執筆者 Modern English | 2015年03月03日 | Words
“We can get this done quickly if we all cooperate!” “This assignment teaches the students the value of cooperation.” “Cooperate” means “work together”. Look at the parts of the word. “Co-” means...
執筆者 Modern English | 2015年02月24日 | Words
“I fought a bear during summer break.” “No, you didn’t. You’re fibbing.” A fib is a lie. To fib is to tell a lie. A fib is usually a childish or unimportant kind of lie, rather than a serious lie with grave consequences. 「夏休みに熊と戦ったんだ。」 「やってないよ、うそだろ。」 Fib...
執筆者 Modern English | 2015年02月17日 | Words
“I coaxed the kittens out of the hole using some tuna and took them home.” To coax someone is to try to get them to do something in a gentle manner. Perhaps they are scared or suspicious, so if you try to force them, they will run away or freeze up, so it’s better to...
執筆者 Modern English | 2015年02月10日 | Words
“I’m going out in the cold, so I’m wearing a warm hat, warm mittens and big warm boots.” In English, you can use the same word with any kind of clothing or accessory you put on your body. You wear hats, wear glasses, wear shirts, wear pants and wear shoes....
執筆者 Modern English | 2015年02月03日 | Words
“We’re going to be walking a lot. Wear sensible shoes.” “No, you can’t learn to juggle while skydiving. Be sensible.” Something or someone that is “sensible” is practical and realistic. It’s basically a good thing, but maybe a bit boring and not very exciting....
執筆者 Modern English | 2015年01月27日 | Words
“Could I perhaps borrow an umbrella?” “Sure! We have plenty!” Plenty is more than enough. If there is plenty of something, there is enough for everyone who needs it, plus some extra. “Make sure there’s plenty of soda for the party tomorrow.” (We don’t want the party...
