http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/language/newsaboutbritain/2009/02/090127_soaps.shtml
Watching TV is a very popular pastime [what you do outside work for enjoyment] in the UK
*************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7318250
Michael: I have some qualms about how we're handling these accounts.
Leona: What do you mean?
Michael: There are strict regulations governing what we can and cannot do, and I think we're violating those regulations.
Leona: Listen, it's a matter of interpretation. We're not flouting any regulations. We're just not following the letter of the law (# follow the spirit of the law).
Michael: I, for one, think that we've crossed the line. I'm not against some creative accounting, but what we're doing is bordering on criminal.
Leona: Aren't you blowing things out of proportion? The government makes laws knowing that people are going to try to get around them. There are always loopholes and that's why they turn a blind eye to most of these types of activities. As long as we comply with most of the regulations, we're not going to get into any hot water.
Michael: I appreciate your confidence, but I don't share it. I think we're in for some major problems if we don't change the way we do business.
Leona: Come on, let's go get some coffee and see what we can do about that overactive conscience of yours.
=============
- qualm (n) : don't feel right about sth , things dangerous and against the law
- to govern : to control ,to have authority or power over sth, to lead sth
- to flout sth: to break a law or go against the rule openly (without hiding your actions)
- to follow the letter of the law : to obey exactly the law # to follow the spirit of the law
- I, for one : I and among everyone here
- to cross the line : to do sth that is breaking a regulation, going against the law
- to bother on sth : to be almost doing sth, to be very close to being doing sth
- to blow things out of proportion : to treat sth as it's more significant, important than it really is
- to get around sth : to find way to not have to do sth
- to turn a blind eye: to pretend not to see
- to get into hot water : to get into trouble
- to be in for sth :to be going to have sth, to be going to experience sth in future
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Saturday 31 July 2010
Friday 30 July 2010
ESL Podcast 484 – Getting a Performance Evaluation
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/language/wordsinthenews/2010/07/100707_witn_lohan_page.shtml
In 2007 Lindsay Lohan pleaded [to beg, to plead for sth, to plead with sb to do sth] guiltyto two counts of being under the influence of cocaine
When speaking in public, try not use many jargons [special words and phrases that are used and understood by people who work in a particular job but are often confusing for others] words.
********************************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7248649
Emil: Have a seat. As you know, we need to talk about your annual performance evaluation. Is there anything you'd like to say before we get started?
Sandra: Yes, there is. I've tried really hard this year to improve on some of the shortcomings identified in my evaluation last year.
Emil: Hmm, I'm afraid that's not reflected in this year's evaluation. Your supervisor noted on the report that you've been performing below par for several months now, and your productivity is down, too.
Sandra: I can't imagine why she would say that. If I haven't excelled on the new project, I've at least pulled my weight. I don't think she can fault me on that.
Emil: On the contrary, she thinks that you've been slacking off and not giving 100 percent.
Sandra: I have had some personal issues, but I didn't think they had been affecting my work. I guess I've let them bring down my performance.
Emil: This was a hard decision, but we're putting you on probation for the next three months. You'll have another evaluation at the end of that time. If your performance isn't up to par by that time, we'll have to think about letting you go.
Sandra: That won't happen. I'm going to pull out all the stops to prove myself.
Emil: Good. That's what I wanted to hear.
===========
- shortcoming (n): things you do not very well and you should change
- below par : less than expected, less then average
- to excel : to do sth very well , better than anyone expected
- to pull her weight : to do what sb is supposed to do
- to fault sb on sth: to criticize or say negative about sth that sb has done, to blame sb
- to slack off : to be lazy, not work very hard
- to give 100% : to work as hard as you can
- to bring down : to reduce, decrease
- to be up to par : to be at the expect level
- to let sb go: to lay sb off, to fire sb
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
In 2007 Lindsay Lohan pleaded [to beg, to plead for sth, to plead with sb to do sth] guiltyto two counts of being under the influence of cocaine
When speaking in public, try not use many jargons [special words and phrases that are used and understood by people who work in a particular job but are often confusing for others] words.
********************************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7248649
Emil: Have a seat. As you know, we need to talk about your annual performance evaluation. Is there anything you'd like to say before we get started?
Sandra: Yes, there is. I've tried really hard this year to improve on some of the shortcomings identified in my evaluation last year.
Emil: Hmm, I'm afraid that's not reflected in this year's evaluation. Your supervisor noted on the report that you've been performing below par for several months now, and your productivity is down, too.
Sandra: I can't imagine why she would say that. If I haven't excelled on the new project, I've at least pulled my weight. I don't think she can fault me on that.
Emil: On the contrary, she thinks that you've been slacking off and not giving 100 percent.
Sandra: I have had some personal issues, but I didn't think they had been affecting my work. I guess I've let them bring down my performance.
Emil: This was a hard decision, but we're putting you on probation for the next three months. You'll have another evaluation at the end of that time. If your performance isn't up to par by that time, we'll have to think about letting you go.
Sandra: That won't happen. I'm going to pull out all the stops to prove myself.
Emil: Good. That's what I wanted to hear.
===========
- shortcoming (n): things you do not very well and you should change
- below par : less than expected, less then average
- to excel : to do sth very well , better than anyone expected
- to pull her weight : to do what sb is supposed to do
- to fault sb on sth: to criticize or say negative about sth that sb has done, to blame sb
- to slack off : to be lazy, not work very hard
- to give 100% : to work as hard as you can
- to bring down : to reduce, decrease
- to be up to par : to be at the expect level
- to let sb go: to lay sb off, to fire sb
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Monday 26 July 2010
ESL Podcast 480 – Riding in a Carpool
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/multimedia/btp/cardiff/cardiff_text.shtml
The Millennium Stadium is not the only imposing [large, impressive, and appearing important] building in the centre of Cardiff. Cardiff Castle is another.
They mostly date [ to find out when something old was made or formed] from the 15th century, but in the 19th were dramatically altered.
The owner at that time, the 3rd Marquess of Bute, was extremely rich as a result of [because of] his father's business activities
So he commissioned [ to formally ask someone to write an official report, produce a work of art for you ] rebuilding work, in the fashionable Victorian style known as Gothic Revival
*************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7188991
Roberto: Hey, Loreto. Got a minute?
Loreto: I'm going to a meeting off-site, but we can talk if you don't mind walking me to my car.
Roberto: Sure, okay. I just wanted to ask if you're interested in carpooling to work. We only live a few blocks from each other.
Loreto: Thanks for asking, but I'm not sure carpooling would work for me. Sometimes I run late in the morning and I wouldn't want to hold you up.
Roberto: We wouldn't have to commute together every day, only on those days that are convenient for both of us. Carpooling has its advantages, too. In addition to doing our part for the environment, we could use the high-occupancy carpool lanes. That'll save time, especially if there's a lot of traffic congestion.
Loreto: Yeah, I guess that could cut down on our commute time.
Roberto: We also get preferential treatment for parking on the days we carpool.
Loreto: How would it work? Do we set up a schedule and take turns driving?
Roberto: Why don't I swing by and pick you up tomorrow morning and we can talk more about it?
Loreto: If you don't mind picking me up en route, that would be great. By the way, how do you know where I live?
Roberto: Oh, I asked around. See you tomorrow.
========
- off-site : at a different location
- to walk sb to swhere : to accompany sb while they're walking, to walk with that person
- to carpool : share a car with other who live in same place or department
- to run late : to be behind your schedule, not be online
- to hold sb up : to delay sb, to prevent sb from doing sth quickly
- to commute : to go to office and go back home again
- to do our part for sth: to contribute to sth
- to cut down on sth: to use less off sth
- to swing by (driving): to go to a place in a short time (visit sb, e.x)
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
They mostly date [ to find out when something old was made or formed] from the 15th century, but in the 19th were dramatically altered.
The owner at that time, the 3rd Marquess of Bute, was extremely rich as a result of [because of] his father's business activities
So he commissioned [ to formally ask someone to write an official report, produce a work of art for you ] rebuilding work, in the fashionable Victorian style known as Gothic Revival
*************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7188991
Roberto: Hey, Loreto. Got a minute?
Loreto: I'm going to a meeting off-site, but we can talk if you don't mind walking me to my car.
Roberto: Sure, okay. I just wanted to ask if you're interested in carpooling to work. We only live a few blocks from each other.
Loreto: Thanks for asking, but I'm not sure carpooling would work for me. Sometimes I run late in the morning and I wouldn't want to hold you up.
Roberto: We wouldn't have to commute together every day, only on those days that are convenient for both of us. Carpooling has its advantages, too. In addition to doing our part for the environment, we could use the high-occupancy carpool lanes. That'll save time, especially if there's a lot of traffic congestion.
Loreto: Yeah, I guess that could cut down on our commute time.
Roberto: We also get preferential treatment for parking on the days we carpool.
Loreto: How would it work? Do we set up a schedule and take turns driving?
Roberto: Why don't I swing by and pick you up tomorrow morning and we can talk more about it?
Loreto: If you don't mind picking me up en route, that would be great. By the way, how do you know where I live?
Roberto: Oh, I asked around. See you tomorrow.
========
- off-site : at a different location
- to walk sb to swhere : to accompany sb while they're walking, to walk with that person
- to carpool : share a car with other who live in same place or department
- to run late : to be behind your schedule, not be online
- to hold sb up : to delay sb, to prevent sb from doing sth quickly
- to commute : to go to office and go back home again
- to do our part for sth: to contribute to sth
- to cut down on sth: to use less off sth
- to swing by (driving): to go to a place in a short time (visit sb, e.x)
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Saturday 24 July 2010
ESL Podcast 476 – Taking Chances in Business
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7109447
I've always been a pretty cautious investor. I like my investments to be conservative and I usually invest only in sure things. Recently, though, I've been tempted to take more risk.
My friend, Bernie, is a very successful fund manager and he is willing to let me get in on one of his schemes. According to Bernie, he has a way to take advantage of the current economic climate so that he and his investors aren't susceptible to the same market forces affecting other investors. Barring any significant changes to the current economy, I should be raking it in before the end of the year.
Bernie isn't someone who shoots from the hip, so if he says that this investment is going to be profitable, who am I to ask questions? I'm very tempted to throw caution to the wind and to take a chance. After all, it's only money, right?
============
- cautious (a): careful
- conservative (a): it's little risk, not risky
- to temp sb : to make sb want to do sth
- to get in on sb : to become involved to sb at the beginning
- to take advantage of sth (positive and negative meaning) : to use opportunity to use sth
- susceptible (a): easy to be hurt , effected
- to rake it in (expression): to get a lot of money very easily
- to shoot from the hip : to do sth without thinking /planning / considering about it
- to throw caution to the wind: to stop being cautious
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Friday 23 July 2010
Fwd: ESL Podcast 475 – Hiring a Hitman
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/business/talkingbusiness/unit2meetings/3agreedisagree.shtml
The office move, as you know, the plans have been up by the main exit for a week now. I just wanted to see what kind of feedback you've got.
I think it's divisive to separate the secretaries and the assistants out from the editors and managers. I'd be much happier if we could be located in teams.
Actually, I think Sean is right. I've been chatting to some of the secretaries and ...
****************************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7079618
Gus: Are you Shirley?
Shirley: Yeah, thanks for agreeing to meet me here. I'm told you're the best sniper in the business and you can be discreet. I need a hitman who can do a job, then make himself scarce.
Gus: I'm your man. Tell me about it.
Shirley: There's someone who's been a thorn in my side, keeping me up at night, and it's time to take him out.
Gus: Taking care of problems is my specialty. I'll need a down payment now and the balance when I finish him off. We shouldn't meet again, so I'll tell you later where to make a drop.
Shirley: All right.
Gus: Good. How will I be able to spot the target?
Shirley: Here's a picture. He's usually in the yard in the afternoons.
Gus: You want me to kill a dog?!
Shirley: Right, he's my neighbor's dog and he keeps me up every night. Is that a problem?
Gus: You bet it is. Who do you think I am? People are disposable, but dogs? They're a man's best friend.
Shirley: Are you kidding me? You won't take the job?
Gus: Nope, I won't. If you want to pay good money to take out a dog, then that's your prerogative, but I have my standards!
=========
- discreet (a) : goot at keep secret
- hitman : a person who is paid for killing other illegally
- to make yourself scare : to disappear quickly, to be difficult to find
- i'm your man : i can do what you want
- to keep sb up at night : not allow sb to sleep
- to take sb out (informal) : to kill sb, to murder sb
- specialty (n): sth you're very good at doing
- a down payment : money you paid before some service is finished . it's usually a 20-40% of total cost
- the balance : the rest of cost
- to finish sb off : to take sb out
- to spot sth : to see and identify , to find sb among the crowd
- you bet it is : you' right
- disposable (a) : things you can throw away
- prerogative (n): choice, decision
The office move, as you know, the plans have been up by the main exit for a week now. I just wanted to see what kind of feedback you've got.
I think it's divisive to separate the secretaries and the assistants out from the editors and managers. I'd be much happier if we could be located in teams.
Actually, I think Sean is right. I've been chatting to some of the secretaries and ...
****************************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7079618
Gus: Are you Shirley?
Shirley: Yeah, thanks for agreeing to meet me here. I'm told you're the best sniper in the business and you can be discreet. I need a hitman who can do a job, then make himself scarce.
Gus: I'm your man. Tell me about it.
Shirley: There's someone who's been a thorn in my side, keeping me up at night, and it's time to take him out.
Gus: Taking care of problems is my specialty. I'll need a down payment now and the balance when I finish him off. We shouldn't meet again, so I'll tell you later where to make a drop.
Shirley: All right.
Gus: Good. How will I be able to spot the target?
Shirley: Here's a picture. He's usually in the yard in the afternoons.
Gus: You want me to kill a dog?!
Shirley: Right, he's my neighbor's dog and he keeps me up every night. Is that a problem?
Gus: You bet it is. Who do you think I am? People are disposable, but dogs? They're a man's best friend.
Shirley: Are you kidding me? You won't take the job?
Gus: Nope, I won't. If you want to pay good money to take out a dog, then that's your prerogative, but I have my standards!
=========
- discreet (a) : goot at keep secret
- hitman : a person who is paid for killing other illegally
- to make yourself scare : to disappear quickly, to be difficult to find
- i'm your man : i can do what you want
- to keep sb up at night : not allow sb to sleep
- to take sb out (informal) : to kill sb, to murder sb
- specialty (n): sth you're very good at doing
- a down payment : money you paid before some service is finished . it's usually a 20-40% of total cost
- the balance : the rest of cost
- to finish sb off : to take sb out
- to spot sth : to see and identify , to find sb among the crowd
- you bet it is : you' right
- disposable (a) : things you can throw away
- prerogative (n): choice, decision
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Thursday 22 July 2010
ESL Podcast 473 - Showing Respect and Disrespect
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/148_phrasalverbs/page4.shtml
VICKI:So you've recently started living there.
CALLUM:Yes. I moved in last week. You must come round some time.
CALLUM:OK. Well, I'll show you around.
VICKI:Yes, let's have look at the other rooms.
*******************************
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/general/sixminute/2010/07/100715_6min_banquet_page.shtml
- The city offers an appealing [attractive, interesting] combination of sporting and cultural events.
- The Fish House is an exotic [unusual and interesting] residence designed by Guz Architects and located in Singapore
*********************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7049789
Kadir: Stop that! Stop snickering! Gabriel Voltaire is an author of great acclaim. You should show a little reverence.
Melissa: Yes, but he seems to have a bad case of stage fright. I know it's an honor to hear him speak, but it's hard to show reverence when the man is sweating like a pig!
Kadir: He's not sweating like a pig. He's just talking passionately about his writing. I, for one, appreciate his level of dedication to his work.
Melissa: I admire his work, too, but he's making a fool of himself. Really, who can pay attention to what he's saying when he's stuttering like that.
Kadir: Unlike you, I can listen to the genius of his words without worrying about a little stuttering.
Melissa: The man is making a spectacle of himself. I think he needs to stick to writing and give up public speaking.
Kadir: Shh! That's enough. I won't hear another word said against him.
Melissa: Whatever you say. I'll leave you to your hero worship. For me, enough is enough!
=========
- reverence (n): respect
- to sweat : to have water go out of your skin
- to sweat like a pig : to sweat a lot
- to make a fool of sb : to do sth that other may launch at sb
- to stutter : ca` lam
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
VICKI:So you've recently started living there.
CALLUM:Yes. I moved in last week. You must come round some time.
CALLUM:OK. Well, I'll show you around.
VICKI:Yes, let's have look at the other rooms.
*******************************
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/general/sixminute/2010/07/100715_6min_banquet_page.shtml
- The city offers an appealing [attractive, interesting] combination of sporting and cultural events.
- The Fish House is an exotic [unusual and interesting] residence designed by Guz Architects and located in Singapore
*********************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7049789
Kadir: Stop that! Stop snickering! Gabriel Voltaire is an author of great acclaim. You should show a little reverence.
Melissa: Yes, but he seems to have a bad case of stage fright. I know it's an honor to hear him speak, but it's hard to show reverence when the man is sweating like a pig!
Kadir: He's not sweating like a pig. He's just talking passionately about his writing. I, for one, appreciate his level of dedication to his work.
Melissa: I admire his work, too, but he's making a fool of himself. Really, who can pay attention to what he's saying when he's stuttering like that.
Kadir: Unlike you, I can listen to the genius of his words without worrying about a little stuttering.
Melissa: The man is making a spectacle of himself. I think he needs to stick to writing and give up public speaking.
Kadir: Shh! That's enough. I won't hear another word said against him.
Melissa: Whatever you say. I'll leave you to your hero worship. For me, enough is enough!
=========
- reverence (n): respect
- to sweat : to have water go out of your skin
- to sweat like a pig : to sweat a lot
- to make a fool of sb : to do sth that other may launch at sb
- to stutter : ca` lam
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Wednesday 21 July 2010
ESL Podcast 471 - Trying to Get Off the Phone
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/1756_how_to_discuss/page5.shtml
***********************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7019960
Erin: So I told Joey that I had no intention of letting him use my car again. Can you believe the nerve of that guy, after what he did?
Curran: That's terrible, but I'm going to have to let you go. I have an appointment...
Erin: But I didn't tell you what else he said. He said that running over my cat was just an accident. That's bull. He said I should be thankful that he took Fifi to a veterinarian!
Curran: Yeah, I can see why you're mad. I think I have a call on the other line...
Erin: Well, I'm glad you agree with me. I said to him that Fifi may be as good as new now, but that is no thanks to him! He's never liked Fifi and I wouldn't be surprised if he was gunning for her when he ran her over. He should count himself lucky he's getting off scot-free for trying to kill my cat. I said...
Curran: Sorry to have to cut this short, but I really have to get going.
Erin: Oh, sure, but just let me tell you what I plan to do if he asks me again.
Curran: I really want to hear all about it, but...but... nature calls!
Erin: Oh, okay, call me back. I haven't even told you what Sam told me about Ben yesterday. It's a real shocker!
Curran: Uh...right. I can't wait to hear all about it.
============
- can you believe the nerve of that guy : that guy is doing things he should not (and he knows that but still do)
- to let sb go (in this context) ~ I have to go: to end the phone call conversation
- bull (n) (informal): thing is not true, a lie
- no thank to sb (informal): used to emphases that sb doesn't do anything to help
- to count yourself lucky : to realize / recognize you have good luck
- to get off scot-free : not to be punished for sth you've done wrong
- to cut sth short : to end sth before it finishes
- to have to get going : have to leave, go away
- nature calls : have to go to bath room
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
| Question Tags | |
| We often use this structure when we are unsure of something or want to check information. | |
1. It's not Shilpa Shetty ... | is it? |
2. She isn't an actress... | is she? |
3. That's Shilpa Shetty ... | isn't it? |
4. She's been on T.V. ... | hasn't she? |
Examples 3 and 4 show slightly more certainty than 1 and 2. However, the intonation the speaker uses with a question tag is the main indicator of the level of certainty. Listen to these two clips of Example 1: | |
Note: When responding to question tags, yes and no refer to whether something is or isn't the case, not whether the first speaker is right or wrong. So in the following exchange, B is saying he doubts the woman is an actress: A: She's not an actress, is she? | |
| On the Grammar Challenge website, you can find out more about the formation and intonation patterns of question tags. | |
| Modals | |||
| It | might may could must | be Shilpa Shetty | uncertain certain |
Could is sometimes combined with a question tag: She couldn't be an actress, could she? You can use possibly and perhaps with all these modals (except must), to indicate a lack of certainty: She might perhaps be an actress ... Using I think before a modal usually shows that the speaker is more certain about something, e.g. I think it might be Shakira | |||
***********************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=7019960
Erin: So I told Joey that I had no intention of letting him use my car again. Can you believe the nerve of that guy, after what he did?
Curran: That's terrible, but I'm going to have to let you go. I have an appointment...
Erin: But I didn't tell you what else he said. He said that running over my cat was just an accident. That's bull. He said I should be thankful that he took Fifi to a veterinarian!
Curran: Yeah, I can see why you're mad. I think I have a call on the other line...
Erin: Well, I'm glad you agree with me. I said to him that Fifi may be as good as new now, but that is no thanks to him! He's never liked Fifi and I wouldn't be surprised if he was gunning for her when he ran her over. He should count himself lucky he's getting off scot-free for trying to kill my cat. I said...
Curran: Sorry to have to cut this short, but I really have to get going.
Erin: Oh, sure, but just let me tell you what I plan to do if he asks me again.
Curran: I really want to hear all about it, but...but... nature calls!
Erin: Oh, okay, call me back. I haven't even told you what Sam told me about Ben yesterday. It's a real shocker!
Curran: Uh...right. I can't wait to hear all about it.
============
- can you believe the nerve of that guy : that guy is doing things he should not (and he knows that but still do)
- to let sb go (in this context) ~ I have to go: to end the phone call conversation
- bull (n) (informal): thing is not true, a lie
- no thank to sb (informal): used to emphases that sb doesn't do anything to help
- to count yourself lucky : to realize / recognize you have good luck
- to get off scot-free : not to be punished for sth you've done wrong
- to cut sth short : to end sth before it finishes
- to have to get going : have to leave, go away
- nature calls : have to go to bath room
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Sunday 18 July 2010
ESL Podcast 468 – Organizing Your Office
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6840986
I have a very disorganized office. My co- workers have been making jokes about my office for a long time, and my boss finally cracked down on me. He told me: "Get the office organized by Friday – no excuses!" What choice did I have?
I've always been a pack rat. I hate to throw anything out, but I was determined to turn over a new leaf. It's true I've worked in the same office for four years and have accumulated a lot of paper, but if I put my mind to it, I'm sure I could get rid of all of the clutter.
There are piles of paper and files all over my desk and sorting them out won't be easy. All I need to do, though, is to purge my filing cabinets of old files to make room for new ones. I also need to triage the papers on my desk, on the floor, and in my overflowing inbox. Then, I only need to make new files and label them. Finally, I'll only keep those things on my desk that are essential and get rid of anything that isn't.
That's a pretty good plan, don't you think? I've already made a to-do list. Now all I need to do is start on those tasks!
==============
- to crack down on sth : to be very strict on sth
- a pack rat : sb who saves everything, not throw things away
- to turn over a new leaf : to change to do sth completely different, to do the new thing
- to accumulate sth :to increase the quantity of sth over period of time
- to put your mind to sth: to commit to sth, to decide to do sth
- to purge sth : to throw way sth, to get rid of sth, to remove sth
- to triage sth: to decide what is important , to priority things
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
I have a very disorganized office. My co- workers have been making jokes about my office for a long time, and my boss finally cracked down on me. He told me: "Get the office organized by Friday – no excuses!" What choice did I have?
I've always been a pack rat. I hate to throw anything out, but I was determined to turn over a new leaf. It's true I've worked in the same office for four years and have accumulated a lot of paper, but if I put my mind to it, I'm sure I could get rid of all of the clutter.
There are piles of paper and files all over my desk and sorting them out won't be easy. All I need to do, though, is to purge my filing cabinets of old files to make room for new ones. I also need to triage the papers on my desk, on the floor, and in my overflowing inbox. Then, I only need to make new files and label them. Finally, I'll only keep those things on my desk that are essential and get rid of anything that isn't.
That's a pretty good plan, don't you think? I've already made a to-do list. Now all I need to do is start on those tasks!
==============
- to crack down on sth : to be very strict on sth
- a pack rat : sb who saves everything, not throw things away
- to turn over a new leaf : to change to do sth completely different, to do the new thing
- to accumulate sth :to increase the quantity of sth over period of time
- to put your mind to sth: to commit to sth, to decide to do sth
- to purge sth : to throw way sth, to get rid of sth, to remove sth
- to triage sth: to decide what is important , to priority things
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Saturday 17 July 2010
ESL Podcast 466 – Having a Good or Bad Bedside Manner
http://www.downarchive.com/music/203967-rita-marcotulli-omaggio-ai-pink-floyd-2008-flac.html
But Valentine's Day is not only about public displays of affection [showing your feelings for someone in public]
=====
Although Valentine's Day has become a global industry with more than 80 million roses sold worldwide, the origins of the day are unclear and hidden inthe mists of time [too old for anyone to remember/confirm/clarify ]
======
Valentine's Day, or its equivalent [events having same meaning], is now celebrated in many countries around the world.
=========
However, the traditions often differ from place to place. In Japan, for example, it is customary [ normal , usual ] for the woman to send chocolates to the man
===========
for example, it is customaryfor the woman to send chocolates to the man, whilst [while] in Korea April 14th is known as 'Black Day' and is when the unfortunate men who received nothing on Valentine's Day gather to eat noodles and commiserate with [soften] each other.
========
Valentine's e-cardshave been all the rage [very popular] in recent years
=========
However, internet security experts urge web users to be wary [careful] as malicious hackers could use e-cards to spread viruses and spyware.
*****************************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6811157
Cho: I'm not sure I'm cut out to be a doctor.
Joy: I think you'll be great. I've seen you with patients and you have a great bedside manner – not like Gregory.
Cho: Why? What's wrong with his bedside manner?
Joy: I've seen him with patients and he can be really callous. For instance, I was in the room last week when he was telling one of his patients that she was taking a turn for the worse.
Cho: What did he say?
Joy: He just blurted it out. He told her the diagnosis, and he didn't even try to soften the news when she asked about her prognosis. He did absolutely nothing to try to comfort or reassure her.
Cho: I feel sorry for the patient.
Joy: That's the point. Gregory didn't, and it didn't seem to faze him that the patient was very upset and close to hysterics.
Cho: That's terrible. I'll try to remember to be more compassionate with my patients.
Joy: Don't worry. It's against your nature to be anything but considerate.
=============
- to be cut out : to be created to do sth, sth is good match for you
- to be callous : without considering other person feeling
- to take a turn for the worse:: to getting worse , to become more ill
- to blurt sth out : to say sth without thinking about it first, how i sounds to other, how person may react
- to soften sth :to make it nicer, easier to accept
- to comfort sth : to make sb feel better
- to feel sorry for sb : to understand that person difficulty
- to faze sb : to raise a notice of sb, to make sb notice
- to be compassionate : to be nice, carefully to sb
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
But Valentine's Day is not only about public displays of affection [showing your feelings for someone in public]
=====
Although Valentine's Day has become a global industry with more than 80 million roses sold worldwide, the origins of the day are unclear and hidden inthe mists of time [too old for anyone to remember/confirm/clarify ]
======
Valentine's Day, or its equivalent [events having same meaning], is now celebrated in many countries around the world.
=========
However, the traditions often differ from place to place. In Japan, for example, it is customary [ normal , usual ] for the woman to send chocolates to the man
===========
for example, it is customaryfor the woman to send chocolates to the man, whilst [while] in Korea April 14th is known as 'Black Day' and is when the unfortunate men who received nothing on Valentine's Day gather to eat noodles and commiserate with [soften] each other.
========
Valentine's e-cardshave been all the rage [very popular] in recent years
=========
However, internet security experts urge web users to be wary [careful] as malicious hackers could use e-cards to spread viruses and spyware.
*****************************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6811157
Cho: I'm not sure I'm cut out to be a doctor.
Joy: I think you'll be great. I've seen you with patients and you have a great bedside manner – not like Gregory.
Cho: Why? What's wrong with his bedside manner?
Joy: I've seen him with patients and he can be really callous. For instance, I was in the room last week when he was telling one of his patients that she was taking a turn for the worse.
Cho: What did he say?
Joy: He just blurted it out. He told her the diagnosis, and he didn't even try to soften the news when she asked about her prognosis. He did absolutely nothing to try to comfort or reassure her.
Cho: I feel sorry for the patient.
Joy: That's the point. Gregory didn't, and it didn't seem to faze him that the patient was very upset and close to hysterics.
Cho: That's terrible. I'll try to remember to be more compassionate with my patients.
Joy: Don't worry. It's against your nature to be anything but considerate.
=============
- to be cut out : to be created to do sth, sth is good match for you
- to be callous : without considering other person feeling
- to take a turn for the worse:: to getting worse , to become more ill
- to blurt sth out : to say sth without thinking about it first, how i sounds to other, how person may react
- to soften sth :to make it nicer, easier to accept
- to comfort sth : to make sb feel better
- to feel sorry for sb : to understand that person difficulty
- to faze sb : to raise a notice of sb, to make sb notice
- to be compassionate : to be nice, carefully to sb
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Wednesday 14 July 2010
ESL Podcast 464 – Talking About Inventory
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/language/wordsinthenews/2010/06/100630_witn_spies.shtml
It called the U.S. spy allegations 'unfounded [without evidence] and unseemly [inappropriate]' and it accused the U.S. Justice Department of engaging in Cold War spy stories.
=======
Russian politicians are fond of conspiracy theoriesand some are already concluding [judge or decide] that this is all a right-wing plot designed to destabilise Russia-U.S. relations
********************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6781328
Foreman: Okay, people. Listen up.
This is your first day on the job in this warehouse and you need to know what we do here. This warehouse keeps all of the stock for the 10 stores in this region. We get merchandise from the supplier and it's our job to organize it and store it until it goes to the retail outlets. One of the reasons our stores can offer such low prices is that they operate on the principles of economies of scale. This means that we buy in bulk and there's a lot to catalogue and store. We even have some stock on consignment, so it's all the more important that we're able to keep track of any merchandise that comes through here. Any questions?
Carla: Yeah, are we the end of the supply chain or do we send merchandise to other warehouses?
Foreman: We are it. Merchandise comes to us from suppliers and we distribute it to the stores. Any other questions?
Carla: Does merchandise ever go missing?
Foreman: It better not go missing under my watch. That's why we do an inventory twice a year. If anything is unaccounted for, I won't be a happy camper. Okay, people, line up to get your assignments...
==========
- warehouse : a place to keep products before sending it to store to sell
- retail outlet (n): store where individual people can go to buy things
- to buy in bulk: to buy a lot of things
- to go missing : to become lost
- under my watch : when that person's in charge to sth
- to be unaccounted for : to go missing without reason
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
It called the U.S. spy allegations 'unfounded [without evidence] and unseemly [inappropriate]' and it accused the U.S. Justice Department of engaging in Cold War spy stories.
=======
Russian politicians are fond of conspiracy theoriesand some are already concluding [judge or decide] that this is all a right-wing plot designed to destabilise Russia-U.S. relations
********************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6781328
Foreman: Okay, people. Listen up.
This is your first day on the job in this warehouse and you need to know what we do here. This warehouse keeps all of the stock for the 10 stores in this region. We get merchandise from the supplier and it's our job to organize it and store it until it goes to the retail outlets. One of the reasons our stores can offer such low prices is that they operate on the principles of economies of scale. This means that we buy in bulk and there's a lot to catalogue and store. We even have some stock on consignment, so it's all the more important that we're able to keep track of any merchandise that comes through here. Any questions?
Carla: Yeah, are we the end of the supply chain or do we send merchandise to other warehouses?
Foreman: We are it. Merchandise comes to us from suppliers and we distribute it to the stores. Any other questions?
Carla: Does merchandise ever go missing?
Foreman: It better not go missing under my watch. That's why we do an inventory twice a year. If anything is unaccounted for, I won't be a happy camper. Okay, people, line up to get your assignments...
==========
- warehouse : a place to keep products before sending it to store to sell
- retail outlet (n): store where individual people can go to buy things
- to buy in bulk: to buy a lot of things
- to go missing : to become lost
- under my watch : when that person's in charge to sth
- to be unaccounted for : to go missing without reason
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Monday 12 July 2010
ESL Podcast 462 – Having Doubts About Getting Married
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/multimedia/btp/oxford/oxford_text.shtml
Eventually the advancing Parliamentary armies began to close in on Oxford from all directions; but before the net was completely tight, the King - in disguise [appear to be something which they are not] - slipped out [to leave].
******************
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/business/talkingbusiness/unit2meetings/2interruptions.shtml
Sean: ... It's important that we get this right and there have been quite a few…
John: Actually Sean, can I just ask you [polite way to interrupt] – sorry to hold the meeting up [to delay] – can I ask you about those dates ... But I do feel quite strongly [show that you know what you're talking about to] that we're bringing this out too soon
*****************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6751499
Charlotte: What are you doing in here? The entire wedding party is looking for you.
Chris: Yeah, I know.
Charlotte: Well, what's the matter? You're not getting cold feet, are you?
Chris: That's just it. I'm really having doubts about getting married. What am I doing here? I think I'm about to make the biggest mistake of my life!
Charlotte: Whoa, slow down. You're just a little freaked out right now. That's understandable. Just don't do anything rash.
Chris: I have an irresistible impulse to run. I've got to get out of here!
Charlotte: You'd better do some serious soul- searching before you decide to leave Kerry at the altar. It would be a life- altering experience for her and for you. She may never get over it.
Chris: You're right, but what can I do? If I go through with this, I may regret it for the rest of my life.
Charlotte: Sit down and stay put. I'm going to get someone who'll set you straight.
Chris: Who?
Charlotte: Kerry!
============
- what are you doing here : why are you here
- to freak out : to act in unusual way, to be panic
- to do sth rash: to do sth very quickly without thinking carefully
- irresistible # resistible : can not say no , it has to be done
- impulse : desire to do sth
- to set sb straight : to correct sb, to help sb know what situation is
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Eventually the advancing Parliamentary armies began to close in on Oxford from all directions; but before the net was completely tight, the King - in disguise [appear to be something which they are not] - slipped out [to leave].
******************
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/business/talkingbusiness/unit2meetings/2interruptions.shtml
Sean: ... It's important that we get this right and there have been quite a few…
John: Actually Sean, can I just ask you [polite way to interrupt] – sorry to hold the meeting up [to delay] – can I ask you about those dates ... But I do feel quite strongly [show that you know what you're talking about to] that we're bringing this out too soon
*****************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6751499
Charlotte: What are you doing in here? The entire wedding party is looking for you.
Chris: Yeah, I know.
Charlotte: Well, what's the matter? You're not getting cold feet, are you?
Chris: That's just it. I'm really having doubts about getting married. What am I doing here? I think I'm about to make the biggest mistake of my life!
Charlotte: Whoa, slow down. You're just a little freaked out right now. That's understandable. Just don't do anything rash.
Chris: I have an irresistible impulse to run. I've got to get out of here!
Charlotte: You'd better do some serious soul- searching before you decide to leave Kerry at the altar. It would be a life- altering experience for her and for you. She may never get over it.
Chris: You're right, but what can I do? If I go through with this, I may regret it for the rest of my life.
Charlotte: Sit down and stay put. I'm going to get someone who'll set you straight.
Chris: Who?
Charlotte: Kerry!
============
- what are you doing here : why are you here
- to freak out : to act in unusual way, to be panic
- to do sth rash: to do sth very quickly without thinking carefully
- irresistible # resistible : can not say no , it has to be done
- impulse : desire to do sth
- to set sb straight : to correct sb, to help sb know what situation is
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Sunday 11 July 2010
ESL Podcast 460 – Working in a Bad Economy
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6701784
Shivon: This bad economy is really taking its toll.
Lex: Tell me about it! My company has already laid off 20% of its workforce, and now the management is talking about cutting salaries. It goes without saying that there won't be any bonuses this year.
Shivon: What are you complaining about? At least you still have a job. Try working as a freelancer. I've had to cut my hourly rate to compete with all of the people flooding the job market.
Lex: At least you're still able to pick and choose your clients. I have to do what my bosses tell me, no matter what. If they say I have to work overtime, that's what I have to do. I don't even get compensated for it! You can bill by the hour.
Shivon: What's the good of billing by the hour if I don't have any clients? You don't know how good you have it. I don't want to hear another word until you walk a mile in my shoes!
Lex: Ditto!
==========
- to lay off sb: to take away sb's job
- workforce : a group of people work for particular industry
- it goes without saying : it's obviously
- to walk a mile in my shoes : to experience same thing of others
- ditto : agree completely
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Saturday 10 July 2010
ESL Podcast 458 – Going to the Playground
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/general/sixminute/2010/07/100708_6min_football_stickers.shtml
Tickets were like gold dust [things is very difficult to get because many people wants it] in1974. Promoter Bill Graham claimed he could have sold 12 million tickets, such was the mail-order demand
====
Zen concentration will enhance your sense of enjoyment [feeling of happiness] in whatever it is you're doing
******************
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/148_phrasalverbs/page3.shtml
Part 2A - Listening
So, I got down to work [ get down to business ] and I'm glad to say I got through [ to arrive at the end of; finish or complete ] all my exams.
===
I didn't know what was going on [ take place, happen ]
===
Well I went on to [continue] university.
***********************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6671955
==========
My wife was out of town on business and our nanny was sick, so I took the day off from work to take care of our two kids: Livia, who is two, and Augustus, who is three and a half. I thought that going to the playground would be a good thing to do, but it turned out to be an accident waiting to happen.
When we got to the playground, the kids jumped out of the car. Livia got onto the merry-go-round, pushing it as hard as she could. The trouble was, there were a couple of toddlers playing on it and they fell backwards, getting the wind knocked out of them.
Augustus, on the other hand, ran straight for the swing set and almost got decapitated! Then he went over to the see-saw and almost got smashed when he tried to run under it! He ran out of my grasp and onto the jungle gym. He started hanging off the monkey bars. I caught him just in time as he fell!
When I turned around, I saw that Livia had got onto the slide and slid head first into the sandbox! Good thing she wasn't hurt.
By this time, I realized my mistake. Far from a safe place to play, for two lively kids and one father, the playground was a deathtrap!
=========
- playground : area where children play with a lot of equipments
- accident waiting to happen :it's dangerous situation
- to get smashed : to get hurt
- to run out of grasp : to run away from sb so that they can't reach to
- to go down head / feet first :the head will hit the ground first
- lively: active , a lot of energy
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Tickets were like gold dust [things is very difficult to get because many people wants it] in1974. Promoter Bill Graham claimed he could have sold 12 million tickets, such was the mail-order demand
====
Zen concentration will enhance your sense of enjoyment [feeling of happiness] in whatever it is you're doing
******************
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/148_phrasalverbs/page3.shtml
Part 2A - Listening
So, I got down to work [ get down to business ] and I'm glad to say I got through [ to arrive at the end of; finish or complete ] all my exams.
===
I didn't know what was going on [ take place, happen ]
===
Well I went on to [continue] university.
***********************
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6671955
==========
My wife was out of town on business and our nanny was sick, so I took the day off from work to take care of our two kids: Livia, who is two, and Augustus, who is three and a half. I thought that going to the playground would be a good thing to do, but it turned out to be an accident waiting to happen.
When we got to the playground, the kids jumped out of the car. Livia got onto the merry-go-round, pushing it as hard as she could. The trouble was, there were a couple of toddlers playing on it and they fell backwards, getting the wind knocked out of them.
Augustus, on the other hand, ran straight for the swing set and almost got decapitated! Then he went over to the see-saw and almost got smashed when he tried to run under it! He ran out of my grasp and onto the jungle gym. He started hanging off the monkey bars. I caught him just in time as he fell!
When I turned around, I saw that Livia had got onto the slide and slid head first into the sandbox! Good thing she wasn't hurt.
By this time, I realized my mistake. Far from a safe place to play, for two lively kids and one father, the playground was a deathtrap!
=========
- playground : area where children play with a lot of equipments
- accident waiting to happen :it's dangerous situation
- to get smashed : to get hurt
- to run out of grasp : to run away from sb so that they can't reach to
- to go down head / feet first :the head will hit the ground first
- lively: active , a lot of energy
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
Thursday 8 July 2010
ESL Podcast 456 – Sending Business Packages
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/language/newsaboutbritain/2009/03/090310_nab_oscars.shtml
The crew of British movies will no longer be hailed [ called ] as the underdogs [ sb who is not expected to win a contest ] at awards ceremonies.
=======
Slumdog Millionaire lived up to [ prove / not fail] its status as a global success and movie phenomenon.
====
Young Indian boy has definitely helped to raise the profile [to improve the reputation] of the British film industry.
******************
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/1756_how_to_discuss/page4.shtml
Disagreeing
**********
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6642126
====
Maria: I need this package to arrive in Tulsa by next Wednesday.
Sam: Sure, I'll send it UPS or FedEx using their ground service. It'll be cheaper than sending it using their overnight service and we can still track it. Is it going to a business?
Maria: Yes, it is.
Sam: Okay, I'll mark that it's going to a commercial address.
Maria: That's fine. I'll also need these contracts to get to Tokyo by Friday. Send it to the home of the president of the company.
Sam: I'll send it DHL and use the residential delivery service. This seems like a large package for just contracts.
Maria: I'm also including a gift for the president's wife.
Sam: If it's breakable, I'll pack it really well and then get it insured. What's the declared value?
Maria: It's about $700. Oh, and I want this box to go to Olten, Switzerland, but just send it regular mail through the post office. Make sure I get delivery confirmation, though.
Sam: No problem. I'll just need to fill out a customs declaration form. What are the contents?
Maria: They're books.
Sam: Okay, I'll take care of it.
Maria: Thanks. What would I do without you?
Sam: The real question is, what would the mail services do without you?
=========
- ground service : the service transfers goods in truck or train, not airplane
- over night (express) service : the goods arrives in next morning (within 24 hours)
- residential address : home address
- breakable (a): easy to be broken
- to declare sth: to say and write sth down in paper officially
- What would I do without you : a kind of thankfulness saying
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
The crew of British movies will no longer be hailed [ called ] as the underdogs [ sb who is not expected to win a contest ] at awards ceremonies.
=======
Slumdog Millionaire lived up to [ prove / not fail] its status as a global success and movie phenomenon.
====
Young Indian boy has definitely helped to raise the profile [to improve the reputation] of the British film industry.
******************
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/1756_how_to_discuss/page4.shtml
Disagreeing
| no I don't agree that's not true I don't accept that | Note: 'no' is usually followed by a statement (see below) (quite direct) (quite formal) |
| Examples: No, I don't think that's what happened. No, that's not a good idea. | |
that's | complete (no adjective) absolute total | nonsense! rubbish! | Very strong ways of saying you disagree - unless said as a joke, they usually sound quite aggressive, so be careful about using them! They can be made stronger with adjectives (2nd column). | |
| hang on! hang on a minute! | expressions often used to interrupt and disagree with what someone has just said: | |
| Example: Hang on! That's not what she did at all! | ||
| Structures you can use when you agree with part of something that's been said, but disagree with other parts, or want to bring in a contrasting idea: | ||
| although while | it's true to say that it's fair to say that I agree that | (..followed by what you agree with, then what you don't agree with, or a contrasting idea) |
| Examples: Although it's true to say that he is intelligent, I don't think he works well in a team. While I agree that we should leave soon, I think we should finish this work first. | ||
**********
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6642126
====
Maria: I need this package to arrive in Tulsa by next Wednesday.
Sam: Sure, I'll send it UPS or FedEx using their ground service. It'll be cheaper than sending it using their overnight service and we can still track it. Is it going to a business?
Maria: Yes, it is.
Sam: Okay, I'll mark that it's going to a commercial address.
Maria: That's fine. I'll also need these contracts to get to Tokyo by Friday. Send it to the home of the president of the company.
Sam: I'll send it DHL and use the residential delivery service. This seems like a large package for just contracts.
Maria: I'm also including a gift for the president's wife.
Sam: If it's breakable, I'll pack it really well and then get it insured. What's the declared value?
Maria: It's about $700. Oh, and I want this box to go to Olten, Switzerland, but just send it regular mail through the post office. Make sure I get delivery confirmation, though.
Sam: No problem. I'll just need to fill out a customs declaration form. What are the contents?
Maria: They're books.
Sam: Okay, I'll take care of it.
Maria: Thanks. What would I do without you?
Sam: The real question is, what would the mail services do without you?
=========
- ground service : the service transfers goods in truck or train, not airplane
- over night (express) service : the goods arrives in next morning (within 24 hours)
- residential address : home address
- breakable (a): easy to be broken
- to declare sth: to say and write sth down in paper officially
- What would I do without you : a kind of thankfulness saying
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
ESL Podcast 456 – Sending Business Packages
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/language/newsaboutbritain/2009/03/090310_nab_oscars.shtml
The crew of British movies will no longer be hailed [ called ] as the underdogs [ sb who is not expected to win a contest ] at awards ceremonies.
=======
Slumdog Millionaire lived up to [ prove / not fail] its status as a global success and movie phenomenon.
====
Young Indian boy has definitely helped to raise the profile [to improve the reputation] of the British film industry.
******************
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/1756_how_to_discuss/page4.shtml
Disagreeing
**********
http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6642126
====
Maria: I need this package to arrive in Tulsa by next Wednesday.
Sam: Sure, I'll send it UPS or FedEx using their ground service. It'll be cheaper than sending it using their overnight service and we can still track it. Is it going to a business?
Maria: Yes, it is.
Sam: Okay, I'll mark that it's going to a commercial address.
Maria: That's fine. I'll also need these contracts to get to Tokyo by Friday. Send it to the home of the president of the company.
Sam: I'll send it DHL and use the residential delivery service. This seems like a large package for just contracts.
Maria: I'm also including a gift for the president's wife.
Sam: If it's breakable, I'll pack it really well and then get it insured. What's the declared value?
Maria: It's about $700. Oh, and I want this box to go to Olten, Switzerland, but just send it regular mail through the post office. Make sure I get delivery confirmation, though.
Sam: No problem. I'll just need to fill out a customs declaration form. What are the contents?
Maria: They're books.
Sam: Okay, I'll take care of it.
Maria: Thanks. What would I do without you?
Sam: The real question is, what would the mail services do without you?
=========
- ground service : the service transfers goods in truck or train, not airplane
- over night (express) service : the goods arrives in next morning (within 24 hours)
- residential address : home address
- breakable (a): easy to be broken
- to declare sth: to say and write sth down in paper officially
- What would I do without you : a kind of thankfulness saying
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
The crew of British movies will no longer be hailed [ called ] as the underdogs [ sb who is not expected to win a contest ] at awards ceremonies.
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Slumdog Millionaire lived up to [ prove / not fail] its status as a global success and movie phenomenon.
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Young Indian boy has definitely helped to raise the profile [to improve the reputation] of the British film industry.
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http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/1756_how_to_discuss/page4.shtml
Disagreeing
| no I don't agree that's not true I don't accept that | Note: 'no' is usually followed by a statement (see below) (quite direct) (quite formal) |
| Examples: No, I don't think that's what happened. No, that's not a good idea. | |
that's | complete (no adjective) absolute total | nonsense! rubbish! | Very strong ways of saying you disagree - unless said as a joke, they usually sound quite aggressive, so be careful about using them! They can be made stronger with adjectives (2nd column). | |
| hang on! hang on a minute! | expressions often used to interrupt and disagree with what someone has just said: | |
| Example: Hang on! That's not what she did at all! | ||
| Structures you can use when you agree with part of something that's been said, but disagree with other parts, or want to bring in a contrasting idea: | ||
| although while | it's true to say that it's fair to say that I agree that | (..followed by what you agree with, then what you don't agree with, or a contrasting idea) |
| Examples: Although it's true to say that he is intelligent, I don't think he works well in a team. While I agree that we should leave soon, I think we should finish this work first. | ||
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http://www.eslpod.com/website/show_podcast.php?issue_id=6642126
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Maria: I need this package to arrive in Tulsa by next Wednesday.
Sam: Sure, I'll send it UPS or FedEx using their ground service. It'll be cheaper than sending it using their overnight service and we can still track it. Is it going to a business?
Maria: Yes, it is.
Sam: Okay, I'll mark that it's going to a commercial address.
Maria: That's fine. I'll also need these contracts to get to Tokyo by Friday. Send it to the home of the president of the company.
Sam: I'll send it DHL and use the residential delivery service. This seems like a large package for just contracts.
Maria: I'm also including a gift for the president's wife.
Sam: If it's breakable, I'll pack it really well and then get it insured. What's the declared value?
Maria: It's about $700. Oh, and I want this box to go to Olten, Switzerland, but just send it regular mail through the post office. Make sure I get delivery confirmation, though.
Sam: No problem. I'll just need to fill out a customs declaration form. What are the contents?
Maria: They're books.
Sam: Okay, I'll take care of it.
Maria: Thanks. What would I do without you?
Sam: The real question is, what would the mail services do without you?
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- ground service : the service transfers goods in truck or train, not airplane
- over night (express) service : the goods arrives in next morning (within 24 hours)
- residential address : home address
- breakable (a): easy to be broken
- to declare sth: to say and write sth down in paper officially
- What would I do without you : a kind of thankfulness saying
--
Thanks,
Duy Lam
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