執筆者 Modern English | 2016年05月24日 | Words
“Can you spare a dollar?” “Spare my life,” said the magical fish, “and I’ll grant you one wish.” In war stories or fairy tales, “spare” is often used to mean “not hurt or kill”. “Do what you want to me, but spare my children.” A more everyday use is “Can...
執筆者 Modern English | 2016年05月17日 | Words
“The dog was dozing under the table, but he got up when he heard the door open.” “I dozed off during the movie and missed the end.” Dozing is a light or short sleep. It is usually a verb, but it can be a noun, too: “I’ll have a doze.”...
執筆者 Modern English | 2016年04月26日 | Words
“You will certainly pass the test,” could be rephrased as “I’m certain you will pass the test.” A person is certain if they believe something without doubt. A fact or idea is certain if there is no doubt that it’s true....
執筆者 Modern English | 2016年04月19日 | Words
“Could you hand me that book?” “Certainly.” “If you study hard you will certainly pass this test.” “Certainly” can mean “of course” or “definitely”. It’s a good word to use in polite situations. You might hear it from a waiter after placing an order at a...
執筆者 Modern English | 2016年04月12日 | Words
“I enjoyed the first half of the book but then I just lost my momentum, so I haven’t finished it yet.” “He tried to stop but his momentum carried him into the intersection, and he almost caused an accident.” When an object is moving, it keeps going at the same speed...
