merged book

USEFUL VOCABULARY

Audio files

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ANIMALS Learn how to identify some typical animals in English. What other animals can you name? By the way, a lot of these animals appear in articles in this issue of Hot English. See if you can find them!

Bear

Shark

Crocodile

Tiger

Peacock

Chicken

Pig

Donkey

Goat

Wolf

Turkey

Horse

Cow

Ant

Snail

Slug

Capuchin monkey

Chimpanzee

Elephant

Rooster / cockerel / cock

Raven

Kangaroo

Lion

Anteater

Sheep

4

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Objective To improve your reading and listening skills. Think about it Have you been on holiday lately? Where did you go? What did you see? Have you ever been disappointed by something while on holiday? What was it? Why were you disappointed? Have you ever complained about a holiday? What did you complain about? Who did you complain to? What happened as a result? Exams This reading and listening activity will help prepare you for English exams such as KET and TOEFL.

TRACK 3: ENGLISHMAN & ENGLISHWOMAN

HORRIBLE HOLIDAY COMPLAINTS IT’S SO BORING!

W

hat are some of the worst things that have happened to you on holiday? Travellers often post their complaints on websites such as TripAdvisor. Here are a few. For some people, it seems that nothing is ever good enough.

The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco It’s a bridge. It’s covered in fog. It’s pointless. Buy a postcard you’ll see more.

Answers on page 44

1

Pre-reading

Look at the names of the holiday destinations in the article. What complaints do you think people could have about these places? Make notes. 2

Reading I

Read or listen to the article once to compare your ideas from the Pre-reading activity. 3

Reading II

Read the article again. Then, write the name of a place next to each statement. 1. It looks like a supermarket. 2. Pictures of it are better than the real thing. 3. It’s covered in fog. 4. It’s really boring. 5. It takes hours to get to the top. 6. There were lots of drunks there.

Times Square, New York City If you want to see what it’s like to exist in a herd of cows then maybe I’d recommend it.

The Niagara Falls, USA The place was packed with foreigners who kept walking into our pictures while we were taking them.

The Statue of Liberty, New York Don’t go. It takes hours to get to the top of the statue and the view isn’t very good anyway. Wasted a whole afternoon there. Just go to

the dock and throw your money in the water.

interesting views of the park.

The Louvre, Paris After over 30 years of thinking about going, I finally decided to give it a try. Not very interesting at all. The museum looks like a supermarket on a Saturday afternoon.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York It just too much boredom in one place. If something were to be more boring it would be shut down. Unbelievable how this could be an attraction in New York. Inside you will see a few sculptures followed by few artefacts and even some paintings – double yawn. The only positive thing is that it’s near 5th Avenue so after a few minutes of torture, you can treat yourself to some shopping.

The Great Wall of China It was awful. I couldn’t enjoy the scenery because I was too busy trying not to be trampled on. Besides that, it was great. Ha ha, just kidding. I hated it.

Yosemite National Park, USA Mother Nature has nothing to do with this place any more. Kids running amok, garbage, drunks. You might as well be in downtown San Francisco for all the wilderness you’ll find here.

The Grand Canyon, USA Seeing the canyon in person is about as good as seeing pictures of the canyon. It’s possible the pictures might be better since the photographer only releases the most

GLOSSARY fog n when there’s “fog”, you can’t see well outside because the clouds are very low in the sky pointless adj something “pointless” has no purpose or reason to exist a herd of cows exp a large group of cows all living or moving together packed adj if you’re “packed” into an area, you’re in an small area with many other people a dock n an area in a harbour where ships go so people can repair them, load them, unload them, etc. to trample on exp if someone “tramples on” you, they step on you with their foot to kid vb if you “kid” with someone, you joke with them or say something that isn’t true to run amok exp if children are “running amok”, they’re behaving very badly (running around and screaming) and no one is in control of them garbage n rubbish – old things you throw away a drunk n a person who drinks a lot of alcohol and often gets drunk (when someone is “drunk”, they can’t speak or move properly because they’ve had too much alcohol) wilderness n an area of natural land (a mountain, desert, etc.) where there aren’t any people an artefact n an object (such as a vase, tool or weapon) that is interesting from a cultural or historical point of view a yawn n when there’s a “yawn”, someone opens their mouth widely because they’re tired to treat yourself to exp if you “treat yourself to” something, you give yourself something nice or you do something nice for yourself

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7

WORD BOOSTER

Learn Hot English

Blog!

Free lessons to improve your English, and articles on learning English! blog.learnhotenglish.com

PREPOSITIONS OF TIME: IN, ON, AT This month we’re looking at three important prepositions of time: in, on, at.

In

At

We use the preposition in for fairly long periods of time such as months, years, centuries: in June, in the winter, in 1985, in the 14th century, in the morning, in the evening, in the Middle Ages...

1

We use on for days and dates: on Monday, on Fridays, on 7th July, on 23rd November 2011, on New Year’s Eve, on her birthday...

1

Her birthday is in March.

The party is on 14th October.

2

2

We’ve got a conference to go to in the morning.

We often go to the gym on Fridays.

3

3

We went to the party on New Year’s Eve.

It often rains here in the spring.

4

4

She took her friend to the theatre on her birthday.

The queen ruled in the Middle Ages.

We use at for an exact, precise time: at 2pm, at midnight, at sunset, at lunchtime, at 13:45, at night, at the weekend, at Christmas, at the same time, at present, at the moment, at the weekend (also, on the weekend)...

On

1 I’ll be there at 9pm.

2 They didn’t do much at the weekend.

3 I often read at night.

4 The train leaves at 06:43.

Comparisons

Look at these sentences to see the difference between the three prepositions. a) We met in June. b) We met on 23rd June. c) We met at 6pm on 23rd June.

Last, next, every, this, that

We don’t use in, on, at with words such as last, next, every, this, that, etc.: a) We go there every Christmas. b) They’re arriving next Sunday. c) I’ll call you this evening. d) I went to Paris last April. For company classes, Skype/Telephone classes or private tuition, contact: [email protected] / www.learnhotenglish.com /

9

Trave Eng l li

sh

TRACK 13: ENGLISHMAN & US WOMAN

TRAVEL ENGLISH

AT THE MUSIC FESTIVAL

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Learn over 15 useful words and expressions for when you go to a music festival Useful words

Dialogue Sarah has just arrived at a music festival. Complete the dialogue with the correct words. S=Steward G=Guest

Sunglasses

Torch (flashlight in US English)

Insect spray (bug spray in US English)

Wellies (rain boots, wellington boots)

Folding chair (camp chair, travel chair)

Sun hat

Poncho

Wristband

Ticket

Phone charger

Wet wipes (wet towel, baby wipes)

Portaloo (portable toilet)

Tent

Camping stove

Backpack (rucksack)

Batteries

Pocket knife

Pirate flag

Toilet paper

Hoodie

Sleeping bag

Roll mat

Marquee

Ear plugs

Barrier

More words Steward – a person who helps at an event (such as a festival). They often wear bright yellow jackets. Stage – the raised, high area where the band plays. Site map – a map that shows where things are in an area. Festival schedule – a list of the times that different bands are playing in a festival.

18

Mud – a mixture of water and earth. Crowd – a large group of people. Campsite – an area where you can put up your tent and sleep. DJ – someone who plays and introduces music. Cash – money in the form of coins (metal money) or notes (paper money) An event – something that happens: a concert,

a sports match, etc. A four-day event (for example) takes place over a period of four days. Sell out – if something is “sold out”, all of the tickets have been bought. Acts – the bands or groups who play at the festival. Live music – music played by the artists, musicians, etc. (not from an audio file, CD, etc.)

S: Tickets, please. G: Here you are. S: OK. Here are your . Keep them (1) on at all times as you may be asked to show them. G: All right. Erm, where’s the , please? (2) S: Just over there, to the far right . Lock up of the (3) if you can your (4) as we’ve had a few reports of robberies. G: OK, thanks. Erm, have you got map? a (5) S: Here you are. G: Erm, can I leave the (6) area at any time? S: Yes, as long as you’ve got your wristband on. If you lose the band, you can’t get back in. G: OK. Where can we park? S: Just follow the road and one will show of the (7) you where you can park. G: Is it busy? S: Yeah, it’s pretty full already. And I’d find a spot for your tent quickly as it’s getting crowded. And you won’t want to pitch your tent too close to ! the (8) G: Oh, yeah, right. Thanks. Oh, and have you got a festival , please? (9) S: It’s on the back of the site map. There’s a list of all the acts and a timetable. G: Great. Thanks. S: Stay safe! G: Cheers!

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VOCABULARY CLINIC

DISCUSSING A DEAL

Here are some useful words and expressions for negotiating or discussing a business deal.

Ultimatum

To compromise

Mutual

If you give someone an “ultimatum”, you tell them that something bad could happen if they don't do what you want. “They gave us an ultimatum: either we agree to their demands, or they'll withdraw their offer.

If you “compromise” on something, you accept a lower price or accept something of a lower standard than you originally wanted. “We were willing to compromise on price if they could agree to a 5-year guarantee for the products.”

If something is of “mutual” benefit, both sides gain something positive from it. “The agreement was to our mutual benefit.”

Unrealistic

Deal

Leverage

Something “unrealistic” isn't possible, workable or practical. “It’s unrealistic to think that they’ll agree to all our demands.”

A business agreement. “We finally managed to reach a deal.”

If you’ve got a lot of “leverage”, you have a lot of power. “We don’t have much leverage, so we should probably just accept what they’re offering.”

Finer details

Give in / yield

Discount

The small, minor details. “We need to go over the proposal so we're familiar with all the finer details.”

If you “give in” to someone’s demands, you agree to them. “They refused to give in to our demands for a lower price.”

A reduction in the price. “They finally agreed to give us a discount after months of negotiating.”

Estimate

Supplier

An approximate calculation of the cost of something. “Could you send us through the estimate by the end of the week, please?”

A person or company that provides a service, or that sells you goods, etc. “We'll have to find a new supplier as our current one is just too expensive.”

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29

USEFUL IDIOMS

FOOD-PEOPLE IDIOMS Here are some more food-related idioms that are used to describe people.

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Bad apple / rotten apple

Small fry

The one bad person among a group of people who are mostly good. “There’s always the occasional rotten apple in every organisation.”

Someone who isn’t important. “So far, the police have only arrested the small fry. The leaders are still free.”

Couch potato

As nice as pie

A lazy person who spends most of their free time on the sofa, watching TV, playing videogames, etc. “He’s turned into a bit of a couch potato since he passed his exams.”

If someone is “as nice as pie”, they appear to be very nice and charming. “She can be as nice as pie, but I wouldn’t trust her!”

Like chalk and cheese

Like two peas in a pod

If two people are like “chalk and cheese”, they’re completely different. “I can’t understand how they’ve managed to stay together for so long – they’re like chalk and cheese.”

If two people are like “two peas in a pod”, they’re very similar. “They were like two peas in a pod – they liked exactly the same things.”

Egghead

Play gooseberry

A person who studies a lot and who isn’t often good in social situations. “People thought of him as a bit of an egghead because he spent most of his free time reading or studying.”

If you “play gooseberry”, you go with two other people who are in a relationship. So, you’re like the third, unwanted person. “I don’t really want to go to the pub with them – I’d just feel I was playing gooseberry.” Learn more! Get an idioms booklet! 300 useful idioms + audio files. For more information, visit: www.learnhotenglish.com /

31

PHRASAL VERBS

Audio files

TALKING ABOUT WORK

Download the MP3 audio files for this issue for FREE from our website: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

Answers on page 45

Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

help

client

deadlines

morning

toys

manager

1

person

end

2

Write up

Phone up / call up

If you “write up” a report (for example), you write the report using notes you made earlier. “Could you write up that report for me by Monday , please?”

3

If you “phone someone up”, you call them so you can speak to them. “If she isn’t responding to our e-mails, call her up or go round to her office to speak to her in .”

4 Copy in If you “copy someone in” on an e-mail, you include their e-mail address in the list of people who will receive the e-mail. “Don’t forget to copy me in on all those e-mails you send the .”

5

Back up If you “back up” material, you make a copy of it. “Don’t forget to back up your work every day at the of the day.”

6 Take over If you “take over” control of something, you become the person who controls it.” “Jennifer took over as project from Mark as things weren’t going too well under him.”

7

Get down If something is “getting you down”, it’s making you feel depressed. “All these really tight are starting to get me down.”

8

Build up / pile up

Step up

If work is starting to “build up” (or “pile up”), the amount you have to do is increasing. “The number of documents we have to deal with is really building up. I think we need some outside .”

If you “step up” production (for example), you increase it or do it more quickly. “We need to step up production if we want to get all these made on time.

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41

Answers on page 45

CROSSWORD

THE JOB INTERVIEW

Improve your vocabulary by doing Learn lots of useful “travel” words and expressions by doing this crossword. this crossword on “job interview” words and expressions.

Across 2. A formal meeting to find out whether someone is suitable for a job = a job . 5. A general term to refer to things such as names, information telephone numbers, etc. = 7. An object you use when it rains to stop you getting wet. It opens out and covers your head and body. 10. A portable computer. 11. Previous employers who can give information about you = ref_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 12. The things you have to do as part of your job = res_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 14. An object you use for writing with ink. 15. Clothing that consists of a jacket and trousers (or jacket and skirt) made from the same fabric. 16. An American English word for a mobile phone = phone. a 18. Information on how to get to a place = dir_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 21. A letter you send when applying for a job, explaining letter (also, why you want the job, etc. = a “cover”). 23. A machine that sells coffee, tea, hot chocolate, etc. = machine. a 25. An announcement in a newspaper, etc. with . information about a job = a job 27. Extra work you do outside your normal hours = ov_ _ _ _ _ _ 29. An American English word for a curriculum vitae (a CV) = a re_ _ _ _ 30. A position in a company = a p_ _ _ 31. A portable computer with a touch screen interface.

42

Down 1. A substance you chew but don’t swallow = . chewing 3. The person who is being interviewed. 4. A plan of a particular area such as a city, a country, etc. to show you where things are. 6. Thin soft pieces of paper that you can use to clean your nose, mouth, etc. 8. A form you sometimes need to fill out when you’re form. applying for a job = an 9. Special benefits for people who have a particular job = pe_ _ _ 13. A narrow piece of cloth worn round the neck under a shirt collar. 16. Someone who applies for a job = a ca_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 17. A type of little book with blank pages. 19. Money in the form of coins (metal money) to use for the bus, taxi, etc. = ch_ _ _ _ 20. The days when you don’t need to go to work = ho_ _ _ _ _ _ 22. Objects you wear on your feet over your socks, etc. 24. The amount you earn = your sa_ _ _ _ phone. 26. A portable telephone = a 28. Sweets with a peppermint flavour to make your breath smell fresh = mi_ _ _

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USEFUL VOCABULARY

Audio files

Download the MP3 audio files for this issue for FREE from our website: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

WHAT SHALL WE STUDY? Learn how to describe different areas of study. Write the name of a subject under each definition (1 to 20).

history film studies medicine

ancient history veterinary science business studies engineering archaeology philosophy physical education dentistry architecture civil engineering English literature accounting sociology education maths law photography

This course involves learning about... 1 …managing a business.

2 …questions of existence, morality and reason.

3 …how to write screenplays, and movie production.

4 …exercise, health, fitness and sport.

5 …books, writers, authors and poetry.

6 …numbers, quantities, shapes, calculus and algebra.

7 …judicial and legal systems and processes.

8 …how to diagnose, treat and prevent diseases or injuries.

9 …designing and building engines and machines.

10 …keeping financial accounts for a business.

11 …people and events from the past.

12 …society and how humans behave within its structures.

13 …taking pictures, editing images, light and exposure.

14 …how to design and build structures.

15 …how to diagnose, treat and prevent disease in animals.

16 …how to become a teacher or school administrator.

17 …oral health and hygiene.

18 …peoples and cultures through the analysis of artifacts and other remains.

19 …how to design and build structures such as roads and bridges.

20 …ancient cultures such as the Egyptians, Romans or Greeks.

business studies

4

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Sign up for FREE material at www.learnhotenglish.com Idioms Phrasal Verbs Listening files   Articles Great content Vocabulary

The Hot English

newsletter TRACK 4: ENGLISH ACCENTS

GRAMMAR BOOSTER

7 FEATURES OF SPOKEN ENGLISH! When native English speakers talk naturally, they often use unusual words or sounds. These words or sounds (such as er or erm) make conversations very difficult to follow. However, if you know about these features of spoken English, it'll make listening to English easier for you. It'll also help you focus on the important words in the conversation such as the nouns, verbs and adjectives. Here are 7 features of spoken English. Er / erm Er and erm are sounds that are used as conversational fillers: “Er, I’m not really sure.” you know This is another conversational filler. However, it’s also used to check that the other person is following the conversation: “I found it at the house, you know, where Bob lives.” I mean People use this expression to correct themselves: “It’s on the table, I mean, on the bed.” Repetition This is when people repeat words or phrases in a conversation. People often do this when they aren’t sure what they’re saying: “I… I don’t really know.” Interruption This is when one speaker interrupts another: A: Well, I was just opening the door when... B: ...which door? Incomplete sentences Speakers often don’t finish a sentence: “This is the best… where did he go?”

Answers on page 44

Listening activity

Do this listening activity. Then, see if you can identify any features of spoken English. 1

Listening I

You’re going to listen to someone talking to a friend about moving to another country. What are the pros and cons of doing this? Make notes. Then, listen once. Were any of your ideas mentioned? 2

II

Listening

Listen again. Then, answer these questions. 1. What does Emma like about the idea of moving away? 2. What does Andy like about staying where he is?

Language analysis 3

Look through the script. See if you can identify the numbered features of spoken English (1 to 10).

Dialogue Andy: So, I hear you’re going away, is that right? Emma: Yeah, that’s right, (1) I, I’m moving to London in, in two weeks' time. Andy: I don’t know, I just prefer to stay where I am. I don’t, I don’t like the idea of going away, I mean it’s… Emma: (2) ...really? Andy: New people… I don’t know, I like being close to my family, (3) you know. You can go, go home on Sundays, and have a nice lunch. You know, what are going to do on Sunday? You know… Emma: (4) Er, well, go out and see all the sites that there are to see in a new city, meet new people, go to new places, it, it’s exciting, no? It, it’s fun, it’s interesting, it’s… Andy: (5) ...well, I don’t know… Emma: It’s good to go away, and get to know new places, I think. Andy: Well, I prefer the things I know, (6) I mean, aren’t you (7) gonna miss your family, or something? Aren’t you, aren’t you close to your family, I mean...

GLOSSARY filler n something that is used in a space or silence

ERM, I, I, YOU KNOW, I THINK...

Abbreviated forms Speakers often use abbreviated forms when speaking fast: “We’re gonna leave.” [gonna = going to]

8

Emma: I’m close to them, but, but we can stay in touch by e-mail and on the phone, I can go back and visit, you know. I, I think life is there for living. (8) You’ve got... you’ve got to just, carpe diem, seize the day and, and go out and try new stuff. You know, you can’t spend your whole life staying in the same place. Andy: (9) No, I’m gonna be... I’ll be quite happy staying here, you know. Work in the family business, and you know, every day, every Sunday get together with the family. I, I’d really miss that, if I had to go away, I think, yeah. Emma: Really? You don’t ever feel the need to, to, to go and see the world? Andy: Well, (10) you know, I’ve got my two-week holiday in the summer, that, that’s usually enough for me. Emma: Well, I can’t imagine anything worse. Andy: Oh, OK, well, each to his own.

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Travel Eng

lish

TRAVEL ENGLISH

TRACK 13: ENGLISHMAN &

Learn ove US WOMAN 40 topic arr 500 useful words an Over 400 eas covering a wide d expressions for More thanimages to help you range of typical situtravelling abroad. le 30 dialogu at es so you arn the words and ex ions. For more can hear th p info, visit: e language ressions. www.lea in action. rnhoteng lish.com /shop  

Dialogue: At the diner

By Bridget Marturano

THE AMERICAN DINER

A British tourist is at an American diner. The waitress has just arrived to take his order. [Listen and complete the dialogue with the missing words.] W: Waitress C: Customer

A diner is a type of small restaurant in the US that serves breakfast and lunch, and that is often open 24-hours a day.

W: Hi! Welcome to Friday’s Diner! What would you like to (1) ? C: I’ll have a Coke, please. W: One coke. Would you like to (2) _______about our specials today? C: Sure. Oh, and can I get a glass of water too? W: No problem. Today we’re (3) a homemade meatloaf with gravy and mashed potatoes, with a side of green beans. C: Mmm, I think I’ll just take a (4) at the regular menu. W: All right, I’ll be right back with your drink! [She leaves and comes back a few minutes later with the drinks.] So, what’ll it be? the double C: I’ll (5) bacon cheeseburger – no onions or tomatoes – and a side of fries. W: OK, anything else? C: A chocolate milkshake, please. of W: Oh I’m sorry, we’re (6) chocolate. We have vanilla though. C: OK, I’ll have that then. W: So, one double bacon cheeseburger with no onions or tomatoes, a side of fries and . a vanilla (7) C: Yep, that’s it. W: All right then, that’ll be ready . Thank you! real (8)

Learn over 15 useful words and expressions to use at an American diner.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

1 Pancake

– a flat cake made from a mixture of eggs, milk and flour. 2 Waffles – a sort of thick pancake with little squares on it. 3 Syrup – a sweet liquid made from sugar. 4 Maple syrup – a sweet liquid made from the sap of maple trees. 5 Shake (or milkshake) –

a drink made by mixing milk with fruit or ice cream. 6 Scrambled eggs – eggs that are beaten and cooked in a frying pan. 7 Hash brown – a little potato cake that is fried in a pan. 8 Omelette – eggs beaten and cooked in a frying pan, but with some other ingredients inside, such as cheese.

9 Onion

rings – slices of onion dipped in batter or breadcrumbs and fried. 10 Fries (French fries) – thin pieces of fried potato. 11 Mashed potato – potato that is cooked then crushed so it forms a soft mass. 12 Meatloaf – meat in the shape of a loaf of bread.

Reuben sandwich – corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing served between slices of rye bread. BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato) – a cold sandwich with bacon, lettuce and tomato. Eggs Benedict – two halves

of an English muffin with bacon, poached eggs and hollandaise sauce. Hamburger – meat served in a round bun and often topped with lettuce, onions, tomatoes, etc. A cheeseburger has cheese in it.

Dishes / sandwiches Philly cheesesteak – slices of steak and onions served in a baguette (see the Recipe page for more details on this). Huevos rancheros – fried eggs served on a tortilla topped with a tomatochilli sauce.

GLOSSARY sap n a natural liquid that comes out of trees to dip vb if you “dip” A into B, you put A into B for a short period of time batter n a mixture of flour, eggs and milk that is used for frying fish, etc. corned beef n beef (meat from a cow) that is cooked and preserved in salt water Russian dressing n invented in the 1910s, this sauce has mayonnaise, ketchup and spices rye bread n bread that has been made with “rye”, which is a type of cereal grown in cold countries a muffin n a flat, sweet circle of bread a poached egg n an egg that is cooked in boiling water hollandaise sauce n a sauce made with egg yolk (the yellow part) and vinegar a bun n a small, round piece of bread a side n a little plate of food (such as French fries) that goes with the main dish

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19

TRACK 14: ENGLISHMAN & US WOMAN

HOW TO UNDERSTAND

PHRASAL VERBS!

Native English speakers use phrasal verbs* all the time. A phrasal verb is formed with a verb and a particle (a preposition or adverb). Sometimes, the verb can help you understand the meaning of the phrasal verb. Other times, the particle can help. So, if you understand the basic meanings of particles, this can really help with your understanding of phrasal verbs. Here are 19 particles with their basic meanings. [Read over the information. Then, do our little exercise.]

1 ACROSS

“Across” expresses the idea of going from one side to the other: “They ran across the bridge.”

5 BY

“By” has the meaning of moving near a person or thing, often passing very close to it: “They pushed by him.”

9 IN (INTO)

“In” or “into” has the idea of entering a place or thing: “She walked into the room.”

24

2 AROUND / ROUND

“Around” can have the idea of moving in a circle: “We drove around the city instead of going through the centre.”

6 DOWN

“Down” expresses the idea of moving to a lower position: “She went down the mountain.”

10 OFF

“Off ” expresses the idea of leaving a surface or place: “We took the chair off the table.”

3 AWAY

“Away” expresses the idea of leaving a place or of moving far from it: “We ran away as fast as we could.”

7 FORWARD

“Forward” has the idea of moving ahead – in the direction in front of you – or of bringing something closer to you: “Push the car forward.”

11 ON (ONTO)

“On” or “onto” expresses the idea of going onto a surface: “They put the books on the table.”

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4 BACK

“Back” has the idea of returning to a place: “We drove back home late last night.”

8 FROM

“From” implies moving away from something to another place: “We drove from Paris to Bonn in three hours.”

12 OUT (OUT OF)

“Out” or “out of ” expresses the idea of leaving something, or of going from an interior position to an exterior one: “The cat jumped out of the box.”

13 OVER

Answers on page 44

14 PAST

Exercise

“Over” has the idea of moving across a surface, or of covering something: “She put the jacket over him.”

15 THROUGH

“Through” expresses the idea of going from one side of something to the other: “She went through the tunnel.”

17 TOWARDS

“Towards” means moving in the direction of something or someone: “They ran towards us.”

19 UP TO

“Past” has the idea of moving next to something, but not touching it: “We walked past the museum without even noticing it.”

16 TO

“To” implies movement towards something, or of getting closer to it: “I’m flying to Moscow tomorrow.”

18 UP

“Up” implies an increase or a movement to a higher position: “Prices have been moving up slowly.”

*Phrasal verbs Phrasal verbs are formed by a verb and a particle (often a preposition or adverb): a) We got up at 6am. b) I woke up before him.

“Up to” expresses the idea of getting close to someone or something: “Two men walked up to me.”

The meaning of some phrasal verbs is clear from the verb: a) I paid off all my debts. b) They went away for the weekend. But other times, it isn’t so obvious: a) She made up the story. [make up = invent] b) They put off the meeting. [put off = delay]

Now that you know about the general meaning of the particles, see if you can guess the meaning of the following phrasal verbs. They’re more complex because they have figurative meanings. So, you need to apply your knowledge of particles in order to understand them. If you’re having difficulty, refer back to the basic meaning of the particle. 1. I think we got the meaning of our message across to them. Get across (the meaning) = to explain something successfully 2. We shopped around a bit before buying the car. Shop around = 3. After three months with a serious illness, she finally passed away. Pass away = 4. Are you going to take back what you just said? Or do you stand by your accusation? Take back (something you said) = 5. As a student, I managed to get by on just £5 pounds a day. Get by = 6. I’m feeling a bit down after the terrible results from my exam. Feel down = 7. We’re really looking forward to the party next week. It’s going to be great! Look forward to = 8. I’d keep away from Miss Hargreaves if I were you. She's really angry today. Keep away from someone = 9. I’m feeling really tired so I think I’m going to stay in this evening. Stay in = 10. They drove off without even saying goodbye. They can be so rude sometimes! Drive off = 11. I’d hang onto that old record if I were you. It might be worth something one day. Hang onto = 12. Paul and Jack fell out after 10 years of friendship. Now, they won’t even talk to each other. Fall out = 13. She fell ill after travelling to the jungle, but got over it in record time. Get over (an illness) = 14. Would she go as far as calling the police? I wouldn’t put it past her. Wouldn’t put something past someone = 15. Could you run through the main points from the meeting again, please? Run through = 16. Ben often turns to Amelia when he needs help or if he’s got a problem. Turn to someone = 17. I like both the offices, but I’m leaning towards the second option. Lean towards = 18. His story just doesn’t add up – it just didn’t make any sense. Add up = 19. I really look up to her. She’s got so much experience and she’s extremely successful. Look up to someone =

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VOCABULARY CLINIC

FOOD ADJECTIVES 1

Sweet

2

“Sweet” food has got a lot of sugar in it. “This cake is just too sweet for my liking.” 4

Hot

7

Full / stuffed

Bitter

A strong flavour that is the opposite of sweet. “I can’t drink this black tea without sugar in it – it’s too bitter.” 5

“Hot” food is very spicy and makes your mouth burn when you eat it. This curry is really hot. I ate just a little bit and had to drink a pint of water.”

Learn some useful words for describing food.

Salty

“Salty” food has got a lot of salt in it. “The soup was nice, but it was really salty.” 8

Starving (informal)

3

Spicy

“Spicy” food has spices in it like cumin, curry powder, chilli powder, pepper, etc. “The meat was served with a spicy tomato and coriander sauce.” 6

Greasy

“Greasy” food has a lot of oil in it. “The pizza is really greasy. Look at all the oil that’s come off it.” 9

Ripe

If you’re “full”, you’ve eaten enough food, and you can’t eat any more. “I’m full after that four-course dinner. I couldn’t eat another thing.”

If you’re “starving”, you’re very hungry. “What’s for lunch? I’m starving!”

If fruit is ripe, it’s ready to eat. “I don’t think this avocado is ripe. It’s still really hard.”

10 Crispy

11 Lean

12 Succulent

“Crispy” vegetables are nice and hard. “The stir-fry had chicken, noodles and lots of crispy vegetables.”

A “lean” piece of meat has no fat on it. “We bought a lean cut of meat from the butcher’s.”

“Succulent” food is soft and pleasant to the tongue. “The lunch consisted of a succulent baked salmon with sautéed potatoes and baby carrots.”

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29

USEFUL IDIOMS

EDUCATION Here are some useful idioms for talking about education. 1

Brainstorm (something)

2

Drop out

If a group of people “brainstorm”, they have a meeting and think of ideas for something. “We got into groups to brainstorm ideas for the end-of-term trip.”

If you “drop out”, you stop going to school or college. A dropout” refers to the person. “She dropped out of university because she was offered a part in a film.”

4 Learn something by heart / learn something off by heart

5

To learn something so you can repeat it without thinking or looking. “We used to learn a lot of poems by heart in our English class.” 7

Show of hands

If you “pass an exam with flying colours”, you pass it easily and with a high score. “She passed the entrance exam with flying colours.” 8

If the teacher asks for a “show of hands”, he/she asks everyone to put up their hands in order to vote on something, etc. “The teacher asked for a show of hands to see how many people had been to the city.”

Pass with flying colours

Copycat

Someone who copies another person’s work, or the way they dress, live, etc. “He’s a copycat – he sat next to me in the test and copied everything I wrote!”

3

Hit the books

If you say you’re going to “hit the books”, you mean that you’re going to study a lot. “After the long summer holiday, it was finally time to hit the books.” 6 Skive off (also, to play hooky, play truant, skip class) informal

If you “skive off”, you don’t go to a school. “He skived off because there was a history exam and he hadn’t studied for it.” 9 Put your thinking cap on / get your thinking cap on

To start thinking seriously about something in order to find a solution to it. “We need to decide what we’re going to do, so get your thinking caps on.”

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Learn hundreds of idioms, really improve your English and speak like a native English speaker! Booklets come with images and audio files.

If students are in “single file”, they’re in a line with one person standing behind another. “The pupils had to line up in single file before going into the hall.”

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31

PHRASAL VERBS

TALKING ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE

Answers on page 44

Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

job

1

kids

married

ages

Be back

If someone “is back”, they’ve returned to the place they were originally from. “I’ve that Jim is back from the States. Is that right? ”

3

Come round

Move to

If you “move to” a place, you go to that place. “Someone told me that Barnaby got and moved to New Zealand. Has he really gone?”

7

week

classes

money

2

Be up to

Come into (money)

If someone “comes into” money, they inherit or win it. “I heard that Jessica came into a lot of . Lucky thing!”

6

Take off

If you “take off” time from work, you stop working for a period of time. “Guess what? Dylan is taking a year off to give surfing in the Bahamas

8

The things you’re “up to” are the things you’re doing. “What has Ben been up to all these years? I haven’t heard from him for .”

Be off

If you “are off” to a place, you’re going to go there. “Jenny told me that she’s off to Australia next .”

4

If someone “comes round”, they visit you at your house. “Jack came round the other day and told me all about his new .”

5

heard

Settle down

If someone “settles down”, they stop moving or changing jobs – they start living in one place, they get married, they get a stable job, etc. “Did you hear? Matt got married and had two . I never thought he’d settle down.”

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41

TRACK 7

Telling the time

Useful language for successful communication. Functional Language

FUNCTIONALLANGUAGE This month: telling the time.

It’s four o’clock. It’s half past one. / It’s one thirty. It’s half past six. / It’s six thirty. It’s a quarter to seven. / It’s six forty five. It’s a quarter past three. / It’s three fifteen. It’s eight twenty five. It’s five to nine.

Asking about the time

What time is it, please? Have you got the time on you, please? What time do you make it, please? Is my clock right? What time is the exam? Is it an hour ahead in England? Is it an hour behind?

What time is it?

It’s ten past nine.

Talking about the time

We have one hour. We don’t have much time. There isn’t much time. There’s plenty of time. We’ve got time to get lunch. Time flies.

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11

This month: skiing.

Basic English

h s i l g n E c i s Ba Ski boots

A chairlift

Skis

A scarf

Ski sticks/poles

A ski rental shop

A ski slope

Ice skates

12

A ski resort

A ski hat

Gloves

An anorak / a jacket

Snowboarding

A skier

Snow

Ski goggles

A snowboard

Figure skating

Ear muffs

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A skiing instructor

Ice skating

A ski suit

A cable-car

TRACK 8

Social English

p o h s l a t n e r i The sk cial English So

This month: the ski rental shop. Listen and repeat these expressions. What you say

I’d like to rent some skis and ski boots, please. Can I have one size bigger, please? Have you got any longer skis? I’d rather have some shorter skis, please. Have you got a snowboard?

Do you rent out ski clothing? The boots are a bit tight. I take a size 42. Where can I get a ski pass?

What you hear

How long do you want to rent them for? What’s your shoe size? Does that fit OK?

How does that feel? Stand up, please. Sit down, please. Take off your shoes, please. Try these on. Are you a good skier? These sticks should be all right for you. I’ll just need to adjust them for you.

Part II Now listen to this social English dialogue. In this conversation, Sally is in the ski rental shop talking to the shop assistant. Sally: Hi, I’d like to rent some skis and ski boots, please. Assistant: What’s your shoe size? Sally: Forty. Assistant: OK. Try these. (Sally tries the boots on.) Sally: Erm, they’re a bit tight. Assistant: (He gives her a bigger size.) How about these? Sally: Oh, yes, that’s much better. I can get my thick socks on now. Assistant: Are you an experienced skier? Sally: I’ve been a few times before. Assistant: These skis should be OK for you. (He takes some skis from the ski-rack.) They’re short, so they’re easier to control. Can you stand up a sec, please? (Sally stands next to the skis.) Yes, that’s fine. Right. I need your ski-boots, so I can fit them to the skis. Sally: Here you are. (She gives him the boots.) Assistant: Perfect. (He fits the boots to the skis.) You’ll have to fill out this form and I need to swipe your credit card? Sally: Yes, here you are…

GLOSSARY

to rent vb to pay money in order to use something for a limited period of time tight adj if clothing is “tight”, it is very close to your body to try on phr vb to put on clothing to see if it is the right size a sec n inform one second to fit vb if clothes “fit” you, they are the right size for you to fill out phr vb to complete to swipe vb if you “swipe” a credit card, you put it in a machine that reads its details

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13

Cover Feature

TRACK 12

How to say

45

Irregular past tense verbs are used all the time in English. Practise pronouncing these common irregular past tense verbs. And do our little exercise to help you learn them.

irregular past simple verbs! 1. (be, was/were, been) She was at

[This is part I of a two-part series. The verbs in brackets are (in order): the main verb; the past tense; the past participle.]

last night.

points.

2. (beat, beat, beaten) We beat them by

after graduating.

3. (become, became, become) She became a

in the afternoon.

4. (begin, began, begun) The football match began at leg.

5. (bite, bit, bitten) The dog bit me on my

.

6. (break, broke, broken) He broke the living room

for lunch.

7. (bring, brought, brought) We brought some

.

8. (build, built, built) They built a house next to a .

9. (burn, burnt, burnt*) The fire burnt all

.

10. (buy, bought, bought) He bought some food for

.

11. (catch, caught, caught) I caught a cold and couldn’t go to

one because it was cheaper.

12. (choose, chose, chosen) We chose the

.

13. (come, came, come) They came back home late at .

14. (cost, cost, cost) It cost more than

.

15. (cut, cut, cut) She cut her finger on the piece of 16. (dig, dug, dug) We dug a

. .

17. (do, did, done) I did the washing up after

.

18. (draw, drew, drawn) They drew a picture of a

last night.

19. (dream, dreamt, dreamt*) I dreamt about a famous .

20. (drink, drank, drunk) She drank three bottles of .

21. (drive, drove, driven) I drove home in the 22. (eat, ate, eaten) We ate in a lovely 24

restaurant.

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Cover Feature

*burnt, dreamt,

Burt (past and past participle) = burned in US English Dreamt (past and past participle) = dreamed in US English Got (past participle) = gotten in US English Hung (past and past participle) = hanged in US English Learnt = (past and past participle) learned in US English

23. (fall, fell, fallen) They fell down in the

. in the morning.

24. (feed, fed, fed) She fed the

.

25. (feel, felt, felt) We felt good after the

.

26. (fight, fought, fought) They fought for control of the .

27. (find, found, found) I found my shoes under the .

28. (fly, flew, flown) She flew to Chicago last

.

29. (forget, forgot, forgotten) They forgot to bring the .

30. (get, got, got*) We got a present for her

.

31. (give, gave, given) We gave her the money for the .

32. (go, went, gone) They went to Brighton for the

.

33. (grow, grew, grown) He grew some plants in the outside.

34. (hang, hung, hung*) He hung up the for lunch.

35. (have had had) We had a

on the radio.

36. (hear, heard, heard) I heard the

.

37. (hide, hid, hidden) She hid the present under the .

38. (hit, hit, hit) I hit the ball with the 39. (hold, held, held) I held the 40. (hurt, hurt, hurt) The

with both hands. hurt a bit. under the bed.

41. (keep, kept, kept) We kept the

42. (know, knew, known) I knew the answer to the 43. (learn, learnt, learnt*) She learnt how to use the computer 44. (leave, left, left) They left the

at 9pm.

45. (lend, lent, lent) I lent her my

.

. .

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25

Vocabulary & Typical Dialogues

TRACK 19

VOCABULARY THE BAND PART II Learn some useful words and expressions to talk about bands. Recording studio – a place with lots of musical instruments and electronic equipment where you record music to make a CD. Rehearsal studio – a place where you go to practise music before you record it on a CD. Fan – if you are a “fan” of something, you like that thing very much. Supporting act – the person or group that performs/sings before the primary/main group. Manager – a person who organises concerts, and controls the finances, etc of a group or singer. Album – a group of songs (usually about 12) recorded and published together on a CD. Music download – a song that is taken from the internet and put onto your computer. Pirated copy – an illegal copy of something; a copy that you do not pay for or have permission to make. Tour – a series of similar concerts in lots of different cities. Record label/company – a company that manages music groups and does the recording, marketing, advertising, etc. Recording contract – a contract/agreement between a music artist and a record label to record an album. Album cover/sleeve – a piece of paper that covers a CD and has information about the artist, songs, label, etc. Music critic – a person who writes reviews of concerts, songs, etc. Music producer – a person who supervises and controls the recording of a CD. Songwriter – a person who writes and creates songs (often another person sings their songs). Singer-songwriter – a person who writes and sings/ plays songs. Group / band – a group of people who play/ sing music together. Solo artist – a person who sings/performs alone (without a group of other singers). Bodyguard – a person who is paid to protect another (usually famous or important) person. Talent scout – a person who searches for new musical artists that are good; usually works for a record label. Charts – an official list that says how popular a song is at a certain time (Hot 100, Top 40, etc). Number-one hit – a song that is number one on any of the official charts.

36

TYPICAL DIALOGUES THE BAND PART II In this conversation, Stella, the lead singer of the band Broken Wings, is having a meeting with the band’s manager, Rob Rock. They are discussing plans for the following year. Stella: It’s freezing in here. Turn the heating up. This fur coat is useless. Rob: But it’s 20 degrees in here. Stella: Just do it. Rob: OK. (He turns up the heat.) Good news: the dates for the tour have been confirmed. Four concerts over four nights. Stella: Four? I thought we had twelve dates. Rob: We’ve had to cancel a few. Ticket sales were slow. Stella: Slow? Why? Rob: There wasn’t enough publicity. Stella: I told you. I told you. Rob: The new album isn’t selling very well either. It’s dropped six places to number 47. I think it’s already peaked. Stella: Peaked? Peaked? Are they playing the song on the radio? Rob: Not much. No. We should offer it as a free download. Stella: A download? Are you mad? Rob: That’s how they do things these days. Stella: No way! These free downloads eat into my sales. Rob: OK. Next point. The question of security for the tour. We can’t afford to have six bodyguards. Stella: I need them. I am a target. There are people out there who want to assassinate me. Rob: You’re being paranoid. Stella: Who’s the supporting act for the tour? Rob: The band “Ten’s Up”. Stan: I want a bad band. A bad band. I don’t want them showing me up or anything. Rob: We’ll make sure the sound quality isn’t as good as yours. Stella: (She sees a bowl of M&Ms on the desk.) What’s this? Rob: Your bowl of M&Ms. Stella: There are RED M&Ms in GLOSSARY the bowl. Red! Red! You to drop vb decrease; to go down; if a song know I hate the red ones. to “drops” on the charts (the list of the most popular songs), it is less Rob: I’m sorry. popular Stella: This is TYPICAL! to peak vb to reach the highest point possible TYPICAL of your no way! exp a surprised or emphatic expression attitude towards me. for saying “no”, or “that’s impossible” NO… RED… M&Ms. to eat into sales exp How many times do I if something “eats into your sales”, it reduces your sales have to tell you? a target n are a “target”, people are trying Rob: I’m sorry. We’ll get rid iftoyou kill you to assassinate vb of them. to murder/kill a very important Stella: No more red ones! person, often for political reasons to be paranoid exp I hate them! I hate to have unrealistic fear; to be scared/ them! (She throws the afraid of unrealistic things to show up phr vb bowl of M&Ms across if you “show someone up”, you do something better than them the room.)

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TRACK 20

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC:

Dr Fingers’ Vocabulary Clinic:

STOPPING

Here are some more useful and interesting expressions for you to learn. This month we are looking at some expressions to describe the act of stopping.

Change hands

When a business/company/shop, etc “changes hands”, there is a new owner. “This restaurant has changed hands three times over the past six months.”

Have a change of heart

To decide to do something differently; to change your mind. “She originally said that she wanted to join our band, but since then she has had a change of heart.”

Call it a day

To stop doing something because it is obviously not going to be successful. “I’ve had enough of all this stress. Let’s call it a day and go home.”

Here today, gone tomorrow Kick the habit

To stop doing something; to give up something (often a bad habit). “I hate smoking and I’ve been trying to kick the habit for ages.”

Give up the ghost

To stop doing something because you know that it won’t be successful. “She’s never going to marry you. Why don’t you just give up the ghost and move on with your life?”

If something is “here today, gone tomorrow”, it only exists for a very short period of time. “She had quite a few boyfriends, but they were always here today, gone tomorrow.”

It’s curtains for someone/ something

Someone/something is finished; Someone/something is going to die. “They found out that Jim was a police informer, so it’s curtains for him.”

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37

TRACK 27

HOME IDIOMS

Make yourself at home

THIS EXPRESSION IS OFTEN USED AS A WAY OF WELCOMING SOMEONE TO YOUR HOUSE AND TELLING THEM TO BEHAVE IN A RELAXED WAY – AS IF IT WERE THEIR OWN HOME. “Sit down and make yourself at home, while I make the tea.”

Do your homework

Home Idioms

This is a new part on a series of “home” idioms.

Bring something home to someone

TO MAKE SOMEONE UNDERSTAND SOMETHING MUCH MORE CLEARLY THAN THEY DID BEFORE – OFTEN SOMETHING UNPLEASANT. “The report brought home the terrible reality of the situation in the war zone.”

At home with/in something

IF YOU “DO YOUR HOMEWORK”, YOU PREPARE SOMETHING CAREFULLY AND INVESTIGATE IT SO YOU KNOW AS MUCH ABOUT IT AS YOU CAN. If she’d done her homework, she would have known that the director’s last film hadn’t done well at all, and he didn’t want to talk about it.”

IF YOU ARE “AT HOME WITH SOMETHING”, YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH IT BECAUSE IT’S FAMILIAR TO YOU AND YOU KNOW HOW TO DEAL WITH IT. “By the end of the week, she was beginning to feel more at home with her new job.”

At home

Drive/Hammer something home

IF SOMETHING IS “AT HOME” IN A PARTICULAR PLACE, IT’S SUITABLE FOR THAT PLACE AND IT LOOKS RIGHT THERE. “This photo would look more at home in an art gallery rather than stuck in someone’s living room.”

TO SAY SOMETHING VERY CLEARLY AND WITH A LOT OF FORCE, OFTEN REPEATING IT SEVERAL TIMES SO THAT YOU’RE SURE THAT PEOPLE UNDERSTAND IT. “We really had to drive home the message that drinking and driving in this country is a serious offence.”

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45

TRACK 28

PHRASAL VERB THEMES: SPORT

GLOSSARY

to foul vb to commit an “illegal” act during a game to tackle vb to attempt to take the ball off someone by using your feet

Warm up IF YOU “WARM UP” BEFORE DOING A SPORT, YOU DO SOME GENTLE / LIGHT EXERCISE.

Phrasal Verb Themes

This month we are looking at some phrasal verbs you can use to talk about sport. Work out if you “work out” at the gym, you do some exericse there.

“you should always warm up before doing any sport.”

“She works out at the gym three times a week.” Knock out To eliminate from a competition.

Pull ahead To get in front of another person in a race.

“Marta and Jane were running at the same speed for most of the race until the last 200 metres when Marta pulled ahead.”

“As usual, England were knocked out of the competition in the f irst round.” Burn off (fat) if you “burn off” fat, you eliminate fat, often by doing some exercise.

Send off To tell a player to leave the pitch because he/she has done something “illegal”.

“A few sessions down at the gym should burn off any excess fat you’ve acquired over the Christmas period.” Go through (to the next round) if you “go through” to the next round in a competition, you pass one stage and go to the next one.

“After winning our f irst three games, we’re going through to the next round.”

“He had a crash and completely wrote off the car.”

he was sent off for shouting at the referee.” Go for If you “go for” something, you try to achieve it, even though it’ll be hard.

“She’s going for gold.”

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47

CROSSWORD

BAND (PART II)

Learn lots of useful “travel” words and expressions by doing this crossword.

See if you can do this crossword on “band” words.

50

Answers on page 44

Across

Down

6. A person who searches for new musical artists that are good; usually works for a record label = a talent sc_____. 8. A person who writes and sings/plays songs = a s_________-songwriter. 10. A group of people who play/sing music together = a ba________. 11. A person who writes reviews of concerts, songs, etc = a music c__________. 13. A place with electronic equipment where you record music to make a CD = a re________ studio. 14. If you are one of these, you like something/ someone/a group, etc very much = a f_________. 16. A person who supervises and controls the recording of a CD = a pro____________. 17. A place where you go to practise music before you record it or do a concert = a reh__________ studio. 18. A series of similar concerts in lots of different cities = a t_________. 20. A song that is taken from the internet and put onto your computer = a music do____________. 21. The person or group that performs/sings before the primary/main group = a sup_____________ act.

1. An official list that says how popular a song is at a certain time (Hot 100, Top 40, etc) = the ch_______. 2. A person who sings/performs alone (without a group of other singers) = a so________ artist. 3. A song that is number one on any of the official charts = a number-one h________. 4. A company that manages music groups and does the recording, marketing, advertising, etc = a record l_________. 5. A person who organises concerts, and controls the finances, etc of a group or singer = a man________. 7. A piece of paper that covers a CD and has information about the artist, songs, label, etc = an album c_________. 9. An illegal copy of something; a copy that you do not pay for or have permission to make = a pi________ copy. 10. A person who is paid to protect another (usually famous or important) person = a bod_________. 12. A person who writes and creates songs (often another person sings their songs) = a son_________. 15. A contract/agreement between a music artist and a record label to record an album = a recording co_______. 19. A group of songs (usually about 12) recorded and published together on a CD = an al_________.

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BACK AND FORTH

TRACK 26

Look, I’m talking, writing and sitting all the same time.

As you are reading this article, are you listening to music or the radio? Eating a sandwich? Thinking about work? If you’re doing two or more things at once, then you are multitasking. But is that always good? You might think that multitasking saves time. For a start, you get to kill two birds with one stone. However, psychologists and neuroscientists are finding that multitasking can put us under a lot of stress, and actually make us less efficient. Researchers are now trying to figure out how the brain changes attention from one subject to another. Although doing many things at the same time can be a way of making tasks more fun and energising, “you have to keep in mind that you sacrifice focus when you do this,” said psychiatrist and author Edward M. Hallowell. However, there are instances in which multitasking can be helpful. In some cases, listening to music while working makes some people feel more creative because they are using different cognitive functions. People can do a couple of things at the same time if they are routine tasks. But, once they demand more cognitive processes, the brain has “a severe bottleneck”, Hallowell said.

Back and Forth The science behind multitasking.

1

Pre reading

Language focus: Adjectives

“to kill two birds with one stone?”

There are lots of adjectives in English with different suffixes. For example: stressful and energising. Look back at the article and underline any more you can find.

Discuss your ideas with your partner and check with your teacher. 2

3

Reading I

Reading II

Highlight ten key words from the article. Compare your words with your partner and justify why you think your words are key. Make a new list of key words from your and your partner’s list of words. Summarise the article in your own words. Refer to the key words to help you.

50

Multitasking can make things more exciting, but be careful. As Hallowell added, “Multitasking gives the illusion that we’re simultaneously achieving things, but we’re really not. It’s like playing tennis with three balls.”

4

Do you know the meaning of the idiom

Keeping the idiom in mind, make some predictions on the content of the article. Scan the article to compare your ideas.

Today’s technology requires us to do more and more things in a shorter period of time. It is a very different world from several decades ago, when a desk worker had a typewriter, a phone and maybe a colleague who visited the office. In the past, more people used telephones with cords, which were stationary. They required you to sit down, put your feet up and chat – and did not allow for multitasking. Now, the smartphone, PDAs and Blackberries give us more distractions.

5

Discussion

At work, how often do you feel… … efficient? … creative? … energised? … productive? What causes each of these moods?

ANSWERS ON PAGE 56

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GLOSSARY

multitasking n doing more than one job at the same time to kill two birds with one stone exp to do two things at the same time; to complete two objectives at the same time to sacrifice vb if something is "sacrificed", it suffers as a result of your actions cognitive functions n things you do with your mind – analysing, ordering, categorising, etc. a bottleneck n a blockage a PDA abbr a Personal Digital Assistant – an electronic device for inputting personal data (phone numbers, etc.)

THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VERBS AND EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: CELEBRATING. HAVE A PARTY IF YOU “HAVE A PARTY”, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARING, ORGANISING AND HOSTING A PARTY.

Be a host To be the person who prepares and organises the party, often at his / her house.

“I am having a party this Saturday.”

“Mandy is an excellent host.”

Invite guests To ask people to come to your party.

“Thesistersinvited fif  tygueststotheir party.”

Play games To participate in fun activities with other people.

Get dressed up To wear nice clothing.

“Everyone got dressed up for Pat’s birthday.”

Have a good time To have fun.

“I think everyone is havingagoodtime tonight.”

“We always play games like Twister and poker when we have parties.” For great private language classes, e-mail [email protected] / www.learnhotenglish.com /

7

USEFUL VERBS

USEFULVERBS& EXPRESSIONS

BASIC ENGLISH

BASIC ENGLISH

Sightseeing

10

money

camera

batteries

suitcase

ticket

passport

ID card

map

guidebook

headphones

raincoat

monument

toothbrush / toothpaste

backpack / rucksack

wallet

traveller’s insurance

knapsack /

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5

6

Get along If you “get along” with someone, you have a good relationship with them. “I get along really well with all my work colleagues.”

Go on If you “go on” to another place, you continue travelling to that other place. “After landing in Phoenix, Arizona, we went on to Los Angeles.”

If you’re “getting along” well, you’re making progress and doing well. “How are the new employees getting along at work?”

7

If something is “going on”, it’s happening. “What’s all this noise up here? What’s going on?”

8

Give up If you “give up” something that you do regularly, you stop doing that thing. “I gave up smoking a long time ago and feel a lot better for it.” If you “give up” thinking or believing something, you no longer think or believe that thing. “I thought that we might be able to win the league, but since last week’s game, I’ve given up all hope of that ever happening.”

Look up If things are “looking up”, they appear to be better. “Things have started looking up since the new government came into power.” If you “look up” information, you try to find it in a book or on the internet. “If you aren’t sure of the meaning of the expression, look it up on the internet.”

Answers on page 56

1

Word choice

Complete the sentences with the correct prepositions. 1. She gets up / along well with her team mates. 2. He gave to / up drinking a few months ago. 3. I was brought up / through by my uncle after my parents passed away. 4. I blew up / down the balloon and then hung it up. 5. She came up / across an old photo of her grandmother while she was in the attic. 6. Things are looking at / up – maybe we should move into a bigger office. 7. They went by / on to a party after leaving the bar. 8. These figures just don’t add up / across – I think there’s something wrong.

2

Sentence completion

Complete the sentences with the correct prepositions. last night? There was a 1. What was going terrible noise. the topic of Jessica, despite being 2. She brought told not to. 3. Why would he disappear one day before his wedding? . It just doesn’t add with the project? Almost 4. How are you getting finished? at 3pm, destroying much of 5. The bomb blew the city centre. as a bit arrogant, 6. He’s all right, but he comes if you ask me. all hope of her ever agreeing to 7. I’ve given marry me. 8. I’ve got no idea what it means. Why don’t you look it in a dictionary?

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TRACK 03

Sightseeing LISTEN AND REPEAT THESE EXPRESSIONS. Useful expressions How much is it for students? When was that I want to go to the zoo. How do I get to the church? What time do they open? What time do they close? Is it open today? How much is the entrance fee?

Part II

Is there a reduction for retired people? How many churches are there here? Is that church old? What religion is it? Are there any monuments nearby? What does that one commemorate?

built? How old is that building? Are there many statues here? Whose statue is that? Who was he / she?

NOW LISTEN TO THE DIALOGUE. IN THIS CONVERSATION, MARGARET AND JANET ARE TOURING ROME.

Janet: So, what do you want to do on our first day in Rome? Margaret: I want to go to the Trevi Fountain and then see the Spanish Steps. Janet: OK. I want to go to the Vatican. Margaret: Is the Vatican open today? Janet: I think so. And guess what? There’s a reduction for EU citizens. Margaret: Great! You know what, though? I think it’s better to see the Fountain in the morning and then go to the Vatican in the afternoon. Janet: OK. Hey, how many churches are there here? Margaret: I’m sure there are a lot, especially in the old part of town.

Janet: Yeah, the buildings are so old here, and so beautiful. Margaret: Do you have the map from the hostel with you? Janet: Yeah, I brought it with me. It’s got all of the monuments on it. I circled the ones I want to see. Margaret: That sounds great. I want to see everything we possibly can. Janet: Well, before we go sightseeing, do you want to have breakfast first? Margaret: Yeah, how about some pizza? Janet: How about pizza for lunch instead?

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11

SOCIAL ENGLISH

SOCIAL ENGLISH

The section that makes grammar easy, interesting, and fun.

GRAMMAR FUN

GRAMMAR FUN

Confusing Words IN THIS MONTH’S GRAMMAR FUN SECTION, WE’RE LOOKING AT SOME MORE CONFUSING WORDS.

“know someone” versus “meet someone” If you “know someone”, you have met them previously. For example, “I have known Janie since university.”

“alone” versus “lonely”

If you are “alone”, no one is with you. For example, “I can’t believe that Martin travelled alone through Europe for two weeks.” If you are “lonely”, you feel depressed and sad because no one is with you. For example, “Living away from home can be lonely at first.”

If you “meet someone”, you see them and speak to them for the first time. For example, “Hello, my name is Clara. It’s nice to meet you, sir.” You also “meet someone” if you plan to see that person at a later time. For example, “Let’s meet at the cinema.”

Have we met before?

“desert” versus “dessert”

A “desert” is a large area of sand such as the Sahara. For example, “We walked for two hours in the burning desert sun.”

A “dessert” is food that is sweet and often eaten at the end of a meal. For example, “Chocolate cake is my favourite dessert.” 1

“to feel cold” versus “to have a cold”

If you “feel cold”, you are not warm. For example, “She felt cold because she didn’t have a jacket.” If you “have a cold”, you are sick and you sneeze a lot. For example, “Albert hasn’t been at work this week because he has a bad cold.”

Exercise

Choose the correct answer. 1. He says he’s really ill, but I think he just has / feels a cold. 2. Hey, don’t I know / meet you from somewhere? Weren’t we at school together? 3. Do you see that man over there? I’m sure I’ve met / known him before. 4. OK, so you want a steak for the main course, but what would you like for dessert/ desert? 5. Her parents lived in Zambia when she was younger, and when she went to visit, she often went on the plane lonely / alone. 6. Could you come round to my house? I’ve got no one to talk to and I’m feeling really lonely / alone. 7. Could we close the window, please? I am feeling cold / have a cold. 8. We almost died as we were travelling through the dessert / desert with very little water. ANSWERS ON PAGE 56

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8 useful phrasal verbs! TRACK 12

Here are eight really useful phrasal verbs for you to use. Notice how they have more than just one meaning.

1

2

Blow up If you “blow up” balloons, you fill them with air. “We blew up sixteen balloons for her birthday party.”

Add up If you “add up” numbers, you find the total. “They added up the numbers and the total was 64.”

If a bomb “blows up”, it explodes. “A bomb blew up and destroyed the building.”

If something doesn’t “add up”, it doesn’t make sense. “There’s something fishy about his story. It just doesn’t add up.”

4

3

Come across

Bring up If you “bring up” a child, you take care of it, feed it, educate it, etc. until it’s an adult. “She was brought up by her grandparents as both her parents had died.” If you “bring up” a topic, you mention it while you’re speaking. “Don’t bring up the topics of holidays or benefits during the first interview.”

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If you “come across” someone or something, you find it accidentally or by chance. “I was walking around Naples when I came across my old friend Ben.” If someone “comes across” as intelligent (for example), they seem to be very intelligent. “I met my new line manager today. She came across as a bit bossy.”

Ph verrbasal boo s klet s

TRACK 27

Lear impr n hundre a na ove you ds of ph listentive spea r English rasal ver ing fi ker! B and s bs, re ookle peak ally les! t com like es wi th

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

Relationships

(part I)

Now

available online!

Get on / along with someone If you “get on” well with someone, you have a good relationship with them.

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME PHRASAL VERBS TO TALK ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS. THIS IS THE FIRST OF A TWO-PART SERIES. Fall for someone If you “fall for” someone, you start to be attracted to that person.

“I THINK I’VE FALLEN FOR YOU!”

“Abbie and Zach get on really well.” Hit it off If two people “hit it off”, they LIKE EACH OTHER AND become friends IMMEDIATELY.

“Rosie met Max last night and they really hit it off.”

Go for If you “go for” a particular THING, you like that THING.

“I don’t think SHE’D GO FOR SOMEONE LIKE YOU YOU AREN’T RICH ENOUGH FOR A START.”

Chat someone up To talk to someone in a way that shows you’RE attracted to them.

“Jim was talking to me last night. I think he was trying to chat me up, but I’m not really interested.” Split up / break up To stop going out with someone.

Fall out If two people “fall out”, they stop being friends.

“Libby used to be my best friend, but we fell out over a guy at work.” Make up To become friends again after an argument. “They had a big argument last week, but they’ve made up now.”

“They’D been going out for about ten years before they decided to break up.”

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51

TRACK 25

TABLE IDIOMS

Idio ms boo klet s

Lear your n hundre Eng English ds of id imaglish speak and speaioms, rea es an er! B k like lly im d aud ookle p a io file ts comnative rove s. e wit h

THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME “TABLE” IDIOMS.

Now

TABLE IDIOMS

available online!

Turn the tables

Under the table

IF SOMEONE IS PAID “UNDER THE TABLE”, THEY RECEIVE MONEY THAT ISN’T DECLARED TO THE TAX AUTHORITIES. “A lot of people who work overtime get paid under the table.”

IF YOU “TURN THE TABLES”, YOU CHANGE A SITUATION SO THAT YOU HAVE AN ADVANTAGE OVER SOMEONE. SIMILARLY, IF THE “TABLES ARE TURNED”, THE SITUATION CHANGES. “She used to be my boss, but now the tables have turned and I’m her boss.”

Put something on the table

Lay your cards on the table

IF YOU “PUT SOMETHING ON THE TABLE”, YOU PRESENT IT AT A MEETING SO YOU CAN DISCUS IT. “We can finally make our decision, now that all the options have been put on the table.”

TO SPEAK OPENLY ABOUT YOUR FEELINGS; TO SAY WHAT YOU REALLY WANT. “We’re going to lay our cards on the table and be very clear about our position.”

On the table

Drink someone under the table

IF YOU CAN “DRINK SOMEONE UNDER THE TABLE”, YOU CAN DRINK A LOT MORE ALCOHOL THAN THEY CAN. “I like to have a few beers, but Ralph can drink me under the table any time.”

IN BRITISH ENGLISH, IF A TOPIC IS “ON THE TABLE”, IT IS BEING DISCUSSED AND CONSIDERED. HOWEVER, (CURIOUSLY!) IN US ENGLISH, IF A TOPIC IS “ON THE TABLE”, NO ONE IS DEALING WITH IT OR DISCUSSING IT. “A new deal was finally on the table and they agreed to discuss it further at the next meeting.” [British English]

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TRACK 19

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

starting something THIS MONTH, WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME EXPRESSIONS TO DESCRIBE STARTING SOMETHING.

start from scratch

TO START SOMETHING AGAIN FROM THE BEGINNING WITHOUT USING ANYTHING THAT HAS BEEN PREVIOUSLY USED. “Starting to build the home from scratch was both challenging and rewarding.”

wipe the slate clean

TO GIVE SOMEONE ANOTHER CHANCE AND OVERLOOK PAST INDISCRETIONS / CRIMES / TROUBLE.. “Once the students were punished, the slate was wiped clean.”

get off/start off on the wrong foot

TO BEGIN BADLY. “We had an argument after just one week – we really got off on the wrong foot.”

44

be in business

start the ball rolling

TO START SOMETHING HAPPENING. “I’ve started the ball rolling by making a few phone calls.”

TO BE ABLE TO START SOMETHING BECAUSE YOU ALREADY HAVE SOMETHING PREPARED. “As soon as I get the files out, we’re in business.”

hit the ground running

from the word “go”

FROM THE VERY BEGINNING. “I knew from the word go that we weren’t going to get on.”

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TO BEGIN A TASK WITH LOTS OF ENTHUSIASM AND ENERGY. “Jonathan has hit the ground running on that marketing project. He already found five sponsors!”

VOCABULARY

VOCABULARY

The Restaurant HERE ARE SOME COMMON WORDS, OBJECTS OR PEOPLE THAT YOU WILL SEE AT A RESTAURANT.

restaurant.

Chef – a person who cooks the food in a hotel or Waiter / waitress –

a man / woman who works in a restaurant and serves food and drinks to the customers.

Host / Hostess –

a man / woman who greets the customers in the restaurant and then takes them to a table.

A menu –

restaurant.

a list of the food and drinks available in the

Bartender

– a person who serves drinks behind a bar.

A booth – a small area separated

42

often in a public place.

from a larger public area. The booth has thin walls or screens so people can dine privately.

A pitcher

– a jug or large container that holds water or another beverage.

Appetizers / starters –

the first course of the meal that is generally a small amount of food.

A napkin –

a square piece of cloth or paper that you use when you are eating to protect your clothes, or to wipe your mouth and hands.

A coaster

– a small mat that you put underneath a glass to protect the surface of the table.

Toilet (“restroom” in US English) – a place

where you go use the toilet,

The main course (“entreé” in US English)

– the principal plate of food at a restaurant or formal banquet. It is often meat or fish.

A dessert

– something sweet that you eat at the end of the meal, such as a pie or pudding.

A tablecloth

– a piece of fabric that covers a table at a restaurant.

Cutlery (“utensils” in US English) –

the knives, spoons and forks with which you eat your food.

A cash register – a

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machine in a bar or restaurant that is used to add up and record how much money people pay, and is also used to store the money.

An oven –

an electrical appliance in a kitchen. It consists of a box with a door that cooks and heats food.

A frying pan – a metal

pan with a long handle that a cook uses to fry food.

A bill – a piece of paper that you receive after you finish eating that says the price of the meal. A tip – extra money you give to a waiter / waitress to say thanks for their services. In the US, it is customary to leave an additional 15-20% for the waiter / waitress.

TRACK 17

TRACK 18

TheIN THIS Restaurant DIALOGUE, JOSEPH

UPPER INTERMEDIATE LISTENING (NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES & NIGHTMARE HOTEL EXPERIENCE

(NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES GOES TO A RESTAURANT.

Joesph: Waitress: Joesph: Waitress:

Good afternoon. Good afternoon. A table for one, please. Sure, right this way. Have a seat. Now, what can I get you? Joesph: I’ll have a steak, please. Waitress: Very well. Here you go. Joesph: No, not a cake. A steak. I want a steak. Waitress: Oh, I’m sorry. Joesph: I would like a steak... with chips. Waitress: No problem. I’ll be right back with your order. [five minutes later] Joesph: What are these? Waitress: Chips. Joesph: No, they aren’t. Waitress: Aren’t they? Joesph: No, they’re clips. Waitress: Clips? That cook. He’s useless. I’ll tell him. [to the cook] Hey, Benny, you gave this guy clips. He wants chips! [to Joseph] Sorry, he gets confused sometimes. [The waitress goes away and comes back with a plate of food.] Here’s your real order. Joesph: Well, thanks for the steak, but there still aren’t any chips. Can’t you get a better chef? Waitress: Well, we could. But we like him. He can make balloon animals. The customers really like that. Joesph: But he can’t even make chips. It’s easy. Waitress: Is it? Joesph: Yes, you just get some potatoes... Waitress: Wait, let me write this down. OK. Ready. Joesph: So, you get some potatoes. Waitress: OK... potatoes... Joesph: Yes, and you cut them up. Waitress: With a knife? Joesph: Yes, with a knife. Waitress: OK. And then? Joesph: And then, you fry them in some oil. Waitress: Is that all? That sounds simple enough. Thanks a lot. I’ll just go and tell the chef. Joesph: Will he make me some chips, then? Waitress: Well, I don’t know. He’s a bit slow. Joesph: OK. I’ll be here. Waiting. GLOSSARY chips n For my chips. long, crunchy pieces of potato that Waitress: OK, well, good luck. are usually served hot with a meal adj And, hey, thanks for the useless if someone is “useless”, they are not helpful recipe. chef n Joesph: No problem. a cook in a restaurant or hotel balloon animals n Waitress: Oh, and the cook animals made from small, thin told me to give you rubber bags filled with air fry vb this. It’s a balloon dog to to cook food in a pan that contains hot fat or oil for you to play with a recipe n while you wait. a list of instructions that explain how to cook something Joesph: Great, thanks.

Nightmare hotel experience ANSWERS ON PAGE 56 1

Pre listening

What are some problems or complaints you might have when staying in a hotel? Use the following prompts: the bed, the bathroom, the restaurant and the reception. 2

Listening I

Listen and write down three complaints from the conversation. 1. 2. 3. 3

Listening II

Listen again and choose the correct word in each sentence. 1. The reservation is in the name of Baldwin / Darwin. 2. The customer booked a single / double room. 3. The booking was done by fax / e-mail. 4. The bed / bathroom is filthy. 5. In the end, he/she wants the room for one / two night/s. 4

Language focus

Did you notice the use of the passives in the conversation? Compare these two expressions. a. It was booked for two nights. b. ...the bed hasn’t been made. What do we call these passives? When do we use this type of passive? 5

Discussion

1. Have you ever had any nightmare hotel experiences? What happened? 2. Which complaint from the conversation would you consider the most / least serious? 3. What are the hotels like in your country? Which one do you go to most often? Why?

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43

Useful vocabulary

Housework

FREE Audio files! Download the MP3 audio files for this month’s magazine from here: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

Learn some useful words and expressions for talking about doing housework.

Do the hoovering / do the vacuuming (US) (with a vacuum cleaner or hoover)

Do the cleaning (with a cloth)

Sweep the floor (with a brush and pan)

Mop the floor (with a mop and bucket)

Do the dusting (with a duster)

Do the washing (in a washing machine)

Do the ironing (with an iron and ironing board)

Hang up the clothes (with clothes pegs)

Fill up or empty the dishwasher

Do the washing up / do the dishes (US) (with a sponge)

Make the bed

Tidy up / pick things up / put things away

4

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Word Booster

Free lessons to improve your English, and articles on learning English! blog.learnhotenglish.com

Learn Hot English

Blog!

Giving a speech Here are some words you can use to talk about giving a speech.

Speech

Speaker

Audience

Lectern

A speech is a formal talk which someone gives to an audience. Also, a “talk” or a “presentation” (which is often for selling something). “He gave a speech on solar energy.”

The person who speaks to the audience. “The speaker looked a bit nervous.”

The people who listen to the speaker. “Someone in the audience yawned really loudly.”

An object that you can put your papers or notes on. “She was standing behind the lectern.”

Stage

Screen

Projector

Slide

Chart

A raised area in a theatre where the speaker gives the speech. “He ran from one side of the stage to the other.”

A large flat surface for showing pictures. “They projected the images onto the screen.”

A machine that shows films or slides on a screen or wall. “She couldn’t get the projector to work. ”

A photo or image that you project onto a screen. “The slide showed a picture of his family.”

A diagram, picture, or graph that makes information easy to understand. “The chart shows who people voted for in the election.”

Graph

Microphone

Laser pointer

Laptop

Front row

A mathematical diagram. “The graph showed a rise in house prices. ”

A device you use to make your voice louder. “She used a microphone so the people at the back could hear her. ”

A device that shines a powerful beam of red light. “She used a laser pointer to show them where it was.”

A laptop (or laptop computer) is a small portable computer. “She hooked her laptop up to the projector. ”

A line of chairs at the front of the hall or theatre. “The chairs in the front row were reserved.”

Learning expressions The best way to learn any words or expressions is by seeing or hearing them in context (in sentences, phrases, etc.) when you’re reading or listening to English. Make a note of any words or expressions that you like (or want to learn) and write these down in sentences. Remember, always record language in phrases or sentences – never as individual words. You should also practise using the words or expressions as often as you can: in conversation, on the phone, in e-mails, etc. This will help you remember them. For company classes, Skype/Telephone classes or private tuition, contact [email protected] / www.learnhotenglish.com /

9

Objective To learn some useful words and expressions for describing pictures. Track 5: Englishman & us woman

Think about it What are some of your favourite clothes? How often do you go clothes shopping? Which shops do you go to? Do you ever buy any clothes from online shops? Which ones? What clothes would you like to buy? What fashions do you follow? What are some of the oldest clothes you've got? Do you ever buy second-hand clothes? Why?

English in Action...

Describing clothes Dialogue: The lost clothes Bob is at the police station. He’s talking to a police officer about a robbery. [Listen once and complete the dialogue with the correct words.]

life is too short to wear boring clothes!

Tight jeans – “tight” clothes fit very closely to your body. “Skin-tight” clothes fit exactly around your body, with no space. Baggy trousers – “baggy” clothing is loose and a bit big for you. Designer-label trainers – “designer-label” clothes are made by famous designers and are usually expensive. Hooded top – a “hooded” top, sweatshirt or jacket has a hood on it (a piece of material you can put over your head). V-necked jumper – a “v-necked” jumper, cardigan or sweater has the top part of it in the shape of a “V”. Fake fur coat – a “fake fur” coat, jacket or scarf looks like it’s made out of fur (animal hair) but it’s actually made of a synthetic material (an imitation material). Snake-skin boots – “snake-skin” boots or shoes are made out of the skin of a snake or a synthetic material. Leopard-skin jacket – a “leopard-skin” jacket, shoes or coat has a material that looks like the hair from a leopard.

[fades in] Police: ...so, tell me what happened. Bob: Well, I was walking down the road when this young couple came up to me and asked me the time. As I was getting out my mobile phone, the man pulled out a knife. Police: Right. I see. So, erm, could you describe them? Bob: Well, the guy was more or less 180 cm tall, about 25 years old and he had . short, (1) The woman was about the same age, a bit shorter, and she had long . (2) Police: OK, and what were they wearing? Bob: Well, the guy was wearing a pair of snake, skinskin (3) tight leather trousers, a , v-necked (4) a leopard skin jacket and a pink top hat. Police: A pink top hat? Bob: Yes. Police: Well, he shouldn’t be too hard to find. And the woman? Bob: She had a full-length,  , fake fur (5)

Loose fitting track suit – “loose-fitting” clothing is a bit big for you. Old-fashioned top hat – “old-fashioned” clothing is from the past and isn’t fashionable any more.

10

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a pair of baggy (6) and a low-cut top. Police: That’s great. So, what did they steal? Bob: Well, my wallet and, erm, the snake-skin boots, the skin-tight leather trousers, the v-necked jumper, the leopard skin jacket and the pink top hat. Police: Oh, so, erm, the clothes the guy was wearing were your clothes? Bob: Yes, that’s right. Police: So, what happened? Bob: Well, they stole my (7) then told me to take my clothes off. Police: And you did? Bob: Yes, well, the guy had a knife. Police: So, where did you get the, erm, the (8) you’re wearing? Bob: The guy gave it to me – he was wearing it before he put on my clothes. Police: Oh, right, erm, so, if you don’t mind me asking, why were you dressed like that, you know, in all those funny clothes and the pink top hat? Were you going to a fancy-dress party or something? Bob: No, no, I always dress like that. Police: Oh, right. Yes, of course, of course, So, erm, tell me what... [fades out]

Objective To improve your reading and listening skills. Think about it What do you find easy or difficult about learning English? How complicated are verb tenses in your language? What about grammar in general? What are some of the easiest languages to learn for you? Why are they easy? What about the most difficult? What are your top tips for learning a language? Track 15: englishman & us woman

it’s easy!

Exams This listening activity will help prepare you for English exams such as PET and TOEFL.

Is English an easy language to learn?

I

s English an easy language to learn? Here are a few arguments in favour of the idea that English is fairly simple.

Plurals Plurals are relatively easy in English. In most cases, you simply add an “s” to the end of the word. For example: one chair, two chairs. There are very few exceptions to this. Some other languages have several different types of plural endings, which can get quite complex. Nouns

In general, nouns in English don’t have any gender as they do in other languages. For example, it’s a horse or a cow. But in languages such as Spanish, words can be either masculine or feminine. So, “a horse” in Spanish is “un caballo” (which is masculine), and “a cow” is “una vaca” (which is feminine). Answers on page 44

1

Pre-reading

In what ways is English an easy language to learn? In what ways is it difficult? Think of as many ideas as you can. 2

Reading I

Read or listen to the article once. Were any of your ideas from the Pre-reading activity mentioned? 3

Post reading

Write a short article saying why you think English is either easy or hard to learn.

20

Adjectives In English, there are no plural forms for adjectives. For example: a blue car, blue cars. In other languages, the adjective might change according to the gender of the noun and whether it’s singular or plural. For example, a happy child / happy children in Spanish would be un niño feliz / niños felices. Articles In English, we use the indirect article “a” and direct article “the”. The only exception is the use of

“an” before vowel sounds: an elephant, an igloo. In other languages the articles change according to the gender of the word. For example, in Spanish the word telephone is masculine (“el teléfono”) and table is feminine (“la mesa”). There are also different articles for plurals too. For example: “los teléfonos” (the telephones) or “las mesas” (the tables).

Conjugations English has very few verb endings. For example, the Present Simple is all the same, except for the third person: I eat, you eat, he eats, she eats, it eats, we eat, they eat. Future forms are all the same too: I will eat, you will eat, he will eat, she will eat, it will eat, we will eat, they will eat. In general, most verbs follow this pattern. On top of that, English has just one basic type of verb (with a few spelling changes), whereas other languages may have several different types. For example, in Spanish, there are three types of verb endings: “-ar”, “-er”, and “-ir”, all with lots of different inflected forms. Past tense verbs Past tense verbs are quite easy to learn. With regular verbs, you simply add “-ed” to the verb ending. For example: “play-played”. There are irregulars verbs (such as eat-ate, go-went), but there aren’t that many. And all the verb forms

(both regular and irregular) are the same for each person: I ate, you ate, he ate, she ate, we ate, they ate.

Short words Most of the basic words in English are very short and easy to learn: run, work, big, go, boy, girl, take, body, clap, bang... And long words are often shortened: refrigerator = fridge, ammunition = ammo, introduction = intro... This makes words easier to learn. Motivation

English is everywhere – in music, films and TV shows, as well as being the international language of business, computing, medicine and science. So, you can always find something to listen to or read in English. Plus, with English you can travel internationally, get a better job and meet people from all over the world, so it’s motivating to learn. What do you think?

Video Watch a video on some strange things about English. Search YouTube for “English Is Crazy!”.

GLOSSARY a gender n the “gender” of a noun refers to whether it’s masculine, feminine or neutral an inflected form exp if a verb has a lot of “inflected forms”, it has a lot of different endings which change according to its grammatical function motivating adj something that’s motivating makes you want to learn or progress

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Ne

Track 17: englishman & us woman

Travel English

w!

Trave Eng l li

sh

Lear 40 to n over 50 Ove pic area 0 usefu Morer 400 im s coverinl words a a n For m than 30 dges to he g a wide d expres ran lp sio ia ore in form logues soyou learn ge of typ ns for tra ic ation v t , visi you can h he words al situati elling ab t: ww o road ear t a n d . h e ns. w.le arnh e langua xpressio ge in ns. oten actio glish n. .com /sho p 

The Bed & Breakfast

Learn over 20 useful words and expressions to use at a Bed & Breakfast.

A Bed & Breakfast (a B&B, for short) is a type of small hotel where you get a room with breakfast included in the price. Bed and breakfasts are usually private or family homes with fewer than 10 bedrooms. Also known as “guest accommodation”, you can often find B&Bs in large cities, seaside towns or places of cultural or historical interest.

Useful words

Shower

Bath

Sink / washbasin

Dining room

Kitchen

Sheet

Blanket

Duvet / eiderdown

Towel

Iron

Ironing board

Key card

Mattress

Double room

Single room

Twin room

Key

Pillow

More words Guest – a person who is staying in a hotel. The owner – the person who owns the house where the B&B is. Reservation – if you make a “reservation”, you phone the hotel and arrange to have a room for a particular day. Check in – when you “check in”, you go to the front desk and tell someone that you’ve arrived. En suite – a bedroom with a bathroom next to it as part of the room. You can also say “en suite bathroom” or “en suite bedroom” Room with a shared bathroom – a room with no bath room, you have to use one that the other guests use too. Bed linen – a general word to refer to sheets, pillow cases, etc. Continental breakfast – a breakfast that consists of coffee with a croissant, or a selection of meats and cheeses, as well as toast and pastries. Full-English breakfast – a large breakfast that generally consists of bacon, sausage, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, a fried egg and fried bread. Floor – the different levels in a building: ground floor, first floor, second floor, etc. Check out – when you “check out”, you go to the front desk and tell them that you’re leaving. Bill – a piece of paper with information about how much you have to pay.

22

Dialogue: At the bed & breakfast Josh Martins has a reservation at a B&B. He’s just arrived. [Listen and complete the dialogue with the correct words.] Dialogue: J=Josh O=Owner J: Hi, I’m Josh Simmonds. I called earlier… I’ve got a (1) for a single room. O: Oh, Mr Simmonds, do come in. J: Sorry I’m late – the (2) was terrible. O: No problem, and thanks for calling to let me know you were on your way. J: That’s all right. O: Now, if you don’t mind, I just . need to swipe your (3) J: Of course, here you are. O: That’s great. Now, here’s your (4) _______ and the code for the wi-fi. [She hands it to him.] You’re in room 12. It’s on the second (5) . Just go up the stairs over there. J: Perfect! on O: There are fresh (6) the bed and I’ll be changing the sheets tomorrow. Now, I need to make a note of what you’d like for breakfast. Will you be having the

or the (7) full-English breakfast? J: I’ll have the full-English breakfast, please. O: OK, and what time will you be coming down for breakfast? J: Well, I’ve got an early morning tomorrow, so I’d (8) better get down for about 7:30. O: OK, would you like any tea or (9) with your breakfast? J: Tea, please. Oh, before I forget, is there a car park? I’ve left my car in the street outside. O: I’m afraid we don’t have any (10) , but there is a public car park just down the road. It’s only £2 for the whole day. J: OK, great. O: I’ll be down here, so please ask if there’s anything you need. J: I will. Thanks a lot. O: Have a nice evening. J: Thanks. Bye. O: Bye.

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cover feature

Track 18: englishman & us woman

Ho w to

express emotions in

! h s i l g En

If you want to show how you feel about something, you can use an interjection. Basically, interjections are sounds or short words that can express a whole range of emotions such as surprise, anger, shock, fear, disappointment or sadness. They’re often used by native speakers, so it’s important to be able to understand them. [Read over the explanations and do the exercises. Then, listen to check your answers.]

Oh, no! – to show

Argh! – to show frustration or anger.

disappointment.

Oi! – a way of getting someone’s attention, often when they’re far away [“hey!” in US English].

Ow! – to show that you’re in pain.

Whoops! – to show that you’ve made a mistake.

Aha! – to show that you’re

pleased because you’ve finally understood something.

Ahem! – this is the sound that’s made when you clear your throat. It’s typically used to attract someone’s attention. Ah! – to show that you like something.

24

Blah, blah, blah! – to show

that you’re bored with someone’s non-stop talking.

Boo! – to frighten someone. Yuk! – to show your disgust at something horrible.

Hey! – to show surprise or anger,

Shh! – to tell someone to be quiet.

Tut – a sound you make with

your tongue when you do something wrong, or to show that you’re angry.

Uh-huh – to show that you’re following what someone is saying. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you agree with them.

or to get someone’s attention.

Hm... to show that you aren’t

sure about something and that you’re thinking about it.

Whoa! – to tell someone to stop. Wow! – to express surprise.

Mmm – to show pleasure.

Yummy! – a way of showing

Oh! – to show surprise.

Phew! – to show relief because a danger has passed.

Psst – to get someone’s attention in a quiet place.

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that you like food.

Answers on page 44

1

Exercise

Complete the sentences with interjections. In some cases more than one answer may be possible. Then, listen to check your answers.

1. just so cute.

! That dog is

2. my turn!

! It was

3. ! Come here! We need to talk.

4. , I get that, but what about the money? When are you going to pay me back?

5. on my toe!

! You stepped

6. is my seat.

, I think this

7. ! That’s amazing! I love it!

8. ! I think this is your bag, isn’t it?

9. ! I think I’ve worked out the answer!

10. . Don’t you ever stop talking?

11. sure I like this.

... I’m not

12. , I’m sorry, I didn’t realise you were there.

. We’ve lost

15. parking space!

! That’s my

16. really good.

… that feels

20. you!

! Scared

13. see us.

! They didn’t

14. again.

17. again.

! It’s raining

18. ! We’re trying to work in here.

19. ! There’s an insect in my salad!

23. ! Hold it right there. What did you just say?

21. ! The computer’s crashed again!

22. This soup is

!

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25

Vocabulary clinic

Learn Hot English

Blog!

Socialising

Free lessons to improve your English, and articles on learning English! blog.learnhotenglish.com

Have a chat

Go out for a drink

If you “have a chat” with someone, you talk to them in a friendly, informal way about things that aren’t really important. “We had a chat with Pete in that bar you recommended.”

If you “go out for a drink” with someone, you go to a bar, café, etc. and have a drink with them. “We went out for a drink last night and didn’t get home till about three in the morning.”

Break the ice

Look familiar (a person)

Ring a bell (a name)

If you “break the ice”, you do or say something to make a situation less tense and more relaxed. “I thought a funny joke might break the ice, but it only made things worse.”

If someone “looks familiar”, you think you recognise them, but you aren’t entirely sure. “His face looks familiar, but I can’t recall where we first met.”

If someone’s name “rings a bell”, you think you recognise it, but you aren’t sure. “Her name rings a bell, but I can’t remember where we first met.”

Have a lot in common

Mutual friend

Get to know someone

If friends A and B have a “mutual friend” (C), A and B both know C, although A, B and C have never been together at the same time. “I think we’ve got a mutual friend. You know Charles, don’t you?”

If you “get to know someone”, you start learning things about them and discovering what they’re like. “After spending a week together at the conference, we got to know each other quite well.”

If you “have a lot in common” with someone, you’ve been to the same places, you like the same things, you know the same people, etc. “After about half-an-hour of chatting to her, I soon realised that we had quite a lot in common.”

Not have a clue who someone is

Put your foot in it

If you “haven’t got a clue who someone is”, you really can’t remember who they are, and you aren’t even sure you’ve met before. “I haven’t got a clue who she is. In fact, I don’t even think we’ve met before.”

If you “put your foot in it”, you do or say something silly. “I put my foot in it when I said I hated the restaurant – I never knew it was his mum’s restaurant and his dad was the chef.”

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31

Useful Idioms

Confirming information Learn 11 idioms for confirming information.

Over Lea 15 visit: 0 usefu rn more prod l idiom ! Get ucts .lear s + aud an idiom nhot io fil s engl es. Fo booklet ish.c ! om/ r more i idiom nform s-bo okletation, -2

Make your intentions clear

Make it plain

Bring someone up to speed

To explain or show what you really want to do. “He’s made his intentions perfectly clear.”

If you “make it plain” that you want something, you explain it very clearly. “I think I’ve made it plain that I don’t ever want to work with her again.”

To give someone all the latest information about something. “You need to bring me up to speed on the latest developments.”

Go into detail

Get to the point

Confirm something in writing

If you “go into detail”, you explain something very thoroughly, giving all the information about it. “I don’t want to go into detail right now, but let’s just say, we’re thinking about it.”

To explain clearly what you want, rather than talking about other things that aren’t so important. “Please get to the point. We haven’t got all day, you know!”

If you ask someone to “confirm something in writing”, you ask them to write down what they want so there’s a record of it. “We’ll need to get that confirmed in writing.”

Get the gist

Be crystal clear

Clear up a confusion, question, misunderstanding

If you “get the gist” of something, you understand it more or less, but you aren’t absolutely sure. “I get the gist of what you’re saying, but you’ll need to explain it to me in more detail.”

If something is “crystal clear”, it’s very easy to understand and there are no doubts as to what you want. “I hope the new rules are crystal clear. If not, let me know and I’ll go over it again.”

To explain something so there are no doubts; to find answers to things. “I think we need to clear up the question of who is at fault here.”

Make something clear / make yourself clear

Throw light on something / shed light on something

To explain something by providing information about it; to say what happened; to reveal the truth. “No one could shed any light on the mysterious car accident.”

If you “make something clear”, you explain it with examples so that everyone understands it. If you “make yourself clear”, you speak very carefully so that everyone understands what you’re saying. “This is of the utmost importance, so I hope I’ve made myself absolutely clear.”

Learn more! Get an idioms booklet! 300 useful idioms + audio files. For more information, visit: www.learnhotenglish.com /

35

Phrasal Verbs

E-mails & messages This month we are looking at some phrasal verbs that are used in e-mails or other electronic messages. Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

week

right

hearing

1

see

discuss

taking

lunch

confirming

2 Forward to If you “forward” an e-mail or message “to” someone, you send a message you’ve received to another person. “Please forward any e-mails from Greg to both me and Abbie as we need to them too.”

3

Book up If you “book up” a restaurant, you reserve a table at the restaurant at a particular day and time. “The date for the is confirmed for Friday 14th at 2pm. So, could you book up the restaurant as soon as you can, please?”

4 Call back If you “call someone back”, you phone them after they phoned you. “Thanks for sending through the information. I’ll call you back sometime next to go over it.”

5

Write up If you “write up” the notes from a meeting, you write them into proper sentences. “Thanks for the minutes in the meeting today. Please write them up as soon as you can and send them over to me.”

6 Look forward

Copy in

If you “look forward” to hearing from someone, you’re excited about hearing from them again. “Thanks again for all your help, and I look forward to from you soon.”

If you “copy someone in” to an e-mail, you add them to the list of people who receive it. “Please send them an e-mail the dates, and copy me in to so I’ve got it on record.”

7

8 Meet up If you “meet up” with someone, you go somewhere so you can talk to them at a certain time. “It was great to see you again. I’d like to meet up sometime next week to this further.”

42

Pencil in If you “pencil someone in”, you write their name on a calendar to reserve that time for a meeting with them. “Thanks for getting back to me. I’ll pencil you in for a meeting next Tuesday at 4pm, if that’s all with you.”

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BASIC ENGLISH

BASIC ENGLISH

sports

12

Volleyball

Football (soccer)

American football

Basketball

Cricket

Baseball

Tennis

Hockey

Swimming

Golf

Cycling

Rugby

Ice-skating

Cheerleading

Diving

Gymnastics

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TRACK 03

sports

LISTEN AND REPEAT THESE EXPRESSIONS. Useful expressions Would you like to join our team? What’s your favourite sport? Do you do much exercise? What equipment do you need for this sport? Are you any good at tennis? Have you won any tournaments? How often do you go jogging? Can I borrow your tennis racket, please?

Part II

We need someone to make up a team. It’s your turn to serve. We should warm up first. You go in goal. Let’s take turns to go in goal. Have you got any swimming trunks I could borrow?

GLOSSARY

to jog vb to run as a form of exercise to make up a team exp if you need someone to “make up a team”, you need an extra person for the team to warm up exp to prepare yourself before a sport by stretching or doing exercises wicked adj inform very good tell me about it exp an informal way of saying, “Yes, I know.”

NOW LISTEN TO THIS DIALOGUE. IN THIS CONVERSATION, OLIVIA AND FRAN ARE TALKING ABOUT THEIR FAVOURITE SPORTS.

I can still see you…

Basketball can be so relaxing.

Olivia: Hey, Fran, what’s your favourite sport? Fran: I like football. And yours? Olivia: I prefer basketball, actually. Fran: I’m not really into basketball. Olivia: So, do you play in a team? Fran: Yes, the Bolton Braves. We’re playing in a minileague. Olivia: What position are you in the league table? Fran: We’re fourth at the moment, but we’ve got a difficult game ahead this week. Olivia: Why? Fran: We’re playing against the top team.

Olivia: Oh, well. Good luck. Fran: Thanks. What about you? Do you play in any teams? Olivia: Not at the moment, but I’m in a tennis tournament. Fran: Oh, right. How are you doing? Olivia: Not too bad. We haven’t been eliminated yet. It’s a doubles tournament. Fran: So, who’s your partner? Olivia: Sally Barnes. Do you know her? Fran: Oh, yes. She’s got a wicked serve. Olivia: Tell me about it.

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13

SOCIAL ENGLISH

SOCIAL ENGLISH

The section that makes grammar easy, interesting, and fun.

GRAMMAR FUN

GRAMMAR FUN

Confusing Words IN THIS MONTH’S GRAMMAR FUN SECTION, WE’RE LOOKING AT SOME MORE CONFUSING WORDS.

fun / funny

shade / shadow

“Fun” and “funny” are very similar in appearance, but they mean different things.

The “shade” is a dark area on a sunny day. You can usually find shade under or next to an object, such as a tree or a building. For example: a) Temperatures are a lot cooler in the shade than in the sun. b) I think I’m getting a sunburn, so I'm going to find some shade.

“Fun” is used to describe something enjoyable. For example: a) Playing cards is fun. b) I had so much fun last week at the beach. “Funny”, however, has various meanings. It can be used to describe something that is weird or strange. It can also be used to describe something that makes you laugh. For example: a) There’s something funny (strange) about that man. I don’t have a good feeling about him. b) There was something funny (out of the ordinary) about Mandy yesterday. I wonder if she has got a new boyfriend. c) The joke is funny. d) Funny comedians can make you laugh.

A “shadow” is a dark shape on a surface that is made when something stands between a light and the surface. For example: a) I only saw the shadow of his face. b) A maple tree casts a shadow over the grass. c) He saw the shadow of the man in the street.

See if you notice the difference between “fun” and “funny” in the following dialogue. A: What do you like most about your wife? B: She is so funny. She always makes me laugh. That’s why I love to be around her. A: What do you normally do together? B: We usually talk, go out to eat or see a movie. We like to travel and see new places. We have a lot of fun together.

1

I’m making a spectacle of myself.

Exercise

Choose the correct answer. 1. I feel hot. I am going to go in the shade / shadow. 2. The dog’s shade / shadow looked like a monster. 3. Ricky Gervais is such a fun / funny comedian. 4. I do not think skydiving is a fun / funny activity. 5. Amanda’s birthday party was fun / funny last year. 6. The clouds are casting a shade / shadow. 7. There is something fun / funny about this milk. Do you think it has gone off? 8. We have to stand in the shade / shadow because it is so hot. ANSWERS ON PAGE 59

16

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TELEPHONE ENGLISH

Problem Piglet Cinders the frightened pig.

MAKING DINNER RESERVATIONS 1

Pre listening

In English, do you know how to… …ask for a table for two? …spell your name? …ask for directions? 2

Listening 1

Complete these expressions from the pre-listening exercise. 1. I’d like to make a ______________ for dinner tonight. 2. Could you __________ the name please? Of course, it’s S-E-D-A-R-I-S. 3. By the way, __________ exactly is the restaurant? 3

Listening II

Correct the sentences. 1. The name of the restaurant is Isabelle’s. 2. The reservation is for 4 people. 3. Max’s surname is SIDORAS. 4. Max makes the reservation for tomorrow at 21:00. 5. The address is 79 Elkhart Pike. 6. The restaurant is located outside town. Listen and check. Now go to the tape script on page 64 to check your spelling. Can you learn this conversation by heart?

Has anyone seen my boots?

O

n a farm in England, one piglet is enjoying being different. Cinders is six weeks old and lives on a farm with two hundred other pigs. But she has a strange problem - she is afraid of the mud. Poor Cinders wasn’t able to join her brothers and sisters playing in the fields because she was too scared. Her owner said, “It was the GLOSSARY piglet n strangest thing. Cinders just stood aa baby pig at the edge of her sty shaking mud n a sticky mixture of water and earth while the others explored.” scared adj afraid; frightened But don’t feel too bad for Cinders. to stand vb Her owners had a very clever idea. (past tense: stood) to be in a vertical position (not sitting) Cinders now has a very different the edge n way to keep her trotters clean. The the “edge” of something is the place line where something ends name Cinders is short for Cinderella, or a sty n a place where pigs are kept on but instead of glass slippers, a farm she wears green boots. She has a to shake vb to make a lot of quick and special pair of Wellington boots uncontrollable movements, often which are the perfect size for her. when you are cold or afraid a trotter n Cinders’ owners run a sausage a pig’s foot factory, but her owners say that she glass slippers exp slippers are the special shoes that is not going to be anyone’s dinner. Cinderella wore in the classic story. “slippers” are soft shoes “She’s more of a pet really now, and Inforgeneral, the house she’s going to live a very long and to run something exp if you “run a factory”, you operate it happy life.” As her owner Andrew a pet n an animal you have in your house says, “This is no ordinary pig.”

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17

TELEPHONE ENGLISH & PROBLEM PIGLET

TRACK 07

COVER FEATURE

TRACK 10: SEVERAL ENGLISH ACCENTS 1

We Are The World – USA For Africa

We Are The World was written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie and released in 1985. It followed Band Aid’s Do They Know It’s Christmas, and was used to raise money for people in need in Africa. Celebrities such as Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and Bob Dylan participated, and over 20 million copies were sold worldwide. Over $60 million dollars was raised. We are the world, we are the children, We are the ones who make a brighter day, So, lets start giving, There’s a choice we're making, We're saving our own lives, Its true we’ll make a better day, Just you and me. 2

What a Wonderful World, Louis Armstrong

Released in 1967, this song is about the beauty of the world. It was written by Bob Thiele and George David Weiss and topped the charts in the UK. Louis Armstrong’s deep, warm voice has made the song an all-time classic. I hear babies crying, I watch them grow, They’ll learn much more than I’ll never know, And I think to myself what a wonderful world. Alive again, oh you make me feel like I’m alive again. 3 All You Need Is Love, the Beatles This song was written by John Lennon and was the UK’s contibution to the first live, international TV show Our World., which was broadcast in 1967. With more than 500 million viewers worldwide, the song was an instant hit. The Beatles wanted a song that would speak to everyone, and who doesn’t need love? There’s nothing you can make that can’t be made, No one you can save that can’t be saved, Nothing you can do but you can learn how to be you in time, It’s easy, all you need is love, all you need is love. 4

Survivor, Destiny’s Child

This is an uplifting song for anyone who has a broken heart. It was released in 2001. The band, which was led by superstar Beyoncé Knowles, split in 2006. Thought that I would fail without you, but I’m on top, Thought it would be over by now, but it won’t stop, Thought that I would self destruct, but I’m still here, Even in my years to come, I’m still gonna be here I’m a survivor, I’m not gonna give up, I’m not gonna stop, I’m gonna work harder, I’m a survivor, I’m gonna make it, I will survive, keep on surviving.

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O T S G N O 8S

U O Y E K A M D O O G L E FE

EF ELING A BITHDTOSWONN?GS TO INSPIRE, HERE ARE EEIG, ENERGISE AND ENCOURAGYOU. MOTIVATE

5

Born this Way, Lady Gaga

Known for her outlandish clothes, Mother Monster, as she calls herself, has inspired millions with her music and own particualr style. Released in 2011, the song encourages Lady Gaga’s “Little Monsters” to accept themselves for the way they are. I was born this way, Don't hide yourself in regret, Just love yourself and you’re set, I’m on the right track, Baby, I was born this way Oh, there ain’t no other way, Baby, I was born this way, Baby, I was born this way. 6

Summer Rain, U2

This Irish rockband has been around since 1976, and lead singer Bono is well-known for his charity work, mainly for the poor in Africa. Summer Rain was released in 2000 as part of the album, All that you Can’t Leave Behind. It tells us not to be afraid of ourselves and to feel the strength within. It’s not why you’re running, It’s where you’re going, It’s not what you’re dreaming, But what you’re going to do, It’s not where you’re born, It’s where you belong, It’s not how weak, But what will make you strong. 7

A Brand New Day, Wizard of Oz

This song featured in the movie The Wiz (1978), which was inspired by the musical of the same name. The movie featured superstars such as Michael Jackson and Diana Ross. Everybody be glad, Cos the sun is shining just for us, Everybody wake up, Into the morning into happiness, Hello, world, It’s like a different way of living now, And thank you world, We always knew that we’d be free somehow. 8 That’s What Friends Are For, Dionne Warwick and Friends Dionne Warwick was born into a musical family in 1940. She is not only a singer, but also a successful actress and TV-show host. That’s What Friends Are For was originally recorded by Rod Stewart for the soundtrack of the movie Night Shift, but became a hit after Warwick covered it in 1985. The song is about the importance of friendship in times of need. Keep smiling, keep shining, Knowing you can always count on me, For sure, that’s what friends are for, For good times and bad times, I’ll be on your side forever more, That’s what friends are for.

GLOSSARY to raise vb if you “raise” money for a charity, you make money for that charity in need exp people “in need” are poor or hungry and need help bright adj something “bright” is happy and cheerful to top the charts exp if a song “tops the charts”, it is in the number-one position in the charts (the list of the most popular songs) to broadcast vb if you “broadcast” a song, you play it on the radio or on television a hit n a very popular song uplifting adj something “uplifting” makes you feel good and positive a broken heart n someone with a “broken heart” is sad because the person they love has left them, etc. to split vb if the members of a band “split”, they stop playing together to self destruct vb if someone “self destructs”, they destroy themselves to make it exp if you “make it”, you become successful, rich, etc. outlandish adj strange or unusual regret n if you have a feeling of “regret”, you feel bad about something you did in the past on the right track exp if you’re “on the right track”, you’re doing the right thing ain’t exp isn’t to belong vb the place where you “belong” is the place where you should be to shine vb if you’re “shining”, you seem to be transmitting happiness and positive feelings

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25

VOCABULARY

VOCABULARY The Red Carpet – a

piece of carpet for the actors and actresses to walk on. It’s all very royal and important.

Hollywood

– the American film industry based in Hollywood, California in the United States.

Premiere –

the first day that a film comes out.

Horror – a scary film. Not for scaredy cats! Comedy –

a funny film. Ha, ha, ha!

Villain – an evil person in the movie. A killer or someone who tries to hurt someone else in the movie. Action – a

type of film with lots of explosions, car chases and special effects.

The Oscars

– the annual award show to honour films and television. (in Britain, the equivalent is the BAFTAs.)

Stunt Double – a

person who does the dangerous things for the actor in the film.

Soundtrack – the collection of songs from a film.

Scene – a part of a film. Films are divided into scenes. Credits

– “opening credits” are at the beginning, and “closing credits” are at the end. They are a list of the actors, producers, casting directors and anyone else who contributed to the film.

Ticket Stub

– a small piece of paper you get after buying your cinema ticket.

Period Piece – a film

that is set during a certain time period that is not the present. It is usually a historical film.

Trailers

(“previews” in US English) – short clips of films that will come out soon. Trailers are often shown right before the main film.

Musical – a type of film that has lots of singing mixed in with dialogue.

films about other parts of the universe that take place in the distant future.

Drama –

a serious film. Watch and think!

42

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Science Fiction –

“Cut!” – what the director shouts to stop the filming.

TRACK 16

TRACK 17

The Cinema Ticket

UPPER INTERMEDIATE LISTENING

IN THIS CONVERSATION, BRIAN IS BUYING A CINEMA TICKET FROM THE TICKET VENDOR.

Hi, I’d like a ticket for the 6 o’clock session of My Moon, please. Vendor: Certainly. Here you are. (He gives him a baboon.) Brian: What’s this? Vendor: A baboon. Brian: No, I don’t want a baboon. I want to see the film My Moon. Vendor: Oh, it’s just when you said “moon”, I understood “baboon”. Brian: Well, why would I want a baboon? Vendor: Well, I don’t know. You asked for it. Brian: No, I didn’t. Vendor: Yes you did. Brian: Oh, no... Vendor: I wouldn’t see that film, anyway. Brian: Which film? Vendor: My Moon. It’s rubbish. Brian: Is it? Vendor: Yeah, it’s terrible. Brian: What’s it about? Vendor: Astronauts. Brian: That sounds good. Vendor: Yeah, but they don’t do anything. They’re just in space. Brian: Oh, right. Vendor: And then some aliens come. Brian: Oh, that sounds good. Vendor: Yeah, but I wouldn’t pay to see it. Brian: So, what do you recommend then? Vendor: Well, there’s a very good horror film. Brian: Really? Brian:

A Big Change Vendor: Yes, and it’s really frightening. Brian: Oh, good. I’ll see that then. Vendor: Oh, erm, I’m sorry but it isn’t showing at this cinema. Brian: [getting angry] What films do you have in this cinema? Vendor: Well, there’s Cats Galore. Brian: Is it any good? Vendor: It’s all right. Brian: OK. One ticket for Cats Galore. Vendor: Here you are. Brian: What’s this? Vendor: One ticket for Cats Galore... next Friday. Brian: But I want to go NOW! Vendor: But the film doesn’t come out till next Friday. Brian: AHHHHHH HHHHHHH! GLOSSARY a baboon n a type of monkey that lives in Africa rubbish adj inform not very good

1

Pre listening

ANSWERS ON PAGE 59

You are going to hear a conversation in which the speaker describes moving abroad. What do you think she will say about the following? 1. Her reasons for moving. 2. Her difficulties in adapting. 2

Listening I

Listen and check off any of your ideas that Margaret includes in the conversation. Did you guess correctly? 3

Listening II

True or false? 1. Margaret used to go to France for her holidays. 2. Margaret’s family is from the Dordogne region. 3. When Margaret’s children left home, she decided to move. 4. Margaret adjusted to her new life straightaway. 5. Margaret found it difficult to meet people. 6. Margaret says she is quite offended by the nickname the locals give her. 4

Discussion

1. Would you move abroad? Why/why not? 2. If you moved abroad, which country would you choose? Why? 3. What are the benefits/drawbacks of moving abroad? 4. What would/wouldn’t you miss about your country? 5

Language focus

In Unit 6 of the Upper Intermediate Skills Booklet, you see the difference between “be used to” and “get used to”. Can you identify any examples from the listening? Write the sentences down.

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43

(NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES & A BIG CHANGE

(NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES

TRACK 18

describe time HERE ARE SOME MORE USEFUL AND INTERESTING EXPRESSIONS FOR YOU TO LEARN. THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME EXPRESSIONS TO DESCRIBE TIME.

Miss the boat

The small hours

TO BE TOO LATE FOR SOMETHING. “If you’re looking for tickets I’m afraid you’ve missed the boat.”

EARLY MORNING (2 AM TO 6 AM) “She was up until the small hours trying to get the work finished.”

All in good time

About time too

SOMETHING THAT YOU SAY TO TELL SOMEONE TO BE PATIENT. “Wait until the time is right.” “Stop being in such a hurry – we’ll get it done all in good time.”

Donkey’s years

A LONG TIME. “I’ve been living here for donkey’s years.”

WE OFTEN USE THIS EXPRESSION WHEN SOMETHING HAPPENS MUCH LATER THAN EXPECTED. “Oh you’re here at last. About time too!”

There’s a time and a place

Take each day as it comes

TO DEAL WITH THINGS AS THEY HAPPEN, AND NOT TO MAKE PLANS OR TO WORRY ABOUT THE FUTURE “Try not to get too stressed – just try and take each day as it comes.”

THIS IS SOMETHING YOU CAN SAY TO SOMEONE WHO IS DOING SOMETHING RUDE / DISRESPECTFUL OR NOT APPROPRIATE FOR THE SITUATION. “Do you have to argue in front of the children? There’s a time and a place for these things, you know.” “He wore some dirty old clothes to the funeral. There’s a time and place, you know.”

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45

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

CORNER IDIOMS TRACK 24

Just around the corner

IF SOMETHING IS “JUST AROUND THE CORNER”, IT’S GOING TO HAPPEN SOON. “With his retirement just around the corner, we thought we’d go out and celebrate.”

STONE IDIOMS

THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME “CORNER” IDIOMS.

Be backed into a corner

IF YOU’VE BEEN “BACKED INTO A CORNER”, YOU’RE IN A DIFFICULT SITUATION WITH FEW OPTIONS. “They’ve backed us into a corner. I think we’ll have to accept their conditions. We don’t really have a lot of choice”.

Corner the market

IF A COMPANY HAS “CORNERED THE MARKET”, THEY’VE CREATED A PRODUCT THAT DOMINATES A PART OF THE MARKET AND THERE’S NO COMPETITION. “They’ve more or less cornered the cheap clothing market – they’ve got a shop in every city across the country.”

Fight your corner

TO DEFEND SOMETHING THAT YOU BELIEVE IN. “You’ll have to be prepared to fight your corner if you want them to approve this project.”

Turn the corner

IF SOMETHING OR SOMEONE “TURNS THE CORNER”, THEIR SITUATION STARTS TO IMPROVE AFTER A DIFFICULT PERIOD. “The company has been through some difficult times, but right now I think they’ve turned the corner.”

The four corners of the earth

EVERY PART OF THE WORLD. “Guests arrived from the four corners of the earth.”

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TRACK 26

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

Success and Failure THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME PHRASAL VERBS YOU CAN USE TO TALK ABOUT SUCCESS AND FAILURE. To build on if you “build on” the success of something, you take advantage of that success in order to make further progress.

To walk into if you “walk into” a dangerous situation, you become involved in it UNEXPECTEDLY.

“HE walked into a trap AND THERE WAS NO WAY OUT.”

“Let’s build on our success and expand as quickly as possible.” To muddle through IF YOU “MUDDLE THROUGH”, YOU MANAGE TO achieve success EVEN THOUGH YOU DON’T KNOW HOW TO DO IT PROPERLY.

“HE didn’t know much about computer programming, BUT HE MANAGED TO muddle through.”

To catch up To move fast enough to reach the same position as another person.

“He caught up WITH THEM on the last lap of the race.”

To pay off If an action “pays off”, it’S successful or prof itable.

To keep up IF YOU “KEEP UP”, YOU WORK AT THE NECESSARY SPEED SO YOU DO AS WELL AS OTHER PEOPLE.

“IF HE DOESN’T START WORKING SOON, He WON’T BE ABLE TO KEEP UP.”

“After years of working to become an executive, HER persistence f inally paid off.” To stay ahead IF YOU “STAY AHEAD”, YOU manage to remain in a better position.

“HE’S GOING TO HAVE TO WORK HARD IF HE wantS to stay ahead.”

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To fall behind if you "fall behind" AT WORK, YOU DON’T MANAGE TO DO THE THINGS YOU HAVE TO DO.

“if HE STAYS in bed all week, HE’LL fall behind at work.”

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THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VERBS AND EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: TRANSPORTATION. TO MISS (A BUS / TRAIN) IF YOU MISS YOUR BUS OR TRAIN, YOU ARE TOO LATE TO CATCH IT.

“I missed the last bus home.”

To drive a car If you drive a car, you operate it and control its movement.

“Sally will drive the children to school.”

TO TAKE A TRAIN If you take a train, you get on the train in order to get somewhere.

TO GO ON FOOT To travel somewhere by walking.

“The supermarket is close, so let’s just go on foot.”

“We took the train to London last week.”

TO ARRIVE To reach your destination; to get where you are going. Usually, we say “arrive at”. “We arrived at the cinema at 7:00.” However, we eliminate the “at” with the word “home”.

“They arrived home an hour early.”

TO STOP A TAXI (“HAIL A CAB” US ENGLISH) If you want to stop a taxi, stand in the road and wave one arm.

“She stopped a taxi.”

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9

USEFUL VERBS

USEFULVERBS& EXPRESSIONS

USEFUL VOCABULARY

USEFULVOCABULARY THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VOCABULARY. THIS MONTH: TRANSPORTATION. ANSWERS ON PAGE 59

1

Match the words

Match the words below to the pictures. d 1. ship ____ 2. train ____ 3. bus ____ 4. taxi ____ 5. boat ____ 6. car ____ 7. bicycle ____ 8. motorbike ____ 9. aeroplane ____ 10. helicopter ____ 2

b

d

h

g

Wordsearch

e

Now find these words in the wordsearch.

3

c

a

aeroplane

bicycle

boat

bus

car

helicopter

motorbike

ship

taxi

train

f

j i

Guess the word

Think of clues to describe these forms of transport. From the clues, ask your partner to guess the form of transport. it has 4 wheels, you drive it. it starts with ’C‘?

A car!

USEFUL VOCABULARY

Audio files

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PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION (PDAs) Look at the different types of public displays of affection (PDAs). Which ones have you seen lately? Which ones are acceptable in your country? Which ones aren't tolerated?

Holding hands

Lying on top of someone

Ruffling someone’s hair

Squeezing someone’s backside

Riding on someone’s shoulders

4

Cuddling someone / hugging someone

Kissing someone on the lips

Putting your arm around someone’s shoulder

Giving someone a massage

Carrying someone in your arms

Kissing someone on the cheek / giving someone a peck on cheek

Hugging someone from behind

Giving someone a foot massage

Stroking someone’s hand / caressing someone’s hand

Giving someone a nose kiss

Sharing food with someone

Massaging someone’s shoulders

Sitting on someone’s lap facing them

Sitting on someone’s lap

Walking with your hand in someone’s back pocket

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French kissing someone / snogging someone / making out with someone (with tongues)

Giving someone a piggy back

Feeding someone

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PREPOSITIONS OF PLACE: IN, ON, AT This month we’re looking at three important prepositions of place: in, on, at.

In

This preposition is often used to describe something that’s in an enclosed space with walls, boundaries, borders, etc. around it: in a room, in a city, in a town, in a country, in a box, in a cupboard...

1

On

1

The money is in the drawer.

The money is on the kitchen table.

2

2

The food is in the kitchen.

The clothes are on the floor.

3

3

Jack is in Chicago.

At

This preposition is used to describe something that’s on a surface: on top of a table, on a bed, on a street, on an island...

This preposition is used to describe an exact point, position or specific location: at the start, at home, at the office, at work, at the airport...

1 They’re at the restaurant.

2 He’s at home.

3

The book is on the box.

4

4

She’s in her office.

They live on Marston Street.

I left my book at work.

4 They’re at the end of the queue.

Comparisons

Look at these sentences to see the difference between the three prepositions. a) They’re in the theatre. (inside the theatre) b) They’re on the street outside the theatre. (just near the theatre) c) They’re at the entrance to the theatre. (at that exact place) In many cases, there’s no right or wrong answer, it just depends what you want to say. For company classes, Skype/Telephone classes or private tuition, contact: [email protected] / www.learnhotenglish.com /

9

45

TRACK 13: ENGLISHMAN & US WOMAN

How to say

Irregular past tense verbs are used all the time in English. Practise pronouncing these common irregular past-tense verbs. And do our little exercise to help you learn them.

irregular past simple verbs! Part II

[This is the second part of a two-part series. The verbs in brackets are (in order): the main verb; the past tense; the past participle.]

1. (let, let, let) They let us stay at their

.

.

2. (lie, lay, lain) I lay down on the .

3. (light, lit, lit) They lit the

.

4. (lose, lost, lost) I lost all my money in the 5. (make, made, made) He made a delicious

.

6. (mean, meant, meant) I meant to fix the

but I didn’t have time. .

7. (meet, met, met) I met her at a

.

8. (pay, paid, paid) They paid us for the

.

9. (put, put, put) She put her bag on the

in just two days.

10. (read, read, read) I read the

across the field.

11. (ride, rode, ridden) She rode the 12. (ring, rang, rung) The

rang about six times.

13. (run, ran, run) We ran

because it was raining. .

14. (say, said, said) She said she was in 15. (see, saw, seen) I saw the

last night. .

16. (sell, sold, sold) She sold the

last week.

17. (send, sent, sent) They sent the

.

18. (shake, shook, shaken) I shook hands with the

.

19. (shine, shone, shone) The sun shone through the .

20. (shoot, shot, shot) They shot at the enemy .

21. (show, showed, shown) I showed her the 22. (shut, shut, shut) I shut the 18

.

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*Smelt, spelt, spoilt

Smelt (past and past participle) = smelled in US English Spelt (past and past participle) = spelled in US English Spoilt (past participle) = spoiled in US English

23. (sing, sang, sung) We sang the

. .

24. (sink, sank, sunk) The boat sank in the .

25. (sit, sat, sat) I sat down on the

hours.

26. (sleep, slept, slept) She slept for about smelt good.

27. (smell, smelt, smelt*) The

.

28. (speak, spoke, spoken) We spoke to them last for him.

29. (spell, spelt, spelt*) I spelt the

.

30. (spend, spent, spent) I spent all my

by putting too much salt in it.

31. (spoil, spoilt, spoilt*) I spoilt the

on the toast.

32. (spread, spread, spread) He spread the

33. (stand, stood, stood) I stood up when he walked into the 34. (steal, stole, stolen) They stole the

.

35. (stick, stuck, stuck) She stuck the

on the wall.

.

because it was late.

36. (take, took, taken) I took a

37. (teach, taught, taught) They taught us how to use the new

.

.

38. (tell, told, told) I told her the

39. (think, thought, thought) We thought about leaving _____. away.

40. (throw, threw, thrown) They threw the

41. (understand, understood, understood) They understood the

.

am.

42. (wake, woke, woken) I woke up at about .

43. (wear, wore, worn) He wore some new .

44. (win, won, won) She won the 45. (write, wrote, written) They wrote the

.

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19

VOCABULARY CLINIC

NEGOTIATING

Here are some useful words and expressions for talking about negotiating.

Agreement

Bottom line

If two parties reach an “agreement”, they both accept each other’s terms and conditions and agree to do business together. “We failed to reach an agreement with them.”

Your “bottom line” is the lowest price you can accept. “We can drop the price to $20,000 but that’s our bottom line.”

Budge

Point of view

Deadlock / stalemate

If you won’t “budge”, you won’t move from your negotiating position. “They’re prepared to look at offering a guarantee, but they won’t budge on price.”

Your “point of view” is what you think of something. “In my point of view, I think we should accept their offer before they change their minds.”

A situation in which no progress is possible “Discussions reached a stalemate as no one was willing to change their conditions or lower their price.”

Leverage

Lowball

Concession

If you’ve got a lot of “leverage”, you have a lot of power. “We don’t have much leverage so we should probably just accept what they’re offering.”

If you make a “lowball” offer, you offer a very low price for something – much lower than you think your opponent will accept. “We were expecting them to make a lowball offer, but the price they were asking for was actually quite fair.”

If you make a “concession”, you agree to let someone have something you initially didn’t want to give away. “They made a concession and reduced the price, but only after the other party had agreed to change the terms of payment.”

Pressure

Receptive

Trade-off

If you put “pressure” on someone, you use aggressive tactics to try to force them to accept what you want. “I think we need to put a bit more pressure on them if we want them to accept our offer.”

If someone is “receptive” to your ideas, they’re open to or interested in your ideas. “They seemed to be receptive to our suggestions.”

A situation in which Party A agrees to one thing in exchange for another thing from Party B. “Allowing us to increase the price sounded like a fair trade-off for letting them spread the payments over a longer period of time.”

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29

USEFUL IDIOMS

FOOD-PEOPLE IDIOMS Here are useful some food idioms that are used to describe people.

Over Lea 15 visit: 0 usefu rn more prod l idiom ! Get ucts .lear s + aud an idiom nhot io fil s engl es. Fo booklet ish.c ! om/ r more i idiom nform s-bo okletation, -2

Top banana

Bad egg

The most powerful or important person in an organisation, company, etc. Also, the “big cheese” or “top cat”. “She’s one of the top bananas around here, so watch out when she’s about.”

A bad person who is often in trouble. “She’s a bad egg. I wouldn’t go into business with her.”

Big cheese

Cool as a cucumber

A very important person. “I thought they’d send one of their salespeople, but they sent one of the big cheeses.”

Very relaxed, even when faced with a stressful situation. “Everyone was shouting and screaming and waving their arms about, but she was as cool as a cucumber.”

Cream of the crop

Full of beans

The best of the best. “This class has the students who did best in all the tests – they’re the cream of the crop.”

If someone is “full of beans”, they’ve got a lot of energy. “It was practically impossible to control the kids – they were just full of beans.”

Hard nut to crack

Smart cookie

If someone is a “hard nut to crack”, they’re difficult to understand. “She’s a hard nut to crack – I can’t seem to figure her out.”

A very intelligent and clever person. “She’s one smart cookie – she got top marks at school and now she’s been offered a place at Harvard University.” Learn more! Get an idioms booklet! 300 useful idioms + audio files. For more information, visit: www.learnhotenglish.com /

31

PHRASAL VERBS

Audio files

WORK & PROJECTS

Download the MP3 audio files for this issue for FREE from our website: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

deadlines

opinion

do

report

Friday

1

hand-in

finished

extra

2

Hand in

Work away

If you “hand in” work, you give it or send it to someone. “They want us to hand in the finished by next Tuesday.”

If you’ve been “working away” at something, you’ve been working on it continuously. “We’ve been working away at the programming all week and now it’s almost .”

3

4

Meet up

Stress out

If you “meet up” with someone, you have a meeting with them to discuss something. “Let’s meet up to establish a few for handing in the material.”

If something is “stressing you out”, it’s making you feel very stressed and tense. “All this work they’ve given us to do is really stressing me out.”

5

6

Plug away at If you “plug away at” something, you do it slowly but surely. “We’ve been plugging away at the work all week but there’s still lots to .”

Get through work If you “get through” work, you do it. “We’re never going to get through all this work by next – there’s just too much.”

7

8

Bring forward If you “bring forward” a date, you move the date nearer to the current day, so there's less time to do it. “They’re talking about bringing forward the date, but that won’t give us enough time to finish it.”

Run something by/past someone If you “run something by” another person, you show it or give it to them so they can give you their opinion. “I’d like to run this by you if you don’t mind – just to get your .”

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41

Answers on page 45

CROSSWORD

AT THE DOCTOR’S

Learn lots of useful “travel” words and expressions by doing this crossword.

42

Learn lots of useful “medical” words and expressions by doing this crossword.

Across

Down

3. If you’ve got this condition, you can't go to the toilet = you’re c_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 7. An illness which is like a cold but more serious = the f_ _ 8. A red mark on your skin (often consisting of little red dots = a r_ _ _ 10. Medicine that stops pain = a pain_ _ _ _ _ _ 11. A piece of paper the doctor writes with information about the medicine you need. 13. An American English word for a chemist’s (a shop where you can buy medicine) = a ph_ _ _ _ _ _ 14. If someone has this, liquid comes out of their body when they go to the toilet = dia_ _ _ _ _ _ 15. An illness in your stomach caused by bacteria = a tummy b _ _ 18. If you’re in the sun for too long, you might get su_ _ _ _ _ _ 21. If a part of your body is like this, it hurts = it’s s_ _ _ 22. If you’ve got one of these, your body temperature is high. 24. An illness in which your chest or throat hurts = a c_ _ _ _ 26. A pain in a part of your body = an a_ _ _ 27. If you do this to your ankle or wrist, you hurt it, often after twisting it = to sp_ _ _ _ your ankle 28. If you feel like this, you head is spinning and feel as if you’re about to fall or faint = d_ _ _ _ 30. The regular beating of blood through your body = your p_ _ _ _

1. A normal body __________ is about 37ºC. 2. A building where people go to see the doctor or receive medical advice, etc. 4. An instrument for measuring temperature. 5. Small pieces of medicine that you swallow = p_ _ _ _ 6. When you do this, liquid/food comes out of your mouth = to _ _ _ _ _ up 9. A pain in your head. 12. The amount of force with which your blood flows around your body = your blood pr_ _ _ _ _ _ 16. An area of your body that has germs or bacteria on it = an in_ _ _ _ _ _ area 17. When bees or wasps bite you, they s_ _ _ _ you 18. If a part of your body becomes bigger than normal, often after being hit, it becomes sw_ _ _ _ _ 19. A liquid that you drink to cure an illness. 20. A black, blue or purple mark on your body = a br_ _ _ _ 23. If you’re feeling like this, you feel as if you’re going to vomit = qu_ _ _ _ 25. If you have a pain in your eyes (for example), they h_ _ _ 29. If someone has this illness, they sneeze a lot (air/liquid comes out of their nose) = they’ve got a c_ _ _

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USEFUL VOCABULARY

USEFULVOCABULARY THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VOCABULARY. THIS MONTH: PLANNING A PARTY. ANSWERS ON PAGE 61

1

Match the words

Match the words below to the pictures. 1. A balloon d 2. An invitation 3. A cake 4. Music 5. A guest list 6. Decorations 7. Tables 8. Plates 9. Wine 10. Napkin 2

Wordsearch

a

d c

3

h

f

Now find these words in the wordsearch.

balloon ring

g

invitation

cake

music

guest list

decorations

tables

plates

wine

napkin

Guess the word

Think of clues to describe these party-related words. Ask your partner to guess the word based on your clues.

it's something you use to put food on.

A plate!

8

e

b

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i

j

THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VERBS AND EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: PLANNING A PARTY. TO BLOW UP A BALLOON To put air into a balloon.

To pour the wine To put some wine into a glass.

“We have to blow up 100 balloons for the boss’s birthday party next Saturday.”

“Everyone was quiet at the party until Sally started pouring the wine.”

To make a guest list To write the names of people you want to invite to a party.

“Jamal wrote out a guest list for his graduation party.”

To chat someone up To speak with someone whom you f ind attractive.

“He was chatting me up at a party, and we got married three years later.”

To put on some music To play music at a party.

“They put on really slow music at the party and it made everyone feel tired.”

To gatecrash a party To go to a party even though you aren’t invited.

“The host is really angry... did someone gatecrash the party?”

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9

USEFUL VERBS & EXPRESSIONS

USEFULVERBS & EXPRESSIONS

BASIC ENGLISH

BASIC ENGLISH

Renting a s

12

A flat / an apartment

A washing machine in a launderette

A tenant

A landlord / A landlady

A refrigerator

An oven

A bed

A bathroom

Dishes in a dishwasher

A wardrobe

A table

A sofa

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TRACK 03

shared flat LISTEN AND REPEAT THESE EXPRESSIONS.

Useful expressions

What you say (to a landlord or landlady)

I’m looking for a room in a shared flat. What time can I come round to see it? When can I meet the other tenants? How many tenants live there? What are the tenants like? Where are they from? Are the tenants working professionals or students? Will I be sharing a room? Is it a nice part of town? Is it safe? When is the rent due?

What you hear (from the landlord or landlady)

There are two common rooms. The rent is £600 per calendar month. Are you a student or do you work? The average electricity bill is £20 a month. You can split the deposit if you live in a double room. There are three bathrooms. When can you sign a contract?

£500 a month and it’s all yours.

The dialogue

PETRA HAS COME TO LOOK AROUND AT A ROOM IN A SHARED FLAT. IN THIS DIALOGUE, SHE’S SPEAKING TO THE LANDLORD ABOUT POSSIBLY RENTING IT.

And this is the living

room… Petra: Hi, I’ve come round to see the flat. Landlord: Oh, you’re Petra, right? Come in. This is the living room. Petra: Looks nice. So, is the flat furnished? Landlord: Yes, this is all my furniture here. Petra: Great. Is the kitchen fully-equipped? Landlord: There’s a fridge and an oven, but I’m afraid there’s no washing machine. But there’s a launderette really close by. If you decide to move here, the other tenants can show you where it is. There are three girls who live here: one from Germany and two from China. They’re all very nice. Petra: OK. Are they students or do they work? Landlord: Two of them are students, but one of the Chinese girls works as a translator. Petra: Oh, that’s pretty cool. Landlord: Yes, she’s very lovely. Now, this is one of the bedrooms. The other tenants have single rooms, but this one is the biggest. Petra: Very nice. It looks quite light. Does it get a lot of sun? Landlord: Well, when it isn’t raining, you should get a bit of sun in the afternoon. Petra: OK, and what kind of deposit do you need? Landlord: Well, I’ll need one month’s rent as a deposit. Plus, you’ll need to pay one month’s rent in advance. The Petra: And how much is the neighbours only have a monthly rent? party once a week. Landlord: It’s £600 per calendar month. Petra: So, you need a deposit, one month’s rent in advance, plus the first month’s rent? That’s £1,800 then, right? Landlord: Yes, that’s right. Petra: OK, well, I’m definitely interested. Landlord: We can sign the contract now if you want. Petra: OK, great.

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13

SOCIAL ENGLISH

SOCIAL ENGLISH

The section that makes grammar easy, interesting, and fun.

GRAMMAR FUN

GRAMMAR FUN

relation/ relationship/ relative

THIS MONTH, WE’RE LOOKING AT THREE WORDS WHICH ARE SIMILAR IN MEANING AND THEREFORE EASILY CONFUSED: “RELATION”/ “RELATIONSHIP” / “RELATIVE”.

1. A “relation” is a noun which describes a connection between two concepts. For example: a) There’s a strong relation between productivity and output. b) What’s the relation between health and diet? A “relation” can also be a family member. For example: a) He’s a relation of mine. b) I have lots of relations, most of whom are cousins. In business, we often talk about good / bad relations. Remember that in this case, “relations” is used in the plural form and it refers to the type of interaction between individuals or groups. For example: a) In our company, we’re lucky to have excellent relations with the local community. b) It’s important to develop relations with clients over time. “Relations” can also be used with many compound nouns. For example: a) I work in public relations. b) I studied international relations at university. 2. A “relative” can mean a family member / relation. For example: a) This weekend, there’s a family gathering with all my relatives. b) I have a big family with lots of relatives. As an adjective, it has a different meaning. If something is “relative”, it’s comparable to something else. For example: a) Staff’s earnings have to be relative to production. b) Life is relative; everything depends on your situation.

I love my relatives.

1

Exercise

Choose the correct answer. 1. Joe is a distant relative / relationship; he’s the son of my grandmother’s sister-in-law. 2. I have a good relationship / relation with my brother – we get on really well. 3. Do you have experience in public relations / relationships? 4. What’s the relative / relation between organic food and a healthy diet? 5. Jealousy always destroys relatives / relationships. 6. Their relationship / relation is in trouble – they’re always fighting. 7. Relationships / relations are very important to someone’s well-being. 8. Getting up at 6 am is not so bad if you go to bed at 10 pm – it’s all relative / relation. ANSWERS ON PAGE 61

Are we related, by any chance?

3. A “relationship” is typically used to talk more about personal interactions and can also refer to romantic interactions. For example: a) Marcia: Do you have a good relationship with your in-laws? Greg: Yes, I get on with my in-laws very well. b) If you want a relationship to work, you have to work very hard.

16

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8 REALLY USEFUL TRACK 10

PHRASAL VERBS!

Notice how phrasal verbs often have more than just one meaning.

1

2

Er Call / erm off Er and “call erm are conversation that don’t If you something off ”, fillers you cancel it. mean anything –“He they’re just thatoffpeople usethree whenmembers they’re thinking called thesounds meeting because of of something to say: “Er, what do you think?” staff were sick.”

Come up with If you “come up with” an idea, you think of it. “They came up with a solution to the problem.”

If you “call off ” something that is already happening, you decide to stop it. “After six days, they called off the search for the missing crew members.”

31

If you “come up with” something, you produce or provide it to other people who want or need it. “If we don’t come up with the money by 6pm, they said they’d call the police.”

42

Fall apart End up Er and “end erm are fillers that you don’t mean anything If you up”conversation in a particular place, are in that place –inthey’re just sounds that people use when they’re thinking the end. of something to everyone say: “Er, what doup youatthink?” “After the party, ended Paul’s house.” If you “end up” doing something, you do that thing in the end. “After six years travelling around the world, I ended up working in my hometown.”

26

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If something “falls apart”, it breaks into different parts, often in a sudden and unexpected way, “The model plane fell apart in my hand as I was trying to fix it.” If someone “falls apart” emotionally, they are unable to live in a normal way because they’re suffering from a lot of emotional pain “She completely fell apart after coming back from the war zone.”

51

62

Carry on Er and“carry erm are conversation fillers that meandoing anything If you on” doing something, youdon’t continue it. –“Carry they’re sounds people until use when onjust working in that the garden I say they’re stop.” thinking of something to say: “Er, what do you think?”

Get away

If you “carry on” walking in the same direction, you continue walking in that direction. “Carry on down the street for about 100 metres, then take the first turning on the right.”

If you “get away”, you go somewhere, often for a short holiday. “I can’t wait to get away for a few days. I could really do with a rest.”

If you “carry on” something that someone else started, you continue working on it after the other person has stopped. “He carried on running the restaurant after his parents retired.”

If robbers (for example) “get away” with a crime, they aren’t caught or punished for it. “They stole over six million euros and never got caught. I can’t understand how they ever got away with it!”

71

82

Hold on Get over Er and“get erm over” are conversation thatbeing don’t affected mean anything If you a problem, fillers you stop by it. –“He’s they’re just to sounds that people usehim when thinking going do a course to help getthey’re over his fear of to say: “Er, what do you think?” of something flying.” If you “get over” a bad experience, you stop feeling sad about it or being affected by it. “He soon got over the divorce after he started dating Michelle.” If you “get over” an illness, you become healthy again. “It took me more than a week to get over that cold – it was terrible.”

If you “hold on” to something, you keep your hands on it and don’t let go. “Hold on to the rope or you might fall!” If you “hold on” to something, you keep that thing and don’t lose it. “Despite the very poor sales results, she managed to hold on to her job at the company.” If you ask someone to “hold on” when you’re speaking on the phone, you ask them to wait while you connect them to another number. You could also ask them to “hold the line”. “Please hold on while I put you through to Ms Jenkins.”

Answers on page 61

1

Word choice

Choose the correct prepositions to complete the sentences. 1. Carry on/up telling me the trip – it’s really interesting. 2. We robbed the bank and got through/away with it. I can’t believe it! 3. I ended up/for marrying my childhood sweetheart. 4. Come on! Cheer up! You’ll soon get over/about him. 5. They decided to get on/away for a few days so they could avoid the press. 6. After three months, they called to/off the investigation. 7. I think we’ve come up/for with an answer to your problem. 8. After two days in bed, I finally managed to get over/ away the migraine.

2

Sentence completion

Complete the sentences with the correct prepositions. in my hands. I 1. I’m sorry but it just fell didn’t mean to break it. down here for about two kilometers 2. Carry and it’s just on your left. with a good excuse or 3. We’d better come we’re in trouble. to this as tightly as you can, and don’t let go. 4. Hold my fear of spiders. 5. I don’t think I’ll ever get in a downtown disco after 6. They all ended the film finished. to your 7. I can’t believe you managed to hold job when everyone else got fired. the match because of the heavy rain. 8. They called

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27

TRACK 14

(NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES

music shop The CD store

CDs - a compact disk that contains music or audio. A DVD – a high density compact disk that can store a lot of audio-visual material. A Blu Ray is the most modern version and can hold even more material. A record – a round piece

of black plastic that music can be stored on. It plays on a record player.

A poster – a large picture you put on a wall that is used for advertising, or has an image. A biography – a book about a famous person’s life. Body jewellery –

A T-shirt – a shirt with no buttons, and usually with short sleeves. An iPod – an electronic device that plays MP3s.

Headphones – a pair of speakers that you wear over your ears to listen to music.

A concert ticket – a pass that allows you entrance to a show or performance.

An action figure – a miniature depiction of a celebrity or war hero.

A portable cd player – a machine that

piercings or rings for the body.

you take anywhere with you that plays compact disks.

A key ring – a metal ring that holds your keys together.

A gift card – a certificate that has credit on it. You can use that credit to buy something.

Batteries – small

devices that you use to power electronics.

A CD case – a plastic box to keep and organise your compact disks. 44

A sweatshirt – a long-sleeved piece of casual clothing, usually made of cotton (“jumper” in British English).

Ethan: Good morning. I’d like to buy a CD, please. Shop: Certainly. Here you are. (He gives him a Frisbee.) Ethan: No, not a Frisbee. A CD. I’d like to buy a CD, please. Shop: Oh, right. Yes. A CD. Which one would you like? We have three on offer. (He shows him three.) Ethan: Have you got “My Big House” by Nigel and the Plates? Shop: No, but I could sing it for you. Ethan: No, it’s all right, thanks. I’d really like the original. Shop: The way I sing it, it is original! Really! I mean, how can you come to a CD shop and not expect to find people singing? Ethan: Erm, OK. You’re right. Well, do you have “Love Knapsack” by Soul Sneezers? Shop: Do I ever! You know, I used to play that song on the harmonica. It got me through a lot of tough times. You know, high school... and university, and the time since then. Ethan: Yeah, it’s a pretty emotional song. I can definitely understand that. Shop: Listen. How about this one? (He starts singing a song.) I could put that on a CD for you if you like. It wouldn’t cost you much. I could definitely arrange something with my voice and my new electronic keyboard. It’s got all kinds of synthesized voices and sound effects... Ethan: Wait! Were you just singing “Help me Now” by Peanut Butter and the Jelly? I love that song. I’m in a band, and every time we play that song, it totally kills! Shop: Do you need any more people in your band? People tell me I sing like a young nightingale. Ethan: No, thanks. OK, have you got “Ding Dong” by the Twinkles? (The shopkeeper starts laughing.) What’s so funny? Shop: Oh, nothing. Ethan: No, come on. What’s so funny? Shop: It’s just, no one ever asks for that song any more. Ethan: But I like it. Shop: Hey, Frank. This guy here asked for “Ding Dong” by the Twinkles. Frank: Really? How old is he? Like about 5 or something? Ethan: But it’s a great song. And it’s great to dance to. Shop: Oh, is it now? Let’s see then. We’ll put it on and you can dance. Ethan: OK. Watch. (He starts dancing.) Shop: Actually, it is quite good. And it looks like a lot of fun. GLOSSARY kill vb Ethan: Oh, it is. I’ll buy two if you to if a song “kills” with an audience, it’s extremely popular sell them for half price.

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DI N

Do the headphones come with the song?

IN THIS DIALOGUE, ETHAN IS IN A CD STORE.

GD

ONG

INKLES TW

HERE ARE SOME COMMON WORDS OR OBJECTS THAT YOU WILL SEE OR HEAR AT A MUSIC SHOP.

TH E

VOCABULARY AND NOT SO TYPICAL DIALOGUES

VOCABULARY

TRACK 15

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

describe similar things THIS MONTH, WE HAVE SOME EXPRESSIONS TO DESCRIBE SIMILAR THINGS.

Be like two peas in a pod

TO BE VERY SIMILAR. “You can barely tell them apart – they’re like two peas in a pod.”

Go hand in hand IF TWO THINGS GO “HAND IN HAND”, THEY’RE CLOSELY CONNECTED AND CANNOT BE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY. “Preparing classes goes hand in hand with being a good teacher.”

Sing the same tune

Be the spitting image of TO LOOK VERY SIMILAR TO. “She’s the spitting image of her sister.”

TO HAVE THE SAME OPINION ABOUT AN ISSUE. “What are your views on this new policy plan? We’ve got to make sure we’re all singing the same tune here.”

Be two of a kind

TO BE TWO SIMILAR THINGS OR PEOPLE THAT SEEM TO GO WELL OR BELONG TOGETHER. “They’re two of a kind; they dress alike and come from the same background.”

A chip off the old block

Be on the same wavelength

WHEN TWO PEOPLE ARE “ON THE SAME WAVELENGTH”, THEY UNDERSTAND AND AGREE WITH EACH OTHER. “We get on really well. I suppose it’s because we’re on the same wavelength.”

46

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TO BE EXACTLY LIKE YOUR MOTHER OR FATHER IN CHARACTER OR BEHAVIOUR. “Eric is just like his father; he’s a chip off the old block.”

POT IDIOMS

POT IDIOMS

TRACK 23

Idio ms boo klet s

THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME “POT” IDIOMS.

Lear your n hundre Eng English ds of id imaglish speak and speaioms, rea es an er! B k like lly im d aud ookle p a Tap io file ts comnative rove here s. e wit to b h uy!

Now

available online!

Go to pot

IF THINGS “GO TO POT”, THEY BECOME BAD, DAMAGED OR SPOILT. “My motivation has gone to pot since I lost that important client.”

Throw something into the pot

IF YOU “THROW AN IDEA INTO THE POT”, YOU SUGGEST IT FOR DISCUSSION. “I think we’ve had enough talk of budget reform. Does anyone have anything else they’d like to throw into the pot?”

Take a pot shot at someone

IF YOU “TAKE A POT SHOT AT SOMEONE”, YOU CRITICISE THEM SUDDENLY. “During the meeting, she took a pot shot at her assistant.”

Take pot luck

IF YOU “TAKE POT LUCK”, YOU TAKE WHATEVER IS AVAILABLE, WITHOUT KNOWING IF IT WILL BE GOOD OR NOT. “Emily took pot luck and accepted the first job she was offered.”

A pot of gold

ULTIMATE SUCCESS; SUDDEN OR UNEXPECTED WEALTH. “He’s hoping that all this hard work will eventually pay off and the successful business will be his pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.”

A watched pot never boils

IF YOU WAIT ANXIOUSLY FOR SOMETHING TO HAPPEN QUICKLY, IT’LL SEEM TO TAKE A LOT LONGER. “There’s no point sitting there waiting for her to call. If she calls she calls, and if she doesn’t, well that’s just tough luck. Remember, a watched pot never boils.”

54

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Ph verrbasal boo s klet s

TRACK 25

Lear impr n hundre a na ove you ds of ph listentive spea r English rasal ver ing fi ker! B and s bs, re ookle peak ally les! t com like Tap here es wi to b th uy!

PHRASAL VERB THEMES Work and Career

Now

available online!

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

THIS MONTH, WE’RE CONTINUING WITH OUR CAREER-RELATED PHRASAL VERBS. COMPLETE THE SENTENCES WITH THE WORDS BELOW. ANSWERS ON PAGE 61

monthly manager due to call done afternoon deadlines finish 1 To hand over To give someone else control or responsibility for something.

To be tied up To be so busy with something that you don’t have time to do anything else. 2

“I didn’t have time to ________ the work, so I handed it over to my colleague.”

“I’ve been tied up with these __________ all week.”

3 To follow up If you “follow up” on something, you try to f ind out more about it.

4 To pencil in If an event is “pencilled in” for a specifIc time, it is written into a diary or schedule.

“Did you follow up on that phone _________ from the agency?”

“We have a meeting pencilled in for tomorrow _________ .”

5 To knock off the time that you “knock off”, is the time you stop working.

“Did the _________ knock off early yesterday?” 7 To pull together To work as a group in order to achieve something.

“We can get so much ______ if we all pull together.”

6 To lay someone off if someone is “laid off”, they lose their job.

“We had to lay off several people ______ of our poor sales results. 8 To wriggle out of if someone “wriggles out” of doing something they’re expected to do but don’t want to do, they avoid doing it.

“I’d like to fInd a way to wriggle out of doing these ____________ tax forms.”

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57

BASIC ENGLISH

BASIC ENGLISH

the car Wing mirror

Bonnet

Boot

Petrol tank

(side-view mirror; side mirror)

(“hood” in US English)

(“trunk” in US English)

(“gas tank” in US English)

Battery

Wheel

Tyre

Clutch

Driving seat

Car keys

Door

Roof

Accelerator

Windscreen wipers

Gears

Steering wheel

12

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TRACK 03

SOCIAL ENGLISH

SOCIAL ENGLISH

the car

LISTEN AND REPEAT THESE EXPRESSIONS. Useful expressions The door won’t open. I need to fill up the petrol tank. The rear-view mirror is broken. You need to lift the bonnet up. The battery is low. The tyre is flat. I can’t get it into first gear.

Don’t forget to put the hand-brake on. Put your headlights on. Dim your lights. You need to turn your windscreen wipers on. You can sit in the passenger seat. The bodywork is scratched.

GLOSSARY

to dim vb to reduce the brightness of to take someone for a spin exp to take someone for a ride in your car

Part II NOW LISTEN TO THIS DIALOGUE. IN THIS CONVERSATION, SARAH IS SHOWING MICHELLE HER NEW CAR.

Michelle: Nice car. Sarah: Yes, I got it last week. It was only £300. Michelle: That’s great. Sarah: Yes, it’s a bargain. It’s only fourteen years old. Michelle: Mmm… The bodywork is a bit scratched, isn’t it? Sarah: Yes, well, it needs a bit of paint on it. Michelle: And one of the headlights is broken, isn’t it? Sarah: Yeah, I’ll have to get that repaired. Michelle: Does it work? Sarah: Of course it does. Look. (She starts the car.) You see? Michelle: Come on then, take me for a spin. Sarah: OK. Jump in. I’ll take you home.

Michelle: The gears are a bit stiff, aren’t they? Sarah: Yes, it doesn’t really go into second gear. I have to skip from first gear to third gear. The brakes don’t work either. Michelle: What? You mean you can’t stop it? Sarah: Yes, of course I can stop. We’ve got the hand-brake. Michelle: The hand-brake? Well, don’t go too fast. I think you should slow down a bit. Erm, I think… erm, let me out. Sarah: OK. Hang on. I’m going to stop the car. Michelle: Well, thanks. I think I can walk from here. Sarah: Are you sure? Michelle: Quite sure. See you later. Sarah: Bye.

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13

The section that makes grammar easy, interesting, and fun.

GRAMMAR FUN

GRAMMAR FUN

Confusing Words IN THIS MONTH’S GRAMMAR FUN SECTION WE’RE LOOKING AT SOME CONFUSING WORDS.

“Principal” versus “principle”

“Hear” versus “here”

“Principal” (adjective) is the first in importance, rank, value, etc. For example: “They are the principal provider of food in the region.”

If something is “here”, it is close to where you are at any given moment. For example: “It took me three hours to get here.”

A “principal” (noun) is the most important person in an organisation. For example: “She is the principal of Barkstone Girls’ School.”

If you “hear” something, you detect the sound of it with your ears. For example: “I can’t hear what you are saying.”

A “principle” (noun) is a standard or a rule. For example: “As a matter of principle, we never pay before we receive the goods.” “Sustainable development is a very good principle.”

“Less” versus “fewer”

We use “less” with non-countable nouns. For example: “less sugar, less hair, less time, less work”, etc. And we use “fewer” with plural items. For example: “fewer clothes, fewer people, fewer toys, fewer shirts”, etc.

“Lose” versus “loose” “To lose” is to fail. For example: “We are going to lose the game.”

If something is “loose”, it is not tight. For example: “These trousers are too loose for me.”

Exercise

I’mnotgoingtolose these.

“Bought” versus “brought” “Bought” is the past tense of “to buy”. For example: “We bought a new car last month.”

And “brought” is the past tense of “to bring”. For example: “Who brought that CD to the party? It was terrible.”

16

Complete each sentence with a word from this section. 1. They aren’t _________ yet. 2. We have ___________ people here than last year. 3. He __________ a friend to the party. 4. They always _________ when they have Sam in goal. 5. He’s the ___________ of a large school for boys. 6. They ___________ a house last month. 7. We have ________ time than we had last week. 8. This shirt is too ___________ for you. You need a smaller size. 9. They are the _____________ supplier of computers in the country. 10. They can’t _______ what you are saying. Speak up! 11. As a matter of __________, payment must be made before we send the goods. ANSWERS ON PAGE 58

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TRACK 10

COVER FEATURE

o s t i t c r k 10

e o v r p m i lish

your

g n E ! on i a t c i n n u pro Learn about silent letters in English and really improve your pronunciation.

Silent letters are letters in words that you don’t need to pronounce. For example, the “b” in “climb” isn’t pronounced. Here are some tricks to help you silent letters. 1

2

The silent “k”

The silent “u”

The “k” isn’t generally pronounced when it comes before an “n” at the beginning of a word: know, knife, knock, knee, knowledge. For example: A She cut it with a knife. B He hurt his knee.

The “u” isn’t pronounced when it comes after a “g” and before a vowel: guitar, guidance, guest, guess, guard. For example: A We were the only guests in the hotel. B He plays the guitar.

3

4

The silent “w”

The silent “n”

The “w” isn’t pronounced at the beginning of a word when it comes before the letter “r”: wrong, wrap, write, wreck, wrist, wrestle. For example: A Shall I wrap it for you? B I think you’re wrong.

24

The “n” isn’t pronounced when it comes after “m” at the end of a word: solemn, hymn, autumn, column. For example: A I love the autumn when the leaves turn brown. B It was a very solemn ceremony.

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COVER FEATURE 5

6

The silent “p” The “p” isn’t pronounced at the beginning of many words – particularly those starting “ps” or “pn”: pneumonia, pneumatic, psychotherapy, pseudonym, psychotic, psychiatrist, psychologist. For example: A She’s a psychologist. B That isn’t his real name – it’s just a pseudonym.

7

The silent “s” The “s” isn’t usually pronounced before an “l”: isle, island, aisle. For example: A We sat in the aisle. B This is a lovely little island.

8

The silent “b”

The silent “c”

In general, the “b” isn’t pronounced when it follows an “m”: comb, limb, dumb, bomb, climb, tomb, thumb. For example: A She wanted to climb the mountain. B He was looking for his comb.

The “c” isn’t usually pronounced when it appears with the letter “s” to form “sc”: scissors, fascinating, scenario, muscle, miscellaneous. For example: A Where are my scissors? B It’s a fascinating film!

9

10

The silent “g”

The silent “l” The “l” isn’t pronounced if it follows the vowels “a” and “u”: walk, half, chalk, would, could, talk, calf, salmon, calm, should. For example: A You should see this one. B We had salmon for lunch.

In general, the “g” isn’t pronounced when it comes before an “n”: foreign, cognac, champagne, sign, design, align. For example: A Let’s celebrate with some champagne. B You have to sign it right here.

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25

VOCABULARY

VOCABULARY

Sweets

SWEETS (“CANDY” IN US ENGLISH) – A GENERAL WORD FOR NICE-TASTING THINGS THAT CHILDREN LOVE TO EAT. A sweet (a “candy” in US English)

– a small, hard sweet that is fruit-flavoured.

Chewing gum – a sweet

that you put in your mouth and chew (keep biting and moving around in your mouth).

Bubble gum – this

is similar to chewing gum, but with bubble gum you can blow bubbles out of your mouth.

Gobstopper

(“jawbreaker” in US English) – a very hard, round sweet.

42

Jelly bean – a sugar covered soft sweet. “Jelly babies” are similar, but in the shape of a baby. A doughnut

– a small ringshaped cake made of rich, light dough that is fried in deep fat. Some are covered in chocolate.

A cupcake

mould.

– a small cake that is baked in a cup-shaped

Toffee – a

hard chewy sweet made of brown sugar (or molasses and butter).

A marshmallow – a

light spongy sweet made of corn syrup, gelatine, sugar and starch. Some people like to cook them over a fire.

A lollipop – a piece of hard sweet attached to the end of a small stick that is held in the hand while the sweet is licked.

Fudge – a soft

sweet made of sugar, butter, milk, chocolate and, sometimes, nuts.

A bar of chocolate

– a piece of chocolate in the form of a rectangle.

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A chocolate

– a small piece of chocolate. Some are filled with liqueurs.

Candy floss

(“cotton candy” in US English) – a fluffy, sweet confection whipped from sugar and gathered or wound around a stick. Often sold at fairs.

An ice lolly

– a frozen water dessert on a stick that is coloured and flavoured. It is made by freezing flavoured liquids (such as fruit juices) around a stick.

Marzipan –

a type of sweet made of almonds and sugar.

TRACK 18

describe time

HERE ARE SOME USEFUL AND INTERESTING EXPRESSIONS FOR YOU TO LEARN. THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME EXPRESSIONS TO DESCRIBE TIME.

From time to time

Until kingdom come

FOR A VERY LONG TIME. “We don’t want to wait until kingdom come for your answer.”

EVERY NOW AND THEN; SOMETIMES. “He shows up around here from time to time.”

An early bird

From the cradle to the grave

SOMEONE WHO GETS UP EARLY IN THE MORNING. “I’m a bit of a night person, but Jane is an early bird.”

Be as regular as clockwork

TO BE VERY REGULAR. “He phones every Sunday night at 10 pm as regular as clockwork.”

DURING A WHOLE LIFETIME. “Medical care will cover you from the cradle to the grave in this country.”

In the long run / in the short run

A LONG TIME IN THE FUTURE; A SHORT TIME IN THE FUTURE. “In the long run you could make a lot of money out of this investment.” “In the short run, I think we should focus all our efforts on product B.” GLOSSARY

Play for time

TO ATTEMPT TO DELAY SOMETHING. “She keeps asking us for more information, but she doesn’t really need it. She’s just playing for time.”

a kingdom n a country or region that is ruled by a king or queen a cradle n a bed for babies that has curved sides so it can rock (move gently from side to side) a grave n a hole in the ground for dead bodies

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45

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

TRACK 26

changes

THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME PHRASAL VERBS YOU CAN USE TO TALK ABOUT CHANGES.

Fill up To become full.

Go up To increase in price or value.

“Prices have been going up recently.” Phase out if a product is “phased out”, it is taken it out of shops gradually.

“They f illed up the glass with chocolate.” Phase in if something is “phased in”, it’s introduced slowly and gradually. “The new laws were phased in over a period of ten years.”

“They decided to phase out the car because it wasn’t selling very well.” Pan out To turn out well; to be successful.

Get over if you “get over” a problem, you fInd a way of dealing with it and resolving it.

“we need to fInd a way to get over this problem.”

“If things don’t pan out well with this new business, I can always go back to being an accountant.” Stick with (something) if you “stick with” something diffIcult, you continue trying to understand it.

Pick up To start to increase in tempo / rhythm.

“Stick with it and you’ll see that it isn’t that diff icult.”

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55

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

TRACK 24

BRICK IDIOMS

Be like talking to a brick wall

IF TALKING TO SOMEONE IS LIKE “TALKING TO A BRICK WALL”, THAT PERSON NEVER LISTENS. “I’ve tried to talk about it with her, but sometimes it’s like talking to a brick wall.”

Drop something like a hot brick / potato

IF YOU “DROP SOMETHING LIKE A HOT BRICK”, YOU STOP USING IT BECAUSE IT’S CAUSING YOU PROBLEMS. “They dropped the idea like a hot brick when they realised all the bad feeling it was causing.”

STONE IDIOMS

THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME “BRICK” IDIOMS.

Come up against a brick wall

NOT TO BE ABLE TO CONTINUE AN ACTIVITY OR DO SOMETHING YOU WANT TO DO. “We’ve tried various methods, but none of them have worked. I think we’ve come up against a brick wall.”

Drop a brick

TO MAKE A RUDE, TACTLESS OR INSENSITIVE COMMENT. “You really dropped a brick when you made that comment about her car.”

Be banging / hitting your head against a brick wall

Come down on somebody like a ton of bricks

TO PUNISH SOMEONE VERY QUICKLY AND SEVERELY. “If you ever do that again, we’ll come down on you like a ton of bricks.”

IF YOU’RE “BANGING YOUR HEAD AGAINST A BRICK WALL, YOU KEEP ASKING SOMEONE TO DO SOMETHING WHICH THEY NEVER DO. "I’ve been asking him to send me that report for six weeks now. Sometimes I feel like I’m banging my head against a brick wall.”

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53

THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VERBS AND EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: CHANGES. CHANGE COLOUR TO BECOME ANOTHER COLOUR.

Vanish To disappear.

“My shirt changed colour when I washed it.”

Get (+ an adjective) To become.

“The money on the table just vanished – we couldn’t F ind it anywhere.”

Grow To become bigger.

“she got lost in the airport.”

“JILL has really grown these past few months.”

Shrink To become smaller.

Melt If a solid “melts”, it becomes a liquid.

“My jacket shrunk after I washed it.”

“The ice will melt if you leave it in the sun.”

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9

USEFUL VERBS

USEFULVERBS& EXPRESSIONS

USEFUL VOCABULARY

USEFULVOCABULARY THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VOCABULARY. THIS MONTH: CLOTHES. ANSWERS ON PAGE 58

1

Match the words

Match the words below to the pictures. d 1. hat ____ 2. T-shirt ____ 3. jacket ____ 4. trousers (“pants” in US English) ____ 5. shoes ____ 6. dress ____ 7. tracksuit ____ 8. shirt ____ 9. socks ____ 10. cap ____ 2

Wordsearch

hat

jacket

trousers

pants

shoes

dress

tracksuit

shirt

socks

cap

f

j i

Guess the word

It’s something you wear on your head. It begins with “h”.

Hat!

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d

h

g

Make a sentence with each item of clothing. Ask your partner to guess the word.

8

c

e

Now find these words in the wordsearch.

3

b a

THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR ON USEFUL VERBS AND EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: FOOD AND DRINK.

TO HAVE BREAKFAST / LUNCH / DINNER TO EAT SOMETHING FOR BREAKFAST / LUNCH / DINNER.

Have something to eat / drink To eat or drink something.

What time did you have breakfast this morning?

Lay the table To put the plates, knives, forks, spoons, etc on the table.

“Would you like to have something to eat?”

Make food To prepare food by combining ingredients.

“Who made this? It’s delicious!”

“Could you lay the table, please?”

Cook food To prepare food by heating it.

Do the washing up To clean the plates, knives, forks, spoons, etc.

“Who cooked this? It’s delicious!

“Do you want any help doing the washing up?”

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9

USEFUL VERBS

USEFULVERBS& EXPRESSIONS

TRACK 03

Useful language for successful communication.

FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Inviting someone to do something

Can I get you a coffee?

Would you like to have lunch with us?

How about coming to my house for dinner on Friday?

Would you like to go to the cinema?

I’m having a party later. Would you like to come?

I’ll get this one.

invitations Reacting to an invitation

This one’s on me.

Lunch is on me.

I’d like to invite you for lunch.

Reacting to an invitation

Would you like to come up for a coffee?

12

That sounds like a good idea. That would be fantastic. Yes, OK. OK. I’ll get the next one. That’s a good idea.

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I’ll get this one. You get the next one.

OK. I’d love to. No, let me get this one. But you paid last time. I’m sorry, but I really don’t have the time. I’m afraid I’m a bit busy at the moment. I’m sorry but I’m not going to be able to make it.

The section that makes grammar easy, interesting, and fun.

GRAMMAR FUN

GRAMMAR FUN

Confusing Words IN THIS MONTH’S GRAMMAR FUN SECTION WE’LL BE LOOKING AT SOME CONFUSING WORDS.

“threw” versus “through”

“Threw” is the past tense of “throw”. For example: a. Paul threw the ball at me. b. She threw the chair at it. “Through” can be used as a preposition. It is often used to refer to the process of passing from one side of something to the other side of it. For example: a. She walked through the door. b. They walked through the forest. c. Paul worked all through the night. d. The bird flew in through the window.

“threw” versus “through”

“they’re” versus “there”

“Through” can be used as a preposition. It is often used to refer to the process of passing from one side of something to the other side of it. For example: a. She walked through the door. b. They walked through the forest. c. Paul worked all through the night. d. The bird flew in through the window.

“There” is often used to indicate place or position. For example: a. My new car is over there. b. He is there – in the garden. c. There are three of them on the roof.

“Threw” is the past tense of “throw”. For example: a. Paul threw the ball at me. b. She threw the chair at it.

As we saw last month, “they’re” is a contraction of “they are”. For example: a. Paul and John work here. They’re our colleagues. b. Petra and Jane are here. They’re talking in the dining room.

Exercise

ANSWERS ON PAGE 56

Choose the correct answers. 1. Nigel threw / through the apple at Paul. 2. Sam and Ben are here. There / They’re discussing the project. 3. My new bike is over there / they’re. 4. We think there / they’re is too much colour on the picture. 5. There are too / to many tables and not enough chairs. 6. He listened too / to the instructions. 7. They walked through / threw the forest.

14

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COVER FEATURE TRACK 10 SEVERAL ENGLISH ACCENTS 1

Don’t Look Back in Anger, by Oasis

Learn some examples of spoken English from this song. Notice the use of cos (because), ain’t (aren’t) and gonna (going to). So I start a revolution from my bed, ‘Cos you said the brains I had went to my head. Step outside, summertime’s in bloom, Stand up beside the fireplace, Take that look from off your face, You ain’t ever gonna burn my heart out.

2

Adventure of a Lifetime, by Coldplay

Find out about the use of conjunctions. In this song, like is used as a conjunction to mean as if (I feel like I’m alive…). …we are diamonds, Now I feel my heart beating, I feel my heart underneath my skin, And I feel my heart beating, Oh, you make me feel like I’m alive again, Alive again, oh you make me feel like I’m alive again.

8

Brit pop

songs to help you

Perfect, by One Direction Improve your knowledge of verbs in English. In this song, the verb tell is used to mean see, understand or realise, etc. (I could tell that…). 3

When I first saw you, From across the room, I could tell that you were curious, oh, yeah, Girl, I hope you’re sure, What you’re looking for, ‘Cause I’m not good at making promises,

4

Parklife, by Blur

Learn some useful verbs + prepositions. This song includes the use of the prepositional phrase think about: (and I think about leaving the house). I get up when I want except on Wednesdays, when I get rudely awakened by the dustman, [Parklife] I put my trousers on, have a cup of tea, and I think about leaving the house, [Parklife] I feed the pigeons, I sometimes feed the sparrows too, it gives me a sense of enormous well being, [Parklife] And then I'm happy for the rest of the day, safe in the knowledge there will always be a bit of my heart devoted to it. [Parklife]

22

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Find out how 8 Brit pop songs can really improve your English.

5

Ruby, by The Kaiser Chiefs

Learn some useful phrasal verbs. The phrasal verb find out appears in this song. It means to discover or learn: (finding out what…). Due to lack of interest, tomorrow is cancelled, Let the clocks be reset and the pendulums held, ‘Cause there’s nothing at all except the space in between, Finding out what you're called and repeating your name.

6

She Moves in her Own Way, by The Kooks

Learn some idioms in English. This song has lots of idioms, including pull someone’s strings, which means to control someone (you don’t pull my strings…). So now you pour your heart out, You're telling me you're far out, You're not about to lie down for your cause, But you don't pull my strings, 'Cos I'm a better man, Moving on to better things.

GLOSSARY 7

Just, by Radiohead

Learn some grammar from Radiohead. This song features the use of the present perfect continuous (have/has + been + verb -ing) to talk about an action that’s been continuing for a period of time up until now (it’s been hanging round…). Can’t get the stink off, It's been hanging round for days, Comes like a comet, Suckered you but not your friends, One day he’ll get to you, And teach you how to be a holy cow. You do it to yourself, you do…

8

Common People, by Pulp

Learn some slang. This song includes the use of the slang term loaded, which means rich. She came from Greece, she had a thirst for knowledge, She studied sculpture at Saint Martin's College, That's where I caught her eye, She told me that her dad was loaded, I said, in that case I'll have a rum and Coca-Cola, she said fine, And in thirty seconds time she said, ‘I want to live like common people…’

[There have been rumours that the mystery woman in the song is Danae Stratou, the wife of ex Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis.]

brains n intelligence to go to your head exp if something “goes to your head”, it makes you feel very important in bloom n a plant that is “in bloom” has flowers on it to beat vb when your heart is “beating”, it is making regular rhythmic movements to get rudely awakened exp if you “get rudely awakened”, someone wakes you up in a loud or aggressive manner a dustman n a person whose job is to collect the rubbish devoted to exp if you’re “devoted to” something, you like or love that thing very much due to exp because of to reset vb if you “reset” a clock, you change the time on it a pendulum n the “pendulum is a part of a clock with a long piece of metal with a weight at the end which swings from side to side in order to make the clock work to pour your heart out exp to tell someone your secret feelings far out exp slang a slang expression that means “good” to lie down for your cause exp to be prepared to die for your cause a stink n a very bad smell to hang around phr vb if a smell (for example) “hangs around” for a long time, it stays there for a long time sucker vb inform if someone “suckers” you, they trick you a thirst for exp if you have a “thirst for” something, you really want that thing to catch someone’s eye exp if you “catch someone’s eye”, they notice or see you

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23

VOCABULARY

VOCABULARY

The Police LEARN SOME MORE USEFUL WORDS AND EXPRESSIONS TO TALK ABOUT THE POLICE AND CRIME.

Suspect – someone accused of a crime.

to decide if someone is innocent or guilty.

Suspicious – a

Innocent – not guilty.

“suspicious-looking person” is someone who appears to be a criminal.

Police radio – a device

police use to communicate.

Police officer – a member of a police force. CCTV

(Closed circuit television) – a system of street video cameras, used for maintaining security.

Sniffer dog (sniff dog)

– a dog that is trained to find illegal drugs or explosives through smell.

Alibi – a legal excuse; an explanation of where you were at the time of a crime. Hold up – to rob a bank or

building, often using force or the threat of force.

Break in – to enter a place illegally. Arrest – to

take custody of a person because he / she is a suspect.

Court – the building

where legal processes take place to decide if someone is innocent or guilty.

Trial – a legal process 40

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Guilty – not innocent. Lawyer – a person who works in the legal system. A solicitor often deals with the paperwork, and a barrister represents people in court during trials. Community Service - a punitive

sentence that requires a convicted person to perform unpaid work for the community in lieu of imprisonment

Capital punishment - Punishment by death for a crime; death penalty.

Rob – to steal from a building or person. For example, “They robbed a bank. / They robbed a man in the street.” The noun is “robbery”. Steal – to

take something that isn’t yours. “Steal” is often used for things you can carry away. For example: a) They stole the jewellery. b) His wallet was stolen from the table. The noun is “theft”. Be careful! You cannot say, “He stole a bank. / They stole me.” In these cases, you need to use the verb “to rob”.

TRACK 15

being perfect

THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME EXPRESSIONS TO DESCRIBE THE ACT OF BEING PERFECT.

Be right up somebody’s alley / street

Fit like a glove (clothing)

GLOSSARY

an alley n a narrow street between buildings gloves n clothing for the hands a charm n a magic power a prayer n words you say to God – often asking for something

Work like a charm

BE PERFECT FOR SOMEONE. That film I saw last night is right up your alley.

TO FIT PERFECTLY. These new trousers fit like a glove.

TO WORK VERY WELL. This new washing powder works like a charm.

Be the answer to someone’s prayers

Be just the job / ticket

Be as good as new

TO BE THE ANSWER YOU WERE HOPING FOR. She gets everything done on time – she’s the answer to all our prayers.

Fit the bill

BE JUST WHAT YOU WERE LOOKING FOR. We need someone to help us with this and you seemed to be just the job.

Have somebody’s name written on it

TO BE PERFECT. She really fits the bill for this new job.

TO BE PERFECT FOR SOMEONE. This job has got your name written all over it – you’ll love it.

IF SOMETHING IS “AS GOOD AS NEW”, IT SEEMS TO BE NEW, EVEN THOUGH IT ISN’T. This car is second hand, but it’s as good as new.

Hit the mark

BE PERFECT; BE CORRECT. The way you’ve done this is perfect. It really hits the mark.

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43

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

TRACK 22

STONE IDIOMS

Kill two birds with one stone

TO MANAGE TO DO TWO THINGS AT THE SAME TIME. “I went back home for Christmas and saw my parents and my old school friends – I killed two birds with one stone.”

People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones

YOU SHOULDN’T CRITICISE PEOPLE FOR FAULTS THAT YOU HAVE TOO. “She’s always criticising our work, but hers is no better than ours. People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones, in my opinion.”

STONE IDIOMS

THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SERIES ON “STONE” IDIOMS.

Stone-cold

IF SOMETHING IS “STONE-COLD”, IT’S VERY COLD. “This food is stone-cold. I’ll have to heat it up!”

Sticks and stones may break my bones (but words will never hurt me)

THIS MEANS THAT THE NASTY / BAD THINGS THAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT YOU CAN’T HURT YOU. “They can write what they like about my restaurant. As they say, sticks and stones may break my bones, and all that.”

Stone sober (stone-cold sober)

Stone deaf

VERY DEAF, OR WITH VERY LITTLE ABILITY TO HEAR. “You’ll have to shout – he’s stone deaf.”

IF YOU’RE “STONE SOBER”, YOU HAVEN’T HAD ANY ALCOHOL. “I was stone-cold sober. I don’t know why they thought I was drunk.”

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49

TRACK 27 TRACK 26

Food and Drink THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME PHRASAL VERBS YOU CAN USE TO TALK ABOUT FOOD AND DRINK. Go off (food) If food “goes off”, it becomes bad.

Thaw out (frozen food) If frozen food “thaws out”, the ice melts.

“the food went off because we forgot to put it in the fridge.” Heat up To make warm.

“We need to thaw out the chicken out before we cook it.” Go with To be a good accompaniment to.

“Shall I heat this food up in the microwave?”

“This salad goes really well with this food.”

leave over if food is “left over”, that food remains after the rest has been eaten.

“We can make a soup with the meat that’s left over.”

Take away (food) To buy food from a restaurant in order to take it away so you can eat it at home.

“They ordered some Italian food to take away.”

Eat out / eat in Eat out = to eat at a restaurant; Eat in = to eat at home.

Live on / off To eat just one type of food.

“We’re thinking of eating out tonight. Do you want to come?”

“She lives on beans and nothing else. That can’t be good for you, can it?” For great private language classes, e-mail [email protected] / www.learnhotenglish.com /

53

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

USEFUL VOCABULARY

Audio files

PLACES OF INTEREST!

Download the MP3 audio files for this issue for FREE from our website: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

Learn the names of some places of interest. Then, read or listen to the article on the next page with some of these words in it.

Museum (a building with interesting objects in it)

Church (a building in which Christians worship)

Police station (a place where police officers work)

Parliament (a building where politicians make laws, etc.)

Border (an imaginary line between two countries)

Railway line (the metal lines that trains travel on)

Road junction (where two roads cross)

Military base (an area where soldiers live)

Cemetery (a place where people are buried)

Airport (a place where you go to travel by plane)

Bus station (a place where you can take a bus to your destination)

Hospital (a building where you go if you’re sick or ill)

Post office (a place where you can buy stamps, send letters, etc.)

Train station (a place where you can catch a train)

Court (a building where there are trials and legal cases)

Bank (a place where you deposit or withdraw money)

Petrol station (a place where you can get petrol for your car)

Library (a place where you can borrow books)

Car park (a place to leave your car)

Park (a place with grass and tress where you can walk, play, do sport, etc.)

School (a place where children learn)

Shopping mall (a large building with many shops in it)

Zoo (a place where animals are kept)

Synagogue (a building in which Jewish people worship)

Mosque (a building in which Muslims worship)

4

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Blog!

SPOOKY WORDS

Free lessons to improve your English, and articles on learning English! blog.learnhotenglish.com

This month we’re looking at some spooky words.

Witch

Ghost

Skeleton

Blood

Owl

Rat

Bat

Black cat

Werewolf

Vampire

Tomb

Cemetery

Corpse

Gravestone (tombstone)

Skull

Zombie

Spider’s web (cobweb)

Broom

Mausoleum

Mummy

Ogre

Troll

Devil (demon)

Cauldron

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TRACK 13: ENGLISHMAN & US WOMAN

TRAVEL ENGLISH

ICE HOCKEY

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By Ben Nicoll

Learn over 15 useful words and expressions for when you go to an ice hockey game. Ice hockey is Canada’s official national winter sport. However, most teams in the world’s best league, the NHL (the National Hockey League), are based in America. Ice hockey is played with six players on each side, including the goalie. Going to a hockey game is unlike attending any other sporting event: it’s fast-paced, exciting and most of all loud. Here are some words to learn for when you go to watch the fastest game in the world.

Dialogue At the ice hockey stadium

Jessica has taken her friend, who’s visiting the United States for the first time, to an ice hockey game. J=Jessica G=Greg

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

1 Puck

– tthe small black disk that the game is played with 2 Stick – a long thin object which players use to hit the puck 3 Net – (also called the goal) – the object players try to shoot the puck into 4 Rink – the semi-circular area covered in ice where the game is played 5 Period – a 20-minute time period; a typical game consists of three periods 6 Center ice – the circle in the middle of the rink where every period starts

18

7 Goalie

– the player defending each team’s net 8 Shot – when a player hits the puck towards the net with the intention of scoring 9 Offside – when a player crosses the opposing team’s blue line before the puck does; play stops and there is a face-off 10 Blue line – the blue line on the ice that distinguishes a team’s defensive zone, or where their goalie is located 11 Red line – the red line at

the center of the ice which splits the rink into two 12 Penalty – when a player is given a “penalty”, he/she must sit in the penalty box for two minutes while his team has to play with one less player 13 Penalty box – the little room on the side of the rink in which players must sit if they’re given a penalty 14 Bench – where members of a team who aren’t currently playing sit 15 Intermission – the time between periods

J: So, how do you like it? Exciting right? G: Yeah, but why does that team have one fewer (1) than the other? J: Well, that team just received , which means a (2) one of their players has to sit out for two minutes. G: Oh, right, does that happen a lot? J: Usually a few times per (3) , but it can happen any number of times depending on who is playing. G: I see... whoa! There’s a (4) ! Is that legal? J: Kind of, the only penalty will be time in the (5) for each player. G: Wow! Hockey’s pretty (6) ! J: Yeah, it can be. You hungry? G: Yeah! What can you get to eat here? J: Mostly burgers and (7) , but I think I’m going to get some (8) . Want any? G: Definitely! J: Great, we’ll go get some at the ! end of this (9)

VIDEO There’s one song every hockey fan should know: The Good Old Hockey Game. Teams often play it during commercial breaks. Search YouTube for “Hockey Song - Good Old Hockey Game”.

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TRACK 14: SCOTSWOMAN & US WOMAN

11 BOOKS TO IMPROVE YOUR ENGLISH!

Reading is a great way to learn a language. Here are 11 books to inspire you to read more… and really improve your English!

1

Anna Karenina (1875), by Leo Tolstoy

2

First lines: “All happy families are alike;

each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.”

Anna, a married Russian aristocrat, is tempted to have an affair with the wealthy Count Vronsky. She thinks about this carefully before making a decision, and then faces the consequences of her actions. In his famous novel, Tolstoy explores ideas about family, gender and morality. 3 Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949), by George Orwell First lines: “It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.”

Winston Smith lives in a futuristic dystopian society. He’s watched over by Big Brother, and could be arrested by the Thought Police if he does anything that goes against his country’s ruling party. After secretly deciding to live and think for himself, Winston learns that freedom has a price.

Wendy Darling and her two brothers meet Peter Pan, a boy who never grew up. He takes them to his home in Neverland, where they meet Captain Hook, the Lost Boys and other magical creatures. Peter and the Lost Boys want Wendy to stay in Neverland and become their mother, but Wendy isn’t so sure. 4 The Catcher In The Rye (1951), by J.D Salinger

First lines: “If you really want to hear

about it, the first thing you’ll probably want to know is where I was born, and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all before they had me, and all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I don’t feel like going into it, if you want to know the truth.” Holden Caulifield has been expelled from boarding school. Before returning home, he spends three days in New York City, getting into trouble and going on dates.

5 Metamorphosis (1915), by Franz Kafka First lines: “As Gregor Samsa awoke one morning from uneasy dreams, he found himself transformed in his bed into a monstrous vermin.”

Salesman Gregor Samsa wakes up to find that he’s an insectlike creature. Horrified by his appearance, his family tries to take care of him. Meanwhile, Gregor sees the effects that his change has on the people around him.

24

Peter Pan (1911), by J.M. Barrie

First lines: “All children, except one, grow up.”

6 Love in the Time of Cholera (1985), by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

First lines: “It was inevitable: the scent of

bitter almonds always reminded him of the fate of unrequited love.”

Set in the late 1800s and early 1900s, Florentino and Fermina fall in love at a young age, but are soon separated by Fermina’s father, who disapproves of their relationship. Fermina eventually marries a man who can offer her financial security. But even after the marriage, the relationship between Florentino and Fermina continues to play a role in their lives.

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GRADED READERS

7 Jane Eyre (1847), by Charlotte Brontë First lines: “There was no possibility of taking a walk that day.”

An orphaned but strong-willed woman, Jane, becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall. She gradually begins to fall in love with the master of the house, Mr Rochester. However, she finds out that he’s already married. Horrified, she leaves the house, becomes sick and almost dies.

8 The Stranger (1946), by Albert Camus First lines: “Mother died today. Or maybe, yesterday; I can’t be sure.”

Despite the recent death of his mother, Mersault is emotionally indifferent and quickly moves on with his life. Even after committing a murder, he feels no remorse. Throughout the novel, he considers the meaninglessness of his own existence and life in general. 10 The Old Man And The Sea (1952), by Ernest Hemingway First lines: “He was an old man who fished alone in a skiff in the Gulf Stream and he had gone eightyfour days now without taking a fish.”

Jude the Obscure (1895), by Thomas Hardy First lines: “The schoolmaster was leaving the village, and everybody seemed sorry.” 9

Jude gets married, but it’s short lived. Soon after, he meets his cousin, Sue, and falls in love with her. She marries someone else but eventually comes to realise that she loves Jude. The two characters struggle with relationships, religion and sexuality in this novel set in 19th century England.

Santiago, an elderly fisherman, has not caught a fish in over two months. He finally catches a large marlin, but is pulled out to sea by the creature. As he continually fends off hungry sharks, he struggles to make it home safely.

11 Pride and Prejudice (1813), by Jane Austen

First lines: “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man

in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”

Mrs Bennet wants her five daughters to marry rich men to ensure the family’s future happiness and financial security. A group of wealthy men come to town and begin courting the sisters. Elizabeth Bennet meets the proud Mr. Darcy and begins to question the prejudices she has about the people around her. So, which book are you going to read to improve your English?

Graded readers are also great. They’re simplified versions of the books that make it easier for you to understand them. You can find graded readers for many of the books on this page.

GLOSSARY an affair n a relationship with someone who isn’t your husband, wife, partner, etc. gender n a person’s “gender” is the fact that they’re a man or woman morality n the belief that some behaviour is right and acceptable, and that other types of behaviour are bad and wrong to grow up phr vb to become an adult a dystopian society n an imaginary place in which the conditions are really bad the Thought Police n an organisation that checks what people are thinking lousy adj very bad crap n informal very bad to go into phr vb if you “go into” a topic, you talk about it and give details about it a boarding school n a school where the children sleep unrequited love n if there’s “unrequited love”, A loves B but B doesn’t love A to fall in love exp to start to love someone very much to disapprove vb if you “disapprove” of something, you don’t like that thing orphaned exp if a child has been “orphaned”, his/her parents have died strong-willed adj someone who is “strong-willed” always tries to get or do what they want a governess n a woman who is employed by a family to live with them and educate their children indifferent adj someone who is “indifferent” has a complete lack of interest in anything to move on phr vb if you “move on” with your life, you forget about the past and focus on the future remorse n a strong feeling of sadness about something that you have done short-lived adj something “short-lived” doesn’t happen for a long time to struggle vb if you “struggle” to do something, you try hard to do it as it’s very difficult a skiff n a small, light boat for one person a marlin n a large fish that lives in the sea to fend off phr vb if you “fend off” something, you try to stop it from attacking you a prejudice n if you have a “prejudice” against certain people, you dislike them

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25

VOCABULARY CLINIC

HORROR WORDS! 1

Eerie

2

Howl

5

When a wolf “howls”, it makes a long, loud sound. “Somewhere in the forest, a wolf was howling at the moon.” 7

Gory

A “gory” situation involves a lot of blood, people dying in a horrible way, etc. “The film was full of gory death scenes that I couldn’t watch.”

Something “eerie” is strange and frightening, and makes you feel nervous. “I walked down the eerie dark path.” 4

Here are some horror words for you to learn.

Frightened / afraid

Moonlit

Something that is “moonlit” has the light of the moon on it. “It was a beautiful moonlit night.” 8

Spine-chilling

3

Creepy

Something or someone who is “creepy” makes you feel nervous or frightened. “There were certain rooms in the mansion that were really creepy at night.” 6

Nightmare

A very frightening dream. “All the victims still suffer nightmares 10 years after the incident.” 9

Spooky

If you’re “frightened” of something, you’re worried about it. “He was too frightened to tell his family what had happened.”

A “spinechilling” story or film makes you feel very frightened. “It was a spinechilling film that I couldn’t bear to watch on my own.”

A place that is “spooky” is frightening. “The whole house had a spooky atmosphere to it.”

10 Evil

11 Scream

12 Haunted

A powerful force that some people believe exists, and which causes wicked and bad things to happen. “There has always been a conflict between good and evil in her films.”

When someone “screams”, they make a very loud, high-pitched sound, often because they’re frightened or in pain. “There was a terrible scream from deep inside the forest.”

A “haunted” house is one where ghosts live, apparently. “We were too frightened to go inside the haunted house.”

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USEFUL IDIOMS

Over Lea 15 visit: 0 usefu rn more prod l idiom ! Get ucts .lear s + aud an idiom nhot io fil s engl es. Fo booklet ish.c ! om/ r more i idiom nform s-bo okletation, -2

CREEPY IDIOMS Here are some creepy idioms for you. 1

Like a bat out of hell

2

If someone leaves a place “like a bat out of hell”, they go very quickly. “When he saw the ghost, he ran out of the room like a bat out of hell.” 4

Be scared stiff

If someone is “scared stiff”, they’re so frightened they can’t move. “He was scared stiff when the supposedly dead man started moaning.” 7

Shake like a leaf

10 Not a cat in hell’s chance

If something “sends shivers down your spine”, it makes you feel frightened. “The sound of his screams sent shivers down my spine.” 5 Give someone the creeps

6 Have a skeleton in the closet / cupboard

If something “gives you the creeps”, it makes you feel frightened or nervous. “That old neighbour of yours gives me the creeps. There’s something not quite right about him.”

Someone with a “skeleton in the closet” has an embarrassing secret. “Our great, great grandfather was sent to prison – that’s our family’s skeleton in the closet.”

In cold blood

If someone kills another person “in cold blood”, they do it deliberately and without emotions, mercy, etc. “They killed their former friend in cold blood.” 11 A ghost town

If there’s “not a cat in hell’s chance” of something happening, there’s absolutely no possibility that it will ever happen. “We hadn’t a cat in hell’s chance of rescuing our possessions from the fire.”

3 Be as pale as a ghost / be as pale as death

If someone is “as pale as a ghost”, their face is very white. “She turned as pale as a ghost when we told her how they’d died.”

8

If someone is “shaking like a leaf”, they’re trembling (they’re making quick, involuntary movements), often because they’re very frightened. “He was shaking like a leaf when he realised we were trapped inside the haunted house.”

Send shivers down your spine

A town that has been abandoned and is no longer inhabited. “All the young people have left our village and it’s like a ghost town now.”

9

A night owl

Someone who is a “night owl” is active at night. “I’m a night owl: I do my best work in the evenings and at night.” 12 A Jekyll and Hyde personality

Someone with a “Jekyll and Hyde personality” has two sides to their personality: one good and one evil. “He’s got a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde personality: one minute he’s really nice, the next minute he’s like a monster.”

Learn more! Get an idioms booklet! 300 useful idioms + audio files. For more information, visit: www.learnhotenglish.com /

31

PHRASAL VERBS

Audio files

HORROR & MYSTERY!

Download the MP3 audio files for this issue for FREE from our website: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

Answers on page 44

Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

wolves behind hands brother corridor frog ghosts forest

1

Believe in

If you “believe in” something or somebody, you think they exist. “I’m not sure whether I believe in , but I think I saw one once.”

3

Look out

If you tell someone to “look out”, you’re telling them about a possible danger. “Look out! There’s a werewolf you!”

5

Wind up

If you “wind someone up”, you tell them something that isn’t true in order to play a joke on them. “We wound up his younger by telling him that there was a ghost in the cellar.”

7

2

Freak out

If someone “freaks out”, they get frightened, angry or upset. “She freaked out when she saw the vampire in the .”

4

Turn into

If someone “turns into” another thing, they become that thing. “He drank the magic potion and turned into a .”

6

Run away

If you “run away”, you leave a place running, often because you’re frightened. “She ran away when she heard the sound of the howling.”

Jump out

If you “jump out” on someone, you suddenly appear in front of them, often in order to frighten them. “We jumped out on him as he was walking along the dark .”

8

Huddle up

If you “huddle up”, you move closer to other people, often because you’re cold or frightened. “We were terrified in the haunted house so we held and huddled up together.”

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41

USEFUL VOCABULARY

Audio files

Download the MP3 audio files for this issue for FREE from our website: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

UNUSUAL “FASHION” VOCABULARY Here’s some fashion vocabulary for you to learn. “Fashion is about dressing according to what’s fashionable. Style is more about being yourself.”

Glasses

Socks

Sandals

Baseball cap

Slippers

Football shirt

Hooded top

Tracksuit

Oversized sunglasses

Skinny jeans

Cargo shorts

Harem pants

Crop top

Gladiator sandals

Bum-bag (“fanny pack” in US English)

Jumpsuit

Saggy jeans

Gold necklace

Ugg boots

Mankini

Thong

4

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WORD BOOSTER

Free lessons to improve your English, and articles on learning English! blog.learnhotenglish.com

Learn Hot English

Blog!

PREPOSITIONS OF PLACE Here are 16 really useful prepositions of place.

1

2 The owl is in the box.

5

3 The owl is on the box.

6 The owl is in front of the box.

9

13 The owl is by the tree.

The owl is under the box.

7 The owl is next to the box.

10 The owl is above the box.

4

The blue owl is far from the green owl.

14 The owl is beside the box.

The owl is behind the box.

8 The blue owl is near the green owl.

11 The owl is between two boxes.

15 The blue owl is among some other owls.

The blue owl is below the green owl.

12 The blue owl is opposite the green one.

16 The boxes are around the owl.

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9

Objective: To improve your range of vocabulary and your listening skills.

Audio files

Think about it! When was the last time you arranged to meet someone? Who was it? Why did you need to meet them? What time did you meet? Where did you meet? What did you talk about? When was the last time you had to reschedule a meeting? Why did you have to reschedule it? What was the original time or date? What was the new one?

Download the MP3 audio files for this issue for FREE from our website: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

TRACK 8: ENGLISHMAN & US WOMAN

PRACTICAL ENGLISH

HOW TO ARRANGE A MEETING Learn how to arrange a meeting in English.

I’M AFRAID I’VE GOT NO TIME FOR A MEETING!

Arranging a meeting Could we meet at 10 to discuss the new project? Are you available at 1pm on Friday? Are you free on Friday morning? How’s Tuesday afternoon looking for you? What’s your schedule like on Tuesday morning? Are you busy on Thursday morning? When would be convenient for you? How about meeting on Tuesday at 3pm? Does Monday afternoon at 6pm sound good to you? Would Thursday at 4pm work for you? Will you be able to make it to the meeting at 5pm?

Saying no I’m afraid I won’t be able to make it at that time. I’m sorry but I’m really busy this week. I’m sorry but I’m going to be busy all day on Friday. I’m afraid I’ve got an early-morning meeting on Thursday. I’m sorry but I’m all tied up on Monday.

Offering an alternative Could we meet on Wednesday at 3pm instead? If you don’t mind, I’d rather meet up sometime next week. I could possibly re-arrange my three o’clock appointment. I may be able to re-schedule my Tuesday lunch.

Confirming information That’s great! That’s perfect! OK, I’ll see you then. That would suit me just fine. I’ll see you on Tuesday 4th May at 11am. Answers on page 44

1

Listening I

You’re going to listen to a conversation between two colleagues at work. They’re trying to arrange a time for a meeting. Listen once. Which day do they eventually decide to meet on? 2

Listening I

Listen again. Then, answer the questions. 1. What’s Oliver doing on Thursday? 2. What’s Megan doing on Friday afternoon? 3. Why can’t Oliver meet on Friday morning? 4. What’s Oliver doing on Monday morning? 5. When do they finally agree to meet? 6. Why might it be difficult for Megan?

Dialogue: Arranging a meeting Oliver: Oliver speaking. Megan: Oh, hi, Oliver, it’s Megan. Oliver: Hi, Megan. How’s it going? Megan: Not too bad, thanks. Look, I’m trying to find time for a meeting this week. Are you free on Thursday? Oliver: Erm, let me just check. No, sorry I’ve got a sales conference to go to all day on Thursday. Megan: Erm, how about Friday afternoon? Are you free any time then? Oliver: Yes, that should be OK. How about 4:30? Megan: Oh, no, wait a minute. I forgot I have a meeting at 4pm. What’s Friday morning looking like for you? Could you make it at 11am, for example? Oliver: Friday mornings are never good for me. Could we meet up sometime next week?

Megan: OK. How about Monday morning? Oliver: Erm, let me see. Oh, no, I’m busy on Monday morning. I’ve got an appointment with a client that could go on all morning. What about Tuesday afternoon? I haven’t got anything pencilled in for the afternoon. Does 4pm sound all right to you? Megan: OK, I had arranged to meet a work colleague, but it isn’t that urgent so I can probably reschedule it. So, let’s say Tuesday afternoon at 4pm, but I’ll need to confirm that first, but I don’t think it should be a problem. Oliver: OK. Perfect. Just send me an e-mail to confirm and I’ll write it into my diary. Megan: OK. Will do. Bye. Oliver: Bye.

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13

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TRACK 13: ENGLISHMAN & US WOMAN

TRAVEL ENGLISH

Lear 40 to n over 50 Ove pic area 0 usefu Morer 400 im s coverinl words a a n For m than 30 dges to he g a wide d expres ran lp sio ia ore in form logues soyou learn ge of typ ns for tra ic ation v t , visi you can h he words al situati elling ab t: ww o road ear t a n d . h e ns. w.le arnh e langua xpressio ge in ns. oten actio glish n. .com /sho p 

VISITING SOMEONE’S HOUSE

Learn over 15 useful words and expressions to use when you visit someone’s house. Useful words

Useful expressions Just arrived

Living room

Kitchen

Hall

Bathroom

Bedroom

Dining room

Toilet

Drive

Front garden

Garden (back garden)

Sofa

Rug

Carpet

18

Coat stand

Umbrella stand

You say... Sorry I’m late. The traffic was terrible. These (flowers) are for you. / Here’s a little something for you. What a lovely house! How long have you been living here? They say... Did you get the directions I sent you? Here, let me take your coat. I could have picked you up from the station. Come in and make yourself at home.

Note If you’re invited to a lunch or dinner, it’s typical to bring something with you such as a bottle of wine, a box of chocolates, some flowers, etc.

Dialogue: the visit Maria has arrived at Peter’s house for lunch. Complete the dialogue with correct words.

Jack: [The doorbell rings.] Maria. At last! We were getting worried. Maria: Hi, sorry I’m late. Jack: Did you get the (1) I sent? Maria: Yes, thanks, but I came by train in the end, and then walked from the (2) . Jack: You should have told me – I would have come to pick you up. Drinks Maria: Oh, well, next time! They say... Jack: Of course. Now, let me take Can I get you anything . And your (3) to drink? come in. Would you like a cup Maria: Thanks! [looking around] of tea? I’ve just put the Nice garden. kettle on. Jack: Thanks! It’s a lot of work! Milk and sugar? Maria: I can imagine. You say... Jack: [Two children come rushing I’ll have a cup of tea, out.] Oh, these are my . This is please. (4) Just a bit of milk, Ben, he’s 8. Say hi. please. Ben: Hi. I’ll have whatever Jack: And this is Lily, she’s 10. you’re having. Lily: Pleased to meet you. Maria: Pleased to meet you. Leaving [to Jack] They’re lovely. Jack: They aren’t always this You say... Do you know what time polite. the last train leaves? Maria: Oh, I got you this. Can I get a taxi from [She hands him some here? chocolates.] Jack: Oh, thanks so much. It’s late. I think we should get going. Maria: [walking into the hall] Thank you for such a . I love the (5) lovely evening. Jack: Thanks. I got it in India. They say... So, can I get you anything You must come again to drink? I was just about to on. sometime. put the (6) Can I give you a lift Maria: Oh, yes, I’d love a cup of , please. anywhere? (7) Do come again! Jack: Milk and sugar?

Maria: Just milk, please. Jack: Er, let me show you around. Maria: Yes, that would be nice. Jack: Well, this is the . (8) Maria: Very cosy. Is that you in the photo? Jack: Yes, but I was a bit younger then. And through here is . Small, the (9) but functional. Maria: That smells delicious. What is it? Jack: Oh, just a little something I’m preparing for . (10) Maria: Exciting! Jack: Anyway, come on upstairs, I’ll show you the bedrooms. Daisy will be back a bit later. She’s in her karate class. Now, tell me, what have you... [fades out]

GLOSSARY a little something n a little present directions n notes on how to arrive at a place to pick up phr vb to collect someone by car from the train station, etc. make yourself at home exp make yourself comfortable a kettle n a metal device for boiling water so you can make tea, coffee, etc. to show around phr vb if someone “shows you around”, they show you the rooms in the house

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HOW TO LEARN DIFFICULT WORDS IN ENGLISH!

What do you do if you’re having problems learning a word? Next time, you might want to try using some mnemonics.

S

ome words are easier to learn than others. For example, there are thousands of cognates in English, such as the word “education”, which is almost identical in French (“éducation”) and Spanish (“educación”). In other cases, you can guess the meaning of words through the context. However, some words are just really hard to learn as they just don’t seem to have any relation to

any other words you know. So, what can you do? Simple! Use mnemonics! Mnemonics are devices to help you remember things. There are a variety of them, including rhymes, spelling acronyms and sentence mnemonics. Visual mnemonics with pictures or images are really good for learning words. In order to create your own visual mnemonic, you need to think about

the word. What does it sound like? What does it make you think of? What does it rhyme with? Once you’ve established this, you can create an image that captures the word in your mind. And in order for this to work, your images need to be clear, distinct, strong and, if possible, a little bit crazy. Finally, write a sentence with your new word to help you remember it. We asked a few people for their examples of visual mnemonics. YOU SAY “SNAIL”, I SAY “ESCARGOT”.

1 I was having difficulties with the French word “escargot”, which means “snail”. So, I put together an image of an enormous snail travelling on a cargo ship. [Frank, Australia]

2 I used “oreos” to help me learn the Spanish word “orejas” (which means “ears”). I created a picture of a girl with oreos on her ears. It really helped me. [Abigail, USA]

ONLINE FLASHCARD SOLUTIONS

“The snail went to New York by cargo ship.” 3 I kept forgetting the word for “trousers” in German, which is “Hose”. So, I came up with a picture of some really dirty trousers that were being cleaned with a garden hose. [Sophie, Scotland]

“I cleaned my dirty trousers with a garden hose.”

“She’s got oreos for ears.”

4 I was learning Norwegian and was having problems with the word “mulighet”, which means “opportunity, capability, chance, possibility”, etc. So, I came up with an image using a “mule” because this word sounds a bit like a part of the word I wanted to learn.” [Pete, England]

“The mule is capable of carrying a heavy load.”

5 I’ve always found the word “abduct” hard to remember. So, I put together an image of a pirate abducting a duck, because “abduct” sounds a bit like duck. [David, Spain]

One good way of testing yourself with your mnemonics is to use flashcards. There are lots of websites that have flashcard programs that are great for learning. One of these is Anki (http:// ankisrs.net). It shows you one side of the flashcard and you have to guess what’s on the other side. It also uses “spaced repetition”. For example, if you find one of the cards easy, it won’t ask you again for a while. However, if you found it hard, it’ll ask you again the following day. This program can really help you learn things. Another great site is memrise (www.memrise.com).

GLOSSARY

“The pirate abducted the duck.”

a mnemonic n a device or technique for learning or remembering something a cognate n a word that has the same origin or root in several languages. For example, “garden” (English), “jardin” (French) and "jardín" (Spanish) are all cognates a context n the context of a word or sentence consists of the topic in general, and the words or sentences before and after it an acronym n a word composed of the first letters of the words in a phrase. For example, LOL = laughing out loud

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19

COVER FEATURE

TRACK 14: ENGLISHMAN & IRISHMAN

12 important and

proverbs sayings! Every culture has its sayings and proverbs – phrases that offer little pieces of advice or wisdom. Here are some common ones from English-speaking countries. Read over the proverbs and see if you can guess the meaning. Then, listen to the article to check your answers. Notice how in many cases we don’t say the entire proverb – just a part of it.

1

2

“There’s no such thing as a free lunch.” Nothing in life is free – there’s always a condition or hidden cost. A Hey, they’re offering a free iPad to everyone who turns up. B Yeah, but then you probably have to sign up for their mobile network in order to get it. There’s no such thing as a free lunch!

3

“People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.” Don’t criticise other people if you aren’t perfect yourself. A That’s the third time she’s arrived late for the meeting! B Yeah, but you aren’t the most punctual person in the world. As they say, people in glass houses...

4

“Good things come to those who wait.”

“Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” Don’t depend on just one thing; don’t put all your money into one investment because you could lose it all. A I was thinking about investing my savings in this new tech company. B I wouldn’t put all my eggs in one basket if I were you.

Be patient and something good will happen to you. A Are we there yet? We’ve been in the car for ages! B Only twenty minutes more. The view is worth it, I promise. Good things come to those who wait.

5

6

“Two heads are better than one.”

“Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”

When people work in a team, they can achieve better results. A Can you help me with this? I just can’t work it out. B Of course. You know what they say – two heads are better than one.

24

You start to love people or places more when you’re away from them. A So, do you miss your family much? B Yes, especially as I don’t see them so often! Absence really does make the heart grow fonder.

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COVER FEATURE

Two heads are better than one

7

8

“You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.”

“Too many cooks spoil the broth.”

You can try to help someone, but they won’t always take your advice. A I’ve told him a hundred times about doing that course, but he just won’t listen. B Stop fretting over it. You can lead a horse to water...

9

When there are too many people in charge of something the results won’t be good. A I don’t know how we’re ever going to get this done in time with all these people here. B Yes, too many cooks…

10

“Take care of the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves.” If you’re careful with small amounts of money, those small amounts will soon grow into bigger amounts. A Why do you bother with all those supermarket coupons? B Every bit counts. Remember what they say, if you take care of the pennies...

11

“If at first you don’t succeed, try and try again.” Don’t give up if you fail the first time. Just keep trying and you’ll succeed in the end. A I give up. I just can’t do it. B Remember what they say, if at first you don’t succeed...

12

“If you want something done right, do it yourself.” “Honesty is the best policy.” The best thing is to tell the truth. A I don’t know whether I should tell her what I really think of her boyfriend. B I’ve always found that honesty is the best policy.

Don’t trust other people to do something important for you – the best thing is to do it yourself. A I’m sorry but I never had time to write up that proposal, and I think I’ve lost the notes you gave me. B Are you serious? If you want something done right... For company classes or private tuition, contact: [email protected] / www.learnhotenglish.com /

25

VOCABULARY CLINIC

NEGOTIATING

Here are some useful words and expressions for talking about negotiating.

Quote / quotation

Win-win

An estimated price. “Could you give us a quote for 300 of the cameras, please?”

A “win-win” situation is one in which both parties benefit. “It was a win-win situation as we both got what we wanted, more or less.”

Proposal

Counter proposal / counter offer

Objective

A plan or idea. “We listened to their proposal, then went off to discuss it.”

An offer in response to the first proposal. “We put forward a counter proposal because we thought their initial offer was too low.”

A goal or something you’re trying to achieve or receive. “I think our primary objective should be to get them to put in an order for some of our products– however small it is.”

Flexible

Commitment

Condition

Someone who is “flexible” is open or willing to change. “I think we need to be a bit more flexible or they’ll walk out.”

If you make a “commitment” to do something, you promise to do that thing. “We made a commitment to deliver the product before the 20th of every month.”

Something which must happen in order for something else to be possible. “It sounds good in principle, but there are a number of conditions we’d like to include in the contract.”

Compensate

Haggle

Compromise

If you “haggle” over the price of something, you argue about it constantly. “We’ve been haggling over costs for weeks. I think we need to think about dropping our price a bit.”

If you reach a “compromise” with the other party, you both accept something different to what you’d originally wanted. “They wanted $40,000 and we could only pay $30,000 so we reached a compromise and agreed on $35,000.”

If you “compensate” someone for something bad or wrong, you do something to make the situation better. “If you accept the changes, we’ll compensate you by paying you overtime.”

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29

Tr

Engavel lish

CROSSWORD

TRAVEL

Learn lots of useful “travel” words and expressions by doing this

42

Learn lots of useful “travel” words and expressions by doing this crossword.

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Across

Down

1. A type of illness you get when you travel on a boat. 3. A holiday that includes everything: holiday the flight, hotel, meals, etc. = a 4. A place where you stay. It has rooms, restaurants, a gym, a swimming pool, etc. 6. A bag you carry on your back when you travel somewhere. 8. The area where you show your boarding pass and get  . on the plane = the boarding 9. A means of transport that flies in the air. 12. The place where you go to catch a plane. 14. A journey that a business person goes on to another . city or country = a business 16. A large bag you use to carry all your things. You often have to check it in as it's too big to take as hand-luggage. 21. When a plane does this, it comes to the ground in a controlled manner. 22. A shop where you can buy holidays = (also, a “travel agent’s”) a travel 25. If this has happened, your plane/train, etc. leaves later than planned. 26. If you do this, you get on a plane. 27. An object you wear to protect your eyes when the sun is bright. 28. A place with hotels, restaurants, etc. where people spend their holidays:  . a beach

2. The rate at which you can buy a currency = the rate. 5. A means of transport that travels on tracks. 7. A document you need to travel abroad. It has a photo of you in it. 10. A large room in an airport where you can sit before getting on the plane = the departure . . 11. A trip by car, train, etc. = a train 13. Someone who shows tourists around a place. They . explain its history, architecture, etc. = a tour 15. A type of hotel that offers you a bed with breakfast . included = a Bed and 17. If this has happened, your plane/train, etc. doesn’t leave or go anywhere. 18. Open shoes you wear when it’s hot. 19. A little bag for your toothbrush, deodorant, etc. 20. An electronic device for taking photos. 23. The place in an airport where they check your bags for drugs, weapons, etc. 24. An official document or a stamp in your passport which allows you to enter or leave a particular country.

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PHRASAL VERBS

CHATTING ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

saw tragic job offer girlfriend seen places heard film

1

2

End up If you “end up” in a certain place, you go there eventually. “I heard that Georgia ended up in Canada, of all .”

3

Put on If you “put on” weight, you become fatter or heavier. “Bill has put on a bit of weight since I last him.”

4

Go out

Turn down

If two people are “going out”, they’re in a relationship. “I’ve that Ben and Lauren are going out.”

If you “turn down” an offer, you don’t accept it. “Did you hear? Sophie turned down the in Chicago.”

5

6

Make of If you don’t know what to “make of” something, you don’t know what to think of it. “Have you seen that that Ellis is in? I’m not quite sure what to make of it.”

7

Move in If you “move in” with someone, you start living with them. The opposite is “move out”. “Greg has moved in with his , at last.”

8

Break up / split up

Find out

If two people in a relationship “break up”, they stop the relationship. “Madison and Finley broke up after six years together. It’s !”

If you “find out” information, you discover it or learn about it. “Did you ever find out what happened to Zoe? I haven’t or heard from her for ages.”

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41

Objective To improve your listening skills. TRACK 21: ENGLISHMAN & IRISHMAN

Think about it When was the last time you said goodbye to someone? Where were you? Who was the other person? When were you going to see them next? What expressions did you use? How often do you see this person?

SLANG CONVERSATION

Learn Hot English

Blog!

Free lessons to improve your English, and articles on learning English! blog.learnhotenglish.com

SAYING GOODBYE You’re going to listen to a conversation between two friends: Pete and Greg. Listen once. Does Pete have another drink with his friend in the end? Then, listen again and try to guess the meaning of the following slang expressions (also marked in bold in the text). Write out a version of them in Standard English: Slang expression 1

make a move

2

be up

3

at the crack of dawn

4

I haven’t got a clue

5

nice one

6

it’s really screwed up my weekend

7

banger

8

I really must get going

9

in a bit of a huff

10

to shoot off

11

see you around

12

a game

13

a piece of cake

14

no sweat

15

likewise

16

don’t be a stranger

17

catch you later

18

do you fancy...

Standard version

Warning

Many of the words and expressions from this section are used in informal situations. So, be careful how you use them yourself!

Dialogue Pete: Well, I’d better make a move. I’ve got to be up at the crack of dawn. Greg: Why’s that? Pete: I’ve got a meeting first thing. I’m supposed to have read through a 100page report beforehand, but I haven’t got a clue what it’s about. Greg: Nice one! Pete: They gave it to me last thing on Friday afternoon – it’s really screwed up my weekend. Greg: I hate it when they do that. Pete: Yeah, well, anyway. It was nice talking to you. Greg: Yes, we must do it again sometime. Pete: Of course! Greg: So, erm, drive carefully. Pete: I will. Bye…

36

SEE YOU LATER!

Greg: … are you still driving that old banger of yours? Pete: The VW? Yes. Anyway, I really must get going. Bye! Greg: Oh, if you see Paul, could you say hi from me. Pete: I will. Bye. Greg: …when did you last see him? Pete: Well, I haven’t seen him in a while now. Greg: Last time I spoke to him he was in a bit of a huff. Apparently… Pete: …look, I’m sorry but I’ve really got to shoot off. Greg: OK. So, see you around. Pete: Yeah, bye. Greg: Have a good game on Sunday. Pete: Thanks.

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Greg: I might come and watch. Pete: Oh, right. Great. [getting further away] Greg: It’ll be a piece of cake, I should imagine. Pete: I hope so. Greg: So, thanks again for all your help. Pete: No sweat. Greg: It was good seeing you. Pete: Likewise. Greg: Keep in touch! Pete: I will. Greg: Don’t be a stranger. Pete: I won’t. Greg: Catch you later! Pete: Bye! [from afar] Greg: Hey, do you fancy another drink? Pete: No, thanks, BYYYYYE.

USEFUL IDIOMS

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COUNTRIES

Here are some idioms for you to learn. Some people may find some of these idioms nationalities, etc. So, we recommend that you don't actually use them. However, they are very useful to learn as people often use them in speech and writing.

Go Dutch

Indian file / single file

If you "go Dutch" in a restaurant, you each pay for half (50% each) of the total cost of the meal. “I offered to pay for the meal, but she insisted that we go Dutch.”

If people walk in “Indian file”, they walk in a line, with one person behind the other. “They walked through the jungle in Indian file.”

Young Turk

It’s all Greek to me

A young person in a company, team or organisation who is rebellious and difficult to control. “The party leadership were facing a revolt from the Young Turks, who were demanding changes to the system of voting.”

If something is “all Greek to you”, it’s really difficult to understand it. “Did you hear the president’s speech? I didn’t understand a word – it was all Greek to me.”

Trojan horse

Someone who seems to be helpful or kind but whose real intention is to trick or harm you. This expression comes from the Trojan War (around 1000 BC) when a small group of Greeks entered the city of Troy hidden inside an enormous wooden horse. They crept out of the horse at night and opened the gates for the Greek army, who defeated the Trojans. “Many think the rebels will use the peace treaty as a Trojan horse to try and take over large areas of the country.”

Too many chiefs and not enough Indians

This expression is used to describe a situation in which there are too many managers in a company or organisation and not enough people doing any real work. Also, "too many cooks in the kitchen". “The trouble with this company is that there are too many cooks in the kitchen.”

Chinese whispers

A situation in which information is passed on by a series of people. As a result, the information often becomes distorted, inaccurate or incorrect in the process. In US English, this is known as "the telephone game". “All this talk about the singer getting married is just Chinese Whispers. There’s no truth in it whatsoever.”

An Englishman’s home is his castle

An English person’s home is a place where he can do what he wants, and no one has a right to tell him what to do. “The government has no right to interfere in our private lives. An Englishman’s home is his castle!”

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31

Wordsearch

Wordsearch

l e t o H e h T rds in the wordsearch. See if you can find the following wo

Answers on page 53

Hotel Receptionist Room Guest Porter Bellboy Lobby Key Cot Bill Card Restaurant Bathroom Shower Window Pillow Blanket Duvet Manager Heating Television Balcony Bar Pool Gym Floor Bed View

4

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Track 06

FunctionalLanguage

Useful language for successful communication.

Saying sorry for doing something wrong

I’m sorry about that. I’m sorry that I broke your tennis racket. I’m sorry. Sorry. (If you tread on someone or bump into someone.) Whoops! (informal) I’m really sorry about crashing your car. Sorry about the mess. I’ll clear it up later. I’d like to apologise for the way I spoke to you earlier. Sorry that I lied to you.

Functional Language

This month: saying sorry. Saying sorry for someone else

I’m sorry but little Sally is always smashing things. I’m sorry about Jim’s behaviour last night.

Please say you’re sorry.

Responding to an apology

Never mind. It’s OK. / That’s OK. Don’t worry about it. We’ll be all right. No harm done. It could have happened to anyone. No worries. (informal)

GLOSSARY

I like to say sorry with flowers. Sorry about dropping that bottle on your foot.

tread vb to put your foot on to bump into someone exp to hit someone with your body or a part of your body accidentally to smash vb to break glass; to break completely and into small pieces

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11

Basic English

k n a b e h T

Basic English

A bank

A PIN number

A bank manager

A coin

(a personal identification number).

A note / bill

A cashier

A credit card

A safe

A cheque

A cash machine

A cheque book

A traveller’s cheque

A wallet

A vault

12

(an “ATM” (automated teller machine) in US English)

A bag of money

Pounds

A piggy bank

An alarm

Dollars

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A purse

A security guard

Euros

Yen

Track 07

Social English

k n a b e h T

Social English

This month: the bank. Listen and repeat these expressions. What you say

I’d like to pay this money into my account, please. I’d like to take 600 euros out, please. What’s my bank balance, please? / Could you give me a bank

statement, please? I’d like to transfer some money from my current account, please. Are there any bank charges? I’d like to cash this cheque, please. I’d like to apply for a mortgage. / I’d like to apply for an overdraft, please. How much interest does it pay? / What’s the interest rate? I’ve lost my credit card. / I need to cancel my credit card urgently. I’d like to apply for a new credit card, please. I’m sorry but I’ve forgotten my PIN number. Could you change this note for me, please? Could I have some larger bills and small bills, please? Please give it to me in 20-euro notes. Could I have the rest in change, please? What’s the exchange rate for euros to British pounds, please?

What you hear

The exchange rate for euros to British pounds is 0.748. We charge a 2% commission rate. The current interest rate is 4%. There are no bank charges. I’m afraid the account is overdrawn. I’m afraid there are no funds in the account. Which account would you like to transfer the money from? Could you sign and date the cheque, please? You’ll have to apply for a new PIN number.

Now listen to this dialogue. In this conversation, Jane is in the bank. Cashier: Good morning. Jane: Good morning. I’d like to pay this money into my account, please. Cashier: Have you filled in a paying-in slip. Jane: No, I didn’t see them. Cashier: Here you are. (He gives Jane a slip.) Jane: (Jane fills it out.) I’d also like to apply for a credit card. Cashier: You’ll need to fill out this form. (He gives Jane a form.) Then, we’ll process your application. Jane: I’ve also got these US dollars on me. Can I change them here? Cashier: Yes, that won’t be a problem. Jane: What’s the exchange rate for dollars to pounds? Cashier: It’s 0.50615 pence. That means that one dollar is worth 50.615 pence. Jane: So, if I change 100 US dollars, I’ll get about 50 pounds, right? Cashier: Yes, 50 pounds and 61.5 pence, to be precise. Jane: And are there any charges? Cashier: There’s a 2.5% commission charge on all transactions. Jane: OK. I’ll think I’ll just keep them for my next trip to the states. Cashier: OK. Have a nice day. Jane: Bye.

GLOSSARY

overdrawn adj if your account is “overdrawn”, you have taken out more money than you have to sign vb to write your name on a formal document an application n a form you complete when you want to join an organisation/bank, or apply for something a commission charge n money you pay (often a small percentage of the total) for doing a bank operation a transaction n a bank operation

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13

Track 08

Headline News

Headline News

Have you heard of these new words? Headline News N˚ 2

The English language is constantly changing. And new words come into existence from year to year. Here are a few that have appeared in dictionaries in recent times. Password fatigue – the stress and frustration caused by having to learn so many different passwords. Man flu – a minor cold contracted by a man who then exaggerates the symptoms in order to avoid going to work. Globesity – the problem of rising obesity around the globe. A floordrobe – a floor space that is used as a place for keeping your clothes. A salad dodger – an overweight person. Literally, someone who “dodges” (avoids) salads. Manscaping – removing all the hair off a man’s body. Tanorexia – an obsessive desire to have tanned skin. A griefer – an online computer game player who deliberately sabotages

14

The voice of the people

the game. To binge-watch – to watch multiple episodes of a TV series, watching one episode after another. A bro hug – a friendly embrace between two men. Clickbait – content on a website whose main purpose is to attract attention and tempt users to click on a link. To hate-watch – to watch a television programme you don’t like because you enjoy mocking or criticising it. A hot mess – a person or thing that is a complete disaster. A listicle – an internet article presented in the form of a numbered or bullet-pointed list (a bit like this one!). To live-tweet – to post comments about something on Twitter while the event is taking place. To vape – to inhale and exhale the vapour produced by an electronic cigarette. Whatever next?

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London 2015

GLOSSARY

a cold n if you have a cold, you feel ill and your nose is runny (with liquid coming out of it) to avoid vb if you “avoid” doing something, you try not to do that thing obesity n the state of being extremely overweight or fat a dodger n this word comes from the verb “to dodge”, which means to avoid (see previous entry) to remove vb if you “remove” hair, you take it off, often with a knife tanned skin n skin that is darker/browner from the sun to sabotage n to damage deliberately an embrace n if you give someone an “embrace”, you put your arms around them to show that you like them, or as a sign of affection, etc.

Vocabulary & Typical Dialogues

Track 18

Vocabulary The theatre Learn some useful words and expressions to use in the theatre.

A play (a theatre play) – a story that is acted in the theatre. A theatre –a building where theatre plays are performed.

An actor (man) / actress (woman) – the people who act in a play. Very often, the word “actor” is used for both men and women. A performance – a time when actors act in a play in front of an audience. For example: the 3 o’clock performance. / the 7 o’clock performance. / the matinee (afternoon) performance. A script – the text for the play. The stage – the area where the actors act. “Stage left” is on an actor’s left as he/she is looking towards the audience (“stage right” is the opposite). “Up stage” is the area next to the audience; and “down-stage” is the area at the back of the theatre (on the stage). Scenery – the painted structure on the stage that shows where the action is taking place (in the mountains, at a church, etc). A backdrop – a large piece of painted cloth that shows where the scene is set (in a house, in a desert, etc). Props – the objects or pieces of furniture that are used by actors in a play. The audience – the people who are watching the play. Lines – the text that actors say in a play. Actors have to learn their lines “by heart” (to memorise them).

is the first time the actors sit down to read the play. A “run-through” is a practise from beginning to end without stopping. A “silent run-through” is a practise from beginning to end without stopping and without speaking. A “speed-through” is a practise from beginning to end, acting very quickly. A “technical run-through” is a practise from beginning to end with all the music, lights and other technology. A “dress rehearsal” is a final practice before the theatre opens to the public. To ad lib – if an actor “ad-libs”, he/ she invents words because he/she has forgotten their lines. Also, “to improvise”. Costumes – the clothing worn by actors. An understudy – an actor who studies one of the roles in case the principal actor gets sick. A role – a part in a play. The “lead role” is the most important part in the play. The score – the music that accompanies the play/musical. An intermission – a break in the play that gives people time to go to the bathroom, or get drinks. A standing ovation – when the audience stands and claps for the actors because they are so impressed. A curtain call – a time at the end of the play when the actors come out to receive applause.

Theatre expressions

“Break a leg” – this is what actors say to one another before acting. A rehearsal – a practice for the They never say “Good luck” or the play with the actors. word “Macbeth” as this will bring A “read-through” (a “cold read”) them bad luck.

36

Typical Dialogues The theatre In this conversation, the play is about to start, but one of the characters is unable to go on stage. Nigel:

Come on, the curtain is about to go up for the second act. Stan: I don’t think Francesca can make it. Bob: What’s wrong? Stan: She’s drunk. Nigel: But she's the lead role. I told you to keep her away from that bottle of gin. Stan: She’s upset about some of the reviews she’s been getting. Nigel: I gave strict instructions for any copies of the Evening Herald to be kept out of the theatre. Who brought them in? Stan: I don’t know. Nigel: Where’s the understudy. Stan: We don’t have one. (Drunken singing in the background can be heard.) Nigel: Tell her to shut up. Throw some water on her face, give her some strong coffee. Do something! (The audience goes quiet.) Francesca: (Singing drunkenly.) I don’t care what you write or say… Nigel: Francesca. The audience are waiting. There’s a full house out there. Francesca: Oh, shut up! You’re all the same, you... critics. Nigel: Francesca, it’s me – the director. Come on, it’s time to go on stage. Francesca: I won’t! I won’t! No one loves me. Nigel: Yes, they do. They adore you. You’re a star. Now, can you remember your lines? Francesca: I am a professional. I'm an actress. I know all my lines. Nigel: Well, get on stage and “break a leg!”. Come on! That’s it. (Getting desperate.) Please, for the love of God, get on that stage. Francesca: OK. I’ll go and do some acting. (She trips and falls.) I still have my dignity, you know. Nigel: OK, everyone. GLOSSARY She’s going to make it exp on. Action if you “make it”, you become famous upset adj stations. angry and sad Francesca: (Totheaudience.) a review n an article about a film/play, etc Hello… I… for the love of God exp erm… To be an expression of desperation/ anger, etc or not to be. action stations exp something you say to tell everyone Erm… (She to get ready because something important is about to start falls down.)

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Track 19

Dr Fingers’ Vocabulary Clinic:

Dr Fingers’ Vocabulary Clinic:

surprises

Here are some more useful and interesting expressions for you to learn. This month we are looking at some more “surprise” expressions.

A bolt out of the blue

Something that really surprises you. “The news that they had got married was a bolt out of the blue.”

Speak/talk of the devil

Something you say when the person you are talking about actually appears. “Oh, speak of the devil. We were just talking about you.”

Drop a bombshell

To say something that really shocks people. “My brother dropped a bombshell when he told us that he was off to Panama.”

Frighten / scare someone out of their wits

Not know what hit you

To make someone very frightened. “Don’t do that again! You frightened me out of my wits.”

To feel very surprised by something that has suddenly happened to you. “She stood there in amazement, not really knowing what had hit her.”

Appear out of thin air

On the spur of the moment

To appear suddenly and unexpectedly. “No one had seen her for ten years. Then, one day, she just appeared out of thin air.”

Beyond your wildest dreams More than you could ever have imagined. “The results were beyond our wildest dreams.”

Without reflexion; without thinking; without considering the risks, etc. “I don’t like to make decisions on the spur of the moment.”

GLOSSARY

a bolt n a “bolt” of lightning is a flash of light in the sky that happens during a storm wits n your intelligence

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37

Track 28

House idioms

People who live in glass houses (shouldn’t throw stones)

you shouldn’t criticise other people for faults that you have yourself. “He’s always criticising us but he’s far from perfect. People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones, I say.”

House Idioms

This is another part in our series of “house” idioms.

Under house arrest

If someone is “under house arrest”, they’re legally obliged to stay at home because they’re under investigation for a crime. “She’s been under house arrest for three weeks and she can’t leave her home after 6pm.”

A house-warming party

Have the run of the house

if you “have the run of the house”, you can use (and go in) all the rooms in the house. “Their pet dog has the run of the house – he can go wherever he wants.”

A party to celebrate moving into a new house. “We moved into our new house last week and we’re having the house-warming party next Saturday. Can you come?”

There wasn’t a dry eye in the house

Bring the house down

Everyone in the place you’re referring to was crying or very sad. “The film was one of the saddest that I’ve ever seen and by the time it had finished, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.”

If a comedian or actor “brings the house down”, he/she makes the audience laugh a lot. “The comedy act with the dog was hilarious and brought the house down every night.”

Learn more! Get an idioms booklet! 300 useful idioms + audio files. For more information, visit: www.learnhotenglish.com / www.learnhotenglish.com /

45

Track 29

PHRASAL VERB THEMES: Crime Break into To enter a place illegally with the intention of stealing.

“Two thieves broke into the jewellery shop and stole diamonds worth more than 40,000 euros.”

Let off Not to punish someone.

Phrasal Verb Themes

This month we are looking at some phrasal verbs you can use to talk about crime. Break out To escape from prison.

“Two prisoners broke out of the high-security prison last night.”

Walk away/off with something If someone “walks off” with something, they steal it or take it without asking first.

“She was caught stealing money from the company but they let her off.”

Get away with (a crime) if you “get away with” something, you do something bad and don’t get caught or punished.

“he stole 4 million euros and got away with it.”

Hold up if robbers “hold up” a bank, they point guns at people and force them to hand over the money.

“she held up a bank and stole the money.”

“The robbers walked off with paintings worth more than six million euros.”

Beat up To hit many times, often causing serious injury.

“The thief beat up the security guard before robbing the bank.”

Tip off To give police information about a crime that may happen.

“They tipped the police off about the robbery.”

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47

USEFUL VOCABULARY

Audio files

Download the MP3 audio files for this issue for FREE from our website: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

COFFEE & TEA DRINKS Here are some typical drinks that people get from tea or coffee shops.

White coffee An ordinary coffee with milk.

Black coffee An ordinary coffee with no milk.

Espresso A type of strong black coffee served in a small cup.

Latte An espresso with steamed milk with a ratio of 1:3 (one part espresso to three parts milk).

Americano An espresso coffee with extra water to make it weaker.

Cappuccino A coffee with frothy milk and powdered chocolate on top.

Decaf / decaffeinated coffee A type of coffee with no caffeine in it.

Iced coffee A cup of coffee served with ice.

Macchiato An espresso made with frothy, steamed milk.

Earl Grey tea A blend of tea flavoured with bergamot oil.

Black tea A type of strong tea made from black tea leaves. Typical English breakfast tea is made from a blend of black tea. As in the picture, people often drink black tea with milk.

Green tea A slightly bitter Asian tea said to have healing properties.

Smoothie A drink made by blending various pieces of fruit with Raven ice or yoghurt.

Chai Latte A coffee made with frothy milk and Indian spices.

Matcha tea This type of tea is made from the powder of green tea.

Rose Latte A type of coffee made with rose oil.

4

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WORD BOOSTER

Free lessons to improve your English, and articles on learning English! blog.learnhotenglish.com

Learn Hot English

Blog!

PREPOSITIONS OF MOVEMENT This month we’re looking at some prepositions of movement.

1

2 She went up the box.

5

3 She went down the box.

6 She went towards the box.

9

4 She jumped over the box.

7 She walked past the box.

8 She went into the box.

10 She went onto the box.

12 She ran around the box.

She ran away from the box.

She jumped off the box.

13 She went through the box.

She walked out of the box.

11 She walked around the box.

14 She climbed under the box.

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9

Trave Eng l li

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TRACK 13: ENGLISHMAN & US MAN

TRAVEL ENGLISH

Lear 40 to n over 50 Ove pic area 0 usefu Morer 400 im s coverinl words a a n For m than 30 dges to he g a wide d expres ialog lp you range sions ore i ues s nfo, l e arn of typ for tra visit: o www you can the wordical situa velling a tio broa he s .lear d. nho ar the lanand exprens. teng guag ssion lish. e in a s. com c /sho tion. p 

AT THE BASEBALL GAME

By Sarah Asch

Learn over 15 useful words and expressions for when you go to a baseball game. Major League Baseball has 29 teams across the United States (plus one in Canada). Each team plays several games in a season before the play offs begin. The play offs are a competition between the top teams to determine the league champion.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

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12

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14

15

17 18

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16 1 Baseball

– the ball that the game is played with. 2 Bat – the player swings this object at the ball. 3 Dugout – this is where players who aren’t on the field sit. 4 Bases – the field has four bases which are called first, second, third, and home plate. The batter stands at home plate. 5 Batter – the player who is currently trying to hit the ball with the bat. 6 Pitcher – the player who is throwing “pitches” (balls) for the batter to hit. 7 Catcher – the player who sits behind home plate and catches pitches that the batter doesn’t hit. The pitcher and the catcher are on the same team.

18

8 Ballpark / stadium – the place

where the game is played. 9 Umpire – the person who controls the game and decides the result of a play. 10 Jumbotron – the big screen over the field. 11 Baseball diamond – the area where the game is played. 12 In field – the part of the field with no grass (just earth) where the bases are. 13 Out field – the rest of the field that is covered in grass. 14 Mascot – a person in costume who represents the team. 15 On Deck: If a player is “on deck” it means that they are up next.

16 Inning

– a section of the game. Each baseball game has 9 innings unless there is a tie at the end. 17 Top of the inning – each inning has two halves: the top and the bottom. During the top of the inning the visiting team bats, and during the bottom the home team bats. 18 Home Run – when the batter hits the ball so hard that it goes outside the ballpark and the player automatically scores. 19 Strike (strike out) – a strike is when the pitch goes over home plate but the batter doesn’t hit it. If a batter gets three strikes, they are out.

Dialogue At the baseball stadium American Greg is explaining the rules of baseball to his English friend Mike, who is at his first game. Listen once, then complete the text with the correct words. M=Mike G=Greg M: This is amazing! What a great atmosphere. G: Yeah, so, when the batter hits , he tries to the (1) run to first base. The goal of the game is to get around all in order. If the (2) you can get back to home plate before the inning is over, you . score a (3) M: Erm, what’s a homerun? G: If a batter hits a homerun, that means he’s able to get back to plate and score (4) in the space of one play. And if there are players on base when the homerun happens, they get to run too. to home and (5) But as the outfielders can throw really far, homeruns usually only happen when the batter hits the ball so hard that it goes over the into the stands. (6) M: So, if the bases are loaded when a home run happens, the team batting gets four points? G: Exactly. M: Oh, OK. So, erm, how can a player get out when there wasn’t a home run? G: The team that is playing the field can tag him with the ball – you know, just by touching him. Or by throwing the ball to the next base before the (7) gets there. That’s why it’s so hard to run more than one base at a time. These guys can (8) pretty far! M: And only one player is allowed on each base at a time? G: That’s it. See? You’re getting it already!

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TRACK 14: ENGLISHMAN & US MAN

12 PHRASES TO IMPROVE YOUR SPOKEN ENGLISH! Learn these phrases to really improve your English. They’ll make you sound more fluent, natural and native.

1

2

Sure!

Likewise! You can use this word to say that you feel the same about something. A I’m just so pleased that’s over. B Likewise.

This is an alternative way of saying “yes”. A Can I take this chair? B Sure! Go ahead.

3

4

What have you been up to lately?

I am indeed!

This is good as an alternative to “How are you?” A Hey, what have you been up to lately? B Oh, not much.

5

You can use this phrase instead of just saying “yes”. A You’re Jeff, aren’t you? B I am indeed.

6

Good to see you again! If you’ve just met up with an old friend, this phrase is perfect. A Hey, Greg! Good to see you again! B Yeah, it’s been a few years.

24

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Can’t complain! Next time someone asks you how things are going, use this phrase to say that everything is all right. A How’s it going? B Oh, can’t complain.

7

8

Do you mind me asking…?

To be honest, … Use this expression instead of the usual “in my opinion”. A So, what did you think of it? B Well, to be honest, I didn’t think it was as good as his last film.

Use this phrase before you ask a personal question to make it sound a bit more polite. A Do you mind me asking how old you are? B Not at all. I’m twenty-eight.

9

10

I didn’t catch… If you didn’t understand or hear something, you can use the verb “catch”. A I’m sorry but I didn’t catch your last name. B It’s Davis.

11

If that’s all right with you. Add this expression to the end of something to check that the other person is all right with things. A I’m going to be in a bit later tomorrow, if that’s all right with you. B No problem!

12

Long time no see! You can use this if you’ve just bumped into someone you haven’t seen for a long time. A Hey, long time no see! B Yeah. So, what are you doing here?

Stick around! If you want someone to stay somewhere for longer, tell them to “stick around”: A So, I think I’ll be heading off. B Oh, come on. Stick around for a bit longer! The band are about to start.

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25

VOCABULARY CLINIC

THE ENVIRONMENT Global warming

Climate change

Here are some useful words and expressions for talking about helping the environment.

The greenhouse effect The rise in temperature caused by gases in the atmosphere. “The greenhouse effect could lead to climate change and global warming.”

The increase in temperatures around the world. “They started a campaign to put a stop to the process of global warming.”

A large-scale, long-term change in the planet’s weather patterns or average temperatures. “Global warming could lead to climate change, which could devastate many areas of the planet.”

Waste

Ozone layer

Renewable

Material which has been used and is no longer wanted. “They passed a law to regulate the disposal of toxic waste in rivers.”

A layer of ozone (a colourless gas which is a form of oxygen) high above the earth’s surface that screens out the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. “If ozone depletion continues we could be in a lot of trouble.”

A renewable source of energy is one that is always available: wind, water, sunlight, etc. “They want to invest more heavily in renewable energy sources.”

Emission

Aid rain

Biodegradable

Rain that contains dangerous chemicals that have come from emissions of gases from cars, factories, etc. “Acid rain is extremely harmful to the environment.”

Something that is biodegradable breaks down or decays naturally without any special scientific treatment. “All their products are biodegradable.”

An “emission” of something such as gas or radiation is the part of it that enters the atmosphere. “Sulphur emissions from steel mills were extremely high last month.”

Biodiversity

Environment

The existence of a wide variety of plant and animal species living in their natural environment. “We have to protect the biodiversity of this special area.”

The environment is the natural world that consists of the land, sea, air, plants and animals. “We’ve got to get more people to sign the petition to protect the environment.”

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29

USEFUL IDIOMS

Over Lea 15 visit: 0 usefu rn more prod l idiom ! Get ucts .lear s + aud an idiom nhot io fil s engl es. Fo booklet ish.c ! om/ r more i idiom nform s-bo okletation, -2

CRIME

Here are some crime idioms for you.

Behind bars

Cat burglar

If someone is “behind bars”, they’re in prison. “He spent three years behind bars.”

A thief who enters a building, often by climbing up a wall or over the roof. “He was known for being a cat burglar who stole from rich residents in exclusive apartments.”

On the run

In the dock

Serve time

If someone is “on the run”, they’re trying to escape from the police. “The escaped convict has been on the run for six weeks now.”

If someone is “in the dock”, they’re on trial in court. “He was in the dock for company fraud.”

If you “serve time” (or “do time”), you spend time in prison. “After the robber had served time in jail, she got married, found a job and settled down.”

Crime doesn’t pay.

Hand in the till

An expression that means: If you do something illegal, you’ll get caught and be punished. “They sent him to prison for the maximum term possible as a way of reminding people that crime doesn’t pay.”

If someone has their “hand in the till”, they’re stealing from their employer. Literally, the “till” is a type of computer in a shop (or other business) which records every sale that is made. It is also where the money is kept. “The boss fired him because he was caught with his hand in the till.”

Get away with something

On the take

If a criminal “gets away with” something, he/she commits a crime and doesn’t get punished for it or sent to prison. “They stole over 300,000 from the bank and got away with it.”

If someone is “on the take”, they’re in a position of authority and they’re accepting bribes or illegal sources of money. “Six customs officials were arrested after it was discovered that they were on the take.”

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31

PHRASAL VERBS

Audio files

ANIMALS & PETS

Download the MP3 audio files for this issue for FREE from our website: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

Answers on page 44

Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

morning lead kitchen death hunting horse food bag

1

2

Run out of If you “run out of” something, there’s no more of that thing available. “We’ve run out of dog . Can you go and get some, please?”

3

Clean up If you “clean up”, you make everything clean again. “Who’s going to clean up the mess that the dog has made in the ? He’s opened the rubbish bag!”

4 Pick up If you “pick up” something, you use your hands to take it off a surface (the floor, a table, etc.). “You should always take a little with you so you can pick up any dog mess.”

5

Get over If you “get over” an illness or depression, you recover from it. “It took me ages to get over the of my pet parrot.”

6 Take out If you “take a dog out” for a walk, you take it outside so it can walk, go to the toilet, etc.” “I took the dog out because he hadn’t been out since the .”

7

Look after / take care of If you “look after” a pet, you give it food and water, and make sure it’s safe, happy, healthy, etc. “I looked after my best friend’s while she was away.”

8

Put on / take off If you “put on” a lead (or leash), you put it around a dog’s neck; when you “take it off”, you remove it. “As soon as I took off the , the dog ran away.”

Lie around If someone “lies around”, they spend all day lying on the sofa or bed, not doing anything. “The cat spends all day lying around the house, but often goes at night.”

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41

BASIC ENGLISH

BASIC ENGLISH

Music Genres

12

jazz

classical

country

opera

rap

electronic

reggae

blues

gospel

heavy metal

folk

rock

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TRACK 03

Music Genres LISTEN AND REPEAT THESE EXPRESSIONS. Useful expressions What was the last composer? What kind of music do you like? What kind of music are you into? What do you listen to? Have you heard the latest song by the Arctic Monkeys? What do you think of the soundtrack? Have you got the latest Muse CD? Have you got the lyrics to that song? Who is the lead singer in Metallica? Do you like country music? Who is your favourite country singer? Who’s your favourite classical

Do you like singing along to songs? Have you ever sung karaoke? Do you sing in the shower? Have you been to any good concerts lately? Do you know any good music websites? Where do you get your music from? What’s your favourite band?

concert you went to? What type of music do you listen to before you go out? How many CDs do you have? How often do you listen to the radio? What kinds of music are popular in your country? What kind of music cheers you up? Do you think that animals can enjoy music? How do you know?

Part II NOW LISTEN TO THE DIALOGUE. IN THIS CONVERSATION, ABIGAIL AND ZACH ARE TALKING ABOUT MUSIC. Abigail: So, what kind of music are you into? Zach: A bit of everything really. What about you? Abigail: I really like jazz. Zach: That’s a bit too weird for Supertramp me. Who’s your favourite classical composer? Abigail: I mostly like classical composers from the Romantic period. I Led Zeppelin guess my favourite is Tchaikovsky. Zach: What about your favourite rock band? Abigail: Oh, I don’t know. I quite Stevie Wonder like Led Zeppelin. Zach: I really like bands and singers from the 1970s like Supertramp and Stevie Wonder. I love disco music too. It’s great for dancing. Abigail: Oh, I prefer funk or R ‘n’ B. Zach: I really like Motown. It’s such great music and the lyrics are really fun. Abigail: For lyrics, I quite like country-western music. Zach: They just sing about cowboys, don’t they? Abigail: Not always! So, what shall we listen to? Zach: I don’t mind. You put something on and I’ll complain about it. Abigail: OK. It’s a deal. Here you go. [She puts some music on.]

Tchaikovsky

GLOSSARY

to be into exp if you are “into” a certain type of music, you like that type of music latest adj the most recent a soundtrack n the music to a film lyrics n the words to a song to sing along to exp if you “sing along to” a song, you sing while the song is playing to cheer you up exp to make you happy weird adj strange, unusual

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13

SOCIAL ENGLISH

SOCIAL ENGLISH

TRACK 04

Useful language for successful communication.

FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

describing someone. I told you I was the tallest.

Let’s start a love train!

Functional Conversation: Asking about someone Paula: So, who was that guy you were with last night? Ryan: That’s Bruce. He’s my boyfriend. Paula: Oh, what’s he like? Ryan: Really nice. And very clever. Paula: What does he do? Ryan: He’s a doctor. Paula: And what does he look like? I couldn’t see from where I was. Ryan: He’s got long dark hair and green eyes. Paula: Nice. So, do you think that he’s the one? Ryan: He might be. What about you? How’s your love life? Paula: Don’t ask!

Asking about someone What does she look like? (physical appearance) What’s he like? (character and physical appearance) What does he like to do? (customs, habits, pastimes, etc). Has she got long hair? Is he nice?

14

Describing someone’s physical appearance He’s tall. She’s really pretty. He’s good looking. She’s quite tall. He’s medium height. She’s got long, dark hair.

Describing someone’s character He’s really outgoing. She’s really friendly. He can be a bit irritable at times. She’s the nicest person I’ve ever known. He has a tendency to be a bit selfish. She isn’t the nicest person in the morning.

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TRACK ??11-12 TRACKS

12 features of conversational English!

Conversations are difficult to follow. People speak fast, they interrupt one another and they rarely speak in complete sentences. So, what can you do? Simple! Learn how to identify these 12 features of conversational English. Understanding them will really improve your listening skills, and help you follow conversations more easily.

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Er / erm

like

Er and erm are conversation fillers that don’t mean anything – they’re just sounds that people use when they’re thinking of something to say: “Er, what do you think?”

3

This word is used to fill a gap in a conversation, or give you time to think: “I’ve got, like, about two minutes to, like, talk about it.”

4

you know This is used to check that the other person is following the conversation, or as a filler: “If you want any help, just, you know, ask.”

5

I mean People use this expression to correct themselves: “It’s really good, I mean, it isn’t bad.”

6

Interruption Repetition This is when people repeat words in a conversation. People often do this when they aren’t sure what they’re saying: “It’s the first... first time I’ve ever heard it.”

34

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This is when one speaker interrupts another. Sometimes, the speakers may even speak at the same time: A Well, I was just walking down the street when... B ...which street?

7

8

Hesitation

False starts

This is when one of the speakers stops speaking for a short time – often because they’re nervous or unsure of what they’re saying: “I’d just like to say that… erm, we’re, erm, really pleased with it.”

9

This is when someone makes several attempts to start saying something: “She… she was… she had a great time at the party.

10

Non-standard English Speakers often make mistakes in English as they’re speaking so fast. A There’s a lot of people. [It should be: There are a lot of people.] A She don’t know the answer. [It should be: She doesn’t know the answers.]

Incomplete sentences Speakers often don’t finish a sentence: “I’d just like to… what is the time anyway?”

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Ellipsis Ellipsis is when words are omitted. Speakers often leave out words when the meaning can be understood. Notice the eliminated text in square brackets: brackets. For example: A How would you like your eggs? B [I would like them] Fried. Ellipsis is sometimes used at the start of questions: A Want to come with us? [Do you want to come with us?] B Looking for something? [Are you looking for something?]

Abbreviated forms Speakers often use abbreviated forms when speaking fast. A I’m gonna go there tomorrow. [gonna = going to] B She doesn’t wanna see him again. [wanna = want to] Answers on page 64

Obviously, you don’t need to use these things when you’re speaking (although you might do it involuntarily). However, being able to identify them will really help you with your listening skills. So, what can you do to understand a conversation? The best thing is to focus on the key words – the most important words in the conversation: the nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc. And then guess what the other people are saying. In fact, this is more or less what you do in your own language – no one listens to every single word! Good luck!

TRACK 12

Answers on page 56

Conversational analysis! Conversational Now you’ve learnt about analysis! these features

Now you’ve learntEnglish, about these of conversational English, see if you of conversational see iffeatures you can identify them. 1

Listening I

You’re going to listen to two Americans talking about their siblings. In what way can brothers or sisters be annoying? Make notes. Then, listen once to compare your ideas. 2

Listening II

Listen again. Then, answer these questions. 1. Why is Whitney so angry with her sister? 2. What does Dana say about her brother that she finds annoying? 3

Language

Read through the script on the audio script page and look at the words in bold. What features of conversational English are they?

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35

VOCABULARY

VOCABULARY

The Clothes Shop THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT WORDS OR OBJECTS TYPICALLY FOUND IN A CLOTHING SHOP.

A shirt-

an item of clothing you wear on the top part of your body.

A suit-

a combination of a pair of trousers and a jacket – perfect for weddings, work and formal occasions.

A dress- a

workers wear. They consist of trousers and shirt all joined together as one item of clothing.

Shorts-

Trousers (“pants” in US English)-

clothing worn over the legs. We often say, “a pair of trousers”.

A jacket- a

piece of clothing worn over a shirt. Often used for formal occasions.

Overalls- clothing that

item of clothing worn on the head.

A cap- a hat with a visor to protect your face from the sun.

A raincoat-

A skirt- a

their legs.

A hat- an

warm clothing you wear on the top part of your body. special clothing to keep you dry when it rains.

piece of clothing women wear to cover

Boots- high shoes worn on the feet.

A sweater (pullover, jersey, jumper)-

long piece of clothing women wear.

clothing worn over the top part of your legs when doing sport or when it’s hot.

A belt- an

object you wear around your waist to keep your trousers from falling down.

Awaistcoat-

a type of jacket with no sleeves (arms).

Shoes-

leather / plastic / rubber / wooden objects worn on the feet.

Socks-

clothing worn on the feet

Gloves- an item of clothing to cover the hands. light shirt worn by women.

A scarf- an

item of clothing worn around the neck to keep you warm.

Slippers-shoes

for the house.

Learn hundreds of phrasal verbs, really improve your English and speak like a native speaker! Booklet comes with listening files!

44

Booklets come with images and audio files!

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(general)- clothing worn under your trousers.

A bra- an item of clothing women wear under their shirts / blouses. A tie- an item of clothing that men wear around their necks for formal occasions. A receipt-

a piece of paper with information about the product you have just bought. You need to keep it in case you want to return the product.

A blouse- a

Phrasal verbs booklets Get your Phrasal verbs booklets from... www.learnhotenglish.com/shop

Knickers (for women), pants / underpants

(and under your shoes) that keep your feet comfortable in your shoes.

Now

available online!

A changing room- a little

room in a shop where you can try the clothes on before buying them.

Shop assistant-

a person who serves you in a

shop.

TRACK 29

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

The Classroom (part I)

Lear impr n hundre a na ove you ds of ph listentive spea r English rasal ver ing fi ker! B and s bs, re ookle peak ally les! t com like es wi th

Now

available online!

THIS MONTH, WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME PHRASAL VERBS YOU CAN USE IN THE CLASSROOM. THIS IS THE FIRST OF A TWO-PART SERIES. THIS TIME, WE HAVE INCLUDED AN EXERCISE. COMPLETE THE SENTENCES WITH THE WORDS FROM BELOW. IN SOME CASES, MORE THAN ONE ANSWER IS POSSIBLE.

class worksheet lesson explanation number work pencil dictionary 1.Turn up To arrive.

2. Settle down WHEN STUDENTS “settle down”, THEY SIT DOWN AND stop talking AND being silly.

“She turned up late for class and missed the _____________.” 3. Hand in To give something to someone

“OK, settle down now, please. The _____________ is about to start.” 4. Hand out To give a copy of something to everyone in the group.

“Please hand in all of your _____________ at the end of the class.”

“Bob, could you hand out this _____________, please?” 5. Rub out / cross out To erase; to delete.

6. Work out If you try to “work out” the meaning of something, you try to understand it by guessing its meaning.

“Please rub out any notes you have made in _____________ before handing in your exam.”

“Try to work out the meaning of the word before you look it up in the _____________.”

7. Miss out If you “miss out” a question in an exam, you don’t answer that question.

8. Act up / play up If students are “playing up” in class, they’RE behaving very badly.

“I’ll take you to the _____________ if you don’t stop playing up.” “You can miss out the f irst three questions and start from _____________ four.”

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61

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

Ph verrbasal boo s klet s

TRACK 26

FURNITURE IDIOMS

Lear your n hundre Eng English ds of id imaglish speak and speaioms, rea es an er! B k like lly im d aud ookle p a io file ts comnative rove s. e wit h

THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME “FURNITURE” IDIOMS.

Now

Shelf life

available online!

THE LENGTH OF TIME THAT SOMETHING WILL LAST OR REMAIN USEFUL. “Most toys have a fairly short shelf life – they usually break a few days after you buy them.”

A stool pigeon

A PERSON, ESPECIALLY A CRIMINAL, WHO GIVES INFORMATION TO THE POLICE IN ORDER TO HELP THEM CATCH OTHER CRIMINALS. “When they found out that he was a stool pigeon, they wanted him dead.”

The curtain falls/ comes down on something

It’s curtains for...

IF YOU SAY THAT “IT’S CURTAINS FOR” A COMPANY OR PERSON, YOU’RE SAYING THAT YOU THINK THE COMPANY OR PERSON WILL FAIL. “If his sales record doesn’t improve, it’s curtains for him.”

Sweep something under the carpet

IF YOU “SWEEP SOMETHING UNDER THE CARPET”, YOU TRY TO HIDE IT OR KEEP IT A SECRET. “The government were doing their best to sweep the scandal under the carpet, but it wasn’t long before it was all over the news.”

IF THE “CURTAIN FALLS DOWN ON SOMETHING”, THAT THING ENDS. “After six years of disastrous results, the curtain finally came down on his presidency of the company.”

Roll out the red carpet

TO GIVE AN IMPORTANT PERSON A SPECIAL WELCOME. THIS MAY INVOLVE LITERALLY ROLLING OUT A RED CARPET. “The red carpet was rolled out for the prime minister’s visit.”

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57

FURNITURE IDIOMS

Idio ms boo klet s

TRACK 18

power

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

Have / hold all the aces

TO BE IN A VERY STRONG POSITION. “We’re not in a very good position because she holds all the aces.”

Hand over the reins

LET SOMEONE ELSE BE IN CONTROL OF SOMETHING. “It’s about time that the president handed over the reins to somebody younger and more able.”

To be a big fish in a small pond

TO BE THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON OR TO HAVE A LOT OF POWER IN A SMALL ORGANISATION. “As manager of a local branch, he is a big fish in a small pond.”

Rule with a rod of iron

TO CONTROL A GROUP OF PEOPLE VERY FIRMLY, HAVING COMPLETE POWER OVER EVERYTHING THAT THEY DO. “She rules with a rod of iron – no one ever crosses her.”

46

HERE ARE SOME USEFUL AND INTERESTING EXPRESSIONS FOR YOU TO LEARN. THIS MONTH, WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME EXPRESSIONS TO DESCRIBE POWER.

Have something up your sleeve

TO HAVE A SECRET PLAN. “I don’t trust her – I’m sure she’s got something up her sleeve.”

Be in the lap of the gods TO BE IN A

SITUATION IN WHICH YOU HAVE NO CONTROL OVER YOUR DESTINY OR THE OUTCOME. “We’ve done all we can so it’s in the lap of the gods now.”

Call the shots / tune

TO BE THE PERSON WHO TAKES ALL THE DECISIONS. “She’s the one who calls the shots around here.”

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TRACK 17

The Clothes Shop IN THIS DIALOGUE, NIGEL IS IN A CLOTHES SHOP.

Nigel: Good afternoon. I’d like to return these trousers. Assistant: Here you are. Some flowers. Nigel: Flowers? No, I don’t want any flowers. Trousers! I want to return these trousers. Assistant: Oh, you want to buy some trousers? Nigel: No, I want to return these trousers. They don’t fit. Assistant: Are you sure? Nigel: Yes. Assistant: Let’s see. Put them on. Nigel: What? Here? Assistant: Yes, go on. Nigel: Don’t be stupid. Look, the trousers don’t fit and I would like to change them for another pair. They’re too small and tight. Assistant: Have you got the receipt? Nigel: Yes, here you are. [He hands over the receipt.] Assistant: Good. Now, let’s just rip that up. [The shop assistant rips up the receipt.] That’s better. Nigel: What are you doing? Assistant: Destroying the evidence. Nigel: You can’t do that. Assistant: Oh, yes I can. Besides, it’s the most effective way of dealing with complaints like this. Nigel: What? Assistant: You can’t return these trousers anyway. Nigel: Why? Assistant: Because they’re dirty. Nigel: No, they aren’t. Assistant: Yes, they are. Nigel: No, they aren’t. Assistant: Oh, yes, they are. Look, what I suggest is the “allinclusive incendiary device solution”.

The what? The “all-inclusive incendiary device solution”. What’s that? It’s simple. You take some lighter fuel and pour it over the offending item – in this case, the trousers. [He pours the lighter fuel over the trousers.] Then, you light a match just like this. [He burns the trousers.] And burn them. Nigel: But… Oh, that’s a nice, warm fire. And pretty, too. Assistant: Yes. And now your problem is solved. Nigel: You’re right. I don’t have any trousers that don’t fit me any longer. Assistant: Exactly! Now, was there anything else? Because I am very busy. Nigel: No. That’s all, thanks. And thanks for your help. Assistant: My pleasure.

Nigel: Assistant: Nigel: Assistant:

GLOSSARY

to fit vb if clothes “fit” you, they are the right size tight adj if clothes are “tight”, they are too small for you and very close to your body a receipt n a piece of paper with details of an object you have just bought in a shop to rip up phr vb to break into small pieces to deal with phr vb if you have to “deal with” a problem, you have to try to find a solution to it a complaint n if you make a “complaint”, you tell someone that you aren’t happy about a service / product lighter fuel n a liquid that burns very quickly and easily to pour vb to put liquid from one container into another or onto the floor, etc. a match n a thin piece of wood that you can light and use to make fire busy adj with a lot of things to do

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45

(NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES

(NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES

THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VERBS AND EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: LOVE, ROMANCE AND MARRIAGE. ASK SOMEONE OUT IF YOU “ASK SOMEONE OUT”, YOU ASK THEM IF THEY WANT TO GO ON A DATE (A ROMANTIC EVENING) WITH YOU.

Go out with someone If you “go out with someone”, you go on dates with that person.

“She asked me out and I said yes.”

Move in with someone To start living with someone.

Get engaged to someone If you “get engaged to someone”, you promise to marry that person.

“Paul and Jennifer got engaged last month and the wedding will be in June.”

Get married To marry someone either in a church or a registry off ice.

“anna is going out with rosco."

“Jeff moved in with Sally and now they’re living together.”

Get divorced To end a marriage legally and formally.

“They’re getting married in the Bahamas next month.”

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9

USEFUL VERBS

USEFULVERBS& EXPRESSIONS

USEFUL VOCABULARY

USEFULVOCABULARY THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VOCABULARY. THIS MONTH: ROMANTIC THINGS. ANSWERS ON PAGE 64

1

Match the words

Match the words below to the pictures. g 1. ring ____ 2. roses ____ 3. chocolates ____ 4. dinner ____ 5. candle ____ 6. wedding ____ 7. flowers ____ 8. kiss ____ 9. hug ____ 10. priest ____ 2

a

e

b i

Wordsearch

Now find these words in the wordsearch. ring ring

3

d

c

f

roses

chocolates

dinner

candle

wedding

flowers

kiss

hug

priest

Guess the word

Think of ways to describe these words relating to love. Ask your partner to guess the word based on your clues.

Actually, it’s for your sister.

g h

j

USEFUL VOCABULARY

USEFULVOCABULARY THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VOCABULARY. THIS MONTH: MONEY WORDS. ANSWERS ON PAGE 63

1

Match the words

Match the words below to the pictures. 1. a coin f 2. a note 3. an ATM machine 4. a wallet 5. a purse 6. cash 7. a cashbox 8. a credit card 9. a safe 10. a piggy bank 2

a

b

h i

d

g c

Wordsearch

e

Now find these words in the wordsearch. ring coin

3

cash

note

cashbox

ATM machine

credit card

wallet

safe

purse

piggy bank

f

j

Guess the word

Think of clues to describe these words relating to money. Ask your partner to guess the word based on your clues.

Something plastic that you use to pay for an item when you don’t have cash.

A credit card!

THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VERBS AND EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: MATHS. PLUS WEUSE“PLUS”WHENADDINGNUMBERSTOGETHER.WECAN ALSO USE “AND”. A:Whatistwoplus two? B: It’s four.

MINUS WE USE “MINUS” WHEN WE SUBTRACT NUMBERS. A:What’ssixminus three? B: Three.

A: What is six and eight? B: It’s fourteen.

TIMES WEUSE“TIMES”OR“MULTIPLIEDBY”WHENWEMULTIPLY NUMBERS. A:What’sseventimes four? B:It’stwenty-eight.

DIVIDED BY WE USE “DIVIDED BY” WHEN WE DIVIDE NUMBERS. A:What'seighteen dividedbythree? B: It’s six.

A: What’s eight multipliedbysix? B:It’sforty-eight.

PERCENT WEUSETHEWORD“PERCENT”TOREPRESENTTHESYMBOL “%”. A:What’s16%of50? B: It’s 8.

DECIMALS WE SAY “POINT” FOR DECIMALS. A:6.2=sixpointtwo b. 9.03 = nine point zero three

COMMAS ANDWEADDACOMMAFORMULTIPLESOFONETHOUSAND.

A: 4,000 = four thousand b.56,000=f ifty-six thousand

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9

USEFUL VERBS

USEFULVERBS& EXPRESSIONS

BASIC ENGLISH

BASIC ENGLISH

film genres

12

an action film

an adventure film

Film noir

a B-movie

a romance film

a horror / slasher movie

a comedy

a historical drama

a war film

a biopic

a science fiction film

an animated film -a cartoon

a romantic comedy

a buddy movie

(a sad film that makes you cry)

a tear-jerker

a girlie flick / a chick flick

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TRACK 03

film genres

LISTEN AND REPEAT THESE EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: FILM.

Useful expressions What kind of films do you like? What DVDs have you got? Have you seen the latest film by Steven Spielberg? What do you think of the latest Scorsese movie? Who stars in that film?

Part II

Who’s in it? Do you like film noir? Who is your favourite actor? Who’s your favourite actress? Who’s your favourite director? Have you seen any good films lately? Do you know any good film websites?

Where do you get your film information from? Are there any good films on at the cinema? What was the last film you went to see? How often do you go to the cinema? That’s my favourite film. Which films make you cry? Which films make you laugh? It’s a great film. That film was terrible. That film was a load of rubbish.

NOW LISTEN TO THIS DIALOGUE. IN THIS CONVERSATION, AMY AND CHRIS ARE AT THE CINEMA. CHRIS HAS BOUGHT THE TICKETS.

Amy: S o, what kind of film are we going to see? Chris: It’s an action-adventure film. Amy: What? I thought you said we were going to see a romantic comedy. Chris: You chose the film last time. Amy: I don’t like action-adventure films. Who’s in it? Chris: Bruce Willis, but there’s a girl in it and she rescues him. So, there is some romance in it... sort of. Amy: That’s not the same. Chris: Well, OK. Next time you get to choose the movie.

Great! There’s an interesting Hungarian art-house film in original version I’ve been dying to see. We can go and see that. Chris: I can’t wait! Amy: By the way, have you got the tickets? Chris: Yes. Here’s yours. Shall we go buy a coke and some popcorn? Amy: Yes, I’m going to need something to do to keep me from falling asleep in the cinema. Amy:

The baddie dies and Bruce wins – it’s the same old story. OK, let’s go home.

GLOSSARY

art-house n an “art-house” film is an unusual, experimental film that is supposed to be more serious than entertaining

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13

SOCIAL ENGLISH

SOCIAL ENGLISH

TRACK 04

Useful language for successful communication.

FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Describing an object. Functional Conversation:

The game

Colours

Shapes

Age

It’s black. It’s bright blue. It’s all white. It’s fluorescent green. It’s a horrible pink colour.

It’s triangular. It’s round. It’s squareshaped. It’s circular at the top.

It’s brand-new. It isn’t very old. It’s second-hand.

Qualities

It’s yearly. It’s monthly. It’s twice a week.

Sizes It’s big. It’s quite small. It’s enormous. It’s huge. It’s long and thin. It isn’t very thick.

14

It’s beautiful. It’s ugly. It isn’t very good. It’s pretty poor.

Time

Sightrelated It’s shiny. It’s bright.

Soundrelated It’s really loud. It’s a bit noisy. It’s really quiet.

Touchrelated It’s slippery. It’s really sticky. It’s smooth to the touch. It’s lovely and soft. It’s quite heavy. It isn’t exactly light.

Sam: OK. Let’s play a game. Geoff: OK. Sam: Right, it goes like this. I describe something, and you have to guess what it is. Geoff: All right. Go on then. Sam: OK. It’s round and green. Geoff: Is it a type of food? Sam: Yes, it is, and it’s hard, crispy and delicious to eat. Geoff: Is it an apple? Sam: Yes, very good. Now it’s your turn. Geoff: OK. It’s quite long and yellow. It’s a bit hard on the outside, and it’s soft inside, and it’s something you can eat. What is it? Sam: Is it a banana? Geoff: Yes, well done. OK, your turn again.

Tasterelated It’s really juicy. It’s lovely and sweet. It’s horrible and bitter. It’s delicious and spicy.

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GLOSSARY

fluorescent adj very, very bright huge adj very, very, big bitter adj if something tastes “bitter”, it is sharp, not sweet, and often unpleasant

TRACK ??12-13 TRACKS

12 features of USEFUL EXPRESSIONS conversational English! TO USE IN A

When you’re having a conversation English, youfast, oftenthey need to respond to thingsand so you show surprise, Conversations are difficult to follow.inPeople speak interrupt one another theycan rarely speak in sadness, agreement aredo? 12 expressions for how doing that!these In each case, theofcomment or expression complete sentences. or So,anger. what Here can you Simple! Learn tojust identify 12 features conversational English.is made by personthem B. will really improve your listening skills, and help you follow conversations more easily. Understanding

1

2

REALLY?

OK

OK I’ll finish it later on. OK. You canerm useare “OK” to Er and conversation fillers that don’t mean anything show thatjust yousounds agree that people use when they’re thinking – they’re with something. of something to say: “Er, what do you think?” A

I won £10,000 on the lottery! Really? This word is used to fill a gap in a conversation, or give We in a got, like, about two minutes to, youcan timeuse to “really” think: “I’ve question to show like, talk about it.”surprise. A

B

3

B

4

OH, RIGHT.

UH-HUH Uh-huh A …so we’ll have the meeting sometime next week, probably on Tuesday. B Uh-huh We often use this sound show This is to used to that check that the other person is following we’re following what the conversation, or as a filler: “If you want any help, just, someone saying. you know,isask.”

5

A She’s still in London but she isn’t working in Selfridges any more. B Oh, right. We use use this this expression to show People expression to correct themselves: that understand something. “It’s we really good, I mean, it isn’t bad.”

6

OH, NO!

I’ve lost my bag. Oh, no! We often use “Oh, no!” to show This issympathy when people repeat words in a conversation. with someone’s People often do this when they aren’t sure what they’re situation. saying: “It’s the first... first time I’ve ever heard it.”

YOU POOR THING!

A B

30

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A I’ve had a headache all day. This when one speaker interrupts another. Sometimes, B Youispoor thing! the speakers may even speak at the same time: You can use this expression A Well, I was just walking down the street when... to show that you feel sorry B ...which for someone. street?

7

I CAN IMAGINE.

8

YOU’RE JOKING! A Frank got fired from his job! B You’re joking! “You’re joking” or “you’re kidding” can be used towhen checksomeone makes several attempts to start This is that someone is “She… she was… she had a great time saying something: being at the serious. party.

It is so frustrating! B I can imagine. This is used to show youone of the speakers stops speaking for a This isthat when understand short time –what often because they’re nervous or unsure of awhat situation must they’re saying: “I’d just like to say that… erm, we’re, be like. erm, really pleased with it.” A

9

10

OH, I SEE.

HOW AWFUL! They cancelled the flight. How annoying! We use “How” + an adjective to show surprise, anger, shock… For example: How stupid! How amazing! How ridiculous! How awful! How terrible! How exciting! etc. A B

A So, the reason why I can’t go to the party is that I’ve got an exam on Monday. B Oh, I see. “I see” is used to show that you understand something.

11

12

TYPICAL!

They said I’d have to come back tomorrow if I wanted to replace it. Typical! We often use the word typical as a way of saying that something is what we’d expect to happen – often because we’ve experienced it before. A B

Listening activity: The hotel stay 1

Pre-listening

Listening I

You’re going to listen to a conversation, with someone talking about their hotel experience. Listen once. Were any of the things you thought of for the Pre-listening task mentioned? 3

Listening II

A My credit card got stolen, and I didn’t have any cash, so I was stuck in the airport. B What a nightmare! You can use What + a noun to show what you think of something. For example: What a disaster! What a shame! What a pity! Etc. What a nightmare can be used to show that you think something is very bad.

TRACK 13

What can happen in a hotel? Add some positive or negative ideas to the list. For example: they give you the wrong key, you have a wonderful time, they overcharge you, the swimming pool is closed, you try some delicious new food for the first time… 2

WHAT A SHAME!

Listen again. Then, choose the correct answers. 1. How does the speaker describe the hotel stay? It was... a) a disaster b) wonderful

Answers on page 63

2. When had the speaker made the booking? The previous… a) month b) week 3. Where was the room they gave her? a) on the ground floor b) on the top floor 4. What was the room above? a) a nightclub b) a restaurant 5. What was the room next to? a) an ice machine b) a lift 6. Why were there no other rooms available in this or other hotels? Because there was a… a) business conference b) rock festival 7. How much money was stolen? About… a) £50 b) £80 4

Useful language: expressions

Listen again. Then, make a note of 8 expressions that are used to respond to comments in the dialogue. For example: 1. Oh, no!

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31

TRACK 18

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

problems

HERE ARE SOME USEFUL AND INTERESTING EXPRESSIONS FOR YOU TO LEARN. THIS MONTH, WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME EXPRESSIONS TO DESCRIBE PROBLEMS.

The last straw / the (last) straw that broke the camel’s back

THE LAST IN A SERIES OF BAD EVENTS. “I’d had a terrible day, but losing my wallet was just the last straw.”

There’ll be hell to pay

THERE WILL BE PROBLEMS. “If we don’t get there in time, there’ll be hell to pay.”

A storm in a teacup A SITUATION THAT

CAUSES A LOT OF PROBLEMS, BUT THAT ISN’T SO IMPORTANT REALLY. “ There’s no need to get alarmed as there’s probably no danger at all – it’s all just a storm in a teacup.”

A can of worms

A SITUATION THAT IS GOING TO CAUSE A LOT OF PROBLEMS. “This whole project is a can of worms, and I think we should avoid it at all costs.”

46

Ride out the storm / weather the storm TO CONTINUE EXISTING DURING A DIFFICULT PERIOD. “While other companies went bankrupt, we managed to ride out the storm.”

Be walking / treading on eggshells

BE TRYING NOT TO ANNOY OR UPSET SOMEONE. “Jim and Bob were in a dispute over payment for the goods. Trying to keep them both happy was like walking on eggshells.”

Not lose sleep over something

NOT WORRY ABOUT SOMETHING. “It was a bad experience but I’m not going to lose any sleep over it.”

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TRACK 17

The Furniture Shop IN THIS DIALOGUE, GORDON IS IN A FURNITURE SHOP.

Assistant: Hello, sir. How may I help you? Gordon: I’ve just moved into a new flat and I’m looking for some new furniture. Assistant: Furniture. Marvellous. Wonderful. Which room would you like to start with? Gordon: Well, how about the kitchen? Assistant: Certainly, sir. Well, we’ve got a special offer: a fridge, a freezer, an oven and a microwave all for just €19.99. Gordon: Wow! That sounds fantastic. What’s the catch? Assistant: Well, none of it actually works, but you do get some free cutlery. Gordon: Oh, OK. I’ll take it. Assistant: Now, let’s move on to the bedroom. Gordon: Great. We need a wardrobe. Assistant: Here’s one. Gordon: It isn’t very big. Assistant: It doesn’t look very big, but inside, it’s enormous. Look, you can climb inside it. [He climbs into it.] Now, close the door. Gordon: Oh, yes. I see what you mean. Assistant: [from inside the wardrobe] And it’s great for playing hideand-seek. Gordon: OK. Fantastic. I’ll have it. What else? Assistant: How about this magic carpet? Gordon: A magic carpet? That’s great. My kids are going to love it. What does it do? Fly through the air or something like that?

Assistant: Gordon: Assistant: Gordon: Assistant:

No. It’s got magic colours. Magic colours. Really? Yeah, one wash and they all disappear... just like magic. Yes, that is magic. I’ll have two. Now, let’s move into the bedroom. This is our magnificent “Two-in-One Bed”. Gordon: A “Two-in-One Bed”? What’s that? Assistant: It’s a bed and a trampoline. The bed’s got super strong springs in it to make it extra springy. It’s great for jumping on. Here, why don’t you try? Gordon: Oh, OK. [He starts jumping.] Oh, yes, it is good. It’s great fun. Assistant: Now, just be careful, sir. The bed is very springy. Sir, erm, I wouldn’t jump quite so hard. Sir, I really think you should stop that now. Sir! GLOSSARY a special offer n Gordon: Ahhhh! [The top part a special price in a shop: (eg. lower of his body crashes prices, buy one, get one free, etc.) a catch n through the ceiling.] a hidden problem or difficulty in a Help! I’m stuck. I’m plan or an offer cutlery n stuck on the ceiling. the knives, spoons and forks you use to eat food Assistant: Now, don’t worry, sir. hide-and-seek n We’ll have you down in a children’s game in which one player covers his or her eyes until the other no time. players have hidden themselves, and [to his assistant] Frank! then he or she tries to find them a wash vb Frank! Can you come if you give clothes a "wash", you here, please? And bring clean them a spring n the stepladder. a coil of wire that returns to its original shape after it is pressed There’s another or pulled one stuck on the stuck adj if you get “stuck” somewhere, you ceiling. are trapped in that place and are Frank: Another unable to move a ceiling n one! I told you! OK. a horizontal surface that forms the top part inside a room I’m coming! a stepladder n Gordon: Quick! I’m scared of a portable ladder used to climb. It is made of two sloping parts that are heights. hinged together at the top so that Assistant: OK, sir. Won’t be long it will stand on its own. to be scared of heights exp now. So, shall I put the the fear of being high above the ground bed on the list for you?

BusinessEnglish Learn over 500 useful business words and expressions! Over 30 articles on up-to-date business topics! Over 100 useful business idioms & phrasal verbs! Business videos and audio files to improve your listening skills! Get your Business English books NOW, visit: www.learnhotenglish.com/shop FREE subscription if you recommend Hot English Language Services to your company. E-mail [email protected] / www.learnhotenglish.com /

45

(NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES

(NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES

VOCABULARY

VOCABULARY

Furniture HERE ARE SOME COMMONS WORDS, OBJECTS OR PEOPLE THAT YOU WILL SEE AT A FURNITURE SHOP.

A dining table - a

table for having meals on.

A bed –

a piece of furniture that you sleep on.

A bin –

a container that you put rubbish in.

A coffee table – a small,

low table in the living room.

A wardrobe – a tall

cupboard where you can hang your clothes.

A lamp –

a light that works by using electricity or by burning gas or oil.

A bookcase – a piece of

furniture with shelves that you can keep books on.

A carpet –

a thick covering of soft material which lays on the floor or a staircase.

An armchair – a big

A nightstand – a table next to

doors at the front and is often used for storage.

Blinds –

of material that you hang from the top of a window.

your bed where you can put your alarm clock, a book, etc. something you hang in front of a window which can be adjusted to let in more or less light.

A cabinet – a cupboard

used for storing things such as medicine or for displaying decorative things.

comfortable chair which has support on each side for your arms.

A cupboard – a piece of

furniture that has one or two

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44

Booklets come with images and audio files!

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Now

available online!

Curtains (“drapes” in US English) – large pieces

A settee / sofa / couch – a long

comfortable seat with a back and arms which two or more people can sit on.

A Shelf –

a flat piece of wood, metal or glass attached to a wall or to a cupboard used to keep books, papers, etc.

TRACK 21

MONEY QUOTES & DREAM JOB

Funny things that people have said about money.

Money Quotes “Whoever said money can’t buy happiness didn’t know where to shop.” Gertrude Stein “If you think nobody cares if you’re alive, try missing a couple of car payments.” Anonymous “If you lend someone $20, and never see that person again; it was probably worth it.” Anonymous “Don’t marry for money. You can borrow it cheaper.” Anonymous

“Money can’t buy friends, but you can get a better class of enemy.” Spike Milligan “Acquaintance: a person whom we know well enough to borrow from, but not well enough to lend to.” Ambrose Bierce “If hard work were such a wonderful thing, surely the rich would have kept it all to themselves.” Lane Kirkland

“If you have to ask, you can’t afford it!” J. Pierpont Morgan “Everyone should have enough money to get plastic surgery.” Beverly Johnson “Don’t stay in bed, unless you can make money in bed.” George Burns “The safest way to double your money is to fold it over once and put it in your pocket.” Kin Hubbard “Someone stole all my credit cards, but I won’t be reporting it. The thief spends less than my wife did.” Henny Youngman

“I spent a lot of money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered.” George Best “I finally know what distinguishes man from other beasts: financial worries.” Jules Renard “I cannot afford to waste my time making money.” Louis Agassiz “If you want to feel rich, just count the things you have that money can’t buy.” Anonymous

“Time is more valuable than money. You can get more money, but you cannot get more time.” Jim Rohn “Formal education will make you a living; selfeducation will make you a fortune.” Jim Rohn “Money often costs too much.”Ralph Waldo Emerson “Money is better than poverty, if only for financial reasons.” Woody Allen “You have reached the pinnacle of success as soon as you become uninterested in money, compliments or publicity.”-Anonymous

GLOSSARY

to miss vb if you “miss” a car payment, you do not pay it to lend vb if you “lend” something you own, you allow someone to have it or use it for a period of time to borrow vb if you “borrow” money from someone or from a bank, they give it to you and you agree to pay it back a better class of people n a higher level of people based on social status to afford vb if you cannot “afford” something, you do not have enough money to pay for it to fold vb if you “fold” something such as a piece of paper or cloth, you bend it so that one part covers another part, often pressing the edge so that it stays in place booze n informal refers to alcoholic drinks a bird n an animal that has feathers and wings to squander vb if you “squander” money, you waste it on unimportant things the pinnacle n if someone reaches “the pinnacle of” their life or career, they are at the highest point of it a compliment n a polite remark that you say to someone about their appearance or other positive qualities that they have

Dream Job 1

Pre-listening

ANSWERS ON PAGE 63

1. What categories of self-help books can you find in shops? For example, lifestyle, health, etc. Think of more examples. 2. What is your opinion of self-help books? 2

Listening I

Listen to the conversation and tick off the book which is discussed. 3

Listening II

Sentence completion. Complete the sentences with the missing words. 1. …you need to be prepared to do some real _____________... 2. The main focus of the book is a five-point action plan, which includes _________, job search __________ and __________ techniques. 3. …there’s a special section on how to change your ______ ________ completely. 4. …there are exercises to complete and __________ 4

Language focus conditionals

Look at this statement about finding a dream job:

“If you look hard, you’ll find the perfect job.” 1. What type of conditional is in this sentence? 2. When do we use it? 5

Discussion

1. Which of the self-help books would you be interested in reading? Why? Why not? 2. Have you found a job you love? Why? Why not? 3. What would be your perfect job? Why? 4. How important is it for you to have a job you love?

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51

Idio ms boo klet s

PICTURE IDIOMS TRACK 27

Lear your n hundre Eng English ds of id imaglish speak and speaioms, rea es an er! B k like lly im d aud ookle p a io file ts comnative rove s. e wit h

THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME “PICTURE” IDIOMS.

Now

FURNITURE IDIOMS

available online!

Be in the picture

IF YOU’RE STILL “IN THE PICTURE”, YOU’RE STILL INVOLVED IN SOMETHING. “She’handed over control of the company to her son, but she’s still very much in the picture.”

Be out of the picture

IF YOU’RE “OUT OF THE PICTURE”, YOU AREN’T INVOLVED IN A SITUATION ANY LONGER. “The football player has a severe leg injury, so he’ll be out of the picture for a few months.”

Put someone in the picture

IF YOU “PUT SOMEONE IN THE PICTURE”, YOU TELL THEM WHAT’S HAPPENING. “She didn’t have any idea what was going on, so I put her in the picture.”

Be the picture of health / innocence

TO LOOK VERY HEALTHY / INNOCENT. “She’s the picture of innocence, but I wouldn’t trust her as far as I could throw her.”

Get the picture

TO UNDERSTAND A SITUATION. “So, let me see if I’ve understood this correctly. You want me to do all the work, while you sit back and do nothing and get all the credit? I get the picture.”

Paint a bleak picture of something

IF YOU “PAINT A BLEAK PICTURE OF SOMETHING”, YOU DESCRIBE THAT THING IN A NEGATIVE WAY. THE OPPOSITE IS .TO “PAINT A ROSY PICTURE OF SOMETHING” “The report paints a bleak picture of the situation.”

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57

USEFUL VOCABULARY

Audio files

LUNCHTIME FOOD

Download the MP3 audio files for this issue for FREE from our website: www.learnhotenglish.com/mp3s

What do you have for lunch? Choose from the food below.

Sandwich

Bagel

Salad

Smoked salmon

Muffin

Bacon

Egg

Rice

Pasta

Meat

Fish

Soup

Fruit

Lasagna

Pizza

Burger

Chips

Cucumber

Tomato

Lettuce

Chicken

A packet of crisps

4

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Objective To improve your reading and listening skills. Think about it What do you have for lunch during the week? Where do you have it? Who do you have it with? What are your favourite restaurants to go to for lunch? Do you ever take a packed lunch? What do you take with you? What do you have for lunch at the weekend? Do you cook food for lunch? What do you make? Exams This reading and listening activity will help prepare you for English exams such as KET and TOEFL.

TRACK 1: ENGLISHMAN & SCOTSWOMAN

I LOVE LUNCH!

By Lucile Julien

LUNCHTIME! W

hat do you have for lunch? We asked several people what they eat during the day.

Answers on page 44

1

Pre-reading

Make a list of all the types of food that you have for lunch. List as many as you can. 2

Reading I

Read or listen to the article once. Were any of the food items from the Pre-reading activity mentioned? 3

Reading II

Read the article again. Then, write a name next to each statement. Who… 1. …likes apple pie as a dessert? 2. …often has brunch on Sundays? 3. …likes bacon sandwiches? 4. …eats at his desk? 5. …sometimes has a burger for lunch? 6. …likes bagels for lunch? 7. …works in London’s financial district? 8. …usually has fruit for dessert?

Alex, New York City (USA) I work in an advertising agency, and we’re really busy, so I usually only have time for a sandwich, bagel or a salad for lunch. My favourite is a smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel. On Sundays, dad often makes brunch, with Eggs Benedict or some French toast, which is delicious! Pablo, Valencia (Spain) I eat at my desk most days. There’s a canteen where I work, but I don’t like the food there, so I bring in a lunch box with some rice or pasta, and meat or fish. For a couple of days a week, I go to a restaurant to get a “menu del día”. This is a set menu that consists of a starter, main course and dessert. It’s really cheap – just €9 or €10 (depending on the restaurant) and really good value for money. Typical things include a soup or salad as a starter, and then meat or fish as the main course. I usually have

fruit for dessert.

Lucie, France I’m studying, so if I’m at home, I’ll have something simple like a salad or some pasta. If I’ve got some time (and money!), I’ll go to a restaurant and get a “Plat du jour” (a set meal of the day). This includes a salad, a main dish (a hot dish with meat or fish), and a dessert or a cup of coffee. It usually costs between €12 and €30, depending on the area. The salads are usually at a self-service salad bar with cucumber, tomato, lettuce and so on, and for dessert you can get something like a “tarte de pomme” (an apple pie). Sometimes, if I don’t have much time, I’ll just get a sandwich from a food kiosk or even a burger from a fast food restaurant. John, London I work in an office in the City of London. If I’ve got a bit of time, I might get a pub lunch and have something like a Cornish pasty and chips. Other times, I might just get a sandwich. My favourite fillings are Coronation chicken (which is chicken in

a curry sauce), or a toasted cheese or bacon sandwich. I’ll often get a packet of crisps and a can of Coke or Fanta to go with it. I know it isn’t very healthy, but it’s usually all I’ve got time for.

GLOSSARY busy adj if you’re “busy”, you’ve got a lot of things to do and not much time brunch n a meal you eat as a kind of early lunch or late breakfast. The word “brunch” comes from breakfast + lunch Eggs Benedict n see the recipe section in this magazine for an description of this dish French toast n to make "French toast", first you beat an egg. Then, you put a piece of bread in the egg mixture. Finally, you fry the bread a canteen n a type of restaurant in an office, a college, a hospital… a set menu n a special meal at a restaurant with a fixed price for a starter, main course and dessert a starter n a small dish of food that is served as the first course a main course n a large dish of food that is served after the starter a dessert n sweet food that is served at the end of a meal a self-service bar n an area in a restaurant with lots of food where you can serve yourself a pub lunch n food that is typically eaten in a pub at lunchtime a Cornish pasty n meat and vegetables inside pastry (food made from flour, water and fat) a filling n food that you put inside a sandwich: meat, fish, cheese, etc. a can n a metal container for drinks

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5

Travel Eng

lish

TRAVEL ENGLISH

AT THE AMUSEMENT PARK Roller coaster

Ferris wheel

Haunted house

Bumper car

Ticket booth

At the amusement park

Turnstile

Carousel / merry-go-round

Bouncy castle

Slide (water slide)

Cotton candy / candy floss

Amphitheatre

Queue

Safety bar

Costume character

More words Amusement park / theme park / fun fair – a place with lots of fun rides (fast trains to go on, things that shoot up into the air...) Ride (attraction) – something you go on at an amusement park: a fast train, a rollercoaster... Car park – the place where you park your car at an amusement park. Queuing time – the amount of time you have to wait in a queue ("line" in US English) before you go on a ride. Schedule – a list of the

times for the shows at an amusement park. Picnic table – a table outside where you can eat the food you bring. Day pass – a ticket that lets you stay in the park all day. Discount coupon – a little piece of paper with a reduction in the price: 20% off, for example. Gift shop – a place where you can buy toys, cards, pencils, pens... so you can remember your day at the park.

TRACK 13: ENGLISHMAN &

Learn ove SCOTSWOMAN 40 topic arr 500 useful words an Over 400 eas covering a wide d expressions for More thanimages to help you range of typical situtravelling abroad. le 30 dialogu at es so you arn the words and ex ions. For more can hear th press info, visit: e la n www.lea guage in acions. rnhoteng tion. lish.com /shop   Dialogue:

Waxwork – a model of a person made of wax (a substance used to make candles). Narrow gauge train – a small train people can ride on for fun. Animatronic character – a type of robot that looks like a person (or animal) and that moves and speaks. Hologram – a three-dimensional image (of a person, for example) created with photographic projection.

Josh is at the amusement park ticket office with his family. Listen once. Then, complete the text with the correct words. A: Attendant C: Customer A: Welcome to SparksLand Theme Park. C: Oh, hi, I’d like to get day passes for two adults and two children, please? I’ve got . some discount (1) [He gives them to her.] A: Actually, it works out cheaper if you get a Family Pass, which is only €34 in total. C: Oh, OK, great. Does that give us access to all the (2) ? A: Yes, of course. Will you be paying by credit card? C: Yes, here you are. A: Great. Could you key in your PIN code, please? C: Sure. Erm, have you got a (3) of the park, please? A: Yes, here you are. [She gives it to him.] C: Great! Is it busy today? time A: Not too bad. (4) is about 10 minutes – normally it’s about half an hour. C: Perfect. Oh, and where’s the Pirates show, please? A: It’s in the outdoor (5) next to the . Just Haunted (6) turn right after you go through and walk about the (7) 200 metres down Main Street. It’s starting in about 10 minutes. You should make it if you hurry. C: OK, great. Thanks. Can we take in any food and drink? A: Sure. There are picnic (8) for you in the main Restaurant Zone. C: Great. Thanks a lot. A: Here are your tickets. Have a nice day! C: Thanks!

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19

VOCABULARY CLINIC

THE ECONOMY

Learn some useful words for talking about the economy.

1

The economy

2

A country’s “economy” is the wealth that it gets from business and industry.   “The country’s economy grew at an annual rate of more than 5%.”   4

Exports

7

“Raw materials are in their natural state and haven’t been processed in factories. For example: iron ore, coal, gold, tobacco… “They import raw materials and energy, and export mainly electronic goods.” 5

Goods which you sell to another country and send there. “Their main exports are cocoa and coffee.”     

Budget

Raw materials

National debt / government debt

The amount of money a government owes to creditors or other countries. “UK government debt is around £1.5 trillion, or about 80% of total GDP.” 8

Inflation

The amount of money that a country has available to spend on something.  “This year's budget for education probably won't be as high as last year.”  

Inflation is a general increase in the prices of goods and services in a country. “Rising unemployment and high inflation led to protests all over the country.”

10 Demand

11 Employment

3

Imports

Products or raw materials that you buy from another country and bring into your country.   “Farmers were protesting about cheap imports that were damaging their businesses.”      6

Deficit

If a country has a “deficit”, it has spent more money than it has received. Also known as a “budget deficit”. “Total revenue for last year was £673 billion, but total expenditure was £742 billion. So, the total deficit was £69 billion.” 9

Supply

The quantity of goods and services that is available for people to buy.   “Prices change according to supply and demand.”  

12 GDP (Gross Domestic Product)

If there’s a high demand for something, many people want it. “Demand for coal is down and so are prices.”     

If there’s full “employment”, everyone has a job. “The government’s economic policies were designed to secure full employment.”  

“A country's “GDP” is the total value of goods and services produced in a year, not including income from investments in other countries. “Last year, the government deficit represented about 30% of GDP.”  

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29

USEFUL IDIOMS

“EMBARRASSING” IDIOMS Here are some useful idioms for talking about being embarrassed, ashamed or uncomfortable. 1

Hot under the collar

2

If you get “hot under the collar”, you feel angry, annoyed or embarrassed. “If anyone criticises him, he soon gets hot under the collar.” 4

Make your ears burn

Wouldn’t be caught/seen dead

If someone says they “wouldn’t be caught  dead” doing something, they mean that they’d be too embarrassed to do that thing. “I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing clothes like that. How embarrassing!” 10 Wish the ground would swallow you up

If you “wish the ground would swallow you up”, you want to disappear because you’re in an embarrassing situation. “After falling over in front of all those people, I just wished the ground would swallow me up.”

If you’re “tongue-tied”, you can’t speak because you’re nervous or embarrassed. “I was a bit tongue-tied at the start of the interview but I soon warmed up.” 5 A skeleton in the cupboard / a skeleton in the closet (US English)

If a conversation “makes your ears burn”, it embarrasses you because the conversation is about you. “The comments I heard them make about me made my ears burn.” 7

Tongue-tied

A hidden and terrible secret. “Ask what you like – I don’t have any skeletons in the cupboard.” 8

Close to home

If a comment is “close to home”, it’s true and makes you feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. “Josh looks embarrassed. I think Lydia’s comments about him were pretty close to home!”

3 Go red (go as red as a beetroot, go beet red, go as red as a beet)

If you “go red”, your face becomes red because you’re embarrassed. “She went red when I asked her whether she liked Jeff.” 6

Sink through the floor (US)

If you feel that you could “sink through the floor”, you feel very embarrassed. “I could have sunk through the floor when they read my e-mail out loud.” 9 Put your foot in it / put your foot in your mouth

To do or say something that offends, upsets or embarrasses someone. “I really put my foot in it when I mentioned the surprise party – I didn’t realise Jenny hadn’t been invited!”

Idioms booklets Learn hundreds of idioms, really improve your English and speak like a native English speaker! Booklets come with images and audio files.

Get your Idioms booklets from...

Now

available online!

Learn more! Get an idioms booklet! 300 useful idioms + audio files. For more information, visit: www.learnhotenglish.com /

31

PHRASAL VERBS

SALES & SELLING

Answers on page 44

Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

features

1

anyway

wants

lower

Find out

If you “find out” information, you discover it. “It’s important to find out what the customer and needs before you try selling to them.”

3

product

car

2

Pitch to

If you “pitch to” someone, you attempt to sell to them. “I pitched the to them, but they weren’t interested.”

Put off

If something “puts you off” buying a product, it makes you not want to buy that product. “I think the customers were put off by the high and lack of customer service.”

6

Throw in

If you “throw in” something, you include it in the price or deal. “I threw in a free SatNav to help convince her to buy the .”

7

less

4

Point out

If you “point out” something, you tell someone about that thing. “It’s important to point out the benefits of a product as well as the when you’re selling to someone.”

5

prices

Knock off

If you “knock off” an amount from the total price, you reduce the price by this amount. “I’ve already knocked 20% off the price. I can’t possibly go any !”

Put pressure on

If you “put pressure on” someone, you try to persuade them to do something, often by using aggressive tactics. “We put a lot of pressure on them not to go with the competition, but they did it .”

8

Turn down

If you “turn down” an offer, you say that you aren’t interested in it. “They turned down our offer to do the building work for 10% .”

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41

Objective To learn some useful words and expressions for talking about anti-social behaviour. Think about it When was the last time you went to a shop? What did you buy there? What shops are there near your house? What shops do you like visiting? Why? What are some of your favourite shops? And your least favourite ones? Why don’t you like them?

Track 5: Englishman & englishwoman

English in Action... Note In general, Americans use the word “store” instead of “shop”. So, they’d say “pet store” instead of “pet shop”, for example. Where the American term is different, this has been indicated. The words in brackets give you an example of the typical things you can buy in the shops.

Shops

Learn 15 words & expressions for talking about shops.

Dialogue: The shopping trip

Useful words

Pet shop (pets)

Toy shop (toys)

Bicycle shop (bikes)

Florist’s (flowers)

Bookshop / bookstore (books)

Furniture shop (furniture)

Antique shop (antiques)

Post office (stamps, envelopes)

Bakery / baker’s (cakes, bread)

Clothes shop (clothes)

Mobile phone shop (mobile phones)

Butcher’s, meat market (US) (bacon, steaks, sausages)

Fishmonger’s (fish, seafood)

Sport’s shop (sports equipment)

Tailor’s (suits, handmade shirts)

More words Travel agency (holidays) Sweet shop / candy store (US) (sweets, chocolate) Shoe shop (shoes) Newsagent’s / newsstand (US) (newspapers, magazines) Café (tea, coffee, cakes) Coffee shop / coffeehouse (coffee, tea, coffee, cakes) Ironmonger’s / hardware store (US) (nails, tools, wood, screws) Delicatessen (deli) (cooked meats, cheese, olives) Greengrocer / grocery store

10

(US) (vegetables, fruit) Chemist’s / pharmacy / drugstore (US) (medicine, toothpaste) Photocopy shop / copy center (photocopies) Stationer’s / stationery store (paper, pens) Second-hand shop / thrift store / charity shop (second-hand clothes) DIY shop / home improvement store (flatpack furniture, tools). DIY = Do It Yourself Department store (a large

Brian has been out shopping. He’s talking to his partner, Petra. Complete the conversation with the correct shops. P=Petra B=Brian Pa=Parrot P: So, how was your day? B: Terrible! P: Why? B: I went shopping. P: But you love shopping! B: Yes, but everything went wrong. For a start I went to to get a the (1) curtain rail. P: And? B: Well, when I got back, I found that it was too long. P: Didn’t you measure it first? B: Yes, but I... Oh, I don’t know what happened. Anyway, then to I went to the (2) get some ink for the printer, but I’ve just realised that I’ve got the wrong cartridges, and I went to get a new shirt , but at the (3) they didn’t have the one I wanted in my size, and then I walked past a (4) and got a new smartphone, even though I’ve already got six; and then I got an 18th century writing desk from the shop with many sections: clothing, toys, jewellery) Shopping centre / shopping mall (US) (a large building with many shops, restaurants) Petrol station / garage / gas station (US) (petrol, gas, diesel, oil) Pawn broker / pawn broker’s (a shop where you can leave your personal possessions in return for money. If you return within a certain time, you can buy the goods back)

/ www.learnhotenglish.com / Improve your spoken English with our Skype/Telephone classes, e-mail [email protected]

, and then I got (5) a box of 12 little cakes at the and ended up (6) eating all of them, and then I felt really bad. So, well, I was walking past the and... (7) P: And? B: Well, I saw this really cute dog... P: Yes, and? B: And, well, you know how it is... P: No, I don’t know. B: Well, one thing led to another and... [woof, woof ] P: Oh, no! B: I’m sure he’ll get on really well with your cat. [cat hissing] P: That remains to be seen! B: Erm, and that’s not all. P: What? [sound of a parrot squawking] B: Isn’t he funny? P: Give me that credit card, NOW! 

Video Watch a video about the British department store Selfridges. Search YouTube for “Mr Selfridge: A Day At The Famous London Store”. Betting shop (a shop where you can “bet” – play games for money) Corner shop / convenience store (US) (milk, bread, chocolate, ketchup) Hypermarket / super store (US) (a large shop outside a town that sells clothes, food, electronics) Pound shop / dollar store / variety store (US) (a shop that sells cheap goods: food, drinks, sweets, deodorant, paper, plants, toys)

Objective To learn some useful words and expressions for networking. Think about it Have you ever done any networking? Where did you do it? Who did you talk to? How successful

were you? Did you make any useful contacts? Do you ever do any social networking? Which groups are you in?

Track 8: englishmen

Practical English

Networking Networking is the process of meeting new people and making contacts. People use networking to attract more business, get a better job or sell more products. Networking often takes place at social events (conferences, business fairs, talks, etc.) where you can chat to people, build relationships, ask for advice and offer to help in some way.

Starting the conversation Have you been here before? Do you know many people here? Have you come from far? Where are you staying? Hi, I’m (Jessica). I work with Marstone Trading. Hi, my name’s (Jack): Do you mind if I join you? Would you like to join us? There’s some room on the table.

Developing the conversation I hear you’ve been working on a new project. I enjoyed your talk on changes in the industry. Where are you based? Do you often go to conferences? How did you get involved in (international finance)? How are you dealing with the recent changes? How have you been promoting your products?

Exploring possibilities Let’s get together sometime next week. We could meet up next time you’re in town. Send over your proposal and we’ll take a look at it. I could put you in touch with our managing director if you want. I know someone who might be able to help you. I could pass on your details to the marketing manager. We aren’t in the market for this kind of thing, but I know someone who is. I could send you a list of our services for you to look over if you want. Would you be interested in hearing how our products have helped other companies? Could I give you a call sometime next week to go over some of our options?

How to end the conversation It was great talking to you. We’ll have to keep in touch. I really enjoyed talking to you. We’ll have to meet up again sometime. Are you on LinkedIn? / Is your company on Facebook? Here’s my business card. / Have you got a business card? I’ve arranged to meet someone at 1pm, so I’ve got to go. I’ve got another meeting in 10 minutes, so if you don’t mind, I’d better head off. Do you know where the bathroom is? I think the next talk starts in a few minutes, so I’d better get going. Hi! how can I help you?

Dialogue: The chat Bruce and Nigel are at an international conference in London. They’re waiting in a queue to get their conference badges. [Complete the conversation with the correct words.] Bruce: They’re taking their time, aren’t they? Nigel: Yeah, they are. Bruce: Have you been here before? Nigel: This is my third . (1) Bruce: My first. So, have you come far? Nigel: Manchester. What about you? Bruce: San Francisco. Nigel: Wow! Bruce: I flew in just . (2) Actually, it isn’t too bad coming over – it’s going back that’s the killer. Nigel: I can imagine. So, are you staying close by? Bruce: The Waysgate , I think (3) it’s called. Nigel: Oh, right, I’m there too. Bruce: Bruce Milton, by the way. Pleased to meet you. Nigel: Nigel Masters. Pleased to meet you. Bruce: So, have you been to any  ? of the (4) Nigel: Yeah, a couple. One of them was really good. It was all about this... Bruce: Oh, no. Sorry to interrupt. You know what? I’ve left my (5) in the main hall. Would you mind if I just went to get it?

Nigel: Sure. I’ll save your place in the . (6) Bruce: Great. See you in a . (7) Nigel: [He comes back.] Did you find it? Bruce: Yes, thanks. Nigel: Hey, before I forget, here’s my card. I’m the head of a small online marketing . We (8) help businesses promote themselves online. Bruce: Sounds interesting. Here’s my card. Nigel: [reading the card] Oh, the Bruce Milton... the CEO of Milton Networks. Bruce: That’s me. Nigel: Wow! I was hoping to talk to you today. Bruce: Look, I’ve got a meeting later this , but (9) I’ve got a bit of spare time from 3:30 to 4pm. Why don’t we meet up for a coffee in the (10) ? You could tell me all about your company. Nigel: That sounds great. Thanks so much. Bruce: My pleasure. See you at 3:30. Nigel: See you. Bye. Bruce: Bye. www.learnhotenglish.com

13

Ne

Track 17: englishman, englishwoman & us man

w!

Travel English

Trave Eng l li

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The business lunch Learn over 20 useful words to use at a business lunch! Useful words

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Dialogue: The business lunch Sally Fields has just flown over from Dublin to speak to Peter Prescott about a development project. They’re having a business lunch. Listen once, then complete the text with the correct words. Dialogue: S=Sally P=Peter W=Waiter

Wine glass Fork

Plate

Bowl

Knife

Napkin

Spoon

Tablecloth you are paying for this, aren't you?

Waiter / waitress

Laptop

Tablet computer

Business card

Tip

More words Menu – a piece of paper with the prices and list of things you can eat in the restaurant. Starter – food you eat before the main course: soup, a salad, etc. Main course – the large plate of food you order: fish and chips; steak with potatoes, etc. Dessert – a sweet dish you eat at the end of the meal: cake, yoghurt, sorbet, etc. Set menu – a fixed price for the starter, main course and dessert. There’s usually a limited choice of options. Bill – a piece of paper that tells you how much you have to pay for your meal.

Making small talk Have you been here before? Where are you staying? Is it your first time here? How was the trip? What’s the hotel like? How’s the weather been? What would you recommend? I’d just like to propose a toast to our new project. / Here’s to our new project.

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S: Mr Prescott, isn’t it? P: Yes, that’s right. Pleased to meet you. S: Pleased to meet you. I’m Sally Fields. Sorry, I’m late. I got a (1) from the airport, but the traffic was terrible. Have you been waiting for long? P: No, I’ve only just got here myself. S: Oh, good. [looking around the restaurant] This is nice. P: It’s my regular. I often come . I’ll get here for (2) the waiter over. S: [looking at the menu] So, what would you recommend then? P: The lasagne is really nice. S: OK. So, I hear you moved (3) . P: Yes, we relocated to a big building downtown. W: Good afternoon. Can I get you anything to drink? P: [to Sally] Shall I order some (4) ? S: Yes, go ahead. P: We’ll have a bottle of Beaujolais Nouveau, please. W: Very well, sir. And are you ready to order? S: I think so. P: Go ahead. , I’ll have the S: For (5) prawn cocktail, please. P: And I’ll have the seafood platter. W: Very well. And for the (6) ? S: I’ll go for the lasagne.

P: And I’ll have the lobster. W: Very well. I’ll be back in just a minute with your (7) and starters. P: So, how was the trip? S: Fine, thanks. The (8) got in a bit early, actually. P: Great. S: So, erm, did you get a chance to look over the proposal? I’ve got the figures here on my (9) if you need to check over them again. P: Yes, it all looks good. So, you want to demolish the old cinema and put up some luxury apartments, right? S: Yes, that’s it, and we’re prepared to pay the asking price for the land. P: Development for the (10) . That’s great. S: I knew we could rely on you. W: Here are your drinks and starters. If you need anything else, please let me know. Enjoy your meal. P: Thanks. Oh, could you bring the ketchup, please? W: Certainly, sir. S: So, what do you think of our idea to... [fades out]

GLOSSARY a toastn if you propose a “toast” to something (a new deal, for example), you ask people to drink together as a way of showing appreciation for that thing or hoping that it’ll be successful

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8 ways to learn English grammar!

**Verb tables

Here’s a verb table for the Past Simple.

How useful is grammar for learning a language? And what can you do to improve your knowledge of it?

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rammar alone isn’t going to help you speak a language. However, learning some basic patterns can be useful. For example, if you know the negative past tense is formed with didn’t + a verb, you can produce hundreds of useful sentences: I didn’t go, she didn’t see it, we didn’t do it...” So, what can you do to improve your knowledge of grammar? There are two things: firstly, you need to learn how to form sentences; secondly, you need to know how to use the structures. Here are 8 things you can do to achieve those two objectives:

Forming basic structures 1

Verb tenses

When it comes to studying grammar, the best thing you can do is to focus on verb tenses* as this will help you communicate in English. Firstly, you need to find out how the tenses are formed. In order to do this, simply get hold of a grammar book, choose a tense and read about it. Then, do some basic exercises online or in an exercise book to practise forming the structure. 2

Verb tables

A good way to learn how to form tenses is by memorising verb tables**. A basic verb table will show you how verbs are conjugated. In order to memorise the verb tables you could study them for a bit, then try to write them out yourself without looking. Having the structures firmly in your head will make reproducing them much easier. And you won’t have to think or translate –

the structures will just come out automatically. 3 Grammatical sentences Another good method is to create a list of grammatical sentences. For example, if you were focusing on the Present Simple, you could write sentences like, “Keira lives in America”, or “Jack doesn’t like it.” Then, make a recording of the sentences (or get a native speaker to do it for you). In your freetime, you can listen to the sentences and repeat them out loud after the speaker. The idea is to practise them until you’ve learnt them by heart and you can say them without thinking. 4

Grammar drills

You can also use grammar drills to develop your ability to form negatives or questions. You can do them on your own, with a friend or with your teacher. Simply say a sentence in a particular tense, then create the negative or question forms. For example: She went to the shops. / She didn’t go to the shops. / Did she go to the shops? You could use your list of grammatical sentences from the previous paragraph for this.

Understanding how to use basic structures

Now comes the hard part: learning how to use the structures. 5

An overview

The first thing you want to do is to get a quick overview of how the verb tenses are used. For example, most basic grammar books will

Affirmative

Negative

Interrogative

I saw a good film.

I didn’t see a good film.

Did I see a good film?

You saw a good film.

You didn’t see a good film.

Did you see a good film?

He saw a good film.

He didn’t see a good film.

Did he see a good film?

She saw a good film.

She didn’t see a good film.

Did she see a good film?

It saw a good film.

It didn’t see a good film.

Did it see a good film?

We saw a good film.

We didn’t see a good film.

Did we see a good film?

They saw a good film.

They didn’t see a good film.

Did they see a good film?

tell you that the Present Simple is sometimes used for giving opinions: I think it’s good / We don’t like it. Most verb tenses have a few basic “rules” of usage like this that you can learn in a matter of minutes. 6

Using the language

Once you’ve got a basic understanding of the tenses, you need to practise using them when you’re speaking or writing. You also need to read and listen to lots of English so you can see the language in context. 7

Common mistakes

As you’re speaking or writing, make a note of any mistakes you make, or ask a teacher or friend to help you. Then, work on trying to eliminate these mistakes. For example, if you keep saying, “He like it” instead of “He likes it”. Try repeating the sentence 10 times a day until you’ve got it firmly implanted in your mind. 8

Reading & listening

However, the best way to improve your knowledge of grammar is by reading and listening. Children learn their first language without studying any grammar – they simply pick it up naturally by being exposed to it. You can do the same if you read and listen to English enough. In fact, the more you read and listen, the more language you’ll absorb, and the more you’ll see how the language fits together (which is what grammar is all about). So, read articles in English, watch TV series, listen to the news, read a magazine, watch YouTube videos, read a graded reader, listen to audio

files from language courses... the options are limitless! Language is all about communication – it isn’t a set of rules. And the end objective isn’t to have perfect “grammar”, it’s to communicate effectively. Grammar has its part to play, but it shouldn’t be the central focus of your learning. It’s interesting to find out about the order of adjectives, the use of articles, or the position of adverbs. However, you’ll learn much more through reading, listening, writing and speaking the language!

*Verb tenses The main verb tenses in English are: the verb to be, the Present Simple, the Present Continuous, the Past Simple, the Present Perfect, the Present Perfect Continuous, Future forms (will + a verb; be + going to + a verb), the Future Continuous, the Future Perfect, Modal verbs, the Past Continuous, Passive forms, the Past Perfect and Conditionals (zero, I, II, III).

GLOSSARY grammar n the way that words are combined or joined to make sentences a pattern n a “pattern” is the way something happens again and again or many times to memorise vb if you “memorise” something, you learn it so that you can remember it exactly to conjugate vb if you “conjugate” a verb, you create the different forms: I run, you run, she runs, etc. to learn by heart exp if you “learn something by heart”, you learn it so you can say it exactly without having to read it to pick up phr vb to learn to expose vb if you’re “exposed” to language, you hear it or see it to absorb vb if you “absorb” information, you learn and understand it to fit together exp the way a language “fits together” is the way that the words join or combine to form sentences, phrases, expressions, etc.

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cover feature

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Track 18: several english accents

s a a l r v h erbs p h t i w

Learn 8 useful phrasal verbs from these fantastic songs. Listen to the song extracts. Then, complete the definitions of the phrasal verbs. happening leave survive depend continues wait escape feel

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Hold On We’re Going Home Artist: Drake Phrasal verb: to hold on Drake (real name Aubrey Drake Graham) is a Canadian rapper, songwriter and actor. He was born in Toronto, Ontario, (Canada) in 1986. ‘Cause you're a good girl and you know it, I know exactly who you could be, Just hold on, we're going home, Just hold on, we're going home. If you have to “hold on”, you . have to (2)

I Want To Get Away Artist: Lenny Kravitz ti Phrasal verb: n to get away u Lenny Kravitz (born 1964) Co is an American rock singersongwriter, record producer and actor. His style of music incorporates elements of rock, soul, R&B, funk, reggae, hard rock, psychedelic and folk. Let’s fade into the sun, let your spirit fly, Where we are one, just for a little fun, Oh, oh, oh, yeah! I want to get away, I want to fly away. Yeah. If you want to “get away” from a place, you from that place. want to (4) If you “fly away”, you escape from a place quickly, or literally by flying.

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What’ss Going On o n Artist: • A Marvin Gaye vri l Lav Phrasal verb: to go on Marvin Gaye (1939) was an American singer-songwriter and musician. Marvin was signed up to Motown Records in the 1960s. He had a number of hits, including How Sweet It Is. Picket lines and picket signs, Don't punish me with brutality, Talk to me so you can see, What's going on. If something is “going on”, . it’s (3)

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I Get Along With You Very Well Artist: Chet Baker Phrasal verb: get along Chet Baker (born 1929) was an American jazz trumpeter and vocalist. He was one of the stars of the Gerry Mulligan Quartet in the 1950s. He died in May 1988. I get along without you very well, of course, I do, Except perhaps in spring, But I should never think of spring. If you “get along” without something, you manage to live or (1) without it. 1

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/ www.learnhotenglish.com / Looking for a quality English-language course abroad? Contact [email protected]

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5 The Show Must Go On Artist: Queen Phrasal verb: to go on Queen were a British rock band from London. They were formed in 1970 and consisted of Freddie Mercury, Brian 6 May, John Deacon and Roger Taylor. Breakaway Famous Queen songs include We Will Rock You and Artist: We Are The Champions. s Kelly Clarkson The show must go on! o ti The show must go on! Yeah! n Phrasal verb: un Inside my heart is breaking, •to Abreak away o C Kelly Clarkson My make-up may be flaking... v r i (1982) is an l L a v i g nShee • American singer-songwriter. If an event “goes on”, it (5) , in spite of any won the first season of American Idol in 2002. difficulties. Trying hard to reach out, but when I tried to speak out, Felt like no one could hear me, wanted to belong here, But something felt so wrong here, so I prayed I could break away. If you “break away” from a person, situation or that person, situation place, you (6) or place. The song also has the phrasal verb “reach out” (to try to connect with someone) and “speak out” (to say what you really feel or think). 7 Get Over It Artist: Avril Lavigne Phrasal verb: to get over Avril Lavigne (1984) is a Canadian singer-songwriter. She was born in Belleville, Ontario, (Canada). 8 You She moved to New York City at the age of 16 to work Can’t Count on her first album. On Me Hey, you gotta get over it, Artist: Counting Crows It's too bad I'm not sad, it's casting over, Phrasal verb: to count on It's just one of those things, Counting Crows is an You'll have to get over it. American rock band from If you “get over” something bad, you start to happy again after that Berkeley, California, (USA). (7) bad thing (such as breaking up They were formed in 1991 and with a boy or girlfriend). released their debut album, August and Everything After, in 1993. If you think you need to go, If you wanted to be free, There's just one thing you need to know, And that's that you can't count on me. If you can’t “count on” someone, you on that can’t (8) person to help you.

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For company classes, Skype/Telephone classes or private tuition, contact [email protected] / www.learnhotenglish.com /

25

Phrasal Verbs

Accidents This month we are looking at some phrasal verbs to describe accidents. L use earn m visit: ful phra ore! Get prod sal ve a phr ucts. rbs + asal learn audi verbs hote o file nglis s. Fo booklet! O h.co r mor ver m/p hras e inform 150 al-ve rbs-bation, ookle t

Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

brother shock cable floor street hands ice cigarette

1

2

Knock over If you “knock something over”, you hit it accidentally and make it fall. “I knocked over the vase and it smashed on the .”

3

Burn down If a building is “burnt down”, it is completely destroyed by fire. “A burning on the kitchen floor caused a fire that burnt down the house.”

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Mistake for

Fall apart

If you “mistake A for B”, you think that A is B, even though it isn’t. “I mistook Jim for his – they look exactly the same.”

If something “falls apart”, it breaks as you’re holding it. “The 3rd century document just fell apart in my .”

5

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Slip on If you “slip on” ice (for example), you fall as you’re walking on the ice. “I slipped on the and banged my head on the ground.”

Tread on / step on If you “tread on” something, you put your foot on it. “He accidentally trod on the wire and got an electric .”

7

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Bump into / bang into

Trip over

If you “bump into” someone, you hit your body against theirs accidentally. “We bumped into each other as we were walking down the .”

If you “trip over” something, your foot hits that thing and you fall. “I tripped over a that was on the floor.”

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Objective To teach you some slang words and expressions.

Track 25 Englishmen

Think about it When was the last time you had a chat about politics? Who were you with? What did you say? What’s your general opinion of politicians? What do you like or dislike about politics or politicians in general? Who are some of the worst or best politicians in your country?

Slang Conversation

Warning

Many of the words and expressions from this section are used in informal situations. So, be careful how you use them yourself!

politics

Mike and Bob are at the pub, chatting about politics. Listen once and answer these questions: 1. Who has Mike voted for in the election? 2. What does Bob think of this? Then, listen again and try to guess the meaning of the following slang expressions (also marked in bold in the text). Write out a version of them in Standard English: Slang expression 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Standard version

Gutted To boot out Way out To shaft Crap Scum To bang up Bastard A sleaze bag A bunch of With their snouts in the trough They don’t give a shit about Us lot A mate A piss-up A waste of space Doesn’t know his arse from his elbow Tie the knot

Interstellar 7th november

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1

Devil’s Knot 27th november

21st november

Dialogue Mike and Bob are in a pub. They’re chatting about the latest election results. M=Mike B=Bob M: So, what did you think of the election result? B: I was gutted that the government got in again. M: Pretty predictable though. I mean, with the economy picking up, and the opposition’s plans to raise taxes. B: I was hoping to see them get booted out. Those opinion polls were way out. So, it looks like another five years of cuts with the government shafting us left right and centre. M: The usual crap. Hey, did you hear about the MP with the million-dollar bank account in Lichtenstein that he hadn’t bothered to declare? B: Scum! M: But he still managed to get voted in. They should have banged him up for a few years. B: Thieving bastard. M: Such sleaze bags, some of them. B: They’re all just a bunch of pigs with their snouts in the trough. M: Yeah... most of them, at least.

B: They don’t give a shit about us lot – the little people. M: No, just helping out their mates. But you know what? I blame that twat in opposition. He’s about as useless as a chocolate teapot in the desert. B: Yeah, he couldn’t organise a piss-up in a brewery. M: I wouldn’t trust him as far as I could spit. B: I wouldn’t spit on him if he was on fire. He’s a complete waste of space. M: Doesn’t know his arse from his elbow. B: [silence] So, who did you vote for? M: The government. B: What? I thought... How could you? What about your principles? M: Well, you know how it is. They promised to bring down income tax for married couples, and as Shirley and I are about to tie the knot, it seemed like the logical thing to do. B: Yeah, very logical! Traitor!

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Now

available online!

Useful Idioms

Problems Learn 8 idioms for talking about problems.

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In hot water

Set alarm bells ringing

If you’re “in hot water”, you’re in trouble with someone. “That’s the third time I’ve been late this week. I’m in hot water now.”

If something “sets alarm bells ringing”, it makes you begin to worry. “Alarm bells started to ring when the client didn’t return our calls.”

Asking for trouble

Bite off more than you can chew

Someone who is “asking for trouble” is doing something stupid that could cause them problems. “Drinking and driving is just asking for trouble!”

If you bite off more than you can chew, you try to do something that is too difficult for you. “As soon as I read over the instructions for the project, I realised that I’d bitten off more than I could chew.”

Catch 22

We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it

A “catch 22” is an impossible situation in which you can’t do A before you’ve done B, but you can’t do B until you’ve done A. “I can’t get a residence permit without a job, but I can’t get a job without a residence permit.”

We’ll deal with that problem when it happens. A: What are we going to do if they ask for the money back? B: We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.

In dire straits

In over your head

If you’re “in dire straits”, you’re in a very difficult situation. “The massive fine for undeclared tax has really put the company in dire straits.”

If you’re “in over your head”, you’re involved in something that is too difficult for you. “I agreed to organise the concert, but soon realised that I was in over my head.” Learn more! Get an idioms booklet! 300 useful idioms + audio files. For more information, visit: www.learnhotenglish.com /

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Vocabulary clinic

Town & city

Learn Hot English

Blog!

Free lessons to improve your English, and articles on learning English! blog.learnhotenglish.com

Outskirts

High-rise flats

The suburbs

The “outskirts” of a city or town are the parts of it that are far from the centre. “We had to get a train to my sister’s house as she lives in the outskirts.”

Large buildings with many floors and flats (or apartments) on each floor. “The eastern part of the city has lots of ugly, high-rise flats.”

The outer area of large towns and cities where people live, often in bigger houses with gardens. “They’ve got a nice house in the suburbs.”

Lively nightlife

An office block

Pavement café

If a city has a “lively nightlife”, there are lots of bars, clubs, restaurants, etc. with a good atmosphere. “For a lively nightlife, head off to the western part of the city.”

A large building with many floors and offices on each floor. “There are lots of office blocks in the financial district.”

A café with tables outside on the pavement where you can sit and have a drink. “We sat in a pavement café and watched the people walking by.”

Residential area

Run-down

Sprawling

An area where people live. There aren't many shops or offices here. “The northern part of the city is mostly residential.”

Old and of a poor standard. “Many of the buildings in the centre were run-down.”

A “sprawling” city covers a wide area. You often need a car to travel around it. “It’s a large sprawling city without a real centre.”

Square

Quarter

Upmarket shops

In a town or city, a square is a flat open place, often in the shape of a square. “We had a relaxing cup of coffee in the main square.”

A “quarter” of a town is a part of the town where a particular group of people traditionally live or work. “The hotels in the French quarter are excellent.”

Fashionable shops that sell expensive goods. “There are a lot of upmarket shops in the main street.”

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31

Word Booster

12 useful words & expressions with the verb to give Here are 12 useful words & expressions with the verb to give.

Give something to someone

Give up

Give someone a ring / give someone a call

Give back

If you “give something to someone”, you provide them with that thing. “He gave us some money.”

If you “give up”, you stop doing something, often because it’s too difficult. “I tried to complete the puzzle but it was too difficult so I gave up .”

If you “give someone a call”, you telephone them or call them with a mobile. “I gave her a call, but she didn't answer.”

If you “give something back” to someone, you return it to them. “I gave her back the money she lent me.”

Give someone a lift

Give in

Give someone the kiss of life / give someone mouthto-mouth resuscitation

Give out

To take someone in your car. “She gave me a lift to the train station.”

If you “give in”, you stop fighting and admit that you’re defeated. “They gave in because the enemy forces were too strong.”

To breathe air into someone’s mouth after they have lost consciousness. “She gave him the kiss of life.”

If you “give out” copies of something (for example), you hand each person a copy of that thing. “She gave out the papers so everyone had a copy.”

Give an idea

Give away

Give a shock

Give off

If someone gives you an idea, they help you think of an idea. “You’ve just given me a good idea.”

If you “give something away”, you give it to someone without asking for anything in return. “She gave away all her money.”

If something gives you a shock, it surprises or frightens you. “You gave me a shock when you did that.”

If a liquid (for example) “gives off” a smell, it produces that smell. “The gas was giving off an unusual smell.”

Learning expressions The best way to learn any words or expressions is by seeing or hearing them in context when you’re reading or listening to English. Make a note of any words or expressions that you like (or want to learn) and write these down in sentences. Remember, always record language in phrases or sentences – never as individual words. You should also practise using the words or expressions as often as you can: in conversation, on the phone, in e-mails, etc. For company classes, Skype/Telephone classes or private tuition, contact [email protected] / www.learnhotenglish.com /

9

Objective To improve your reading and listening skills. Think about it What time do you have breakfast? What’s the best breakfast you’ve ever had? Have you ever had a



breakfast in a foreign country? What did you have? What did you like about it?

Track 1: englishmaN & Englishwoman Breakfast is the most important meal of the day!

Breakfast around the world!

by Christian Olijve

W

e asked several people what they have for breakfast and what it’s typical to eat in their countries. Here’s what they told us.

Answers on page 44

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Pre-reading

What do you have for breakfast? What do people have in your country? Make a list of all the things you eat or people generally eat or drink. 2

Reading I

Read or listen to the article once. Which breakfast sounds the most delicious? Why? Which one would you like to try? 3

Reading II

Read the article again. Then write a name next to each description of what the person has for breakfast. 1. A banana and a Greek yoghurt. 2. Olives marinated in olive oil, garlic and lemon. 3. Scrambled eggs, tomatoes and orange juice. 4. Scrambled eggs with tomatoes, tortillas and “frijol” beans. 5. Porridge with soy milk and cinnamon.

“A typical Greek breakfast would be some cheese and black olives marinated in olive oil, garlic and lemon. It’s a good start to the day, with a cup of black coffee of course.” Zacharias, Greece “A typical breakfast in Mexico is probably “huevos rancheros” (ranch-style eggs) with fried eggs, tortillas, rice, beans and chilli sauce. I really like this kind of breakfast but not every morning. Normally, I have scrambled eggs with tomatoes, tortillas and frijol beans.” Carolina, Mexico “Breakfast for me usually consists of a banana and a Greek yogurt, and sometimes I’ll add oatmeal, oh, and I can’t function properly without a cup of coffee. When I go to eat breakfast in a restaurant, I usually have eggs, toast and bacon, which is more typical.” Roberto, USA “I think most people from Spain have coffee, cereal or toast, or some biscuits or a muffin for breakfast, but I don’t really have a big

appetite in the morning because I have to get up really early. So, I usually have some orange juice and cereal with milk. It’s also typical here to have “churros” (fried sticks of dough).” Carmen, Spain “I’m from the Netherlands and a typical breakfast here is wholemeal bread with butter and Gouda cheese with a glass of milk. However, I usually have porridge with soy milk and some cinnamon. I also have some fruit. On special occasions we have croissants with jam, eggs, orange juice and some yoghurt with fresh fruit.” Jochem, The Netherlands “A typical breakfast here would be an English breakfast, with sausages, hash browns, bacon, fried eggs and beans, but hardly anyone I know has that in the morning. I usually start the day with some scrambled eggs and tomatoes and fresh orange juice. We have a full English breakfast on special occasions, but we usually go out for it as it’s too much hassle to make at home.” Cynthia, England “Here in South Africa my breakfast mostly consists of a cappuccino with some oats, scrambled eggs and

rye toast with peanut butter. On special occasions, we have our own version of the English breakfast with scrambled eggs, rye bread, beef sausages, mushrooms and tomatoes. We love a big breakfast!” Tom, South Africa

Video Watch chef Gordon Ramsay cook a delicious breakfast. Search YouTube for “Ramsay’s USA Breakfast”.

GLOSSARY to marinate vb if you “marinate” meat (for example), you keep it in a mixture of oil, vinegar, spices, herbs, etc. before cooking it tortilla n a thin, flat piece of bread made from eggs and corn or flour “frijol” (beans) n Spanish /Mexican dried seeds from a bean plant that you can cook and eat Greek yoghurt n a type of yoghurt that is thick and creamy. It has no whey (the watery part) of sour milk an appetite n if you have an “appetite”, you’re hungry “churros” n Spanish / Mexican a type of breakfast food that consists of a stick of fried dough (see next entry) dough n a type of food made from flour, water, fat and sugar Gouda cheese n a type of yellow cheese made from cow’s milk. It’s from the Netherlands soy milk n milk that is made by soaking dry soybeans and mixing them with water cinnamon n a spice from the bark of a tree a hassle n if something is a “hassle”, it’s difficult and involves problems cappuccino n coffee with froth (milk with air) and powdered chocolate on top rye n a cereal grown in cold countries. Its grains can be used to make flour or bread peanut butter n a brown paste made from peanuts. You can put it on bread

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5

Useful vocabulary

Learn Hot English

Breakfast

Blog!

Free lessons to improve your English, and articles on learning English! blog.learnhotenglish.com

Here are some typical things to have for breakfast.

Yoghurt

Cheese

Toast

Croissant

Pancakes (made from milk, flour and eggs)

Poached egg (cooked in water)

Scrambled eggs (eggs that are beaten then cooked)

Jam (made from fruit)

Marmalade (made from citrus fruits: oranges, etc.)

Orange juice

Ham

Cold cuts / cold meats (pieces of cured meat)

Cereal

Muffin

Cup of coffee

Pot of tea

Oats (a type of cereal – also oatmeal)

Porridge (oats cooked with milk or water)

Fried bread Baked beans (white beans in a tomato sauce) Black pudding (a sausage made from blood) Fried mushrooms Bacon

4

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Sausage Fried tomatoes Brown sauce (a sweet and spicy sauce) Hash brown (small pieces of fried potato) Fried egg (an egg cooked in oil)

USEFUL VOCABULARY

USEFULVOCABULARY THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VOCABULARY. THIS MONTH: ISLAND VACATION. ANSWERS ON PAGE 59

1

Match the words

Match the words below to the pictures. 1. The beach c 2. A cliff 3. A beach hut 4. A beach resort 5. The sea 6. The sand 7. A fish 8. Sun cream 9. A barbecue 10. A sun hat 2

3

d f

h

b

Wordsearch

c

Now find these words in the wordsearch.

the beach ring

i

a

e g

a cliff

a beach hut

a beach resort

the sea

the sand

a fish

sun cream

a barbecue

a sun hat

Guess the word

Think of clues to describe these island-related words. Ask your partner to guess the word based on your clues. This is something you wear on your head when you're outside in the heat.

A sun hat!

j

THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VERBS AND EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: TRAVEL. TO TAKE A TOUR IF YOU “TAKE A TOUR” OF A PLACE, YOU GO ON A SHORT JOURNEY OR TRIP AROUND IT.

To catch a ferry If you “catch” a bus, train, or ferry, you get on it in order to travel somewhere.

“Lastsummer,wewentonatour aroundthesouthofFrance.”

“Wehavetocatchtheferryat 5o’clocktomorrow.”

To stay in a hotel To live in a hotel for a short time, often during a holiday.

To book something If you "book" a trip, you reserve it and pay for it.

“Sandra and Alonso f inally booked their trip to Athens last night.”

“She decided to stay in a hotel instead of going camping.”

To go on a cruise If you "go on a cruise", you travel on a ship or boat and visit a number of places.

To stop off somewhere To take a temporary break in the middle of a journey.

“I want to go on a Caribbean cruise this summer.”

“The President stopped off in England on his way to Ankarra.”

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9

USEFUL VERBS & EXPRESSIONS

USEFULVERBS & EXPRESSIONS

BASIC ENGLISH

BASIC ENGLISH

The weather

12

Rainy

Windy

Sunny

Snowy

Dry

Wet

Lightning

A thermometer

Foggy

Icy

A Weather Forecast

Thunder

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TRACK 03

The weather LISTEN AND REPEAT THESE EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: THE WEATHER

Part II

Useful expressions

There was a terrible storm last night. It’s really windy. They say it’s going to be warm and sunny tomorrow. It was chucking it down. It was drizzling a bit. It was spitting. It’s really cloudy. Be careful how you drive – it’s really foggy. There’s ice on the road. Did you see that lightning flash? The thunder made me jump. Temperatures are set to rise. Temperatures have dropped below zero. Watch out for that puddle!

NOW LISTEN TO THIS DIALOGUE. IN THIS CONVERSATION, PAM AND BECKY ARE DISCUSSING THE WEATHER.

Pam: What’s the weather like outside? Becky: It’s freezing. Pam: Really? Becky: Yeah, the temperature has dropped, and it’s really windy. Pam: Oh, yes, the wind. That always makes it feel about 10º colder than it really is. Is it raining? Becky: Yes, a little bit, and the clouds are looking pretty black. Pam: So, do you think I should take an umbrella? Becky: Oh, yes. And put on a raincoat and your wellies. Pam: OK. Becky: And put some thermals on too. They say it’s going to get even colder. Pam: I know. I heard it may snow later. Becky: Yeah. Possibly, although that would be a bit strange for this time of year. Pam: We live in strange times. Becky: True.

Isitrainingor snowing? 

GLOSSARY

wellies n long rubber boots that you wear to keep your feet dry thermals n clothes especially designed to keep you warm in cold weather

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13

SOCIAL ENGLISH

SOCIAL ENGLISH

The section that makes grammar easy, interesting, and fun.

GRAMMAR FUN

GRAMMAR FUN

travel

THIS MONTH, WE’RE LOOKING AT CONFUSING WORDS RELATED TO THE TOPIC OF TRAVEL.

There are lots of different words we use in English to talk about travelling. Travel, trip, journey and tour are among the most common. “Travel” is normally used as a verb to talk about the experience of going from one place to another. For example: A: Do you like travelling? B: Have you ever travelled around Asia? Remember that in American English, the participle of travel is with one “l” = “traveled / travelling”. A: What’s your best travel experience? B: I normally book my holidays with a travel agent. C: I like looking at travel brochures before going on holiday. A “trip” often refers to a specific travel experience and refers to both the journey and the time spent away. A “trip” is often for a short period of time. “Trip” is a noun and is also used in collocations. For example: A: Do you often go on business trips for work? B: Where do you like going for daytrips? C: When did you last take a weekend trip? When you go on a “journey”, you go from one place to another. It often follows an adjective and sometimes a noun. For example: A: Did you have a good journey? B: The outward journey was longer than the return journey. C: I feel sick during car journeys. “Journey” is also often used as a collocation to refer to the method of transport. For example: A: I prefer car journeys to train journeys. B: The train journey took six hours. “Tour” can be a noun and a verb. It refers to a journey or a route around a place or an area. It doesn’t only refer to the journey but also the act of “sightseeing”. For example: A: Last year, we toured the Greek Islands. B: The guided tour of the city centre was very interesting.

1

What a long, strange trip it's been.

Exercise

Choose the correct answer. 1. When was your last business trip / journey? 2. I’m really tired – it was a long journey / travel. 3. What’s your favourite way to travel / journey? 4. What’s the longest travel / journey you've ever made? 5. Was the sightseeing tour / journey interesting? 6. I like to make daytrips / travels when I have free time. 7. The tour / trip guide knew a lot about ancient Greek history. 8. Do you make your own travel / journey arrangements? ANSWERS ON PAGE 59

16

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VOCABULARY

(NOT SO) TYPICAL

DIALOGUES

The Fast Food Restaurant HERE ARE SOME COMMON WORDS OR OBJECTS THAT YOU WILL SEE OR HEAR AT A FAST FOOD RESTAURANT.

IN THIS DIALOGUE, FRANK IS IN A PIZZA RESTAURANT.

Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank:

A hamburger -

minced meat which has been formed into a round shape.

A cheeseburger –

cooked on a barbecue.

A sundae – a tall glass

of ice cream with chocolate sauce and nuts on top.

the same as a hamburger, but with cheese on top.

An apple pie – a kind of pastry made with apples.

Crisps – very thin slices of potato that have been fried until they are hard, dry and crunchy (“potato chips” in US English).

A milkshake – a cold drink made by mixing milk with flavouring, ice cream or fruit and then whisking it.

A fizzy drink – a drink that

a non-alcoholic drink made from herbs and plants that tastes similar to cola and with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

contains small bubbles of carbonation (“a soft-drink” or “soda” in US English).

Chicken nuggets –

pieces of chicken that are fried in butter.

A BLT Sandwich – a sandwich with bacon, lettuce and tomato.

A wrap – a thin, flat piece

A root beer float –

“To eat in” – what you

say at a fast food restaurant when you want to eat the food in the restaurant.

“To take away / out” –what you say at a

of bread with filling in the middle.

fast food restaurant when you want to take the food to another place.

Chilli – small red or green

A tray – a flat piece of

pods that have a spicy taste and are used for cooking.

Ketchup – a thick red

wood, plastic or metal which has raised edges and is used to carry things.

Mustard – a yellow or brown paste.

A booth – a small area separated from a larger area or room with soft seats and screens.

Barbeque Sauce –

A playground – a public

sauce made from tomatoes.

a spicy paste used to flavour food, especially meat

area in a fast food restaurant where children can play.

Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank: Shop: Frank:

Hello, Speedy Slice. Quick pizza is our business. How may I help you? Hi, I’d like a pizza, please. OK. What can I get you? Right. I’d like a medium-sized pizza with five ingredients. What ingredients would you like? I’ll have bacon, green peppers, onion, spicy sausage and extra cheese. Would you like anything to drink with that? Yes, I’ll have a coke, please. And my girlfriend wants a doner kebab. OK, what’s the address? Oh, I’d like the glass that you’re offering as a free gift with an order of chicken wings, too. So, you want chicken wings as well? Ohhhh, yeah. A large tub to take away. And a dessert, too. Say, don’t you guys have brownies that are buy one, get one free? We do, but only on Fridays. Well, great, today is Friday. I’m in luck. Yes, I guess you are. What’s your address? It’s 23 Central Street. Erm… That’s this address. I know. But I need to know your address. No, you need to know the address of the place where I want my pizza. Well, yes. Of course. So, what’s the address of the place where you’d like your pizza delivered to? I told you. 23 Central Street. But that’s this address. Are you calling from the same city? Same city and same restaurant. I’m calling from the table in the corner. I’m the guy on the cell phone. Can you see me? Hi! Oh, yes. Hello. (He waves.) You deliver, right? Yes, but you’re in the restaurant. Why don’t you come to the counter? Why bother when you can phone? Well, yes, I guess so. See you in a minute. (Hangs up.) (Phone rings again a few minutes later.) Hello? Speedy Slice. Quick pizza is our business. How may I help you? Hi, it’s me again. I was just calling to remind you not to forget the extra hot chilli sauce for the chicken wings. OK, no problem. Oh, and by the way, I like your shoes. GLOSSARY a tub n Really? Thanks. I got a a deep container great deal on them. to deliver vb if you “deliver” something Oh! Even better! Well, somewhere, you take it there a great deal exp your food will be ready if you buy something that was “a in a minute. great deal”, you paid a low price for something that is good quality Great, bye!

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41

VOCABULARY AND NOT SO TYPICAL DIALOGUES

TRACK 16

TRACK 17

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

power

HERE ARE SOME MORE USEFUL AND INTERESTING EXPRESSIONS FOR YOU TO LEARN. THIS MONTH, WE HAVE SOME MORE EXPRESSIONS TO DESCRIBE POWER.

Breathe down someone’s neck

TO OBSERVE SOMEONE CLOSELY IN ORDER TO MONITOR THEIR WORK. “I’ve had my boss breathing down my neck all day – it’s been really annoying.”

At the top of the ladder

IN THE HIGHEST POSITION IN AN ORGANISATION. “After a long career, she’s at the top of the ladder.”

Pull the strings

Have somebody over a barrel TO HAVE ABSOLUTE CONTROL OVER SOMEONE. “She knows that I really need that money, so she’s got me over a barrel at the moment.”

Put the screws on USE FORCE, OR THE THREAT OF FORCE, TO GET WHAT YOU WANT. “They put the screws on him until he cracked and told them everything.”

Rule the roost

The top dog

TO BE THE MOST POWERFUL PERSON IN AN ORGANISATION. “Although Jeff is the president, it’s Sandra who rules the roost around here.”

TO BE THE PERSON WHO CONTROLS THINGS. “She’s the one who pulls the strings in this office.”

42

THE PERSON WITH THE MOST POWER. “Make sure you keep on his good side – he’s the top dog around here.”

Have / hold all the cards

BE THE PERSON IN A POSITION OF STRENGTH. “She holds all the cards in this court case, so we’d better not do anything to upset her.”

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Idio ms boo klet s

KNIFE IDIOMS TRACK 25

Lear your n hundre Eng English ds of id imaglish speak and speaioms, rea es an er! B k like lly im d aud ookle p a Tap io file ts comnative rove here s. e wit to b h uy!

THIS MONTH WE'RE LOOKING AT SOME “KNIFE” IDIOMS.

Now

available online!

On a knife-edge

KNIFE IDIOMS

IF YOU’RE “ON A KNIFE-EDGE, YOU’RE IN A VERY DIFFICULT SITUATION AND WORRIED ABOUT WHAT WILL HAPPEN IN THE FUTURE. “We’ve been living on a knife-edge for months now, just wondering what’s going to happen.”

Go under the knife

TO HAVE A MEDICAL OPERATION. “She was prepared to go under the knife to improve her physical appearance, but we managed to talk her out of it.”

Cut through something like a (hot) knife through butter

TO CUT SOMETHING VERY EASILY. “A laser beam can cut through metal like a hot knife through butter.”

Put/stick the knife in

TO DO OR SAY SOMETHING UNPLEASANT TO SOMEONE. “Most of the reviews of the film were really negative – not one critic could resist sticking the knife in.”

The knives are out

IF THE “KNIVES ARE OUT” FOR SOMEONE, PEOPLE ARE EXTREMELY ANGRY WTIH THAT PERSON. “The knives were out for Mr Mitchell after the things he’d said about staff during the meeting came to light.”

You could cut the atmosphere with a knife

IF YOU “COULD CUT THE ATMOSPHERE WITH A KNIFE”, THE ATMOSPHERE AT A MEETING IS VERY TENSE AND EVERYONE IS NERVOUS / ANGRY. “There was a lot of tension in the meeting; you could have cut the atmosphere with a knife.”

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51

TRACK 27

Lear impr n hundre a na ove you ds of ph listentive spea r English rasal ver ing fi ker! B and s bs, re ookle peak ally les! Tap t com like here es wi to b th uy!

PHRASAL VERB THEMES Work and Career

Now

available online!

THIS IS THE FIRST PART OF OUR SECTION OF CAREER-RELATED PHRASAL VERBS. COMPLETE THE SENTENCES WITH THE WORDS FROM BELOW. MORE NEXT MONTH. ANSWERS ON PAGE 59

toys

plan

until

survey

else

lately

1. To get ahead if you “get ahead”, you’re successful at work

work

told 2. To carry out if you “carry out” a task, you do it.

“They carried out the on people’s favourite groups.”

“If you want to get ahead, you’ll have to long hours.”

3. To go ahead with if you “go ahead” with something you promised to do, you do it.

4. To step down To leave your job so that someone else can do it.

“He decided to go ahead with his original .”

“it was time for her to step down and let someone do the job.” 5. To take on if you “take on” a new job or responsibility, you accept it.

6. To squeeze in if you manage to “squeeze someone in”, you fInd time to see them, even though you’re really busy. “I’ve been so busy , but maybe we can squeeze in a lunch together next week?”

“They were that they’d have to take on a lot more work. 7. To branch out if you “branch out”, you start doing something different.

“although we’re a food company, we’d like to branch out and start producing children’s .”

8. To keep at (something) if you “keep at” something hard, you continue working on it, even though it’s very diff icult.

It was hard for her but she kept at it it was completed.

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55

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

Ph verrbasal boo s klet s

RASALVERBS TAKE The verb "to take" has many different uses. Generally. we use this verb to refer to the action of carrying/taking something from one place to another. For example. "I took my car to the garage so they could repair it:

TAKE OFF IF AN IC7EA "TAKES OFF"'T BECOMES VERY POPULAR OR IT GETS

ACCEPTEV.

I.

.-

GLOSSARY ...".,.

....,...,. the t>nc 1ends'fO\l1<> buy

TAKE /)J (mE WASHIJJG/ ORY CLOTHeS) TO COu..ECT THE CLOTHES FROM THE WASHING I.IIJE eecAUSE THeY ARE PRY.

TO BE TAKEW tt.l IF YOU ARE "TAKEtJ IIr BY SOMEOJJe. YOU eeUEVE THAT PERSOW. EVEJ,I THOUGH THeY ARE WOT HONEST.

4 l_wJeunooten,lisb.com I FIll' Ire~t p'iv~te language dn~. e-mail dmes@hotenglishmiguinuom

nSH I

GLOSSARY

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There are lots o f ot her men/ women to go out wit h. Something people say to someone w ho has just split up with a girlfriend or boyfriend. MOon't worry about Jim. There are plenty more fish

in the sea:

Smell fishy

If a situation or an explanation ~s m e ll s fishy ~ you think that someone is being di shonest. M Jim's version of events smells a bit fi shy to me - I

think he was the one who did ie

comtnO'tl' "" _ \

dot"""'_M_e/M)oIit!n, ott

This month we are looking at some general fish idioms.

There are plenty more fish in the sea

.-.

.
•

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w _ _ of, ...

IN

Fish for compliments To try to make someone say good things a bout you., often by criticisi ng yourself

A: Do flook fat in this dress? B: No, of course not. Are you fishing for compliments?

Fish for information To try to obtain information. A: How much does Bob earn each yea r? B: Why? Are you fishing for information ?

Be another kettfe of fish If you say that something (or someone) is ~a nother kettle offis h~ you are saying that it (or he/ she) is completely different. ~ I 've driven a scooter before, but riding on that 600 cc motorbike is a completely different kettle of fish."

A queer fish This means a "strange person': "He washes his hands about thirty times a day. He's a bit of a queer fish."

6 I WW'II.~amhoten,rish.com I Want to clo an int~nship with HOI En,rish? For more information. e-mail infoGlhoten,lishmagazine.{om

9 TIlACK"

OR

ANDTALKI Talk shop If people w ho work together "talk shop: they talk about their work when they are in a bar/pub/ restaurant. "John and Mary are so boring to be with in the pub - they just talk shop~

Something that you say when per· son A criticises person B for doing something that person A does him/herself. A: Jane had a crash last week. She's a terrible driver. B: You can talk. You had six crashes last year.

Be like talking to a brick wall If talking to someone is like talking to a brick wall, the person you are speaking to isn't listening. "I've tried telling Sam what 1want, but it 's like talking to a brick wall - he just won't listen."

Look who's talking Something you say when person A criticises person B for doing some· thing that person A does him/herself. A: Frank smokes too much. B: Look who's talking. Up until last year you were smoking twenty a day.

Can talk the hind legs off a donkey Can talk a lot without stopping. "She could tal k the hind legs off a donkey~

Now you'.., talking Talk in riddles To talk in a way that is difficult to understand. "I wish she would stop talking in riddles and just tell me what she wants~

Something you say when someone makes a better suggestion or offer than the one that they made before. A: OK. if you don't w ant to go to the theatre, we could go to the cinema. B: Now you're talking.

Loving, romantic conversations that lovers have w hen they are in bed together. "She enjoyed the quiet moments together - the walks on the beach, the pillow talk . . :

....,

GLOSSARY • te<~ block oIl»ked ~

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the leg. ~t Il>e bKk oI..,-..ot .,,~

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• dift'lcull and
9 TRACK7

This monlh: the airport.

..

This month the oirport.

Useful Expressions listen and repeat these useful expressions.

What you ask/say Where can I check In? Which check-in desk do I go to? Where's passport control? What time is the plane leaving? Which terminal does the plane leave from? Can I check my baggage in here. please? Where's the nearest toilet, please? Do you know which boarding gate the plane is leaving from? Where's boarding gate 34, please? 15 there a baggage trolley near here, please? Can I check in electronically? I bought this e-ticket on the internet. Can I have a window seat, please? Can I have

an aisle seat, please? Where's the departure lounge, please? 15 there a duty-free shop here? Is there anywhere I can change my money, please?

a trolley

What you hear Can I see your passpon, please? Did you pack the bags yourself? You will have to pay excess baggage. Your plane is delayed forty-five minutes. Would you like a window seat or an aisle seat? Are you travelling alone? Here's your boarding card. You'll be boarding at gate number 34. Can I see your hand luggage, please? The plane is due to land in approximately twenty minutes. The plane will take off at 14:35. 0

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GlOSSARY

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the check.-In

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on aisle

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_ WORDSEARCH

Answ ers on page 33

Airport Words

1. A large flying form of transport (US English spelling) = an air_ ,

See if you con identify the word, Then, try to find the words in the Wordseorch. Good luck! (Read the vocobulorypoge 32/33 before doing thiS (

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2. The same as number one, but British

English spelling = an ae_ , 3. The person who flies the plane = the

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6. A card that tells you where in the airport your plane is = a boar ca rd. 7. The large building where airplanes fly from = an ai:::c:;;:-::-:c:-: 8. The collection of bags that you take w ith you = your bag'-,-,-----:--_, 9 , A metal vehicle with wheels for carrying your bags = a tro,_ _;-_ 10 A shop where you can buy tax-free goods = a _ -free shop. 11. A plane ticket you buy from the internet = an e-t--:-:-:-:7 12. A seat next to the window = a w _ _ seat. 13. A seat next to the aisle = an a_ _ seat. 14. The large room where people wait before going to catch their plane = the dep__ lounge. 15. The place where you go to get on the plane = the boarding g _ _, 16. The place where you show your ticket = the ch __ -in desk. 17. The place where you show your bags and w here they ask you questions as you enter the country = cu,_ _ __ 18. The place where you show your passport = pas - control.

U

food on the plane = the ste',--;-_--;

food on the plane = the ste,.--.-:--:-

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Learn some useful words and expressions relaled 10 fire and Ihe fire brigade. Fire brigade - the group of men and women whose job it is to fight fires.

Fire serv;ce - (also known as the -fire department in W

US English) the organisation which has the job of putting

out fi res. Fire drill - when there is a -fire drill - in a building, people who work or live there practise what to do if there is a fire.

Fire fighters - (also known as ~ firemen

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are the people who come to your house when there is a

fire. They also rescue people in

dangerous situations, such as car accident victims or people who are stuck in lifts ... and

cats up trees. Fire engine - (also known as a -fire truck- in US English) this is a kind of large vehicle with a large tank of water or foam used for fighting fires. Fire station - a building where fire engines are kept, and

where fire fighters wait until they are called to put out a fire. Fire exit - the door that people must use if there is a fire in a building.

Fire hydrant - fire hydrants are basically large taps in the street that provide water for fighting fires. Fire fighters can connect their hoses to the hydrant. Fire hydrants are sometimes hit by cars and the result is a flooded street. In summer, in cities such as New York, fire hydrants become enormous fountains that

children play in when it's really hot.

Cheny picker - (also known as a "boom lift· or a "hydraladder") this is a kind of mechanical ladder. It has a large open box that is often mounted on the back of a vehicle. You stand in the box and it takes you up to where

Fire escape - a metal staircase or ladder on the outside of a building. Ladder - this is the object you can use to climb up to places that are hard to reach. It has a series of steps. It is considered bad luck to walk under a ladder. Fireproof - something that cannot be damaged by fire. Fire hose - this is a long Oexible, rubber tube for shooting water under pressure. At the end of the hose there is a nozzle that controls the amount and speed of water that comes out. 32

GLOSSARY to P"I ouU ru.

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property: "" took them three weeks to bring the conflagration under control." • A flame = a hot, bright stream of burning gas that comes from something that Is burning:"The heat from the flames was Intense." • A glow = a dull, steady light produced by a fire when there are no flames:"They enjoyed the warmth of the glow from the fire; • A pyre = a high pile ofwood that Is built ouu ide 10 burn a dead body as part body

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you want to go. Cherr y pickers were originally designed for use in orch ard s. It lets the fruit picker take the fruit from the top of a tree.

False alarm - this is w hen you think there is a problem or emergency, but in reality, there's nothing to worry about. For example, you see w hite smoke coming from the bathroom, and you call the fire brigade. However, it turns out it's just steam from your natmate, w ho is having an extra-long, hot shower. In this case, it would be a false alarm. And the fire fighters probably wouldn't be very happy with you.

Siren - this is the very loud and annoying device that makes a sound when a police car, fire engine or ambulance passes you in the street. Matches - thin sticks that ignite when you strike them. Often used to make fires.

Fireworks - small object s that are lit to entertain people on special occasions. They contain chemicals and b urn brightly or attractively often with a loud noise. "Fire crackers" are fireworks that make several loud bangs when lit 0

Fire extinguisher - this is a metal cylinder which contains water or chemicals which can be used to put out fires.

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Smoke alarm - (also known as a · smoke detector· ) this is an electrical device that makes a sharp sound when smoke is detected.

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9 TRACK20

Learn Ihe kind of English you need for social occasions. This monlh: having lunch. Part I: Lislen and repeal Ihese expressions. What you say

over lunch

_Thanks (or inviting me to lunch. _Where would you like to sit? _What are you having then? _I recommend the fish. _You can't g o wrong with the duck. _ You order for me. _The steak is delicious here. _Have a good lunch / enjoy your lunch / bon appet it. - So, have you been here before? _Is this your first time here? - Do you eat out much?

Part 11 Now lislen 10 Ihis social English dialogue. In Ihis conversalion, John and Peler are having a business lunch. Peter: Joh n: Peter: Joh n: Peter:

_Where do you normally have lunch?

Joh n: Peter:

- I'll have the same as him.

John:

_I'll have what he's having.

Peter:

_This looks great.

Wait er:

_What's your favourite restaurant in town?

Joh n: Peter: Wait er:

- Do you want to share the dessert?

This is nice. Yes, I often come here for lunch. What d o you recommend then ? Well, the st eak is great here. And the salads are d el icious. I think I'll have the steak. What w ill you be drinking? I think I'll stick to spa rkling water. Yeah. Me too. I don't like to drink at lunchtime. So, I heard that you moved offices, is that right? Yes, that's right. We relocated to an office d owntown. Oh, look, here's t he waiter. Good aftern oon. Can I get you anything to drink? Yes, please. I'll have the sparkl ing water. And the same for me, please. OK, I'll be right back to take your orders.

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What you say to the waiter/waitress

_I'll have the steak, please.

_Red, white or rose?

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What the waiter/ waitress says

_What would you like to drink?

_ A table for two, please?

_I have a reservation under the name of Jones. - Could you bring us the salt/pepper/ ketchup/ vinegar? _Could I have the cheque, please?

_Would you like to sit in the non-smoking section? _ Are you ready to order yet? _What would you like as a starter? _What do you want (or the main course?

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Objective To learn some useful words and expressions for talking about business trips in English. Think about it Have you ever been on a business trip? If so, where was it to and what was it like? If not, what do you think you 'd need to take with you on a business trip? 9 TRACK 5: ENGLISHWOMAN & US MAN

ENGLISH IN ACTION ... THE Useful words ~----

;;;;== =::::;:

10

BUSINESS TRIP

More words

Dialogue: The trip

• Business trip - a trip abroad (or to another city) in order to meet clients / do deals, ete. • Boarding card - a card with information about your flight. You need it to get on the plane. • Delayed - if a flight is "delayed", it leaves later than planned. • Cancelled - if a flight is "cancelled", it doesn't leave, often because of a problem . • Book a flight - to reserve a ticket in advance so you can go somewhere by plane. • Reserve a hotel room - to arrange to have a room in a hotel on a specific day. • Departure time - the time a plane, etc. is supposed to leave. • Arrival time - the time a plane, ete. is supposed to arrive at its destination . • Overnight trip - a short journey that requires you to stay in a hotel for one night. • Check in to a hotel - when you "check in", you tell the person at the front desk that you've arrived, give them you r credit card details, etc. When you leave, you "check out". • Economy class - the least expensive seating area in a plane. • Business class - the second most expensive seating area in a plane. • First class - the most expensive seating area in a plane. • Executive lounge - a waiting room at an airport for business and first class passengers. • Receipt - a piece of paper with information about something you bought. • Expenses - the money you can spend on a trip. • Hotel suite - a luxurious room (or set of rooms) • Take off- when a plane "takes off", it leaves the ground in a controlled manner. • Land - when a plane "lands", it comes down to the groun d in a controlled manner.

Randy and Flynn are in a rock band. They're at the airport waiting to board a flight to fly to New York for a meeting with a record company. [Complete the text with the correct verbs .] R=Randy F=Flynn R: This is fantastic. I've never been in the executive lounge before. F: just one of the perks of flying business class .... R: So, who (1) _ _ for the plane tickets? F: Mum. R: Great. She's so kind. You've (2) _ _ a room at the Hilton, haven 't you? F: Yep! Asuite! R: I bet there's wifi in the room , cable TV and one of those trouser presses! F: And 24 hour room service. R: Fantastic. But I (3) _ _ a bit bad about your mum paying for everything. F: Oh don't worry. She only paid for the fl ights. You're paying for the hotel. R: What? F: I (4) _ _ your credit card. R: I can't afford a room at the Hilton. F: Relax! We're about to sign a major record deal. We'll be millionaires by Monday. R: I hope so! F: Right, so we've got a tight schedule. Once we check into the hotel we have to (5) - - straight to a business lunch with Rocco. He's the head of the studio. R: Don't you th ink you should take it easy with the champagne? That's your fourth glass. You don 't want to have a hangover for the meeting. F: Of course I do! We're a rock band. In fact, I'm (6) _ _ to get really drunk at the meeting and shout abuse at Rocco in the middle of the

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restaurant. He'll love it! R: Really? F: Yeah, and I'm planning to trash the hotel room before we check out. And maybe (7) _ _ the TV into the pool. R: Not on my credit card you're not! F: Hey, what's with the suit and tie? You should be wearing some tight leather trousers like mine. It's much more rock n' roll! R: No thanks. F: Oh, and I've booked a limousine to pick us up at the airport. R: Am I paying for that too? Cancel it! Let's (8) _ _ a taxi. F: We can't pull up to the Hilton in a taxi! R: [Sigh] just remember to (9) - - the receipts, so I can claim everything as expenses. F: Rock stars don't keep receipts. R: Hey, time to board. Got your boarding pass and passport? F: Yep. Oh, and just so you know, I'm planning to make a scene on the plane. Hopefully I'll be arrested when we land. just th ink of the publicity!

a record deal t1 a contract that a band or singer signs with a m usic company

tight adj if a sched ule is " tight" , there's very little time to complete everything

to take it easy 'p to relax; to do someth ing more slowly and

calmly a hangover " a headache an d bad feeling someone has

after drinki ng too much alcohol to shout abuse at ! p to say rude words at someone in a loud voice to trash n if someone "trashes" a hotel room (for exam ple) , they completely destroy it a suit n clothi ng that consists of a jacket and trousers (or skirt) of the same material and colour make a scene cxp if someone "makes a scene", they make a lot of noise I shout I break th ings. etc. publicity " if you get "publicity", newspapers or TV sta tions write about something that you've done or said

Objective: To learn some useful words and expressions for making accusations in English. Think about it! Have you ever been accused of something you didn't do? How did you respond? When was the last time you accused someone of having done something? What did you say to them? How did they respond? _ _-:::::-:-_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _---.:i==~~=:=:=:=:=:~~-~e ~ TRAcK 9: ENGLISHMAN & US MAN

PRACTICAL ENGLISH MAKI NG ACCUSATIONS This month we're looking at some expressions fo r accusing>': someone of something.

Accusing someone • • • • •

You took the money, didn 't you? It was you who stole the money, wasn 't it? You were the one who took it, weren 't you? I need to talk to you about a del icate matter. You were behind the decision to change it, weren 't you? • You lied about that, didn 't you? • You' re lying, aren 't you?

Talking about accusations • • • • • • •

They're accus ing him of having done it. They accused him of something he never did . They reported him for theft. They said that he'd taken the money. They accused him of taking the money. He was falsely accused of steal ing the money. He was accused of theft.

Defending yourself • • • • •

••• • •• •• • • • •

It wasn't me. I didn 't do it. It isn 't true. That's a lie! I wasn 't even there. I've never seen him before. I've never spoken to her before. It's the first time I've ever heard his name mentioned . You can 't blame me for th is. I never touched it. I didn 't go anywhere near it. I wasn 't anywhere near them . I was out with Laura at the time. You can 't accuse me of that! Well , you 're wrong. I th ink you've made a mistake. I th ink you 've mistaken me for someone else.

,':Accusing If you "accuse" someone of something bad, you say that they're responsible for that bad thing.

Denny and Benny are flatmates . Benny has just noticed that some money of his is missing. [Listen and complete with the correct prepositions .] D=Denny B=Benny B: Ah , Denny. Have you got a moment? I need to speak (1) _____ you about a rather delicate matter. D: Yeah , sure, what's up? B: Well , I left a hundred pounds (2) the kitchen table yesterday. But it's gone. D: And? B: Well, I see you 've got a brand new pair (3) _ _ __ Arman i jeans ... Are you sure you didn't... erm ... you know, take it? D: Are you accusing me of stealing your money? B: Well , it wouldn 't be the first time you've stolen something. You did spend some time (4) _ _ __ prison for theft, after all. D: That was a long time ago. And I never touched your money. B: So how did you get those new jeans? D: Erm ... they were a present. B: You 're lying, aren't you? D: No I'm not! You can't accuse me (5) _ _ _ __ something I didn 't do! B: Look, there are only two (6) _____ us here. Who else could have taken it? D: Erm ... I know!

B: D: B: D: B: D:

What? Tim! Tim? Yeah , I'm sure it was him! Tim 's a cat! I saw him running out of the kitchen yesterday (7) _____ something in his mouth. I could swear it was some banknotes. B: That's the worst excuse I've ever heard. Cats don 't steal. And especially not Tim. D: I'm sure it was him. B: Look, give me back the cash or I'm calling the police. D: Look. Come here. Look (8) his bed. What's that? [He points to the eat's bed.] B: I don 't know. Shredded newspaper. D: Look carefully. It's money! B: Oh, yes, so it is. You 're right. It's my money. That cat! I could kill him! Tim! Tim! Timmy! Where are you? Come (9) - - - daddy! D: What are you going to do? B: Never you mind! D: He's only a cat. B: No, he isn 't. He's a THI EF! TIM! TIM! TIM!

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Objective To improve your reading and listening skills. Think about it

Which foreign films have you seen recently? How did you watch them: inyour language, with subtitles, etc.? Why? Which foreign actors do you like? Why?

Exams This reading and listening activity will help prepare you for English exams such as PET and TOEFL

READ & LISTEN 11

FILM SUBTITLES OR DUBBING: WHAT'S BES I? hen you watch a foreign film , there are usually two options: the original movie with subtitles, or a dubbed version . But what's best? Here are a few things to think about.

W

Answers on page 44

n Pre-reading What are the pros and cons of either subtitles or dubbing for foreign films? What do you prefer? Why?

n Reading I Read the article once to compare your ideas.

n Reading 11 Read the article again. Then, answer the questions. 1. What does the writer say about every actor's voice~

Wh at can ha ppen when the original actor's voice is dubbed~ 3. Why does text sometimes have to be changed when they dub films? 4. Why do countries such as Holland and Norway have such high levels of English? 5. Wha t's more expensive: dubbing or adding

Every actor's voice is a part of who they are. The way they speak - their delivery, their tone, their pitch - it's an important element of their personality. Actors such as (lint Eastwood, Woody Alien and Lauren Bacall all have distinct voices. With subtitles, you can follow the film and enjoy the actor's voices. With dubbing, you can't.

Emotion Actors often use thei r voices to convey emotion, transmitting anger, sadness, regret and excitement (to name just a few) . But when the original actor's voice is dubbed, these emotions can become lost, misinterpreted or distorted by the voiceover actor.

2.

su btit les~

6. What are some of the downsides of su btitles?

Translation With dubbing, translated words have to be synchronised to the actor's lip movements. And in many cases, the original meaning may have to be altered or completely changed so the words can fit in. However, with subtitles, translators have more freedom as there's space for writing, and the words don 't have to be synchronised . This

means that translators who are creating the subtitles can focus on communicating the message, not just translating the words.

experience as they obscure part of the picture. And it's hard to watch the action and read the script at the same time.

Listening Listening to films in another language can really help develop your listening skills. The more you listen to a language (regardless of whether you understand everything or not) , the more you 'll pick up an ear for it. In countries such as Holland, Norway and Sweden where subtitles are commonly used , the general level of English is extremely high. In fact, the Netherlands ranked second in a 2011 English Proficiency Index.

So, what will it be: subtitles or dubbing? 0

Price Subtitles are relatively quick and cheap to produce the main cost being the translators ' fees. Dubbing is a lot more complex ... and expensive. First, the text needs to be translated . Then, the dubbing artists need to record their voices over the original soundtrack. Dubb ing actors need to be trained professionally and often are seen as minor celebrities in their countries. In Germany, they even have their own dubbing "Oscar" awards. Enjoyment Trying to follow subtitles can be a distraction. While you 're reading the text, you might miss parts of the film . In some cases, subtitles can even interfere with the visual

GLOSSARY subtitles " the tra nslated words of a film. They' re usually written along the bottom of the screen dubbed adj a "dubbed " film has trans lated aud io over the original actors' voices

delivery n your "delivery" is the way you speak: slowly,

loudly, in a bored / excited tone, etc. tone n the "tone" of your voice shows how you 're

feeling or what you 're thinking distinct (ldj unique and different to convey vb if you "conyey'" an emotion, other people understand that emotion to tran smit 'b if you "t ransmit" a message, you communicate it and others understand it regret n

if you fee l "regret", you feel bad about something you have or haven 't done to misi nterpret vb if so mething is "misinterpreted ", it isn't understood correctly to distort vb if you "distort" someth in g, you change it a yoiceoyer actor '1 an actor who provides the voices for characters in a film without actually appearing in the fi lm to synchronise l'b if you "synchronise" two th ings , you make them work together at the sa me time, etc. lips n the outer parts of your mouth. You use them to speak, form words, kiss, etc.

to fit in phr b if something "fits in", it's the right shape, size or length for the space ayailable

to pick up phr if you "pick something up", you learn it

gradually an ear for l'Xp if you have an "ear for" something, yo u can understand it by hearing it to rank b if someth ing "ranks" first in a list (for example) , it's firs t in the list

a fee n an amount of money you pay for goods or a service a sou ndtrack " the speech. sound and music for a film a distraction n something that stops you concentrating, or stops you doing wha t you' re supposed to be doing

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HOWFII;MS CAN IliELPVOU LEARN ENGLISH! WATCHING FILMS IS A GOOD WAY 1TO LEARN ENGLISH. -HEREARE 5 REASONS WJfY.

Watching movies is a fun way to learn English. And there are thousands of great English-language films to choose from, including Oscar-winning movies such as Forrest Gump, Argo, The King's Speech, Titanic, Shakespeare in Love and Braveheart ... to name just a few. So, you can enjoy watching a fantastic film and learn lots of English.

input (language) . This will really help improve your pronunciation, grammar and range of vocabulary. As you 're watching the film , write down any interesting or useful words, phrases, and grammatical structures. But remember to write these out in sentences or phrases! You could also copy out some of the dialogue and practise it with a friend .

you 'd probably never find in a dictionary. This will really help you understand how native English people speak in casual situations. For example: Standard Eng Ish: Please wait a minute. Slang version Hold on a sec!

Watching films helps with your understanding of spoken English. Spoken language is very different from written language, which tends to be more formal. For example: Written text We decided to accept their offer. Equivalent spok .n text We were, like, yeah, OK, we'll go for that! With films, you learn how native speakers use English when they're talking!

n Input

n Slang

Watching films is a great way to learn English. While you 're watching a film in English, you 're receiving

Finally, films can help you learn lots of slang English. In many movies, the actors use colloquial expressions that

If you 're watching the film online or on a DVD, stop it when you don 't understand a sentence or phrase. Then, play it again and again until you do! Read about the film before watching it so you understand what it's about and what happens. For example, you could read a synopsis or a review.

n Speaking

Watching films helps you learn about a country's culture, history and society. Gandhi will tell you something about the history of India; Amadeus will teach you about the composer Mozart; and Michael Col/ins will help you understand something about the Irish independence movement. And after watching a film, you 'll have lots to talk about with your friends ... in English, of course!

Choose films with lots of dialogue.

Problems However, there are a few problems. As these films are aimed at native English speakers, the actors often speak fairly fast, which may make it hard for you to understand. Also, they may have accents that are difficult to follow... even for native English speakers! Finally, you need to choose your movies carefully as action films tend to have very little dialogue.

Watch the film in your own language first.

Solutions So, what can you do? Here are a few ideas to help you watch original version films.

Watching films can be a great way to improve your English . Have fun learning English at the movies! 0

Put on the subtitles either in your language or English the first time you watch it. Then, watch it again without the subtitles. Read over the script before watching the film and look up any words you don't understand .

9 TRACK 14: ENGLISHMAN & ENGLISHWOMAN

TRAVEL ENGLISH AT TH E RESTAU RANT

Practical English to use in English-speaking countries.

Dialogue: The meal Megan and her husband Bob are in a restaurant.

Napkin

Useful expressions

Waiter: Good evening. Megan: Good evening. We'd like a table for two, please. Waiter: Certainly. This way, please. Can I get you a drink? Megan: Yes, I'll have a glass of white wine, please. Bob: And I'll have a bottle of Heineken, please. Waiter: OK. [He gives them the menu .] Our special of the day is mushroom soup and a fillet of fish with sauteed potatoes. Megan: OK. Thanks. Waiter: (After a few minutes the waiter returns.) Here are your drinks. Are you ready to order? Megan: Yes, I'll have the special, please? Bob:And I'll have the salad as a starter, and I'd like the steak for the main course, please. Waiter: And how would you like your steak? Bob: Well done, please. Waiter: OK, so that's one special, and one salad and a well done steak. Megan: That's right. Waiter: Perfect.

What you say

(an hour later)

Menu - a piece of paper with the prices and list of things you can eat in the restaurant. Starter- food you eat before the main course: soup, a salad , etc. • Main course - the large plate of food you order: fish and chips; steak with potatoes, etc. Dessert - a sweet dish you eat at the end of the meal : cake, yoghurt, sorbet, etc. Set menu - a fixed price for a starter, main course and dessert. There's usually a lim ited choice of options. BiII - a piece of paper that tells you how much you have to pay for your meal. Steak - you can have your steak done three different ways: "rare" (cooked for a very short period of time so it's still red inside), "medium" (cooked a bit until it's brown on both sides) or "well-done" (cooked for a longer period oftime) .

• • • • • • •

We 'd like a table for two, please. We 've got a reservation under the name of Jones . Could you bring us the oil and vinegar, please? I'll have the soup as a starter, please. I'll have the steak for the main course. Where's the bathroom, please? Could we have the bill , please?

• • • • •

Can I get you a drink while you're waiting? Are you ready to order? What do you want for the main course? Would you like a starter? What would you like to drink with your meal? Would you like any wine with that? How would you like your steak? Would you like any dessert or coffee?

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Waiter: Was everything all right? Megan: Yes, very nice, thank you. Waiter: Would you like any coffee or dessert? Megan: No, just the bill, please? Waiter: Will you be paying by credit card? Megan: Yes. Waiter: OK. I'll just go and get the ... [fades out]

atching movies is great for improving your English. And if you choose films that you enjoy watching, you'll learn English without even realising it! Here are eight movies that are perfect for English learners . The Social Network (2010) Starring Jesse Eisenberg. Directed by David Fincher Story how Mark Zuckerberg founded Facebook. Why it's good for ea ng English The screenplay for The Social Network was written by Aaron Sorkin, an award-winning writer. Sorkin is famous for his subtle, witty and very natural dialogue, which is enjoyable to listen to and relatively easy to follow. Also, while watching the film you'll learn a lot of vocabulary for talking about social networks and computers. Film quote: Mark Zuckerberg: "I invented Facebook."

I", ~

Men (1957) Starring Henry Fonda. Directed by Sidney Lumet. Story: a jury of 12 people have to reach a ' -_ _ _-' unanimous verdict on whether a boy killed his father. Why it's good for le' ing English 12 Angry Men is based on a play, and this means the characters talk a lot. Actors also tended to speak more dearly in older movies, so the dialogue is easy to understand. And the entire movie is set in one room (the jury room) and this lets you really focus on what's being said. While watching the movie, you 'll learn lots of vocabulary related to crime and punishment. Film quote: Juror: "Well, 1think testimony that can put a boy into the electric chair should be accurate." • •1 ",

12 Angry

When Harry Met Sally (1989) Starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. Directed by Rob Reiner. Story a romantic '--_ _ _-' comedy about the love lives of two neurotic New Yorkers. Why it's good for learning English Romantic comedies are great for watching and learning as they're generally easy to follow. They're also perfect for learn ing words to talk about dating. From th is film, you'll learn terms such as "high maintenance" and "long-term relationship". Film quote: Sally: "You see? That is just like you , Harry. You say th ings like that, and you make it impossible for me to hate you." Toy Story (1995) Starring the voices of Tom Hanks and Tim Alien. Directed by John Lasseter. Story- an animated film about toys that come to life when children and adults aren 't around . Why it's good for learning English Animated films are usually aimed at children and this means the storylines are uncomplicated and the characters use simple (but useful) language. But even though it's mainly for kids , Toy Story doesn 't feel childish . The filmmakers made sure the story and jokes also appealed to adults, so parents would be more likely to take their ch ildren to see the film . Film quote: Buzz Lightyear: "To infinity, and beyond!"

L - -_ _ _" --'

Charlie& the Chocolate Factory (1971) Starring Gene Wilder. Directed by Mel Stuart. Story- things go

wrong when a group of kids get a free tour ofWilly Wonka 's chocolate factory. Why it's good fo lea ning English Live-action feature films for younger audiences are also great for English learners as they' re generally easy to follow. And you 'll enjoy this one for its dark humour and interesting characters (especially Willy Wonka) . On top ofthat, you 'll hear some extracts from English literature because Willy often quotes well -known writers such as Oscar Wilde and Shakespeare. Before watching the film , why not read the Roald Dahl novel (Charlie 11( the Chocolate Factory) that the film is based on? Film quote: Willy Wonka: "We are the music makers ... and we are the dreamers of dreams ." (a quote from the poem Ode by Engl ish poet Arthur O'Shaughnessy.) 1Il!!~~~ The Hangover (200 9) Starring Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms and Zach Galifianakis . Directed by Todd

Phill ips . Story: four male friends get into trouble during a bachelor party in Las Vegas. Why it's good fo lea ning English The characters in Th e Hangover use colloquial language, mak ing the film an excellent way to learn up-to-date American slang. You 'll hear terms like "stag party" and "all-nighter". And given that the film is about four friends partying in Vegas, you'll learn plenty of swear words too. Film quote: Sid (one of the friends): "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas."

PH RASAL VERBS ATIAC KING & DEFENDING Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

Fight off

If someone

If you "fight off" an attacker'Jou manage

"comes at"

to defen you rself and

you, they m ove towards you in

make the attacker go

an aggressive

away. "Three men jumped on

WI didn't start

me as I was coming oul ofthe ,

the fighl - he just came al me

but I managed to light them off.n

as I was leaving

up to someone If you "stand up to someone" stronger than you, you defend yourself against that person (either verbally or physically) . ~ I finall y stood up to him after years of

"

manner.

"

If you refuse to "put up with something", you say that you won't

accept it any longer. WI refuse to put up with your aggressive ;-- :;-- '"Y longer."

If you "back down ", you reluctantly accept someone

Civein If you "give in", you stop fighting.

uAfter months of arguing and :-::-_ _ • he eventually gave

in,"

else's terms, often because you don't want any trouble or problems.

"Charles eventually backed down and agreed to our "

off If you " back you try to avoid a fight , often by moving away from danger.

uJim was ready for a fight, but he backed off when he saw how big the other was."

Square up to someone If A "sq uares up to" B, A moves towards B with the intention of attacking or hitting B.

"The man squared up to us and looked as if he wanted a

•

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USEFU L I DIOMS LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS Be made for each other

Punch above your weight

If you say that someone is "punching above their weight", you mean that they're having a relationship with someone who is a lot more attractive tha n they are.

"Alice is way too beautiful for Tom. He's really punching above his weight."

Play hard to get

If someone "plays hard to get", they act as if they aren't interested in someone, even though they are really.

Be a gooseberry A "gooseberry" is a single person who goes out (to a bar / restaurant, etc.) with two othe r people who are in a relationship o r who want to be in a relationship.

"I think she wants to go out with me, but she's just playing hard to get"

"I went out with Gemma and Bradley, although I wish I hadn't. I felt like a bit of a gooseberry."

Mr/Mrs Right

Break (someone's) heart

The person who would be perfect for you in a relations hip.

Ifsomeone "breaks your heart", they hurt you emotionally because you love them but they don't love you .

"I've been out with three men this past year, but I just can't find Mr Rightl"

Fall in love (with someone)

"He broke my heart when he told me that he didn't love me."

Love at first sight

To begin to love someone very much.

"I fell in love with him after a couple of weeks of dating and we got married several months later."

When someone feels "love at first sight", they start to love someone immediately.

"As soon as I saw her, it was love at first sight." Learn more! Get an idioms booklet! 300 useful idioms + audio files. For more information, visit: www.hotenglishmagazine.com I www.hotenglishgroup.com I

35

VOCABULARY CLINIC ~~

U 1<

US WORDS - MON EY & SHOPPI NG

_ British English: I was really tired so I took the lift. American English: The elevator is broken . We'll have to use the sta irs.

_ British English: I need to go to the cash-point machine to get some money out." American English: My friend got robbed at the ATM last week. (Automated Teller Mach ine)

• British English: I pa id with a fivepound note. American English: I don 't have any bills, just change.

British English: I haven 't got any money in my current account. American English: I need to open a new checking account.

. British English: I need to go to the corner shop for some milk. _ American English: I'll go to the convenience store for the bread .

British English: There's a big shopping centre in town . American English: I'll meet you at the mall.

_ British English: You can get some nails in the ironmonger's in this street. American English: We need a hammer. Let's go to the hardware store.

_ British English: The shop assistant didn 't know where to find it. American English: The clerk was very helpful.

,. • British English: I'll get some booze for the party later. [informal] American English: I can't drink liquor, I'm underage. [informal]

British English: Did the off-licence have the wine you want? American English: The liquor store closes at 12pm.

_ British English: I need to go to the chemist's, I have a sore throat. American English: Can you get me some cough med icine at the drug store?

. British English: Could we have the bill, please? _ American English: I'll ask for the check when the waiter comes back.

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The Sound of Music (1965) Starring Jul ie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. Directed by Robert Wise. Story: a young woman (Ma ria) becomes the nanny for seven wealthy ch il dren in a house in the Austrian Al ps . Why it's good for ea ing English The Sound of Music is a mus ical and listening to mus ic is one of the best ways to improve your English . Many of the fi lm's songs have become classics because they're so catchy. Very soo n you'll be singing "The hills are alive with the sound of mus ic. .." in the shower! Film quote: Maria: "I can 't seem to stop singing wherever I am! "

The Remains of the Day (1993) Starring Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson . Directed by James Ivory. Story a drama about the relationsh ip between a butler and a housekeeper in an English mans ion just before World War 11. Why it's good for I ning English The film is set in an Engl ish upperclass home in the '930S, so the characters speak very forma lly. This means some of the language is a bit old-fashioned, but it's also easy to follow and always grammatica lly correct. Before watching the film you could read the award-winn ing novel that the fi lm is based on by Kazuo Ishiguro. Film quote: Stevens (the butler) : "I don 't believe a man can consider himse lf fully content until he has done all he can to be of

if something " tends" to happen, it usually happens set np if a film is " set" in a particular country, it happens in that country

pu nis hment '1 the act of doing someth ing bad to someone who has done something wrong

or illegal a juror n one of the 12 people in a jury (see previous

entry) testimony n someone's "testi mony" in a court oflaw is what they know about a crime neurotic adj someone who is " neurotic" is always

frightened or worried about things high maintenance t 'P someone who is "high.maintenance"

needs a lot of attention an animated film p a ca rtoon; a film with moving pictures aimed at l p if something is "aimed at" you, it's made

for people like you childis h ad/ something "childish" is immatu re or

typical of a child to appeal to xp if something "appeals to" you, you like it dark humour exp "dark humour" is cruel or offensive and about things such as death, etc. to quote vb to say a sentence or phrase from a film ,

book. etc. to get into trouble r:.xp if you "get into trouble", you have

problems with the police I the authorities a bachelor party , p liS a party for a man who's going to get married. A "stag party" in British Engli sh colloquial language 'p informal words and ph rases that are mostly used in conversation a stag party
-tenglish • METHOD

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English faster? Get a Skills Booklet! Over 100 pages of extra English learning material: vocabulary, grammar and reading exercises, plus sections on greetings, business, socialising, travel, food , shopping and so much more! Plus ... Hot Engl ish magazine and the Skills Booklets are linked! There are four Skills Booklets. Each covers a different English level. There are also • Pre-Intermediate (A2) Teacher versions! • Intermediate (B1) • Upper Intermediate (B2) • Advanced (Cl)

party ,b

to go out and have a good time, going to bars, parties, etc. a swear word n a rude, offens ive word that offends people a nanny " a woman who is paid to look after the chil dren from a rich family catchy "d) a song that's "catchy" is easy to remember a butler n a man who wo rks in a large house for a rich family looki ng after the master, etc. a housekeeper tl a person who cooks. deans and looks after a hou se for the rich owner

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WORD BOOSTER

ACTS OF VIOLENCE 11 Push I shove

!

If you "shove" ! someone, ! you use force : to move them . "I had to push I and shove to get ; on the train." 1

I

If strong people "bully" a weaker person, the strong people hurt the weaker person emotionally or physically. "They were bullying the new girl at school."

lf A "strangles" B, A puts their hands around B's neck and applies pressure. "She strangled me."

I

I

If A "whips" B, A hits B with a strip of material such as leather (a material made from animal skin). "He whipped himself."

l

To "elbow" someone means to use your elbows to hit someone or push them away from you . "She elbowed the woman out ofthe way."

If you "break" an arm or leg, the bone spl its (divides) into two different pieces. It can be very pa inful. "I broke my arm when I was skiing."

If A "i ntimidates " B, A uses his/her strength or power to frighten B. "I felt intimated by him!"

If A "chokes " B, A tries to stop B from breath ing by app lying pressure to B's windpipe (the tube that takes air from your mouth into your body when you breathe) . I "She was so angry that she started to choke him!"

l I

If you knee someone, you bring your leg up in a quick motion so that your knee hits the other person . "Mark showed Paul how to knee someone."

If A "stabs" B, A puts a kn ife into B. "My friend was stabbed in the leg."

rPoke (in the

If A "pokes" B in the eye, A puts a finger in B's eye. "He accidently poked me in the eye."

If someone "shouts abuse" at you , they speak loudly and angrily and say rude wo rds . "He was shouting abuse at us."

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WORD BOOSTER

ACTS OF VIOLENCE r-

Hurt (someone)

If you "pinch " someone, you hold their skin between your thumb and I forefinger and squeeze. 1 "Owl Stop pinching me!"

l

I ~rt (a part of you,bodYI

If you "hurt" someone, you make them feel pain . "She really hurt me when she pulled my hair."

If a part of your body hurts , you can feel pa in in that part. "My back really hurts."

If A "punches" B, A hits B with his/her fist (a closed hand) . "The boxer punched her opponent during the fight"

If you "kick" someone, you hit that person with your foot. "I kicked him."

Scratch

Bleed

If you "scratch " someone, you use your fingers to break their skin . "She scratched me with her long fingernails."

If someth ing makes you "bleed ", it causes blood to come out of you . "I cut my finger and it wouldn't stop bleeding."

If A "smacks" B, A uses his/her hand to hit someone. "He smacked his work colleague on the backside."

If A "head butts " B, A uses the front part of his/ her head to hit B. "She head butted him."

Bite

If you "bite" something, I you use I your teeth to I break it. I "The dog bit , me but it didn't hurt much 1 because it was so small."

lf you "slap" someone, you hit them the face with the palm of your IIinhand (the inside part of your hand) .

"She slapped him."

! If A "shoots" B, A fires a gun at B. I

"We went paintballing and James shot me!"

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Objective To learn some useful words and expressions for talking about photography in English. Think about it Are you a good photographer? Why? Why not? What makes a great photograph? 9 TRACK 5: ENGLISHWOMAN & US MAN

ENGLISH IN ACTION ... PHOTOGRAPHY Useful words

More words

~---------------,-

• Close-up shot = a photo taken near the subject J model. • Airbrush out = if you "airbrush something out" of a photo, you delete it from the photo using Photoshop or any other computer software program. • Studio shot = a photo taken in a special room with lights, etc. • Shutter speed = the amount of time that the shutter is open. This is recorded in a fraction of a second. For example, if you have a shutter speed of 1000, then the shutter will open for 1 JlOooth of a second . The bigger the number, the shorter the time that the shutter is open for. • Aperture = the hole through which light passes into the lens. The aperture opening is measured in fJstops - the smaller the f/stop number, the larger the aperture open ing (so more light comes in). • AE (automatic exposure) = the camera controls the aperture exposure and shutter-speed . • Telephoto lens = a powerful camera lens which lets you take close-up pictures of something that is far away. • SLR (Single lens Reflex) = a camera that lets you see exactly what the lens sees. You can change the lens on a digital SLR, and produce high-quality photos. SLRs take photos more quickly than more basic cameras, so they're good for action photography. • Filter = something you put on the lens to change the colour or light. • Red-eye = an unwanted effect that happens to the eyes of people and animals in photos where their eyes appear red, often because of the flash . • Pose (for a photo) = if you "pose" for I a photo, you stay in a position so someone can take a photo of you. • Photo shoot = when there's a "photo shoot", a photographer takes pictures. • "Cheese" = people say this when someone takes their photo. It makes you look as if you're smiling.

10

I~~~EESE·!

("

Jenny has just started a photography course. For her first assignment, she has to take some photos of a friend . So, she's asked Nate to come over and pose for her. [Listen and choose the correct prepositions.) J=Jenny N=Nate J: Thanks for coming! N: No worries! I've never done any modelling before. Is that your new camera? J: Yeah! It's an SLR. N: An 5L. .. what? J: 5LR - single lens reflex. It's got everything. Video, automatic and manual focus, red-eye reduction ... plus it can shoot (1) _ _ really high resolution ... up to 26 megapixels. Oh, and the camera shop threw in a free tripod! N: Awesome! I'd love to get a decent camera. I just take snaps (2) _ _ my iPhone. J: Smartphones take terrible pictures! N: Yes, but you can add filters (3) _ _ the Instagram app. J: Really? N: Yeah, you can give your shots a sepia look, make them more saturated, or more faded and ... J: Very interesting. Anyway, let's get started. I'll do the fulllength compositions first. So, just take your top (4) - and stand over there. N: What? J: Take your top off and stand (5) _ _ the window.

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N: What? J: Beside the window... I'm going to use the natural light. N: No, I mean the part about taking my top off! J: Oh, don 't worry. The pictures will be tasteful. I'll shoot you (6) _ _ soft focus. N: No! I'm not taking my shirt off. J: Mmm ... OK. Probably for the best anyway... you've put (7) _ _ a bit of weight. N: What? J: Nothing. Erm, would you mind if I just zoom in and take some close-u ps (8) _ _ your face instead? N: Oh, OK ... Sure. J: Later, I can airbrush out the wrinkles. N: Wrinkles? I don 't have any wrinkles! J: It's amazing what you can do with Photoshop. I'll add a bit of colour (9) _ _ your skin too. You look a bit pale. Have you been sick recently? N: Wow ... you really know how to make a subject feel at ease. J: And I'll probably digitally reduce the size of your nose. I never noticed how big it is. And probably whiten your teeth. You'll look great. N: OK. I'm leaving.

wrinkles

11

lines on the skin

I face, They often

appear on old people to feel at ease lXp if you "feel at ease", you feel

comfortable to whiten vb when you "whiten " teeth ((or example), you make them whiter I cleaner

Objective: To learn some useful words and expressions for expressing blame in English.

Think about it! When was the last time you blamed someone for something. What did you blame them for? What did you say to them? How did they react?

PRACTICAL ENGLISH EXPRESSI NG BLAM E This month, we're looking at ways to blame'': someone for something.

II'M TO BLAME!

Blamingso meone • • • • • • • • • • •

It's all your fault. I' m to blame! I blame you for th is. They blamed it on him . I always get blamed for things. I told you not to do that. It was your idea to go there. I left you in charge of them . You were supposed to look after them . It was up to you to look after them . If you hadn 't left them alone, this never would have happened. • You were responsible for keeping an eye on it. • It's all down to you .

Responding to blame • • • • • • • • • •

It wasn 't my fault! It isn 't their fault! It's got nothing to do with me. I' m not t he one you should be blaming. (Pete) was responsible for looking after the boxes. There's no way you can blame me for this. I can 't believe you just said that! That's rubb ish! That's nonsense! You 're out of your mind!

>'
Randy and Flynn recently started a new band . They've just left the stage after playing their first concert. Unfortunately, it didn't go very well. [Listen and complete with the correct verbs.] R=Randy F=Flynn R: Well, that was a complete disaster. F: I thought it went quite well. R: Are you kidding? We were a laughing stock. You can't (1) , and our songs are rubbish. F: I blame the guy doing the sound. The levels were totally out. R: It's not his fault. You shouldn't have booked a show so soon after we (2) _ _ _ _ the band. We weren't ready! F: That's nonsense. I was ready. You weren't. And anyway, it wasn 't all bad. The crowd were cheering as we left the stage. R: No, they were jeering. Oh, and next time, don't do a stage dive unless you 're sure the audience is going to (3) you. You looked like a right id iot when you hit the floor. F: At least I was trying to (4) _____ like a rock star! You blame me for everything. But I'm the only one trying to make our band a success. R: (relenting) Look. We just need to (s) before the next gig. F: Mmm ... actually we've got another show tomorrow. R: What? I'm not playing again until we're ready. F: You 're just afraid of failure! R: No, I'm afraid of (6) _ _ _ _ a fool of myself! [Resigned] 0 K... So,

F: R: F: R: F: R:

F:

R: F: R: F: R:

where are we playing? It's a private party. Cool. Whose party is it? Erm, my sister's. [Suspicious] How old is your sister ...? Ten. Ten? We're (7) _ _ __ at a ten-year-old girl's birthday party? I left you in charge of bookings because you said you had "industry contacts". This is embarrassing. We've got to start somewhere. [Begging] Please come ... She'll be really upset if we don 't play. [relenting] Oh, OK. Great! I'll (8) _ _ __ the costumes. Costumes? Yeah , my sister wants us to dress up as downs. I quit!

a la ughing stock n if someone is Cl " la ughing stock"' , everyone laughs at them rubbish ad) bad; of very low quality or value to cheer 'b when people "cheer", they make a lot of noise to show

they like something

to jeer ~·b when people "jeer" they shout rude things I

or insults at someone they don't like

to hitthe floo r< p if yo u "hit the floor", you trip or fall and go onto the ground a gig r a concert upset ad,

if someone is "upset", they're unhappy I sad 'angry

to dress up as (XP if you "dress up as" a clown (for example), you put on clothes so you look like a clown toquit ·b if you "qu it" something, you stop doing it

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9 TRACK 14: ENGLISHMAN & US WOMAN

TRAVEL ENGLISH THE UNDERGROUND Practical English to use in English speaking co untries. This month: the Undergrou nd. Vocabulary

Dialogue: The tube stop

• Tube map - a diagram of all the train lines and

Miranda is a tourist in London. She wants to get to Waterloo Station . M=Miranda B=Bob

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

stations that are part of the London Underground / the tube. Underground line - a train route with stations: the Northern Line, the Circle Line, etc. Tube station - places where you can buy a ticket and get on or off a train . Track - the metal lines that the trains travel on. Carriage - one of the sections of the trai n that ca rries about 50 passengers. Zone - the Underground is divided into different zones . For example, Zone 1 is the central area of London . Single ticket - a ticket that allows you to go on one journey to a destination without returning. Return ticket - a ticket that allows you to go to a place and return from there. Stop - a station on the underground train route. Platform - the area in the underground station where passengers can get on and off the trains. Escalator - a moving staircase that takes you up or down a level. Pickpocket - a thief who steals things (money, etc.) from people's pockets. Tunnel - an underground passage that the train passes through. Delayed train - if a train is "delayed", it arrives later than it should .

M: Hi. Do you think you could help me, please? B: Yes, sure. M: I'm trying to get to Waterloo Station. What's the best way to get there? B: Probably by tube. M: OK. Do you know which line it is? B: Yes, it's the er, the Northern line. M: Great. And do you know where the nearest tube stop is? B: Well , (ovent Garden is just down this street. But then you'd have to change at

Usefulex pressions

What you say • A single to Baker Street, please. • A return to Waterloo Station, please.

• Which platform is it for Victoria Station , please? • Do I need to change lines for Waterloo Station? • I'd like a Travelcard , please.

What you hear • Stand clear of the doors , please. • Mind the gap, please. • The next station is Tottenham Court Road . Change here for the Northern Line. • You need to take the Bakerloo line. • Get on the southbound train. • Change at Tottenham Court Road for the Northern Line.

22

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Leicester Square to get on the Northern Line. So, it'd be quicker, and easier, to walk to Leicester Square and to get the tu be from there. M: OK. That's great. Do I need to change lines after that? B: No, just get on a southbound train - find the platform that says "Southbound" and take the first tube that comes along. I think it's about four or five stops from there. M: That's great. Thanks so much. B: My pleasure. Bye. M: Bye.

VOCABULARY CLINIC - ~ U 1<

Part/If

US WORDS - DRIVI NG & ROADS

• . British English: The suitcase won 't fit in the boot. American English: The trunk is stuck and it won't open.

• British English: You need a special licence to drive a lorry. American English: I hate driving on the freeway with all those trucks.

· British English: I couldn 't open the bonnet. American English: I don't know how to open the hood.

British English: There was no space in the car park. American English: The parking lot was expensive so I parked the car on the street instead .

• British English: I often use my driving licence as ID. American English: My new driver's license should arrive in a week.

• • British English: I've only ever driven a manual car with gears and a gear lever. American English: I'm not used to using a stick shift, I usually drive an automatic.

. British English: I forgot to put on the hand brake. American English: The emergency brake was broken .

• . British English: If you go on the motorway, it'll only take an hour. American English: There isn 't as much traffic on the freeway today.

"oo?,' .

• British English: You need to clean your windscreen. It's really dirty. American English: The windshield broke in the crash .

• • British English: He drove too close to me and broke my wing mirror. American English: I saw the cyclist in my side mirror.

• British English: She almost got knocked down on the zebra crossing. American English: They're putting a new crosswalk by the school.

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• British English: I had to get a new number plate . American English: She's got a personalised license plate. It says:

Pick a fight

Pepper-spray If you "pepper-spray" someone, you push a button on a container so that a chem ical substance comes out. "Pepper-spray" is used as a form of self-defence against an attacker.

To start a fight or argument with someone.

"He was in a bad mood and tried to pick a fight with me."

"The police officer pepper· sprayed the man, then took him to the police station."

Pin someone to the ground

To hold someone's hair in your hand and to pull down so it hurts the other person .

"She pulled my hair while we were fighting."

Wrestle someone to the ground To use your strength to force someone to the ground.

"He was going to hit me with the stick so I wrestled him to the ground."

Get someone in a head lock

To use your right arm and left hand to hold someone's head so that they cannot move .

"When we arrived she had our friend in a head lock."

Block a punch If you "block a punch ", you use your arm to stop someone from hitting you.

"If! hadn't managed to block his punch, he might have broken my nose!"

To use a taser (an electrical device) as a means of control. The taser fires an electric shock through someone.

"The police tasered him."

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35

PH RASAL VERBS ACTS OF Complete the sentences (1 to 8) with the words from below.

Pick on (someone)

Trip up If someone "trips you up", they use their foot to make you fall. "She stuck out her _ _ _ _ and tripped

If a strong or powerful person "picks on" a weaker person, the strong person attacks the weaker person verbally or physically, or they treat them badly or unfairly. "Stop picking on me! It isn't my fault I was offered the new _____ at work and you weren't."

Knockdown If A "knocks down" B, A hits Band makes him/her fall to the ground . "She accidentally hit him with the _____ and knocked him down."

Beat up To hit someone many times, often as a form of punishment or revenge. "The gang threatened to beat him up again ifhe didn't tell them where the was."

f

Knock out If A "knocks out" B, A hits Band makes B lose consciousness. "The boxer hit his _____ and knocked him out."

If A (a driver) "runs over" someone or something, A hits that person/thing with a car. "She threw his suitcase onto the and ran over it several times."

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BASIC ENGLISH

BASIC ENGLISH

Family granddad

grandma

mum (mother)

dad (father)

daughter sister granddaughter brother son grandson

In-laws mother-in-law the mother of your husband / wife father-in-law the father of your husband / wife brother-in-law the brother of your husband / wife sister-in-law the sister of your husband / wife the in-laws a general word to describe any or all of the above

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uncle

aunt

niece cousin

nephew cousin

TRACK 03

SOCIAL ENGLISH

SOCIAL ENGLISH

The Family LISTEN AND REPEAT THESE EXPRESSIONS. Useful expressions I have a mother and a father. My children are very young. I’m travelling with my family. Our family lives in New York. My family is spread out. I have a big family. He is my stepbrother.

Part II

I get on well with my brother. He looks a lot like his cousin. My cousins are from Nevada. She takes after her mother. How old are your children?

My children are all grown up. Peter is three years old. He is older than Paul. He is my eldest son. She is my youngest daughter.

NOW LISTEN TO THIS DIALOGUE. AMANDA AND GLENN ARE TALKING ABOUT THEIR FAMILIES. We’re one big, happy family, so smile!

Amanda: Oh, well, fancy meeting you here! How are you? What’ve you been up to lately? Glenn: Not that much, except that I’m going to my family reunion next week. Amanda: Oh, really? Are you going to see your brother? Glenn: Yeah, and his wife. They’ve got a new baby. Amanda: Send them my best wishes. Glenn: I will. Hey, how’s your son Devon? Amanda: He’s ine. He’s nervous about starting at a new school. Glenn: Ah! And, how old is he now? Amanda: He’s six. And then there’s Charlie.

He’s my youngest. Glenn: How old is he? Amanda: Four, and he loves carrots and colouring. How’s your wife? Glenn: She’s ine, thanks. She’s really excited about the reunion too. It’ll be nice to see everyone. My family is so spread out all over the country, so it’s nice when we can all get together. Amanda: I know what you mean. Well, I’ve got to inish the shopping, but have a great time at the reunion. Oh, and say hi to your sister for me. Glenn: Will do. See ya!

GLOSSARY spread out exp if things are “spread out”, they are far apart a stepbrother n the son of your stepfather (your mum's husband, but not your real father) or stepmother (your dad's wife, but not your real, biological mother) to get on well with exp to have a good relationship with to take after phr vb to be the same as what have you been up to? exp what have you been doing? a family reunion n a meeting with family members who have not seen one another for a long time to get together phr vb when people “get together”, they meet in order to spend time together

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TRACK 04

FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Useful language for successful communication.

FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE Phone expressions

Messages Functional Conversation: The Message

Adam: Hi, could I speak to Mr Bailey, please? Helen: I’m sorry, but he’s out to lunch right now. Who’s calling please? Adam: This is Adam Lockheed. Could you tell him to call me as soon as possible? I’ll be in the oice all day. Helen: What’s your telephone number? Adam: My number is 5841096, extension 207. Helen: OK, I’ll let him know you called. Adam: Do you know when he’ll back in the oice? Helen: He’ll be back in about an hour. Adam: Great, thank you.

Would you all like to leave a message?

The person who answers the phone

The Caller

Taking down a message

Leaving a message

Would you like to leave a message? Can I take a message? May I take a message?

Asking for information Who’s calling please? What company are you from? What’s your telephone number? What’s this message regarding?

Giving information I’ll let her know you called. I’ll make sure she gets the message. I’ll tell her to call you back as soon as possible.

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Could you tell her that Jane called, please? Could I leave a message, please? Could you ask her to call Sam when she gets in? No, there’s no message. I'll call back later.

Asking for information Do you know when she’ll be back in the oice? Do you have another phone number for him that I could call? Will he be in the oice tomorrow?

Giving information My number is 467-4509, extension 476. This is Glenda Jordan. I am with the company Flying Flags, Inc.

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Hello, is that the speaking clock. I think you’re wrong.

COVER FEATURE TRACK 12: SEVERAL ENGLISH ACCENTS

The Lazy Song by Bruno Mars LANGUAGE: PHRASAL VERBS In the song, Bruno is singing about how he doesn’t want to do anything. Notice how he uses the phrasal verb “pick up”. If you “pick up” the phone, you answer it, often by literally taking it off the receiver. 1

Today I don’t feel like doing anything, I just wanna lay in my bed. Don’t feel like picking up my phone, So, leave a message at the tone. 2 What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong LANGUAGE: VOCABULARY THEMES Songs can help you learn words based on a theme or topic. This song, for example, has lots of nature-related words such as rainbow and sky. Also, the song is sung slowly so it’s easy to follow.

The colours of the rainbow, So pretty in the sky, Are also on the faces of people going by. I see friends shaking hands, saying how do you do?

Blank Space by Taylor swift LANGUAGE: SPOKEN LANGUAGE This is one of pop star Taylor Swift’s most catchy and popular songs. It’s got lots of examples of informal and spoken language such as wanna and ain’t. 3

Love’s a game. Wanna play? New money, suit and tie. I can read you like a magazine. Ain’t it funny rumors fly? And I know you heard about me. So, hey, let's be friends, I’m dying to see how this one ends.

Sunrise by Norah Jones Language: past tense verbs This relaxing song has a mixture of basic language and idiomatic phrases, as well as some metaphors for those who like songs with a deeper meaning. It also has a lot of past tense verbs, such as held, couldn’t and tried. 4

Sunrise, sunrise. Looks like morning in your eyes, But the clocks held 9:15 for hours. Sunrise, sunrise. Couldn't tempt us if it tried.

Your Song by Elton John LANGUAGE: MODAL VERBS This song is an all-time classic, and has been covered by many other famous artists. The words are pronounced clearly throughout the song, with lots of repetition so the lyrics are easy to remember. It also includes quite a few modal verbs, such as can and may. 5

And you can tell everybody, this is the song. It may be quite simple, but now that it’s now done, I hope you don’t mind, I hope you don’t mind…

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S G N O 10 S P YOU OT HELENGLISH N

LEAR

ING V O R P IM F O Y A W T A IS A GRE N HELP IN SO MANY S G N O S O T G IN N E T LIS GLISH. AND SONGS CA YOUR EN UAGE. HERE ARE 10 OF OUR FAVOURITES. AREAS OF LANG

6 Bubbly by Colbie Caillat LANGUAGE: THE PRESENT CONTINUOUS This Californian singer-songwriter is famous for her soft voice and acoustic singing. This song is great for reinforcing your knowledge of the Present Continuous tense, with examples such as is falling and are hiding.

The rain is falling on my window pane, But we are hiding in a safer place, Under covers staying dry and warm, You give me feelings that I adore. They start in my toes make me crinkle my nose, Wherever it goes, I always know. 7 Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran LANGUAGE: COLLOCATIONS This song is perfect for fans of love and romance. It was number-one in the UK charts in 2014, and is often played on the radio. The tune is memorable, and the words are pronounced very clearly. It also includes lots of useful collocations and fixed expressions, such as think about, fall in love, in mysterious ways and every single day.

I’m thinking about how people fall in love, In mysterious ways, Maybe just the touch of a hand. Well, me, I fall in love with you every single day.

The World’s Greatest by R. Kelly LANGUAGE: IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONS Popular R&B singer R. Kelly wrote and recorded this song which has appeared on several film tracks. It includes lots of idiomatic expressions such as make it, or have your back against the ropes. 8

I’m that star up in the sky, I’m that mountain peak up high. Hey, I made it; I’m the world’s greatest. And I’m that little bit of hope, when my back’s against the ropes. I can feel it; I’m the world’s greatest. 9 She’s Always a Woman to Me by Billy Joel LANGUAGE: THE FUTURE WITH WILL This song is another timeless classic, and includes a wide range of everyday verbs. It also has several examples of the future with will, so it’s great for helping you understand this tense.

She can lead you to love, she can take you or leave you. She can ask for the truth, but she’ll never believe. And she’ll take what you give her as long as it’s free, Yeah, she steals like a thief, but she’s always a woman to me. 10 Hey Jude by The Beatles LANGUAGE: PRONUNCIATION Released in 1968, Hey Jude is one of the most famous songs in British music history. The song is sung quite slowly, so it’s easy to follow. It can also help you with your pronunciation, as you can hear how word sounds join together. For example: Plays it = plays it ˘ It’s a = It’s a ˘ World a = world a ˘

Don’t carry the world upon your shoulders, For well you know that it’s a fool who plays it cool, By making his world a little colder.

GLOSSARY a receiver n a telephone’s “receiver” is the part that you hold near your ear and speak into wanna abbr want to a tone n the sound you hear when you pick up a telephone receiver. It means that you can dial a number catchy adj a “catchy” song is easy to remember a suit n a jacket and trousers of the same colour and material a tie n a long thin piece of cloth that is worn round your neck (under a shirt collar) to read (a person) exp if you can “read” a person, you understand them and know what they’re thinking, planning, etc. ain’t abbr “is not” or “are not” dying exp if you’re “dying” to do something, you really want to do it a metaphor n a word or phrase which compares two things. For example, comparing someone’s eyes to the sunrise, as in the song sunrise n the time in the morning when the sun irst appears in the sky an all-time classic exp a piece of music, writing, etc. of very high quality that is used as the perfect example of something lyrics n the words for a song a window pane n the glass in a window to crinkle vb if you “crinkle” your nose, you push it up on your face and lines appear on it a collocation n a collocation consists of words that go together frequently or always. For example: to think + about; or, to listen + to a peak n the top of a mountain to make it exp if you “make it”, you’re successful and do something well back against the ropes exp if your “back is against the ropes”, you’re in a very bad and dangerous situation. This is a boxing expression that describes a situation in which a boxer is being hit many times with his/her back against the ropes that go around the boxing ring to lead vb if someone “leads” you to something, they take you to that place to carry the world on your shoulders exp if someone is “carrying the world on their shoulders”, they’re taking responsibility for everything a fool n a stupid person; an idiot to play it cool exp someone who “plays it cool” is calm and doesn’t show any emotion, even in a diicult or dangerous situation

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29

Do you know the diference between “less” and “few”? A large supermarket chain in the UK, Tesco, is having a big problem with it. The sign in question reads “Ten items or less”. It appears above the checkout area. But what’s the problem? According to experts, it’s wrong. They say that “fewer” should be used to describe countable things, such as “bananas, oranges” and “items”. “Less”, on the other hand, should be used to describe uncountable things, such as “water, rice” and “wine”. The Oxford University Press also got involved, and advised, “Less means ‘not as much’. ‘Fewer’ means ‘not as many’”.

One organisation, the Plain English Campaign, is asking Tesco to change its checkout signs. Plain English is an independent group that ights for clearly written public documents. Plain English asked Tesco to change their signs from “ten items or less” to “ten items or fewer”. One of their spokesman said, “There is a debate about whether the word on the sign should be ‘less’ or ‘fewer’. The debate about which is right has been going on for years now, and I still don't think we know if ‘less’ or ‘fewer’ is correct.” Plain English tried to ofer another more agreeable alternative. Their spokesman said, “Saying ‘Up to ten items’ is easy to understand and avoids any debate.” Or so they thought. Some people began to argue that “Up to ten items” means “ten items and no more” or “nine items or fewer”. These grammar corrections have provided endless debate between the two sides. Who knew checking out at the supermarket could be so grammatical?

Tesco

Less or Fewer? A grammar debate with Tesco. 1

Pre-reading

What's the diference between “fewer” and “less”? See if you can write a short description of the two words. 2

Reading I

Read the article and check your ideas about “fewer” and “less”. 3

Reading II

Answer the questions. You can refer back to the article. 1. What is Oxford University Press’ position on the debate? 2. What is the expert’s stance on “ten items or less?” 3. What is “Plain English”? What action is it demanding? 4. What alternative is “Plain English” suggesting?

Language focus Prepositions 4

Words following “debate”: 1. to debate about… 2. a debate between… 3. to debate with … Make a sentence for each of the above phrases. 5

Discussion

1. Do you think this debate is important or trivial? Why? 2. How important is grammar in your language? 3. In your opinion, what is the best way to learn / teach grammar? Why?

A supermarket group with more than 2,100 supermarkets across the country. Originally, Tesco sold only food and drinks, but have now expanded by selling clothing, DVDs, technology, internet services, etc. It was founded in 1919 by Jack Cohen. It is a British-based company, but they have expanded to South Korea, Slovakia, the United States and many other countries around the world. GLOSSARY the checkout area n the place in the supermarket where you pay for your food agreeable adj if something is “agreeable”, it is good and acceptable for someone to check out phr vb to pay for your food, etc. in a supermarket

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LESS OR FEWER?

TRACK 15

TRACK 29

PHRASAL VERB THEMES

Relationships

Lear impr n hundre a na ove you ds of ph listentive spea r English rasal ver ing fi ker! B and s bs, re ookle peak ally les! t com like es wi th

Now

(part II)

available online!

THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME MORE PHRASAL VERBS YOU CAN USE TO TALK ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS. THIS IS THE SECOND PART OF A TWO-PART SERIES. Ask someone out To ask someone to go on a date with you.

“I f inally plucked up the courage to ask her out on a date and she said yes.” Break off IF YOU “BREAK OFF” WITH SOMEONE, YOU stop THE relationship with THEM.

Go out with someone To have a relationship with someone.

“Jeff and Benji have been going out for about six years now.” Run off with someone IF A “RUNS OFF WITH” SOMEONE, A leaveS HIS/ HER husband / wife / partner, etc. and HAS A relationship WITH ANOTHER PERSON.

“They broke off the relationship after just three months.” “THE FILM WAS ABOUT A WOMAN WHO RUNS OFF with ANOTHER MAN, LEAVING HER HUSBAND AND three kids.”

Settle down together IF SOMEONE “SETTLES DOWN”, THEY START LIVING A QUIET LIFE, ESPECIALLY WHEN THEY GET MARRIED.

Drift apart / grow apart If two people “drift apart”, they become LESS CLOSE TO ONE ANOTHER.

“THERE WAS A FEELING THAT THEY’D DRIFTED APART.”

“I’M PLEASED YOU FINALLY settled down.” Call off To stop something; to cancel something (a wedding, for example).

Cheat on someone IF A “CHEATS ON” HIS/HER WIFE / HUSBAND, A HAS a relationship with ANOTHER PERSON. “After ten years of marriage, I FOUND OUT that she’D been cheating on me.”

“After a few months of arguments, they decided to call it off.”

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PHRASAL VERB THEMES

Ph verrbasal boo s klet s

TRACK 26

SEAT IDIOMS

Lear your n hundre Eng English ds of id imaglish speak and speaioms, rea es an er! B k like lly im d aud ookle p a io file ts comnative rove s. e wit h

THIS MONTH, WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME “SEAT” IDIOMS.

Now

available online!

In/on the hot seat IF YOU’RE “IN THE HOT SEAT”, YOU’RE IN A POSITION IN WHICH YOU’RE RESPONSIBLE FOR DIFFICULT AND IMPORTANT THINGS. “Two days after starting her new job, she found herself in the hot seat, having to defend her predecessor’s actions even though it was before her time.”

On the edge of your seat IF YOU’RE “ON THE EDGE OF YOUR SEAT”, YOU’RE VERY INTERESTED IN WHAT IS HAPPENING OR WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN. “That ilm was so scary; I was literally on the edge of my seat the whole time.”

To be in the driving seat / to take the driver’s seat (US) TO BE IN CONTROL OF A SITUATION. “I put Timothy in the driving seat for the project because of his extensive experience in the ield.”

(Fly) by the seat of your pants IF YOU “FLY BY THE SEAT OF YOUR PANTS”, YOU HAVE TO IMPROVISE BECAUSE YOU DON’T HAVE THE NECESSARY EXPERIENCE, ABILITY, OR PREPARATION. “We hadn’t prepared for the presentation, so we had to ly by the seat of our pants.”

To take a back seat IF AN ACTIVITY “TAKES A BACK SEAT”, IT BECOMES LESS IMPORTANT THAN SOMETHING ELSE. “When he became a politician, his hobbies and pastimes had to take a back seat.”

To win a seat IF SOMEONE “WINS A SEAT” DURING AN ELECTION, THEY’RE ELECTED TO REPRESENT PEOPLE. “The Progress Party won the most seats in the last election.”

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47

SEAT IDIOMS

Idio ms boo klet s

TRACK 17

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

DR FINGERS’ VOCABULARY CLINIC

describing money HERE ARE SOME MORE USEFUL AND INTERESTING EXPRESSIONS FOR YOU TO LEARN. THIS MONTH, WE ARE LOOKING AT SOME EXPRESSIONS TO DESCRIBE MONEY.

Daylight robbery WE OFTEN USE THIS EXPRESSION WHEN SOMEONE CHARGES AN UNREASONABLY HIGH AMOUNT OF MONEY FOR SOMETHING. “Did you see how much they were charging for a cofee? That’s daylight robbery.”

Cost an arm and a leg IF SOMETHING “COSTS AN ARM AND A LEG”, IT IS VERY EXPENSIVE. “That lat screen TV cost us an arm and a leg.”

Pour money down the drain

GLOSSARY a catch n a trick; a hidden problem or diiculty

Someone’s bread and butter

IF YOU “POUR MONEY DOWN THE DRAIN”, YOU SPEND YOUR MONEY ON UNNECESSARY THINGS. “Buying that car was like pouring money down the drain.”

AN ACTIVITY OR WORK THAT PROVIDES THE MAIN PART OF SOMEONE’S INCOME. “The mobile phone business is his passion, but his job in the factory is actually his bread and butter.”

Be sitting on a goldmine

Kill the goose that lays the golden egg

TO POSSESS SOMETHING THAT PRODUCES LARGE PROFITS. “The cost of petrol is going to skyrocket here, so petrol companies will be sitting on a goldmine.”

TO HARM OR DESTROY THE PERSON OR THING THAT GIVES YOU MONEY OR POWER. “If you sell your business now, you’ll be killing the goose that lays the golden egg.”

There’s no such thing as a free lunch WE OFTEN USE THIS EXPRESSION TO SAY THAT YOU CANNOT GET SOMETHING FOR NOTHING AND THAT YOU MUST WORK FOR WHAT YOU HAVE. “They said we get a free mobile phone if we attend the talk, but there must be a catch. There’s no such thing as a free lunch.”

40

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TRACK 16

The Bookshop IN THIS CONVERSATION, MADELINE IS BUYING A BOOK AT A BOOKSHOP.

Madeline: Shop: Madeline: Shop: Madeline: Shop: Madeline: Shop: Madeline: Shop: Madeline: Shop:

Madeline: Shop: Madeline:

Shop: Madeline: Shop:

Hi, I’m looking for a book. Certainly. Here you are. [She gives her a hook.] No, not a hook. A book. I’m looking for a book. Oh, I’m sorry. Any particular kind of book? Erm… A metal book? A wooden book? A paper book? Erm, a paper book, please. Oh, OK. That’s very traditional, if I may say so. Now, what would you like in your book? Animals? Minerals? Words? Erm, words. I think. OK. Very good. A paper book with words in it. Yes. No problem. Now, what language would you like your book to be in? French? German? Chinese? Erm… We have a very interesting book in Japanese. But I don’t speak Japanese. Do you have any books in English? Oh, yes. We have some books in English. Great. What genre of book would you like to read? Mystery? Romance? Historical? Maybe something biographical?

Madeline: Shop:

Madeline: Shop:

Madeline: Shop: Madeline: Shop: Madeline: Shop: Madeline: Shop: Madeline: Shop: Madeline:

I’d like to read a historical book, please. OK. What period of history do you like? I’d recommend Colonial times in America, or something on Medieval times, or Prehistoric times. Colonial times in America sounds good. Yeah, I agree. Now, last question. Would you like a little book or a big book? Erm, a big book, please. Very well. You can’t get a bigger book than this. [He gives her a big book.] OK. Thank you very much. But wait a minute. It’s really heavy. I don’t think I can lift it. Well, there is one new book that we just got in. It’s pretty good. But it’s explosive. You mean the plot’s explosive? Yes, it’s-it’s explosive. Explosive? I don’t understand. What do you mean? I mean explosive. In GLOSSARY fact, don’t open that a hook n book inside the shop. a piece of metal that is curved (in a semi-circular shape) at the end What are you talking to lift vb to raise; to take to a higher position; about? How could a to take from the loor / ground book be... explosive adj I told you not to open a substance or device that can cause an explosion it in here... a plot n the story in a book / ilm ...explosive? Now I I get it exp I understand it get it.

BusinessEnglish Learn over 500 useful business words and expressions! Over 30 articles on up-to-date business topics! Over 100 useful business idioms & phrasal verbs! Business videos and audio files to improve your listening skills! G e t y o u r B u s i n e s s E n g li s h b o o k s N O W , v i s i t : www.learnhotenglish.com/shop FREE subscription if you recommend Hot English Language Services to your company. E-mail [email protected] / www.learnhotenglish.com /

39

(NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES

(NOT SO) TYPICAL DIALOGUES

VOCABULARY

VOCABULARY

Books

HERE ARE SOME USEFUL WORDS FOR TALKING ABOUT BOOKS.

A bookshop happily ever after.” a place where you can borrow books (have the books for a short period of time).

to put in your pocket.

An author a person who writes a book.

Plot the story

A chapter

of the book.

a section of a book.

A character

story featuring mythical beings such as fairies, elves, and spirits. They often start, “Once upon a time...” and they end, “And they all lived

An aisle a space between bookshelves in a library / bookshop.

A cover a

a person in the story.

A fairy tale a short

A bookshelf a piece of furniture with shelves (flat pieces of wood / metal, etc.) for putting books on.

To browse

rigid piece of paper that protects the books.

A paperback a small book with a soft cover - often big enough

to look at books casually or to look for information in a casual way.

(International Standard Book Number) a unique number for a book in order to identify the

Learn hundreds of phrasal verbs, really improve your English and speak like a native speaker! Booklet comes with listening files!

38

Booklets come with images and audio files!

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Catalogue a list of all the books or other material in the bookshop. You can search for things by keyword, author, title or subject.

E-book an electronic (or digital) version of a book. Reference books

ISBN

Phrasal verbs booklets Get your Phrasal verbs booklets from... www.learnhotenglish.com/shop

publisher, title and edition. Magazines and periodicals have an ISSN (International Standard Serial Number).

Now

available online!

books that are used for finding information, such as dictionaries or encyclopaedias.

USEFUL VERBS

USEFULVERBS& EXPRESSIONS THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VERBS AND EXPRESSIONS. THIS MONTH: THE OFFICE. TO GO TO WORK IF YOU “GO TO WORK”, YOU ARE TRAVELLING TO YOUR JOB.

To f inish a project If you "finish a project”, you complete an assignment.

“Our group FInished the project last night.”

“I go to work by bus every morning.”

To have a meeting If you “have a meeting”, you and your coworkers sit down and talk about something related to your job.

To be available If you “are available”, then you are free to talk and to do a particular task.

“She was not available all last week because she was out of town.”

“Sally and I are having a meeting to discuss the FInances.”

To have a break To stop working temporarily, and have a rest.

To be out to lunch To be outside of the off ice on a lunch break.

“Henry will be out to lunch from 1-2 o’clock tomorrow.”

“We had a break in between our long presentations.”

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9

USEFUL VOCABULARY

USEFULVOCABULARY THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VOCABULARY. THIS MONTH: THINGS IN AN OFFICE. ANSWERS ON PAGE 56 1

Match the words

Match the words below to the pictures. j 1. a copy machine ____ 2. a fax machine ____ 3. a water cooler ____ 4. a window ____ 5. a desk ____ 6. a picture ____ 7. a plant ____ 8. a meeting room ____ 9. a computer ____ 10. cofee ____ 2

c

i f

a

h d b e

Wordsearch

Now ind these words in the wordsearch.

coffee

computer

copy machine

desk

fax machine

meeting room

picture

plant

water cooler

window

3

g

Guess the word

Think of ways to describe the oice vocabulary words. Ask your partner to guess the word based on your clues.

It's something with leaves and it constantly needs water.

A plant!

8

j

USEFUL VOCABULARY

XMAS VOCABULARY THIS IS ANOTHER PART IN OUR SECTION ON USEFUL VOCABULARY. THIS MONTH: CHRISTMAS. ANSWERS ON PAGE 56 1

Match the words

Match the words below to the pictures. f 1. presents ____ 2. elf ____ 3. ornaments ____ 4. mistletoe ____ 5. stockings ____ 6. reindeer ____ 7. lights ____ 8. wreath ____ 9. candle ____ 10. snow ____ 2

a e d

j

f

Wordsearch

h

Now ind these words in the wordsearch.

3

i

candle

reindeer

elf

snow

mistletoe

stockings

ornament

wreath

present

lights

g

Guess the word

Think of ways to describe these holiday vocabulary words. From your clues, ask your partner to guess the correct holiday word.

it’s Something Santa's got for you.

A present!

4

c

b

Track 5

e c fi f O The Sellotape

Useful Expressions –The Office

Funny Product Grammar Labels

Basic English

A paper clip

A filing-cabinet

Listen and repeat these useful expressions. • Could you send this by fax, please? • Could you make me six copies of this, please? • You’ve got a phone call. • Can you staple these together, please? • Could you take this paper down to the recycling bin, please? • Which drawer does this go in? • Can I borrow your pen, please? • Is this scrap paper? • Just take a message, please. • Could you file these documents, please? • Put it in the top drawer, please. • Have you got a pen I could borrow, please? • Stick a post-it note on it. • The photocopier has run out of paper. • Could you order some more toner for the photocopier, please? • What’s the fax number, please? • Put it in my in-tray.

Shelves A Post-It note

Tippex

A stapler An open-plan office

A holepunch

A fax machine

A photocopier A drawer

GLOSSARY

A rubber band

A desk

A waste paper bin/ A trashcan A pen

Desk trays A screen/monitor A keyboard A mouse

A telephone

A computer

to staple vb to fix pages together by using a staple (a small, thin piece of metal that looks like a little bridge) a recycling bin n a container for rubbish (old paper, cartons, glass, etc) that can be recycled a drawer n a box that is part of a piece of furniture, and in which you can place things to borrow vb if you “borrow” something from someone, you take that thing (with permission) for a limited period of time scrap paper n old paper that can be used for another purpose, or for rough notes to file vb to put a document/paper/contract, etc into a box or folder to stick vb to put to run out of exp if you “run out of something”, you have no more of that thing toner n ink (a black, chemical substance) for a photocopier or printer an in-tray n a box where people can place letters/documents/internal notes, etc for you to read

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Social English

s e i c n e g r Car eme

Social English

Track 10

Learn the kind of English you need for social occasions. This month: car emergencies. Listen and repeat these expressions. What you say

• My car won’t start. • I have a flat tyre. • I'm out of gas. • I’ve run out of petrol. • The battery is dead. • The car is overheating. • I’ve locked the keys inside the car. • I need to change the tyre. • I need to change the oil. • There’s something wrong with the gears. • There’s a strange sound coming from the engine. • There’s smoke coming out of the bonnet.

• I’ve put diesel in the petrol tank. • I’ve put petrol in the diesel tank. • How long will this take? • How much will it cost?

What you hear

• This is going to be expensive. • This is going to take a long time. • I’ll have to phone for some spare parts.

• Have you tried using the throttle? • We’ll have to jump-start your car. • You need to put some petrol in the tank. • It’s going to take quite a while. • I’ll let you know how much it’s going to cost. • We’ll have to tow the car to the garage. • Your tyre pressure is low.

damp has got into your spark plugs.

GLOSSARY

Part II Now listen to this social English dialogue. In this conversation, Sally is talking to a car mechanic about the problems she’s been having with her car. Mechanic: Morning. Sally: Good morning. Mechanic: What’s up, then? Sally: I’m having a few problems with the car. I can’t seem to start it. Mechanic: Let’s try. (She tries to start the engine.) Mmm… I’d say the brakes need replacing. Your oil pressure is also really low, and we’ll probably need to replace a few wheels too – and possibly the engine due to internal wear. Sally: Surely, it’s just something to do with the starter, isn’t it? Mechanic: Well, if you know so much, what are you doing talking to me? Have you checked to see if there’s any petrol in the tank? Sally: Er, no, not yet. Mechanic: Look, the tank’s empty. You need to fill it up. Sally: Oh, OK. And all those other things you mentioned. Mechanic: Oh, well, we’ll look at that later. Sally: Thanks.

it's getting dark. I hope they get here soon.

a tyre n the round, rubber object that is part of a wheel to run out of something exp if you “run out of something", you have no more of that thing a battery n an object used to power the electrics in a car dead adj if a battery is “dead”, it has no more power in it to overheat vb to become hot gears n most cars have 6 gears: one reverse gear, and five forward gears the bonnet n the metal door that covers the engine the petrol tank n the container in the car for petrol the throttle n an object you can use to increase the amount of petrol flowing through the car to jump-start (a car) exp to start a car by connecting it to a battery in another car to tow vb to pull a car by attaching a rope between this car and another car due to exp because of internal wear n if a car suffers from “internal wear”, it is broken and old because it has been used so much the starter n the motor that starts the car

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Vocabulary

Vocabulary books and writing Learn some useful words and expressions to talk about books and writing. Writer – a person who writes material that is sold in the form of books, articles, etc. Writer’s block – an inability to write because of stress, pressure, drunkenness, or a lack of ideas.

Books– pages that are bound together and that contain stories, poems, etc. There are a number of different types of books: Novel – a story about imaginary people or events. Historical novel – a story that is set in a certain period of history. Autobiography – the story of someone’s life, written by the person who it is about. Biography – the story of someone’s life, written by another person. Draft version – an early, unedited version of a story.

Computer – an essential tool for all modern-day writers, although some still insist on using the typewriter.

Character – a person in a story. Protagonist – the main person in the story.

Writing – the process of creating a story. George Orwell (Animal Farm, 1984), the famous British author, developed a list of tips for good writing. Here is a summarised version: 1. For every sentence, a good writer should ask him/herself five questions:  • What am I trying to say? • What words will express it? • What image or idiom will make it clearer? • Is this image fresh enough to have an effect? • Could I put it more concisely? 2. Never use a metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech, which you have seen in print many times before. 3. Never use a long word where a short one will do. 4. If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out. 5. Never use the passive where you can use the active. 6. Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word, or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent. 7. Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous.

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Character arc – the emotional changes that happen to a character during a story. For example, in the beginning the character is a selfish person, but an experience makes him/her less selfish. Story arc – a story that continues over various books or episodes.

Plagiarising – stealing other people’s ideas and claiming that they are your ideas. The proof-reader – the person who checks and corrects texts before they are published.

Suspense – the sense of excitement in the story.

Royalties – payments made to authors when their work is sold. Authors usually receive a fixed percentage of the profits from these sales – often about 5%.

The editor – the person who collects pieces of writing by different authors and prepares them for publication in a book or a series of books. Publisher – a company or person who publishes books.

Storyline – the general story in the book. There is a theory that all novels come from just seven basic stories. Here they are: 1. Man/woman versus nature. 2. Man/woman versus man/woman. 3. Man/woman versus the environment. 4. Man/woman versus machines/technology. 5. M  an/woman versus the supernatural. 6. Man/woman versus self. 7. Man/woman versus god/ religion. Plot – a connected series of events used to create a story. The plot is designed to create dramatic tension and keep the reader interested. Most plots follow this basic structure: 1. The main character has a goal or mission. 2. There is an obstacle. 3. The protagonist overcomes the obstacle. 4. There is another obstacle. 5. The protagonist overcomes it once again. 6. The protagonist faces a catastrophe (possible death, etc). 7. The protagonist resolves the situation and everything is OK.

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GLOSSARY

a tool n an instrument that you use to help you do a job a typewriter n a machine for writing text on paper to bind together phr vb if a book is “bound together”, the pages are joined to form a book selfish adj only thinking about yourself an e-book n a book that you access on the internet a pocket-sized book n a small book that can fit in your pocket leather n made from animal skin hardback adj a book with a hard cover. The book is often large too paperback adj a book with a soft cover a tip n a piece of advice a figure of speech n an expression that is used with a figurative (metaphorical) meaning in print n published in a book, magazine, etc outright barbarous exp really bad; insane; ridiculous; a crime against X; very primitive a goal n an objective an obstacle n something that prevents you from doing what you want to do to overcome vb to find a solution to a problem; to deal with a problem successfully

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Hot EnglishHot Publishing EnglishSL Publishing 2013 SL 2013

Books based on Skills Booklets from 2012-2013 + issues 103-130 of Hot English magazine.

Publishing house – a company which publishes books. Book format – the way that the book is presented: a large-format book, an e-book, a pocket-sized book, etc.

Book binding – the process of assembling the book from a number of pages. Books can be bound in leather, they can be hardback, they can be paperback, etc.

Dust-jacket – a loose paper cover which is put on a book to protect it. It often contains information about the book and the author. Wordsearch page 26 1. Writer 2. Block 3. Typewriter 4. Novel 5. Autobiography 6. Biography 7. Draft 8. Storyline 9. Plot 10. Character 11. Protagonist 12. Arc 13. Suspense 14. Royalties 15. Plagiarise 16. Proof 17. Editor 18. Publisher

Crossword page 22

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Track 14

success

Collocations

Dr Fingers’Vocabulary Clinic: This month: Success

my singing brought the house down.

three lucky sevens. i've hit the jackpot!

Hit the jackpot

To become very successful or very rich. “When the second album came out, they hit the jackpot.”

my trip to the park is in the bag!

In the bag

If something is “in the bag”, it is certain to be successful in the end. “That new contract is in the bag.”

Rabbit has stolen the show again.

Steal the show

To be the most popular or the best person among the rest. “All the dancers were good but Kirsty really stole the show.”

Bring the house down

To do something that really pleases the audience in a theatre. “The comedian was hilarious and really brought the house down.”

Come up trumps; turn up trumps

To complete an activity successfully or to produce a good result, especially when it wasn’t expected. “We thought we’d never get a flight home but Sam’s boyfriend came up trumps and found us a cheap one at the last minute.”

Go like a bomb

To be very successful. “Judging from the noise they’re making in there, that party is going like a bomb.”

what's so lucky about living in hell?

By miles

Much better; much superior to other things. They were better by miles.

Have the luck of the devil

To be very lucky. “She always goes out with the best looking men. She’s got the luck of the devil.”

GLOSSARY

a jackpot n the most valuable prize in a game or lottery trumps n in a game of cards, “trumps” is the suit (diamonds, hearts, clubs, spades) which is chosen to have the highest value

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insectidioms Track 23

Idioms

This month we are looking at some “worm” idioms.

Don't try and worm your way out of my hand.

Worm your way out of something

To escape from a problem; not to accept your responsibilities. “She was supposed to be doing the cleaning today, but she managed to worm her way out of it.”

don't try and worm your way in here.

Worm your way into something / worm your way to a place

To become part of a place, organisation or company by tricking people, making people trust you, or by using people. “She managed to worm her way to the top of the company by using all her old connections.”

this worm should have stayed in bed.

Open up a can of worms

To create unnecessary complications or problems; to start discussing something that is better not to discuss. “When management offered to discuss working hours, they really opened up a can of worms – there were arguments ever day after that.”

The early bird catches the worm

If you want to be successful, you should do something immediately. “If you see an apartment advertised in the newspaper, respond to it straightaway. The early bird catches the worm.”

you can't order me about any longer. The worm has turned! there's a great view from down here.

The worm has turned; the worm turns

People say this in reference to someone who is normally very patient and passive but who unexpectedly changes and does something bold and daring. “Mary has decided to start an affair with a married man after what Frank did to her. The worm has turned.”

A worm’s eye view

If you have a “worm’s eye view of something”, you only know or understand a part of it, usually the worst or least important part. “The film is all about the New York underworld and gives a worm’s eye view of society there.”

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PHRASALVERBTHEMES: driving

From now on we will be looking at phrasal verb themes. This month we are looking at some phrasal verbs related to driving. This is the first of a two-part series. Get out To leave a car.

Get in To enter a car.

No! It’s your turn to get in the boot!

I just got out of the car.

Pull over If the police tell you to “pull over”, they tell you to stop driving so they can talk to you.

Break down If your car “breaks down”, it stops working.

It just broke down.

Do you know why i pulled you over? don’t worry! we’ll fix it.

Run down / run over If a car “runs someone down”, the car hits that person in the road.

Slow down To drive more slowly.

Do you mind slowing down? we aren’t in a rush!

we haven't been run over. We're just lying in the road for fun.

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Phrasal Verbs

Track 25

Weather Words

s d r o W r e Weath

.

eather” words in the wordsearch See if you can find the following “w

Answers on page 49

Forecast Breeze Cloud Cold Drizzle Dry Flood Foggy Frost Hail Hot Humid Hurricane Ice Lightning Mist Overcast Rain Rainbow Shower Sky Sleet Slush Smog Snow Storm Sunny Thunder Tornado Typhoon Weather Wind Windy

4

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Basic English

t n a r u a t s the re A table

A menu

A main course

A seat

A kitchen

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A bottle of ketchup

A toilet/bathroom/ restroom (US English)

A dessert

A drink

A tablecloth

A salt pot

A waiter

A glass

A napkin

A manager

A fork and knife

A toothpick

A starter

A bill

The non-smoking section

A spoon

A cup of coffee

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A tip

Track 09

Social English

t n a r u a t s e The R Social English

Learn the kind of English you need for social occasions. This month: the restaurant. Listen and repeat these expressions. What you say

We’d like a table for two, please. I have a reservation under the name of Jones. Could you bring us the menu, please? Do you have a set menu? Could you bring us the salt/ pepper/ketchup/vinegar, please? I’ll have the soup as a starter. I’ll have the steak for the main course. I’ll have it rare / medium rare / medium / well done, please. Where’s the toilet/ bathroom/restroom (US English), please? Could I have the bill, please?

What you hear

Do you have a reservation? Smoking, or non-smoking? Can I get you a drink while you’re waiting? Are you ready to order yet? What would you like for a starter? What do you want for the main course? What would you like to drink with your meal? Would you like any wine with that? Red or white? What would you like to drink? How would you like your steak? Rare, medium or welldone? Would you like any dessert? Would you like any coffee?

What you say

Now use these expressions to practise asking and answering questions.

Part II Now listen to this social English dialogue. In this conversation, Sal is ordering some food at the restaurant. Waiter: Good afternoon, sir. Sal: A table for one, please. Waiter: Certainly. Come this way, please. (He sits down.) Here’s the menu. (The waiter gives him the menu.) Our special today is mussels in white wine sauce, and roast beef with sautéed potatoes. Sal: OK. Waiter: (After a few minutes the waiter returns.) Are you ready to order now? Sal: Yes, thanks. For a starter, I’ll have the prawn cocktail. Waiter: And for the main course? Sal: I’ll have the steak, please. Waiter: And how would you like your steak? Sal: I’ll have it medium, please. Waiter: Would you like anything to drink with your meal, sir? Sal: I’ll have a bottle of red wine, please. Waiter: OK. Your food will be with you in just a minute. (Half an hour later Sal has finished.) Was everything OK? Sal: Yes, that was delicious thank you. Could you bring me the bill, please? Waiter: Right away.

GLOSSARY

a set menu n a menu with a fixed choice of food and a fixed price for the starter, main course and dessert a starter n the first dish of food that you eat – often a small amount of food a main course n the principal dish of food, often consisting of meat or fish rare adj if a steak is “rare”, it has been cooked for a very short period of time well done adj if a steak is “well done”, it has been cooked for a longer period of time the bill n the piece of paper that tells you how much you must pay for your meal red (wine) n wine that is dark red in colour. Other types of wine are “white wine” and “rosé” mussels n a type of seafood that is orange inside and often cooked in wine sautéed potatoes n thin slices of potato that have been cooked quickly in hot oil

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Vocabulary

VOCABULARY

Politics

Learn some useful words and expressions to talk about politics.

type of language you use and try not to offend any group, minority or ethnic association. The opposite is “politically incorrect” (non-pc). Lobby group – a group who wants to influence politicians. In America, the gun lobby is one of the most powerful lobbies. They try to persuade politicians to allow free access to guns. Silent majority – the mass of voters who don’t often protest or voice their opinions, but who have enormous power. They are often typical middle class voters.

Voter – someone who votes in an election. Polling station – the place (often a room in a building) where people go to vote during an election. Election day is also known as “polling day”. Ballot box – the box where you place your vote during an election. The voting slip (the paper with your choice of candidate on it) is also known as a “ballot”. Voting/polling booth – the compartment in a polling station where you can put your vote in the ballot box. Election – if there is an “election”, people vote for candidates from different political parties. Right-wing & left-wing – very generally, right-wing parties or politicians are traditional and support a capitalist economy; left-wing are more socialist in their thinking.

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Party – a political organisation. In Britain the main parties are the Conservatives (the rightwing party), and the Labour Party (the left-wing party). In America, it’s the Republicans and Democrats respectively.

To spin – to attempt to change the way the public

Parliament – the group of people who are elected and who have a seat in the building where parliament sits. In Britain, parliament sits in the Houses of Parliament, in London. Seat – a place in parliament for people who are elected and have won a “seat”. MP – a member of parliament: someone who has been elected and won a seat in parliament. Electorate – the people who have the right to vote in an election. Each individual voter is known as an “elector”. Politically correct (pc) – if you are "politically correct", you are careful with the

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sees events and things. This can be done by lying, changing the facts, or simply choosing which facts to mention. Political advisers who “spin” events are known as “spin doctors”. Here’s an example sentence with “spin” in it: “They put some spin on the terrible news so it didn’t appear to be so bad.” Swing vote – the undecided section of the electorate who can “swing” (change) the outcome of an election one way or the other. Whip – the member of parliament who makes sure that all other members of his/her party vote the way they are supposed to vote.

Track 15

success

The images will help you associate the expression with its meaning. This month: success.

Go from strength to strength Be riding high

To be very successful. “With 2 hit singles in the charts, the band are riding high.”

Claw your way back from something

To succeed in improving your situation by making a very determined effort. “The team were losing 6-0, but they managed to claw their way back from defeat to win 6-9.”

Dr Fingers’ Vocabulary Clinic:

Dr Fingers’ Vocabulary Clinic:

To become better and better or more and more successful. “Since she took over as president, the company has gone from strength to strength.”

Win something hands down To win easily. “I challenged her to a game of chess, but she beat me hands down.”

Pass with flying colours

To complete a difficult activity very successfully; to pass an exam with a very high score. “The course was very difficult, but she passed with flying colours.”

Lead the field

To be better and more successful than all the people who are competing against you. “The British scientific team lead the field in nano technology development.”

GLOSSARY

Make or break something

To make something a success or a failure. “This new, expensive but innovative product will either make or break the company.”

Sink or swim

To fail or to succeed. “The new sales team were given absolutely no training. They were left to either sink or swim.”

a hit single n a song that is very popular the charts n the official list that shows which songs are the most popular to claw back phr vb to get something that you had previously lost. Literally, a “claw” of an animal or bird are the thin, hard, curved nails to challenge vb to invite someone to fight or compete with you to sink vb if a ship “sinks”, it goes under the water

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Track 22

animal idioms

Like a bear with a sore head

if someone is “like a bear with a sore head”, they’re angry and in a bad mood. “If he doesn’t eat when he’s hungry, he’s like a bear with a sore head.”

As cunning as a fox

someone who’s “as cunning as a fox” is very clever and good at getting what they want. “He comes across as really nice and friendly, but be careful because he’s as cunning as a fox.”

Animal Idioms

This month we are looking at some Animal idioms.

A leopard can’t/doesn’t change its spots

A person’s character (especially a bad character) will never change, even if they pretend that it has. “They say he’s much nicer now, but I doubt he’s that much different. As they say, a leopard can’t change its spots.”

Be a scapegoat

If you’re a “scapegoat”, you’re punished for something you didn’t do, or you’re blamed for something bad. “I don’t think I deserve to be the scapegoat for the poor sales results.”

Kill the fatted calf

Run with the hare and hunt with the hounds

To support two competing sides in an argument. “You’ve got to decide where you stand on this issue. You can’t run with the hare and hunt with the hounds.”

To celebrate the arrival of someone you haven’t seen for a long time. This comes from a story in the bible in which a father kills a young cow in order to celebrate the return of his son, who he thought was dead. “John’s coming home. Let’s kill the fatted calf!”

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Track 23

PHRASAL VERB THEMES: driving II Run out of petrol To have no more petrol in the petrol tank.

“Oh, no. We’ve run out of petrol. I told you to stop at that garage back there.”

Drop someone off To let someone get out of a car.

Phrasal Verb Themes

This month we are looking at some more phrasal verbs related to driving. Write off a car To completely destroy a car so that it cannot be used any longer.

“we had a crash and completely wrote off the car.”

“He had a crash and completely wrote off the car.”

Set off on a journey To start a journey.

“we set off at 6am this morning and started the walk about 10 minutes ago.”

“Just drop me off at the train station, if that’s OK with you.”

Turn off To leave a motorway or road as you are driving.

“You need to turn off at junction 36. Then, you need to take the first turning on the right.”

Caught up in traff ic To be trapped on a road with lots of cars which are moving very slowly.

“I’m sorry I’m late. I’m caught up in traffic.”

Do up a seat belt To fasten a seat belt so it is fixed around your body.

“Even though you’re sitting in the back, you still have to do up your seat belt.”

Let down (tyres) if you “let down” someone’s tyres, you open a valve and let the air out.

“he thinks that someone let his tyres down.”

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