got her designer dress and she says, "I bought it from a vending machine."
vendor n.
=> a person that sell things
vending machine n.
=> a machine that you put your money into, push a buttom and something come out of it
eg: Ted is angry because the vending machine took his money - again.
peddle v. 叫賣/兜售
=> try to sell you something
eg: The shops in the market peddle a variety of local foods.
eg: Vacuum cleaner salesmen peddle from door to door(挨家挨戶) trying to sell their product.
eg: The drup dealer was arrested last weekend for peddling drugs to an undercover police officer(假扮買家的警察).
swipe v. 刷卡的動作
swipe swiped swiped swiping
swipe a credit card 刷卡
eg: To get onto the train, passengers need to swipe their tickets at the gate.
eg: All you have to do to enter the office building is swipe your ID card.
eg: The clerk swiped the credit card several times but it was continuously rejected.
refundable adj. 可以退還的
eg: The apartment deposit is only refundable for two weeks. After that you can't get your money back.
non-refundable adj. 不可退還的/不可償還的
=> you cannot get your money back
eg: Charlene can return the bottled water to the store, but the fruit is non-refundable.
eg: The applicantion fee is non-refundable whether you're accepted or not.
condominium n. 【美】各戶有獨立產權的公寓(大廈)
=> a place that you would live, kind of like a apartment
//== Chat room ==//
semi-
=> 來自拉丁語指"half"
=> used to mean partly
=> 表示一半或是部份的
eg: semi-chocolate
eg: semi-finals 準決賽
eg: semi-automatic 半自動的
eg: semi-sweet 微甜的
bi-
=> twice or every two
=> 兩次或是每兩個
=> 如果要避免混淆則
=> 每週兩次最好用 semiweekly
=> 兩週一次最好用 every two weeks
eg: biweekly 兩週一次或是每週兩次
monthly 每個月一次地
semimonthly 每個月兩次地
//== Grammer on the go ==//
Among other things, the Semi-Automatic peddles T-shirts, consumer electronics and dinner cruises.
among other things 除了別的以外
eg: The art exhibition was, among other things, a very creative expression of the artist's interpretation
of current events.
eg: Janie is responsible for many chores; she needs to do the dishes, mop the floor, and take out the trash,
among other things.
//== Did You Know ==//
How old is the vending machine? Believe it or not, the first document vending dates back to about 215 B.C., when the mathematician hero invented a device that accepted bronze coins and dispensed holy wather in the temples of Alexandria, Egypt. In A.D. 1076, Chinese inventors developed a coin-operated pencil vendor. Coin-activated tobacco boxes appeared in English taverns during 1700s.
dispense v. 分配/分發/施給
tavern n. 小酒館/小客棧
2009年11月27日 星期五
20091127 The Santa Claus World Championship (1)
The Santa Claus World Championship
What does it take to be a world champion Santa
Do you have a talent for decorating gingerbread houses? Are you a whiz at climbing chimneys? Most importantly, can you race donkeys? If so, you may have a chance of becoming the next Santa Claus World Champion!
Held in Samnuan, Switzerland, the Clau Wau Santa Claus World Championship takes place today and tomorrow. Several four-person teams of Santa Clauses from around the world gather in the small ski village. The event begins with the teams presenting themselves in a Santa Claus parade. Then competitions test participants in essential "modern Santa skills."
For example, in donkey trekking, each competing Santa rides a donkey and carries a bag full of gifts. The challenge is to be faster than the other Santas and deliver the gifts to the right people. The competition ends with a Santa show, in which teams compete for the approval of the audience. Teams are judged on things like creativity, team spirit, and of course, speed. The winners earn the right to be called the Santa Claus World Champions. Not cut out for riding donkeys or climbing chimneys? Come and enjoy watching the hilarious competition anyway There's no better way to get in the mood for Christmas!
whiz n. 高手/奇才
whiz at
=> good at doing something
eg: Steve is a whiz at math, He even compotes in math competitions.
eg: Mark is such a whiz at math that he competed in his school's tournament and won.
eg: Frank is the computer whiz in our school. Sometimes, the teachers even asked him for help.
essential adj. 必要的,不可缺的;本質的,實質的;基本的
eg: Be sure to pack underwear for trip. It's essential!
approval n. 讚許/肯定
=> give your good opinion
eg: Sam's dance performance won the approval of the judges in the talent show.
eg: Children often seek their parents' approval.
eg: The teacher showed her approval by giving her student stickers(貼紙) whenever they listened well.
approval n. 批准
eg: You need your supervisor's approval to leave early.
be cut out for something 適合做某事(常用在否定句)
=> skill at it
eg: I don't like science, so I'm not cut out for being a doctor.
eg: I'm not cut for any job related to numbers. I could never be a banker or an accountant!
eg: Ron is not cut out for the army. He is lazy and complains a lot.
gingerbread n. 薑餅
gingerbread adj 華而不實的
parade n. 遊行
trek v. 艱苦跋涉
=> go a hard journey on foot
hilarious adj. 歡鬧的/熱鬧的
eg: The night market in the street is hilarious every Saturday night.
//== Chat Room ==//
get in the mood 進入某種心情
He's in a good mood. 他心情很好
in no mood for 沒有心情
in no mood for kidding 沒心情開玩笑
moody adj. 情緒不定的/喜怒無常的
Mary is in one of her moods.
=> Mary在鬧脾氣
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
if the reader is able to decorate gingerbread house, climb chimneys and race donkeys
=> if the reader isn't really interested nor able to do donkey-riding or chimney-climbing, he or she can still enjoy watching the completion
begin by asking your readers if they can perform certain skills or at least are interested in participating in the activity then you can start describing the activity
you need to have a conclusion
they can still be a "part: of the event
What does it take to be a world champion Santa
Do you have a talent for decorating gingerbread houses? Are you a whiz at climbing chimneys? Most importantly, can you race donkeys? If so, you may have a chance of becoming the next Santa Claus World Champion!
Held in Samnuan, Switzerland, the Clau Wau Santa Claus World Championship takes place today and tomorrow. Several four-person teams of Santa Clauses from around the world gather in the small ski village. The event begins with the teams presenting themselves in a Santa Claus parade. Then competitions test participants in essential "modern Santa skills."
For example, in donkey trekking, each competing Santa rides a donkey and carries a bag full of gifts. The challenge is to be faster than the other Santas and deliver the gifts to the right people. The competition ends with a Santa show, in which teams compete for the approval of the audience. Teams are judged on things like creativity, team spirit, and of course, speed. The winners earn the right to be called the Santa Claus World Champions. Not cut out for riding donkeys or climbing chimneys? Come and enjoy watching the hilarious competition anyway There's no better way to get in the mood for Christmas!
whiz n. 高手/奇才
whiz at
=> good at doing something
eg: Steve is a whiz at math, He even compotes in math competitions.
eg: Mark is such a whiz at math that he competed in his school's tournament and won.
eg: Frank is the computer whiz in our school. Sometimes, the teachers even asked him for help.
essential adj. 必要的,不可缺的;本質的,實質的;基本的
eg: Be sure to pack underwear for trip. It's essential!
approval n. 讚許/肯定
=> give your good opinion
eg: Sam's dance performance won the approval of the judges in the talent show.
eg: Children often seek their parents' approval.
eg: The teacher showed her approval by giving her student stickers(貼紙) whenever they listened well.
approval n. 批准
eg: You need your supervisor's approval to leave early.
be cut out for something 適合做某事(常用在否定句)
=> skill at it
eg: I don't like science, so I'm not cut out for being a doctor.
eg: I'm not cut for any job related to numbers. I could never be a banker or an accountant!
eg: Ron is not cut out for the army. He is lazy and complains a lot.
gingerbread n. 薑餅
gingerbread adj 華而不實的
parade n. 遊行
trek v. 艱苦跋涉
=> go a hard journey on foot
hilarious adj. 歡鬧的/熱鬧的
eg: The night market in the street is hilarious every Saturday night.
//== Chat Room ==//
get in the mood 進入某種心情
He's in a good mood. 他心情很好
in no mood for 沒有心情
in no mood for kidding 沒心情開玩笑
moody adj. 情緒不定的/喜怒無常的
Mary is in one of her moods.
=> Mary在鬧脾氣
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
if the reader is able to decorate gingerbread house, climb chimneys and race donkeys
=> if the reader isn't really interested nor able to do donkey-riding or chimney-climbing, he or she can still enjoy watching the completion
begin by asking your readers if they can perform certain skills or at least are interested in participating in the activity then you can start describing the activity
you need to have a conclusion
they can still be a "part: of the event
2009年11月26日 星期四
20091126 The Importance of Being Thankful (1)
The Importance of Being Thankful
Discover why a thankful attitude is good for you
On Thanksgiving Day, most Americans give thanks. But many experts now agree that people should make gratitude part of their daily lives. Recent studies show that a thankful attitude brings both emotional and physical benefits.
Emotional benefits
According to research, the practice of gratitude can increase your happiness by 25 percent! Thankful people are found to be kinder and more likely to feel loved. They express greater satisfaction in life and more hope for the future. For these people, frustration and fear, resulting from negative attitudes, are replaced by joy and peace.
Physical benefits
Interestingly, gratitude produces a physical reaction in the body. Thinking about someone or something you appreciate produces a calming effect on the nervous system. This action results in peace of mind, reduced stress and protective benefits for the heart. Health advantages include more energy, better sleep and less general body pain.
The biggest benefit, though, is that a grateful attitude makes those around you feel better! Why not begin today by practicing an attitude of gratitude? You might be surprised by how good it makes you feel!
gratitude n. 感激/感謝
=> a feeling of being thankful
eg: I sent Jill a thank you card to express my gratitude for her help.
eg: This bouquet of flowers represents our gratitude for your thoughtfulness.
grateful adj. 感謝的/感激的
= thankful
eg: A grateful child makes his or her parents feel appreciated.
eg: I am grateful that I have such nice parents.
emotion n. 情緒
emotional adj. 感情上的
eg: People with strong emotional health accept responsibility for the things they do.
eg: Helping others provides emotional satisfaction.
emotional adj. 情緒化的
eg: Sandy is very emotional. It's really hard to work with her.
frustration n. 挫折/挫折感
eg: Ben felt his frustration build when he couldn't solve the math problem before the test ended.
eg: Mrs. Smith experienced a lot of frustration when none of her students handed in their homework.
eg: Learn how to cope with frustration at work and don't allow it to get the best of you(別讓它擊垮你)!
nervous system 神經系統
//== Chat Room ==//
pay v. 給予
eg: paying compliments 給予贊賞
eg: pay attention 給予注意
eg: I will pay him a visit.
you get what you pay for 一分錢一分貨
=> 這句話通常用來表示便宜的東西容易壞
pay your dues 支付會費
=> 延伸的意義為一個人加入組織都要先有付出才會獲得同僚的尊敬
pay the price 付出代價
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Thankful people are found to be kinder and more likely to feel loved.
=> Thankful people are seen as being kinder and more likely to feel loved.
find v. 察覺
=> perceive (as)
=> see (as)
eg: Jamie thinks the movie was boring.
=> Jamie found the moving boring.
eg: I find it easier to study when I have music on.
find v. 發現
=> discovery
eg: I found my keys under my bed.
Discover why a thankful attitude is good for you
On Thanksgiving Day, most Americans give thanks. But many experts now agree that people should make gratitude part of their daily lives. Recent studies show that a thankful attitude brings both emotional and physical benefits.
Emotional benefits
According to research, the practice of gratitude can increase your happiness by 25 percent! Thankful people are found to be kinder and more likely to feel loved. They express greater satisfaction in life and more hope for the future. For these people, frustration and fear, resulting from negative attitudes, are replaced by joy and peace.
Physical benefits
Interestingly, gratitude produces a physical reaction in the body. Thinking about someone or something you appreciate produces a calming effect on the nervous system. This action results in peace of mind, reduced stress and protective benefits for the heart. Health advantages include more energy, better sleep and less general body pain.
The biggest benefit, though, is that a grateful attitude makes those around you feel better! Why not begin today by practicing an attitude of gratitude? You might be surprised by how good it makes you feel!
gratitude n. 感激/感謝
=> a feeling of being thankful
eg: I sent Jill a thank you card to express my gratitude for her help.
eg: This bouquet of flowers represents our gratitude for your thoughtfulness.
grateful adj. 感謝的/感激的
= thankful
eg: A grateful child makes his or her parents feel appreciated.
eg: I am grateful that I have such nice parents.
emotion n. 情緒
emotional adj. 感情上的
eg: People with strong emotional health accept responsibility for the things they do.
eg: Helping others provides emotional satisfaction.
emotional adj. 情緒化的
eg: Sandy is very emotional. It's really hard to work with her.
frustration n. 挫折/挫折感
eg: Ben felt his frustration build when he couldn't solve the math problem before the test ended.
eg: Mrs. Smith experienced a lot of frustration when none of her students handed in their homework.
eg: Learn how to cope with frustration at work and don't allow it to get the best of you(別讓它擊垮你)!
nervous system 神經系統
//== Chat Room ==//
pay v. 給予
eg: paying compliments 給予贊賞
eg: pay attention 給予注意
eg: I will pay him a visit.
you get what you pay for 一分錢一分貨
=> 這句話通常用來表示便宜的東西容易壞
pay your dues 支付會費
=> 延伸的意義為一個人加入組織都要先有付出才會獲得同僚的尊敬
pay the price 付出代價
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
Thankful people are found to be kinder and more likely to feel loved.
=> Thankful people are seen as being kinder and more likely to feel loved.
find v. 察覺
=> perceive (as)
=> see (as)
eg: Jamie thinks the movie was boring.
=> Jamie found the moving boring.
eg: I find it easier to study when I have music on.
find v. 發現
=> discovery
eg: I found my keys under my bed.
2009年11月25日 星期三
20091125 Holiday Movies (3)
Holiday Movies
Alvin and the Chipmunks return in Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakuel. This sequel to the 2007 holiday hit continues the story of the three chipmunks' musical career. It also introduces some new characters - the Chipettes.
Comedies and others
Hugh Grant and Sarah Jessica Parker star in Did You Hear About the Morgans? They play an estranged couple who witness a murder in New York City. They are then placed in a small Wyoming town as part of a witness protection program. They have a terrible time coping with their new surroundings as well as their renewed affection for each other.
Robert DeNiro stars as a widower who decides to go on a road trip in Everybody's Fine. He wants to try to rebuild his relationships with his grown children. Special effects drive 2012. This spectacle tells of worldwide cataclysmic events that suggest the end of the world. According to the ancient Mayan calendar, 2012 is the year civilization comes to an end.
Hollywood offers plenty to entertain you this holiday season. Go enjoy a movie at your local theater.
sequel n. 續集
eg: I didn't want this book to end. I hope the author writes a sequel.
witness v. 目擊/目睹
=> see it happen
eg: Jeff witnessed the accident and told the police what he saw.
eg: An old lady witnessed the grocery store robbery.
eg: He arrived home just in time to witness the bank repossessing his car.
=> 他回家時剛好看到銀行帶走他的車當作抵押品
witness n. 證人/目擊者
eg: According to the witnesses, the attack took place around midnight.
cope v. 應付/處理
cope with something
eg: Nancy can cope with losing her job, but I hope she finds another soon.
eg: Fanny has a hard time coping with her three kids and a new job.
eg: People here know how to cope with harsh weather(嚴寒的天氣) conditions.
spectacle n. 公開展示/場面/景象/眼鏡
=> a very impressive show/scene
eg: The opening ceremony of the World Games was quite a spectacle.
strange adj. 陌生的
estrange v. 使疏遠/使感情失和
eg: Time and distance gradually estranged the couple.
estranged adj. 疏離的/分開的
eg: Nathan bumped into his estranged(分居的) wife at the supermarket.
widow n. 寡婦
=> a woman who has lost her husband
widower n. 鰥夫
=> a man whose wife has died and he has not remarried
grown adj. 長大了的/成熟的
cataclysmic adj. 激變的/大變動的
=> very large/distructive/violent
//== Chat Room ==//
-ette 女性的
=> the suffix-ette refers to female
the Chipettes
Jeanette, Paulette, Claudette
=> the names are female because they include the suffix-ette
bachelorette n. 未婚女性
bachelor n. 單身男子
brunette n. 深色頭髮女性
-ette 小的
=> the suffix-ette refers to smaller
kitchen
kitchenette 小廚房
novel
novelette 中篇小說
cigar 雪茄
cigarette (小雪茄)香煙
towel 毛巾
towelette 紙巾
moist towelettes 濕紙巾
Alvin and the Chipmunks return in Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakuel. This sequel to the 2007 holiday hit continues the story of the three chipmunks' musical career. It also introduces some new characters - the Chipettes.
Comedies and others
Hugh Grant and Sarah Jessica Parker star in Did You Hear About the Morgans? They play an estranged couple who witness a murder in New York City. They are then placed in a small Wyoming town as part of a witness protection program. They have a terrible time coping with their new surroundings as well as their renewed affection for each other.
Robert DeNiro stars as a widower who decides to go on a road trip in Everybody's Fine. He wants to try to rebuild his relationships with his grown children. Special effects drive 2012. This spectacle tells of worldwide cataclysmic events that suggest the end of the world. According to the ancient Mayan calendar, 2012 is the year civilization comes to an end.
Hollywood offers plenty to entertain you this holiday season. Go enjoy a movie at your local theater.
sequel n. 續集
eg: I didn't want this book to end. I hope the author writes a sequel.
witness v. 目擊/目睹
=> see it happen
eg: Jeff witnessed the accident and told the police what he saw.
eg: An old lady witnessed the grocery store robbery.
eg: He arrived home just in time to witness the bank repossessing his car.
=> 他回家時剛好看到銀行帶走他的車當作抵押品
witness n. 證人/目擊者
eg: According to the witnesses, the attack took place around midnight.
cope v. 應付/處理
cope with something
eg: Nancy can cope with losing her job, but I hope she finds another soon.
eg: Fanny has a hard time coping with her three kids and a new job.
eg: People here know how to cope with harsh weather(嚴寒的天氣) conditions.
spectacle n. 公開展示/場面/景象/眼鏡
=> a very impressive show/scene
eg: The opening ceremony of the World Games was quite a spectacle.
strange adj. 陌生的
estrange v. 使疏遠/使感情失和
eg: Time and distance gradually estranged the couple.
estranged adj. 疏離的/分開的
eg: Nathan bumped into his estranged(分居的) wife at the supermarket.
widow n. 寡婦
=> a woman who has lost her husband
widower n. 鰥夫
=> a man whose wife has died and he has not remarried
grown adj. 長大了的/成熟的
cataclysmic adj. 激變的/大變動的
=> very large/distructive/violent
//== Chat Room ==//
-ette 女性的
=> the suffix-ette refers to female
the Chipettes
Jeanette, Paulette, Claudette
=> the names are female because they include the suffix-ette
bachelorette n. 未婚女性
bachelor n. 單身男子
brunette n. 深色頭髮女性
-ette 小的
=> the suffix-ette refers to smaller
kitchen
kitchenette 小廚房
novel
novelette 中篇小說
cigar 雪茄
cigarette (小雪茄)香煙
towel 毛巾
towelette 紙巾
moist towelettes 濕紙巾
2009年11月24日 星期二
20091124 Holiday Movies (2)
Holiday Movies
Animated films
Tis Christmas, Disney rolls out a new animated princess film: The Princess and the Frog. This musical fairy tale marks a return to the same hand-drawn animated style as early Disney films. Set in New Orleans, the story follows a princess who kisses a frog and undergoes an amazing change.
In Fantastic Mr. Fox, the Fox family lives under a hill with Badger, Weasel and Rabbit and their families. Mr. Fox uses his wits to take food from three farmers. They then try to "outfox" Mr. Fox. George Clooney voices Mr. Fox.
Avatar is a futuristic science-fiction story. On a far-away planet, a reluctant hero takes on the challenge of saving civilizations. The film's state-of-the-art special effects will amaze audiences. In Planet 51, an American astronaut lands on Planet 51. He is shocked to find a happy community of little green aliens living there. What's even more shocking is that the aliens live in a manner very similar to American life in the 1950s.
fantastic n. 奇異的/古怪的
=> extremely good
eg: That new idea of Mr. Allen's is fantastic!
wits pl n. 機智;風趣
eg: The street child didn't have any education; he lived by his wits.
re- 向後的
reluctant adj. 不情願的/勉強的
=> not totally willing to do something
eg: The child was very reluctant to go to bed since the movie was not yet over.
eg: The reluctant helpers not only didn't help, but they also became a problem.
eg: The people in the town are reluctant to accept the new policy.
alien n. 外星人
eg: Some people believe that aliens live on other planets.
eg: E.T. is one of the most recognized movie aliens of all time.
eg: Many people claim that they've seen aliens.
alien adj. 外國的
eg: an alien culture 異國的文化
science-fiction adj. 科幻的
eg: The science-fiction novel was a best-seller last summer.
eg: Bob loves science-faction movies. He has a huge collection.
outfox v. 以計擊敗
//== Chat Room ==//
badger n.獾
badger v. 困擾/煩擾
badger someone 煩擾某人/困擾某人
=> bother/trouble someone repeatedly
=> often by telling them to do something
eg: Bobby's mother always badgers him about cleaning his room.
eg: She badgers her mother to allow her to go to the dance.
badger someone into verb+ing
eg: Jeff badgers me into helping him study his test.
badger someone + infinitive
eg: Allen badgers his father to take him to the zoo.
weasel n. 黃鼠狼/狡滑的人/奸刁的人
weasel out of doing something 狡猾地逃避做某事
=> avoid doing something you should do
=> escape from the duty
eg: Canie tries to weasel out doing the dishes.
monkey
monkey around 調皮搗蛋
ram n. 公羊
ram v. 撞擊
=> hit/push something
hog n. 豬
hog v. 霸佔
hog something 霸佔某物
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
The film's state-of-the-art special effects will amaze audiences.
=> The film has special effects that are at the movie industry's highest level and will amaze audiences.
state-of-the-art 最好的/利用最先進技術的
=> the highest level available
state-of-the-art sound system
state-of-the-art research laboratory
state-of-the-art security system
eg: Charles' small new laptop is an example of the state of the art in computer technology.
eg: Nowadays, the state of the art in wireless communication allows people to receive their email on their cell phones very quickly.
Animated films
Tis Christmas, Disney rolls out a new animated princess film: The Princess and the Frog. This musical fairy tale marks a return to the same hand-drawn animated style as early Disney films. Set in New Orleans, the story follows a princess who kisses a frog and undergoes an amazing change.
In Fantastic Mr. Fox, the Fox family lives under a hill with Badger, Weasel and Rabbit and their families. Mr. Fox uses his wits to take food from three farmers. They then try to "outfox" Mr. Fox. George Clooney voices Mr. Fox.
Avatar is a futuristic science-fiction story. On a far-away planet, a reluctant hero takes on the challenge of saving civilizations. The film's state-of-the-art special effects will amaze audiences. In Planet 51, an American astronaut lands on Planet 51. He is shocked to find a happy community of little green aliens living there. What's even more shocking is that the aliens live in a manner very similar to American life in the 1950s.
fantastic n. 奇異的/古怪的
=> extremely good
eg: That new idea of Mr. Allen's is fantastic!
wits pl n. 機智;風趣
eg: The street child didn't have any education; he lived by his wits.
re- 向後的
reluctant adj. 不情願的/勉強的
=> not totally willing to do something
eg: The child was very reluctant to go to bed since the movie was not yet over.
eg: The reluctant helpers not only didn't help, but they also became a problem.
eg: The people in the town are reluctant to accept the new policy.
alien n. 外星人
eg: Some people believe that aliens live on other planets.
eg: E.T. is one of the most recognized movie aliens of all time.
eg: Many people claim that they've seen aliens.
alien adj. 外國的
eg: an alien culture 異國的文化
science-fiction adj. 科幻的
eg: The science-fiction novel was a best-seller last summer.
eg: Bob loves science-faction movies. He has a huge collection.
outfox v. 以計擊敗
//== Chat Room ==//
badger n.獾
badger v. 困擾/煩擾
badger someone 煩擾某人/困擾某人
=> bother/trouble someone repeatedly
=> often by telling them to do something
eg: Bobby's mother always badgers him about cleaning his room.
eg: She badgers her mother to allow her to go to the dance.
badger someone into verb+ing
eg: Jeff badgers me into helping him study his test.
badger someone + infinitive
eg: Allen badgers his father to take him to the zoo.
weasel n. 黃鼠狼/狡滑的人/奸刁的人
weasel out of doing something 狡猾地逃避做某事
=> avoid doing something you should do
=> escape from the duty
eg: Canie tries to weasel out doing the dishes.
monkey
monkey around 調皮搗蛋
ram n. 公羊
ram v. 撞擊
=> hit/push something
hog n. 豬
hog v. 霸佔
hog something 霸佔某物
//== Grammar on the Go ==//
The film's state-of-the-art special effects will amaze audiences.
=> The film has special effects that are at the movie industry's highest level and will amaze audiences.
state-of-the-art 最好的/利用最先進技術的
=> the highest level available
state-of-the-art sound system
state-of-the-art research laboratory
state-of-the-art security system
eg: Charles' small new laptop is an example of the state of the art in computer technology.
eg: Nowadays, the state of the art in wireless communication allows people to receive their email on their cell phones very quickly.
訂閱：
文章 (Atom)