Shirley's Study RoOM

DatingDating
Dialogue 1 John likes Jenny, but he's afraid to ask her out. His friend Jack is trying to encourage him. John: Hey, Jack, is Jenny coming with us? Jack: Yes. Why? John: Nothing. I'm just asking. Jack: Just asking? But why is your face burning like mad? Ah-huh, someone has a crush on Jenny, doesn't he? John: Who has a crush?! Jack: Come on, John, don't be such a chicken. If you like her, you've got to tell her. Maybe she likes you. John: But I don't have the guts to ask her out. Jack: What're you so afraid of? John: I'd totally die if she turned me down. Jack: But that's better than keeping everything to yourself. You've got to let her know. Come on! You've got to take a chance! John: I don't know....Well, maybe, you're right, but how am I going to tell her?~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Dialogue 2 John has a new girlfriend. His friend Jack is envious.... John: Hi, Jack, long time, no see! Jack: Yeah! How's everything going? John: Not bad! At least I'm still alive. Jack: Just alive? I heard you're going out with Jane. John: Where did you get that idea? Jack: Oh, come on. Jane is a very nice girl, someone you meet only once in a lifetime. John: Yeah, you're right. I'm not boasting, but she's really as beautiful as she is intelligent. Jack: Well, I really envy you for finding such a girl. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Dialogue 3 Jane's friend Michelle tells Jane that she's lucky to have Jack as her boyfriend because.... Michelle: I heard you're going out with Jack. Jane: Yes. To be frank, I really love him to death. Michelle: You're so lucky! Jane: Why do you say that? Michelle: Why? Are you kidding me? A boy like him is so hard to find. So caring, so patient, and, did I mention, so handsome? Jane: It's very nice of you to say so. Michelle: Well, it's not a compliment. I'm saying it from the bottom of my heart! It's obvious that he's head over heels in love with you. Jane: I sure hope so. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Dialogue 4 Jenny's boyfriend is a very nice person, but her friend Katie is concerned about his age.... Katie: Jenny, I know you like John a lot, but what do you like about him? Jenny: Well, there's just something about him. Don't you think so? Katie: Really? What's this something? Jenny: Well, he's mature, handsome, gentle, and successful. I think he's my Mr. Right! Katie: He's certainly mature, but don't you think he's a little old for you? He's almost twice as old as you are! Jenny: Well, age shouldn't be something that comes in the way of a person's marriage. As long as we love each other, age is not an issue. It never has been! Katie: But what will others think about it? Jenny: I don't care what others will think about us. I just know I love him and he loves me. And that's all that matters. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Dialogue 5 Tom wants to settle down and start a family, but his girlfriend Monica is not ready yet. Therefore, they have to break up.... Jack: Hi, Tom, how have you been? Tom: Not very well. Jack: Why? What happened? You look so down! Tom: Nothing. Jack: Come on. For a man who's so down, there're usually two reasons. Either his career is going downhill, or he has a broken heart. You're so successful, so.... Tom: Well, you're right. I just broke up with Monica. Jack: Oh, I'm sorry. I thought you two were made for each other. Tom: Well, you never know. I'm ready for a commitment and want to settle down, but she says she wants to pursue her career while she's still young. Jack: Well, it's always difficult to choose between career and family. Tom: Maybe you're right. Jack: John, I don't know what to say to comfort you, but cheer up! There's plenty of fish out there and you'll find your perfect match! Tom: Yeah, but it's hard to forget her at the moment. You know, we were together for almost five years. It's really hard....~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Dialogue 6 Mike has recently broken up with his girlfriend because.... John: Hi, Mike, we're having a party tonight, wanna come join us? You can bring your girlfriend. Mike: Well...er...I'm breaking up with Cathy. John: What happened? Did you have a big fight? Mike: No. She's really a very nice girl.... John: Yeah, she's pretty and caring. Mike: Well, she's really caring, but sometimes it's too much...and uh...I kind of want a break, you know...some room for myself. John: Did you talk with her about it? Mike: I've tried, but...it didn't work. John: Oh, I'm really sorry to hear that. When are you going to tell her? Mike: Maybe tonight, I don't know. I don't know how to tell her. John: I know she's head over heels in love with you and she'll really be hurt. Mike: I know...

Going to a movie IIIGoing to a movie part III
George: So... what did you think about the movie? Heather: Well... I think this "Star Wars" episode is an excellent piece of work. But not as good as the previous ones. George: Really? I don't agree. This "Star Wars" episode was incredible! Heather: Why do you think so? George: Well, one of the most spectacular things about it are the special effects. State of the art special effects are the main reason for the success of the previous episodes, so audiences bear high expectations on this one. And I don't think they'll be disappointed. Heather: You're right. The special effects were amazing! And I like that fact that they created so many fantastic settings and other-worldly costumes, weapons and creatures. George: It's kind of cool that they still use the same "Star Wars" theme song for this movie. Heather: Yeah! It reminds me of the previous "Star Wars" scenes. George: I know exactly what you mean! Hearing that song gives me a nostalgic feeling. Heather: I thought the overall plot of the movie was very interesting. But I don't think the character development was that strong. George: Do you think that had anything to do with the casting of the movie? Heather: No, the casting is great, the actors were excellent. They just didn't have a lot of funny or meaningful dialogue. The writing was a little weak. George: Well, maybe, but I like the little kid who played young "Anakin Skywalker". I can't imagine anyone else playing that role. Heather: I liked him too. He's soooo cute! You know, even though I was slightly disappointed, I can't wait for the next episode. I wonder when they're going to start making it and when it's scheduled for release? George: I have no idea. But looking at the success of this "Star Wars" episode, I have a strong feeling production for the following episode will begin pretty soon. I hope it'll be even better than this one. Heather: I hope so, too. George: Well, I think we should go now. It's getting pretty late. Heather: OK. Let's go.

GOING TO A MOVIE IIPart II
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- George: Wow, look at the line! It's worse than I expected. We're lucky we got here an hour early. Or else we would definitely have had problems getting good seats. I'm glad we made the effort to come early. Heather: Me too. I learned my lesson the last time I went to a premier opening. I didn't arrive early enough and ended up with a terrible seat all the way in the front row! Believe me, it was one of the worst movie experiences ever. George: Yeah! I hate sitting in the first row. Heather: By the way, it was really thoughtful of you to get this ticket for me. Why don't I show you a bit of appreciation by getting you some popcorn and a drink? George: That would be great! Heather: OK. What kind of soda do you want? George: Let me see... I'll take a large Coke. As for the popcorn, medium size will do. Thanks a lot. Heather: I better get going. You hold my place and I'll be back real quick. Oh... I almost forgot. I better hold on to my ticket stub in case you get let in before I get back. If that happens, just save me a seat and I'll meet you inside. George: Okay. It's a plan. (Ten minutes later... inside the theater.) George: Over here Heather, on your left! Heather: There you are! George: Here you go! I saved this seat just for you. Heather: Thanks. Here's your popcorn and Coke. Sorry it took me so long. There was a huge line at the counter. George: That's OK. Thank you so much. I love popcorn. Did you add butter? Heather: Yes I did. I thought you might like butter on your popcorn. I'm glad I made it back before the trailers started. I like trailers. They're part of the whole movie-going experience. George: I think so too. Even though they're just previews, they tend to be quite entertaining. You know movie trailers are a fundamental marketing tool for production companies. They greatly affect the initial appeal and overall gross profits of a film. Heather: Speaking of which, I think the trailers are about to begin. Let's sit back and enjoy.

GOING TO A MOVIE IGOING TO A MOVIE part I
(by Arif Siswanto, Michele Moreno) George: Hi, Heather, I was wondering if you're free tomorrow night. Heather: Well, George, I guess I am. Why do you ask? George: I have just gotten a pair of pre-sale "Star Wars" movie tickets from a friend and was thinking of inviting you along for the opening premier. Are you interested? Heather: Yeah, definitely! Thanks for inviting me! George: No problem. Heather: I really wanted to watch "Star wars" on the opening day but the pre-sale tickets were sold out. How did you manage to get hold of 'em? George: A friend of mine works at the corporate headquarters of "Pepsi", which is a major sponsor of the movie. He was able to get the tickets for free, and then he sold 2 to me for $50 a piece. Heather: You paid $50 for each ticket? That's a huge premium over the regular price! George: Not really, considering the fact that other people are paying as high as $200 each on the "black market". Besides, I knew you were really looking forward to watching "Star Wars" on the opening day. Heather: Wow, I'm really honored you went through all this trouble just for my sake. I really appreciate that. So, what time are we going? George: Well, let's see. The movie starts at 10 PM. We should get there at least 1 hour earlier because there'll be a big line. I could pick you up at your house at 8, if that's OK with you. Heather: 8 o'clock? That's fine with me. George: Okay good. Heather: So I'll see you tomorrow at 8 then? George: Yeah. That's great. I'll see you tomorrow night, Heather. Heather: Okay, George. Bye! George: Bye, Heather

Asking for the WayAsking for the Way
Listen to the conversation at http://www.rong-chang.com/book/askway.html -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Visitor: Can you tell me how to reach the bank please? Policeman: Which bank? There are two: the Allied Irish Bank and the Bank of Ireland. Visitor: I have an AIB pass card and I want to withdraw money from the bank. Policeman: You need to go to the Allied Irish Bank which is near the local shopping centre, Dunnes Stores. Visitor: How do I get there. I have no knowledge of this area. Policeman: Cross the road and turn left at the other side. Walk along the footpath until you reach the traffic lights. You will see a shopping centre on the right hand side. Walk across the road and turn right after the shopping centre. Keep going straight for about 100m and the bank is to your left. Visitor: It sounds very complicated. How far is it from here? Policeman: It's not so complicated. It's about five minutes walk from here. I can draw a map for you if you wish. Visitor:Oh, I would really appreciate that . By the way will I be going North or South ? Policeman: You will be going northwards. You are now in the the Western part of the city and the Allied Irish Bank is situated in the North East. Here's a rough sketch of the area.

Apartment HuntingBill is looking for a new apartment. He just moved to a new city in order to start studying at a university. He is at a Rental Agency in the new city.
Listen to the Conversation at http://www.rong-chang.com/book/aptmnt.html -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Agent: Hi! Welcome to Rental Property Management. How may I help you? Bill: Hi, yes. I'm interested in renting a two-bedroom apartment. Agent: Okay. If you have a seat, one of our rental agents will be with you in a moment. Bill: Thank you. Associate: Hi, my name is Ann Smith. Bill: Hi, I'm Bill Harrington. Ann: Hi, Mr. Harrington. So that we will be able to match your needs better, I would like to ask you a few questions before I show you what we have available. First, what price range were you interested in? Bill: Somewhere between $400-$450 a month. Ann: Okay. Did you have a specific location in mind? Bill: Well, I would like to live somewhere near the university. Or at least on a bus line. Ann: And when would you like to move in? Bill: On the first of the month. Ann: Okay. Are there any other amenities which you would like to have? For example, a dishwasher, a balcony, a swimming pool or central air conditioning? Bill: I would definitely like to have a dishwasher, and with summers like these, central air! A balcony is not that important. Oh, yes, and two bathrooms would be nice. Ann: Okay. Here are photos of the apartments we have available which fit your preferences. Bill: Thank you. This one on Broadway Avenue looks nice. I would like to see that one. And the one on Main Street. Ann: Sure. Let me get the keys and we will go look at them. If you choose to rent one of them, we will need a damage deposit of $250. You will be responsible for all the utilities. You can sign a lease today, if you like. Bill: Great! Thank you.

At the LibraryAt the Library
Listen to the conversation at http://www.rong-chang.com/book/library.html -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Librarian: Can I help you? Natalie: Yes. I am a bit confused. My sociology class is supposed to read a chapter in a book called Sociology and the Modern Age. According to the syllabus, the book is in the library, but I haven't been able to find it. Librarian: Do you have your syllabus with you? May I see it? Natalie: Yes, uh....I put it in the front of my sociology notebook. Oh, here it is. Librarian: Let me see. Oh yes. Your professor has placed this book on reserve. That means you cannot find it on the shelves in its usual place. You need to go to a special room called the reserve room. It's down the hall and to the right. Natalie: I'm sorry - I still don't understand what you mean by on reserve. Librarian: You see, your professor wants every one in the class to read the chapter. If one student removes the book from the library, it is likely that none of the other students will have the opportunity to read it. So, your professor has insured that all students have the opportunity to read it by placing it on reserve. Natalie: So, will I be able to find this book? Librarian: Yes, when a book is on reserve, a student can go to the reserve room and ask the reserve librarian for the book. The student can have the book for a few hours, and he or she MUST read it in the library during that time. That way, the book stays in the library, and all students have a chance to read it. Natalie: Okay. Thank you. I understand now. Librarian: Will there be anything else? Natalie: No! I am on my way to the reserve room. Thanks again!

Making FriendsWhen making new friends, there are usually three parts to the conversation you will have with your new friend. The first is the greeting. In this part, you and your new friend will greet each other and tell each other your names. The second part is the conversation. Sometimes the conversation is small talk and some times the conversation is about important matters, such as business. "Small talk" is an American slang term. It means that the conversation is about matters that are not very important. When conversing with your new friend, it is customary to give information about your family, your work, or you will talk about any matter that is important to you and your new friend. The third part of the conversation is the leave-taking. In this part, you tell your new friend that you are happy to meet him and that you must end the conversation.
In this conversation, Thinh will introduce himself and his wife to Jim, their new neighbor. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- listen to the conversation at http://www.rong-chang.com/book/mkfrnd.html -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thinh: Hello. Jim: Oh, hi there! Thinh: Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Thinh Nguyen and this is my wife, Lan Quong. Jim: Pleased to meet you. My name is Jim Peters. Did you just move in next door? Lan: Yes, we did. Have you lived here long? Jim: Me? I guess so. I've lived here for about 6 years now. Have you lived in America very long? Thinh: No. Not really. When we left Vietnam and came to America we lived with a cousin in Dallas for 2 years. Where do you work, Jim? Jim: I teach mathematics at Willow Springs community college. What do you do? Thinh: I am a mechanic at Allied Diesel. I repair truck engines. Jim: What about you, Lan? Lan: I am a nurse's assistant at Whitfield County hospital. Jim: Well, Thinh and Lan, it was good to meet you. I have to go now. I'm teaching a class this evening and I need to get to the college. Thinh: It was good to meet you, too, Jim. Lan: Yes, it was good to meet you. Jim: See you around! Thinh and Lan: Good-bye, Jim!

At the mall
Conversation B
(At the mall) Listen to Conversation B at http://www.rong-chang.com/book/shpUSII.html ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Anna: Here we are, guys, I'm going to stop by Bergner's first. I might just get lucky today. Who knows, some of their dresses might be on SALE. Masahiro:Bergner's? Will: It's a fairly well-known department store. Sort of like Penny's. They've got some quality stuff. Wanna check it out? Masahiro: Why not. Anna: I need to get something for Lisa's birthday. She's into name brands. Any suggestions? Will: A Gucci handbag or Calvin Klein T-shirt might be nice. Designer perfume is another option. Which reminds me! I have a 15% discount coupon for Lerner's and Penny's. I hardly ever shop at Lerner's, as I'm not that big on women's clothing. And I rarely shop at Penny's, so go ahead and use the coupons if you can. Here they are (handing them over). Anna: Thanks a lot, Will. That's really very thoughtful of you. Will: My pleasure, Ma'am! Anna: Oh no! I was supposed to give Liz a buzz an hour ago! Hope I have a quarter (checks her purse). Will: Need a nickle? Anna: Actually, I don't have anything but pennies in change. Does any of you have a dollar in change? Masahiro: Sorry, I don't, but I do have 35 cents on me. Will that be okay for the phone call? Anna: Great! I really appreciate it. I'll make it quick. Do you guys want to go ahead? Masahiro: We'll wait. Will: Just don't forget us. Anna: I won't. Why don't we just meet here in 30 minutes? Will: Sounds good. I guess I'll just look around. Salesperson: Can I help you, Sir? Will: No thanks, I'm just looking. Well, just out of curiosity, how much is that necklace? Salesperson: Twenty-nine, ninty nine. Will: Really! My sister's birthday is tomorrow. She loves jewellry. I just wasn't sure I could afford it. Saleperson: You'll find that a lot of our stuff is amazingly affordable. Will: Well, that's certainly nice to know. I'll take it. Saleperson: It's a good choice. I'm sure she'll love it. Will: Let's hope so. Salesperson: Cash or charge, Sir? Will: Charge, please. Do you accept Discover? Salesperson: Yes, we do. Will: Great. Salesperson: That comes to thirty one, ninty-nine with tax (handing him the charge sheet). Please sign next to the "X." [Meanwhile, in another section of the store] Salesperson: Do you need some help, Sir? Masahiro: Well, I'm looking for . . . let's see. I've forgotten the name again! It's used to make fresh coffee. Salesperson: A coffee maker? Masahiro: That's right. Salesperson: Well, we have a few in kitchenware, which is upstairs. Masahiro: Thank you. Salesperson: You're welcome. [minutes later] Anna: Oh, there you are, Masa! What did you get? Masahiro: Just a simple coffee maker. Anna: Good choice. And you, Will? Find anything interesting? Will: A necklace for Stephanie's birthday. Anna: Lucky her! Will: Did you get anything? Anna: Just a couple of silly earrings that I liked. I hope I wear 'em! I did a lot of window shopping. Will: That can't hurt. Anna: True. Well, do you guys need anything else from this place? Masa: One last thing. Oh no! I've forgotten what you call it? Will: Just describe it and we'll probably figure out what it's called. Masa: It's a crystal container for flowers with long stems. I need to get one for my Mom. Anna: Oh! A VASE! Masa: That's it! Anna: They should have a bunch in giftware. Will: Let's go get one. Anna: I'm going to have to stop by Jewel on my way home. Is that okay with you guys? I'm almost completely out of groceries. Will: No problems. I could pick up a couple of things, too.

Shopping in AmericaConversation A is a typical conversation about shopping in the United States. Masahiro is an international student who has just arrived from Japan, and Anna and Will are introducing him to the shopping scenario in America.
Listen to Conversation A at http://www.rong-chang.com/book/shpUS.html -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Anna: As I was telling you, Masa, where you shop depends largely on what you need. So, if you want to buy an answering machine or a CD-player, your best bet would probably be an appliance store such as Radio Shack.. Will: Yup! Or Circuit City. I like Best Buy the best, though. Masahiro: Why? Will: Coz they usually have the best deals. They have sales on their TVs and CD-players every once in a while. Anna: Hum. I'll bet they send you their glossy ads loaded with so-called "SALES"! Masahiro: (laughs) Anna: Well, I still think the CD-player I bought from them was a rip off. Will: I'll admit some of their items are high-priced, but at least the shopper's guaranteed quality. There are very few places that have such a wide selection. Masahiro: I need to buy disks, at least two disk holders, note cards, transparencies, and that kind of stuff. Will: For office supplies, I suggest Office Max. Anna: Or Comp USA. One good thing about living in a campus town, though, is that you can easily get that stuff at any of the bookstores. No doubt they do overcharge. I try to get around that by shopping around. Masahiro: Shopping around? Anna: Yes. That simply means you go to different stores, check out the prices of items you need and purchase them from the store(s) with the lowest price or prices. Masahiro: I see. Sounds very practical. Will: And time-consuming, too! Masahiro: Where is Office Max located? Anna: There's one in the mall, so we can stop by there this afternoon. Masahiro: Great! Thanks. Will: Hey, Masa. Just so you know, you can always run to the discount stores whenever you're out of something you need right away. There are several around campus. Anna: That's right. And they carry pretty much everything a student needs. Pop, pasta, eggs, hair spray . . . you name it! Will: They don't usually carry milk, though, so you might want to walk down to White Hen (Pantry), Walgreens, or some other convenience stores close by. Anna: I wouldn't advise you to buy things in bulk from such stores, though. I mean, do your major shopping at the specialized stores. It's much cheaper, and more convenient in the long run. Masahiro: Good advice! Will: Sort of like Mom's! Anna: Hey, watch it! Will: Just kiddin'! Masahiro (laughs). Life sounds great in this town! Oh! Before I forget, guys, where can I rent movies? I love watching movies in my spare time. Anna: Me too! Let's see. There are two video stores close to your apartment. Lucky you! One's Blockbuster, and the other's That's Rentertainment. I believe they both have specials on weekdays, right Will? Will: Yup. But not for the new releases. It's usually a buck each for the older movies. Anna: Are you guys ready to go to the mall? Masahiro & Will: Sure. Anna: Masa, don't forget to take your shopping list with you. Masahiro: Thanks for reminding me. Anna: You're welcome. What are we waiting for? Let's go.

Complaining about Some Purchases
Conversation C
Complaining about Some Purchases Listen to the Conversation C http://www.rong-chang.com/book/shpUSIII.html -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [Three weeks after Anna, Will, and Masahiro went to the mall] Anna: Hi Masahiro! How's it going? Masahiro: Fine, I guess. How about you? Anna: Busy. Guess who's coming our way? Will: Hi guys! What's up? Anna: Nothing much. We just ran into each other. Will: That's nice. So Masahiro, how's the coffee maker working? Masahiro: Actually, it doesn't work well. It was a waste of money. I guess I should have shopped around for a good one. Anna: Why don't you take it back? Masahiro: I'd like to, but I've misplaced the receipt. Will: Well, if it's any consolation, my shopping wasn't all that great either. I wish I'd never bought Stephanie a necklace. Just last night she was telling me how she wished she had Liz Taylor's new perfume. Anna: That makes three displeased shoppers. Guess what? The camera I bought and shipped to Mike just this morning is now on sale! It's a pity that I bought it then. Then again, I guess I shouldn't complain. It was a good buy, even though I didn't get the best deal on it. Anyway, Masahiro, I suggest you look for that receipt and just go to the Complaints Department and say "I'd like to exchange this, please." It's as simple as that. And Will, it's not too late for you to ask for a refund.

接着上篇, Notes--学习说话不要表错意哦!
clarification strategy
"Let's see. It's next Saturday night at 7 at your house and the address is 201 Liberty Lane, Champaign." This is a clarification strategy used to confirm the understood message. After saying this, Dan can be 100% sure that the message he understood is the same as the message Kay intended. If there was any misunderstanding, it could easily be cleared up at this point. "I hope you can make it?" Kay is expressing her hope that Dan can come; while at the same time, she is asking Dan to respond whether he can or not. By asking in this way, Dan can give a number of replies--Yes, No, Maybe, We'll see, Me too, etc. Kay doesn't make Dan feel that he must give her his answer right now--perhaps pressuring him or making him uncomfortable. She is being polite. "I'll be there with bells on." He is telling Kay that he will be there, but also he is letting her know he is excited about it and will be there on time. ("with bells on" is an American idiom which means to be excited about the event and will be there exactly on time.) "Can I bring anything?" In most informal situations it is considered a common courtesy to ask the hostess this. Often the reply will be "no, but thank you for asking" or "if you like, but it's not necessary". Regardless of the hostess's reply, it is a friendly gesture on your part to take some wine, flowers, candy or even just potato chips--depending on the situation. "I'm looking forward to it." This is a polite conversation close. It says he won't forget, while signalling there is no more to say now. "Thanks for inviting me. I brought some wine." These two go together--each complementing the other. He is not only expressing his pleasure with words, but also reinforces the words with a gift. By saying this combination, neither Dan or Kay are left stumbling with who should say what about the wine which is obviously in Dan's arms. "Let me introduce you to..." Introductions are politely done in a particular form and with a specific pattern of words. 99% of the time an introduction will go as follows: "Dan, let me introduce you to Claire." "Claire, meet Dan." The names are repeated as such to help the two parties to remember them. This form also implies an equality of the two parties. Often an explanation or connection is given for how the person doing the introducing has come to know the two. In Bill's case, he tells Dan that Claire is his niece and tells Claire that Dan works with him in his office. "What part of the East, Claire?" By asking a general question of Claire that follows up on a previous part of the conversation, Dan is showing interest in getting to know Claire better. And by using her name at the end, Dan is not only reinforcing his memory of her name, but also letting Claire know he was interested enough in her to remember her name. "It must be quite a change --coming back here?" Dan is again asking Claire a question which shows his interest in her, and also the question is stated in such a way as to now give Claire the opportunity to tell Dan more about herself. If she wishes to let him know more about her she can now do so easily. If she does not, she is not in an awkward position of having to either answer a very specific question or stumble to find a way to avoid it. "I'm glad to be back and see all of my friends." Claire chose to answer Dan's question in a very non-revealing way. With these words, Claire is saying "One good thing about being back is seeing my friends," and no more. She isn't forced to reply about any personal reasons for why she came back; however, if she would have liked to, the question would have allowed her to easily do so. "Do you still play golf?" Hobbies such as sports are often a way to begin a conversation with someone. When someone plays a particular sport, they are usually glad to talk about it and it is an easy way to make a common interest known. Bill not only asks Dan about a sport he plays, but Bill knows that it is a common interest of the three coversation participants and that they all could feel comfortable talking about it. "Not as much as I would like." Dan could have simply answered "Yes" or "No", but by replying this way he also conveys that he would like to play more. This gives Bill the opportunity to come back with a suggestion that they go and play sometime--a suggestion that Dan was probably hoping for when he chose which words to say. "I see you've met Elizabeth." This is a very easy way to enter into an already-in-progress conversation. It requires a response and that requires a break in the conversation-in-progress. "Elizabeth? I thought your name was Claire." Dan has just been given a very confusing message. He needs to sort it out. The clarification strategy used here is very direct and to the point--this woman in front of him has been called by two different names and he wants to know why. "Could you pass me that newspaper?" By beginning with "could" this is asking,"Is it possible?". It is a polite way to make a request. But notice even though it is very polite there is no "please" used. "Please" may have been included, but it is common among close friends to drop it in a casual situation. With it, the request would seem more formal and since "could" was used it was not as formal as a request such as, "Please pass me the newspaper." "Sure, here you go." An informal answer to an informal request is appropriate. This answer implies that he doesn't mind at all--helping the requester to not feel uncomfortable asking for the assistance. "How often do you play, Dan?" Claire is now showing interest in knowing more about Dan. The question is not personal, but the reply could provide her with some clues into Dan's lifestyle. The theme of golf is used because it has already been seen to be an agreeable topic. You should be careful not to "wear out" a topic, however. "How about you?" When someone asks you a "How do you..." type question, 99% of the time the appropriate response is to first answer, then ask "How about you?" or "And you?". By doing this you will show that you are interested in others' choices or opinions. "Enough about golf! How's your dancing?" Kay is showing her disinterest in talking about golf and that she wants a change of topic. It is also clear that she does not simply want to know about your dancing. She wants you to actually dance with her. Since party's usually have music and an environment which would be suitable for dancing, this approach is very effective for changing the tone of the conversation as well as for getting a dance partner.

Going to a party
When planning to go to a party, we need to consider two things. 1) Who will we be talking to, and 2) What are some likely topics.
Conversation A , Dan is calling Kay to confirm the party's information and accept the invitation. In Conversation B, Dan arrives at the party, greets Kay, the hostess, and offers her some wine he brought. Finally in Conversation C, Dan meets the other guests, then makes "small talk" and future plans with them. Requests are also made and received. Remember, any conversation needs to incorporate clarification strategies to be sure of the information. Many miscommunications have not only resulted in embarrassment, but even disaster. Various clarification strategies are used throughout the three conversations. Please read the notes, which will help you understand the text. Conversation A -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Dan calls Kay) Dan: Hello Kay. It's Dan. I just received the invitation to your party. Kay: Can you make it? Dan: Well, let's see. It's next Saturday night, 7:00 pm, at 201 Liberty Lane, Champaign. Right? Kay: That's right. I hope you can come? Dan: It would be my pleasure. Can I bring anything? Kay: Just yourself. Dan: Ok, I'll be there with bells on. I'm looking forward to it. Thanks. Kay: Bye. Dan: See you then. Conversation B -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Dan and Kay upon his arrival.) Dan: Hello. Kay: Hi, come in. Glad to see you. Dan: (inside) Thanks for inviting me. I brought some wine. Kay: Oh, how nice. Let me take it to the kitchen. Go on into the living room. I think you know most everyone. Conversation C (Dan and the other guests.) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
]Bill: Hi! How are you? Dan: Fine. How about you? Bill: Super! Let me introduce you to my niece, Claire. Claire, this is Dan--he works with me at the office. Claire: Hello, Dan. Bill: Dan, this is my brother John's daughter, Claire. Dan: Pleased to meet you. I didn't know John had a daughter? Where's he been hiding you? Bill: She's been living out East with his wife's sister. She just moved back. Dan: What part of the East, Claire? Claire: Boston, near the harbor. Dan: It must be quite a change--coming back here? Claire: It is, but I'm glad to be back and see all my freinds. Bill: Hey, Dan. Do you still play golf? Dan: Not as much as I would like. Bill: Claire plays. Maybe we could all play sometime soon? Dan: That sounds great. How about tomorrow morning? B.&C.: Sure, say 7:00, out at Harrison Park? Dan: Great, 7 A.M. at Harrison. I'll look forward to it. Kay: (rejoining the group) I see you've met Elizabeth. Dan: Elizabeth? I thought your name was Claire? Claire: It is. My aunt just calls me by Elizabeth. Dan: Well, I've not only met Elizabeth, but the three of us are off to the greens in the morning. Kay: She'll probably whip the both of you! Ha Ha. Bill: Dan, could you pass me that newspaper? Let's see what the weather's supposed to be. Dan: Sure, here you go. Bill: Thanks. Claire: How often do you play, Dan? Dan: Well, this year I've only played twice. How about you? Claire: I was playing weekly in Boston-- with my aunt, but since I came home I haven't played once. Bill: The report is a humdinger. I guess the leftovers from hurricane Opal are gone. Dan: So are you saying it is supposed to be nice tomorrow? Bill: I sure am. It says it will be sunny and dry--perfect weather. Kay: Enough about golf. How's your dancing? Hey, Pete. Would you turn up the stereo? We've got a party going on!

Karl: Do you have time to stop for lunch?
Ann: Yes, I'm hungry. This restaurant has a good selection and the prices are moderate.
Karl: That sounds fine with me. Let's try it.
Ann: Where do you want to sit, the smoking or the nonsmoking section?
Karl: I prefer nonsmoking, but the sign says to wait to be seated.
Hostess: Good afternoon. How many are in your party?
Ann: Just two and we'd like a booth in the nonsmoking section, if you have one.
Hostess: Right this way. Follow me. Will this booth be all right?
Karl: The one by the window would be better, thanks.
Hostess: No problem. Here are your menus. Your server will be right with you.
Server: Hello, my name is Chris, and I'm your server today. May I bring you something to begin with, a drink or some appetizers perhaps?
Karl: No appetizer for me. I'll have a glass of water for now.
Ann: I'd like an iced tea, decaffeinated or herbal. What flavors do you have?
Server: We have mint, peach, or raspberry.
Ann: Bring me a large mint, please.
Server: Will that be all, or are you ready to order?
Karl: I'm ready. I'll have the veggie sandwich on whole wheat. Hold the mayonnaise, please.
Server: That comes with your choice of soup or a salad.
Karl: What soups do you have?
Server: We have potato, bean, vegetable beef, or cream of broccoli.
Karl: Does the potato soup have pork in it?
Server: Yes, it has pieces of ham.
Karl: Well, then I'll have the cream of broccoli.
Ann: I'd like a hamburger on a sour dough bun with plenty of onions, please.
Sever: How do you want your burger cooked, medium, or well done?
Ann: Medium will be fine, thanks.
Server: The burger comes with your choice of cole slaw or fries.
Ann: Make it fries, and please bring ketchup with them.
Server: Will that be all?
Karl: I think so. Please bring us the check when you return with our food. We're pressed for time.

1. In the middle of something?
正在忙吗?

我知道有许多许多的人, 对于某一种概念学会了一种说法之后, 从此就只会用这种说法. 例如‘你在忙吗?’这个句子, 很多人在国中起就知道要说, "Are you busy?" 讲到了来美国留学三年, 他还是只会说 "Are you busy?". 其实有时候我们的眼界要放广一点, 对于同一个概念要有不同的变化. 就像是 "Are you busy?" 这句话, 其实老美也很常用 "In the middle of something?" , (但这句话比较接近于 "Are you busy right now?" 是问人家‘现在’是不是正在忙? "Are you busy?" 的含意比较广, 也可指‘最近’忙不忙?) 大家不要小看这么小小的变化, 如果你除了 "Are you busy?" 之外, 有时还懂得刻意去用 "In the middle of something?" 我相信你的的英文说出来就会跟别人不一样. 举个例子吧, 办公室里想找人八卦, 又怕人家正在忙, 这时你就可以问他, "In the middle of something?" (正在忙吗?)

记得在不久之前看过的一部黑人电影 Down to Earth 中也有 in the middle of something 这个用法, 只不过男主角是用这句话来提出一个论点, "The first kiss is always in the middle of something." 也就是说, 初吻总是发生在讲话讲到一半时, 或是当你们正在作其它的事情时, 通常是果不其然的. 他同时也觉得, "The first kiss is the only real kiss in your relationship." (只有初吻才是真正的吻), "The others are just protocols" (其它的都只是一种敷衍、虚应故事而已.)

2. What are you up to?

你正在作什么?

跟上面的例子一样, ‘你正在作什么啊?’这句话通常我们就只会说, "What are you doing?" 这样子不会很无聊吗? 其实有时我们可以换句话说. 例如: "What are you up to?" 同样也是问人家你正在作什么. 承上例, 假设你在办公室里, 你想找人八卦, 所以问同事, "In the middle of something?" 他回答, "Kind of." (算是吧.) 这时你就可以打破砂锅问到底, "What are you up to?" (那你最近在忙什么啊?) 另外有时候老美见面时也会问 "What are you up to?" 意思就是问你最近在作什么啊? 跟另一句问候语 "What's up?" 意思上很接近. 但是你要听对方的语气喔! 有时候 "What are you up to?" 指的虽然还是 "What are you doing?" 但它却是‘你在搞什么鬼啊?’的意思喔! 例如当你看到别人在乱翻你的东西, 你就可以责问他, "Hey, what are you up to?" 也就是骂他‘你在搞什么鬼啊?’. 或是像电影 Blow 里毒贩的老爸骂他的儿子, "I know what you are up to." (我知道你在干些什么勾当.) 以上这些例子里, "What are you up to?" 完全可以用 "What are you doing?" 来取代, 只不过因为我们在说话时要力求变化, 所以要多学几种不同的讲法.

其实 "What are you up to?" 还有许多其它的意思, 在此不一一列举, 不过还有一个比较常用的解释是, ‘进展的如何了?’例如朋友告诉你他正在写一部武侠小说, (就像我的 labmate 一样), 你就可以问他, "What are you up to?" (进展的如何了), 而他的回答可能是, "I am writing Chapter 3 now." 我现在正在写第三章呢.

3. Can you just give me a ballpark figure?

能不能给我一个大概的数字.

Ballpark 指的是专供球类比赛的公园, 特别是指大型的棒球场. 例如亚特兰大勇士队 (Atlanta Braves) 的主场, Turner Field 就是一个 ballpark. 那什么是 ballpark figure 呢? 通常在棒球比赛时不是都会报今天的观众人数, 例如是 49,132 人吗? 这个数字 49,132 就是 ballpark figure, 但这只是一个大约的估计数字而已, 所以 ballpark figure 的意思就是指大约的估计数字. 所以在公司里如果老板问会计, 上个月水电费总共多少钱? 之后再加上一句, "Just give me a ballpark figure." 意思就是我只要一个大略的数字就行了. 甚至有些老美懒到就只说 ballpark, 所以老板也有可能会说, "I'll need a ballpark of the revenue last year." (我需要去年的营收的大约数字.) 你就要自己知道这个 ballpark 是 ballpark figure 的意思.

其实很多像 ballpark 这种有点俚语的讲法, 你去问美国人, 我保证他们百分之九十九点九都知道 ballpark 的意思. 但是有很多外国人, 不管他们的英语再流利, 不管在美国住多久, 却还是常常会有听不懂的状况. 像小笨霖的指导教授是欧洲人, 但在美国也待超过十年了, 英语的流利自然是不在话下. 可是呢? 有一次我跟她说 "I can only give you a ballpark." 她却问我 ballpark 是什么意思. 我讲这个小故事给各位听的原因, 就是告诉你们拿这种俚语去跟美国人交谈, 通常是没问题的, 但是如果去跟英语同样也很流利的老印, ABC, 或是在美国住了很久的外国人, 则不保证他们能听得懂.

4. Bottom line: We have to turn into profit by 2002.

最重要的是: 我们必须在 2002 年前转亏为盈.

大家看过财务报表没? 上面是一大堆密密麻麻的数字, 告诉你公司的资产有多少, 折旧多少, 应收帐款多少. 但是这些都不是最重要的, 最重要的在最最下面那一行 (bottom line), 叫净赚 (Net earnings) 告诉你这家公司总共加起来到底是赚钱还是赔钱, (这其实才是最重要的, 不是吗?) 所以 bottom line 这个字后来就变成了有‘最重要的是...’的意思. 例如商场上有句名言, "In business, If you don't take care of your customers, somebody else will. And that is the bottom line." (如果你不关心你的顾客的话, 其它的人会, 这是最重要的原则. ) 另外 bottom line 也有‘最后的底限’,‘不能再退让的原则’的意思. 例如老板可以告诫员工, "Bottom line: We have to ship this order by Friday." (我最后的底限是, 我们必须在星期五前运交这批货. )

5. The new CFO was sent to bring the company out of the red.

这位新的财务长被派来把公司从赤字中拯救出来.

中国人喜欢红色, 所以股市大涨时盘面上都是红通通的一片. 不过欧美国家对红色的认知则大不相同, 红色就表示亏损, 赤字. 像之前提到的 bottom line 如果是用红笔写的, 那就是表示公司整体上来说是赔钱的. 相反的如果是用黑笔写的, 则表示是赚钱的. 所以我们常可以听到 in the red 或是 in the black 这样的讲法, 其实就是指公司赚不赚钱. 当然啦, 我们也可以用最简单的讲法, lose money 和 make money 或是形容词 unprofitable 和 profitable来表示赔钱或赚钱. 例如这家公司是赚钱的, 你可以说, "This company is in the black.", "The comapny is making money." 或是 "The company is profitable." 都可以.

讲到这个 profitable 让我不得不提醒大家 non-profit 这个字, 因为常常有人会搞错. Non-profit 这个字指的并不是说不赚钱的, 而是说‘非营利性质的’, 例如像消费者文教基金会我们就可以说他是一个 non-profit organization, 非营利机构, 这种组织就不是以赚钱为目的. 但 nonprofitable 的话则是指不赚钱的就等于 unprofitable 或是 non-profit-making.

6. Shelly just called in sick.

Shelly 刚打电话来请病假.

　 Call in sick 是一个在办公室内常会用到的片语, 指的是有人打电话来说他生病了不能来上班. 有兴趣听老美讲这句话的人不妨去看 "What Women Want?" (男人百分百) 这部电影, 我记得他们就有用 "call in sick" 这个片语. 当然啦, 这种事想也知道一定有相当的比例是偷懒而不想来上班而已, 不然就是员工找借口集体罢工, 例如 "Some workers called in sick to have a strike." (有些工人藉由集体打电话请病假来罢工.)

那如果是正常的请病假 (sick leave/ medical leave) 要怎么讲? 你可以说, "I need a sick leave for two days." (我需要请两天病假.) 或是如果是因为老婆要分娩了, 想要请事假 (personal leave), 你可以说, "I'm asking for a three-day paid/unpaid personal leave for my wife's labor." (因为我老婆要生了, 我想要请三天假.) 至于这个假是扣不扣钱? (paid/unpaid) 就看公司的政策而定了.

7. I just heard that seven people are going be laid off next month.

我刚听到公司下个月要裁七位员工.

最近失业率不断上升, 我也就顺便来谈谈裁员的话题. 公司要裁员的讲法有许多种, 其中最常见的不外是 layoff 这个字 (如果分开来写: lay off 是动词, 但合起来写 layoff 则是名词) . 例如, "Cisco issues a profit warning, plans layoffs." (思科发布盈余警讯, 计划裁员.) 当然还可以用比较口语的讲法说, cut jobs 或是 slash jobs, 例如上一句我们也可以说, "Cisco plans to cut/slash jobs." (思科计划裁员.) 据路边马路消息说, 由于 layoff 最近在英语中的出现频率排名大幅成长, layoff 这个字将会被收录在最新的英文常用 3000 字汇当中. "__"

要是真的不幸在美国被裁员了怎么办? 先记住两句话再说, 第一句是, "Whose decision was this?" (这是谁的决定.) 俗语说冤有头债有主, 先问清楚了是谁动你的, 将来要把汽车轮胎放气才知道要放哪一台. 另一句话就是, "I am between jobs." 这句话在找新工作时很好用. 人家问你现在在作什么, 你不要呆呆地说, "I just got laid off." 多难听啊! 你应该说, "I am between jobs." 我正好在两个工作间的空档. 听起来比较委婉 这可是之前刚被裁了员的好友 Joseph 教我的, 他就因为很会讲这句 "I am between jobs." 目前已经在德州休士顿找到新工作了.

8. He suggested we should go to eat after my graveyard shift.

他建议说我们可以在我的大夜班之后一起去吃东西.

轮班这个字在英文里叫 shift, 例如三班制就叫 three shifts. 例如, "We have to work in three shifts to keep the company running." (我们必须轮三班制来保持工厂的运转.) 我想大家都知道三班制就是日夜, 小夜班和大夜班. 在英文里日班就是 day shift 或是 regular shift, 小夜班是 night shift. 那大夜班呢? 有一个很有趣的讲法, 叫 graveyard shift. 所以如果你要说明自己上的是大夜班, 就可以这样说, "I work on the graveyard shift."

至于为什么叫 graveyard shift 呢? 其中有一个广为流传的故事是这么说的, 在十九世纪时, 人们有时候会不小心把还活着的人当成死人埋掉. 为了避免这种悲剧发生, 所以他们在每个棺材里都装上电铃, 以便让这些意外醒来的‘尸体’能够按铃求救. 也因此必须另外安排一位仁兄晚上时在墓地 (graveyard) 里巡查, 以便有人按铃时能即时通知家属. 所以大夜班后来就以此得名, 成为了 graveyard shift. 至于你相不相信这种传说呢? 就看你自己了!

9. I am only a regular 9-to-5er.

我只是一个平凡的朝九晚五上班族.

我相信中文的‘朝九晚五’这个字应该就是从英文 9-to-5 这个字直接翻过来的吧? 由于上班族的工作时间多半都是很固定从早上九点到晚上五点, 所以才有 9-to-5 这个用法, 指的就是很一般上下班的工作. 记得有一次跟一个在社会上己经工作多年又回来念研究所的老美聊到他回学校念书的动机, 他就告诉我, "I don't want to work 9 to 5 for the rest of my life." (我不想一辈子都作朝九晚五的工作.) 另外像这种上班族也可以自称是一个 9-to-5er, 也就是指作这种朝九晚五工作的上班族. 但是像小笨霖我呢? 我就该自称是 10-to-3er 了. (我当然没那么认真凌晨三点回家, 而是下午三点就回家睡午觉了!)

10. I refuse to work overtime during the weekend.

我拒绝在周末时加班.

英文里加班叫 work overtime. 例如别人喊你今晚出去吃饭, 你说, "Sorry, I have to work overtime." 就是告诉他, 很抱歉, 我今晚要加班. 不过有趣的是, 除了‘加班’可以叫 overtime, 加班费也可以叫 overtime. 例如你可以大声地告诉老板, "You have to pay me overtime!" (你必须要付我加班费.) 不过现在时机歹歹, 我看还是小声讲就好了.

除了这个 pay overtime 之外, 老美也常用到另外两个字, 一个叫 double time, 另一个叫 time and one-half. Double time 指的是双倍的工资, 而 time and one-half 或是 time and a half 则是指一倍半的工资. 例如老板叫你作一些额外的工作, 你可以说, "If you pay me double time, I'll do it." (如果你付我双倍的工资, 我就去做.) 再造一句, "I like to work on holidays because I am on time and a half." (我喜欢在假日时工作, 因为这时的工资算一倍半.)1. ABC corporation. May I help you?

What is a typical American shopping scenario?
Amber:This is a neat shop. There are so many fashionable clothes here.

Ethabella:It’s one of my favorite clothing stores. Check this out (holds up a skirt)

Amber:That’s nice. How about this (points to a pant suit) Would this style look good on me?

Ethabella:Sure would. Why don’t you try it.

Amber:I think I will (motions to a waiting saleslady) Can I try this on?

Saleslady:Yes. The dressing room is right over there (Amber goes to the dressing room, puts on the outfit, and steps out)

Amber:(to Ethabella) How do I look? Does this make me look fat?

Ethabella:No way. It really fits you well.

Amber:I think I’ll buy it. How about you? Did you try on the skirt?

Ethabella:Yeah. It fits OK, but I noticed a lovely blouse on the way to the dressing room. Unfortunately, it doesn’t match. (to the saleslady) Do you have this in other colors? (holding up the skirt) I need one that will go with the blouse.

Saleslady:Yes, I believe we may have something for you . Let me check (goes to the skirt rack and returns with two skirts, the same style but different colors) I think either of these would go well with the blouse.

Ethabella:This one is perfect. By the way, what material is this skirt made of? And is it machine-washable?

Saleslady:It’s 80% cotton, 20% polyester, and yes, it is machine washable.

Ethabella:OK, I’ll take both of them (hands the skirt and blouse to the saleslady)

公历一年有12个月，但不少人并不知道12 个月的英语名称的来历。公历起源于古罗马历法。罗马的英语原来只有10 个月，古罗马皇帝决定增加两个月放在年尾，后来朱里斯*凯撒大帝把这两个月移到年初，成为1月.2月，原来的1月.2月便成了3月.4月，依次类推。这就是今天世界沿用的公历。
January——1月
在罗马传说中，有一位名叫雅努斯的守护神，生有先后两副脸，一副回顾过去，一副要眺望未来。人们认为选择他的名字作为除旧迎新的第一个月月名，很有意义。英语
January，便是由这位守护神的拉丁文名字January演变而来的。
February——2月
每年2 月初，罗马人民都要杀牲饮酒，欢庆菲勃卢姆节。这一天，人们常用一种牛、草制成的名叫Februa的鞭子，抽打不育的妇女，以求怀孕生子。这一天，人们还要忏悔自己过去一年的罪过，洗刷自己的灵魂，求得神明的饶恕，使自己成为一个贞洁的人。英语2月February，便是由拉丁文Februar-ius（即菲勃卢姆节）演变而来。
March-----3月
3月，原是罗马旧历法的1 月，新年的开始。凯撒大帝改革历法后，原来的1月变成3月，但罗马人仍然把3 月看做是一年的开始。另外，按照传统习惯，3月是每年出征远战的季节。为了纪念战神玛尔斯，人们便把这位战神的拉丁名字作为3月的月名。英语3月March，便是由这位战神的名字演变而来的。
April——4月
罗马的4月，正是大地回春.鲜花初绽的美好季节。英文4月April便由拉丁文April（即开花的日子）演变而来。
May——5月
罗马神话中的女神玛雅，专门司管春天和生命。为了纪念这位女神，罗马人便用她的名字——拉丁文Maius命名5月，英文5月May便由这位女神的名字演变而来。
June——6月
罗马神话中的裘诺，是众神之王，又是司管生育和保护妇女的神。古罗马对她十分崇
敬，便把6月奉献给她，以她的名字——拉丁文Junius来命名6 月。英语6月June便由这位女神的名字演变而来。也有学者认为，Junius可能是个代拉丁家族中一个显赫贵族的姓氏。
July——7月
罗马统治者朱里斯*凯撒大帝被刺死后，著名的罗马将军马克*按东尼建议将凯撒大帝诞生的7月，用凯撒的名字——拉丁文Julius（即朱里斯）命名之。这一建议得到了元老院的通过。英语7月July由此演变而来。
August——8月
朱里斯*凯撒死后，由他的甥孙屋大维续任罗马皇帝。为了和凯撒齐名，他也想用自己的名字来命名一个月份。他的生日在9月，但他选定8月。因为他登基后，罗马元老院在8 月授予他Augustus（奥古斯都）的尊号。于是，他决定用这个尊号来命名8月。原来8月比7月少一天，为了和凯撒平起平坐，他又决定从2月中抽出一天加在8月上。从此，2月便少了一天。英语8月August便由这位皇帝的拉丁语尊号演变而来。
September——9月
老历法的7月，正是凯撒大帝改革历法后的9月，拉丁文Septem是“7”月的意思。虽然历法改革了，但人们仍袭用旧名称来称呼9月。英语9月September，便由 此演变而来。
October——10月
英语10月，来自拉丁文Octo，即“8”的意思。它和上面讲的9月一样，历法改了，称呼仍然沿用未变。
November——11月
罗马皇帝奥古斯都和凯撒都有了自己名字命名的月份，罗马市民和元老院要求当时的罗马皇帝梯比里乌斯用其名命名11月。但梯比里乌斯没有同意，他明智地对大家说，如果罗马每个皇帝都用自己的名字来命名月份，那么出现了第13个皇帝怎么办？于是，11月仍然保留着旧称Novem，即拉丁文“9”的意思。英语11月November便由此演变而来。
December——12月罗马皇帝琉西乌斯要把一年中最后一个月用他情妇的Amagonius的名字来命名，但遭但元老院的反对。于是，12月仍然沿用旧名Decem，即拉丁文“10”的意思。英语12月December，便由此演变而来

1) My wife and I can't come to the phone right now, but if you'll leave your name and number, we'll get back to you as soon as we're finished.



2) Hi. This is John. If you are the phone company, I already sent the money. If you are my parents, please send money. If you are my financial aid institution, you didn't lend me enough money. If you are my friends, you owe me money. If you are a female, don't worry, I have plenty of money.



3) Hi, I'm not home right now but my answering machine is, so you can talk to it instead. Wait for the beep（beep：主人的Answer讲完以后，Answer Machine会发出一声beep,这时候来电话者就可以开始留言了。）.



4) Hi! John's answering machine is broken. This is his refrigerator. Please speak very slowly, and I'll stick your message to myself with one of these magnets（磁铁）. 注：通常情况下，来电话者面对录音讲话都不太自然，所以语言往往很急促，三句两句话就完了。这可苦坏了接听留言的主人，听多少遍都听不清留言者到底是谁，讲了些什么。对于母语非英文的人，这种感觉会更深。所以，以下这两段幽默干脆就首先告诉电话拨入者，我的Answer Machine不好使，你且慢慢来。



　　5) Hello, this is Sally's microwave. Her answering machine just eloped（私奔）with her tape deck（磁带驱动器）, so I'm stuck with taking her calls. Say, if you want anything cooked while you leave your message, just hold it up to the phone.



6) Hello, you are talking to a machine. I am capable of receiving messages. My owners do not need siding（墙板，壁板）, windows, or a hot tub（浴盆）, and their carpets are clean. They give to charity（慈善团体）through their office and do not need their picture taken. If you're still with me, leave your name and number and they will get back to you.



7) Hi. I am probably home. I'm just avoiding someone I don't like. Leave me a message, and if I don't call back, it's you.



This is not an answering machine -- this is a telepathic（心灵感应术）thought- recording device. After the tone, think about your name, your reason for calling and a number where I can reach you, and I'll think about returning your call.注：tone：与对第3）句beep的注释含义完全一样，主人的Answer讲完以后，Answer Machine会发出一声beep,这时候来电话者就可以开始留言了。



　　9) Hi, this is George. I'm sorry I can't answer the phone right now. Leave a message, and then wait by your phone until I call you back.



10) If you are a burglar(夜贼), then we're probably at home cleaning our weapons right now and can't come to the phone. Otherwise, we probably aren't home and it's safe to leave us a message.



11) You're growing tired. Your eyelids(眼皮) are getting heavy. You feel very sleepy now. You are gradually losing your willpower(毅力) and your ability to resist suggestions. When you hear the tone you will feel helplessly compelled to(感到无助而被迫做某事) leave your name, number, and a message.



12) Please leave a message. However, you have the right to remain silent. Everything you say will be recorded and will be used by us.注：you have the right to remain silent：电影电视里警察出示逮捕令时常讲的一句话。西方社会讲究人权，任何疑犯在未审判之前不得认为有罪，因而不能逼供、更不可拷打：他们有权保持沉默。



　　13) Hello, you've reached Jim and Sonya. We can't pick up the phone right now, because we're doing something we really enjoy. Sonya likes doing it up and down, and I like doing it left to right ... real slowly. So leave a message, and when we're done brushing our teeth, we'll get back to you.

地名志或地名研究(Toponymy)属于历史语言学范畴。历史语言学家对地名的来源作了相当的研究。美国内务部曾汇集了一批能干的语言学家，成立了专门机构，其任务是对美国的地名来源进行研究，给以准确的解释。
　　在美国的地名中，一半以上始源于印第安语。其余的始源于欧洲，如纪念皇帝皇后，或某一特殊地区，还有是为纪念历史重要人物及记载历史活动的。
　　由于语言和文化是休戚相关的，人们通过研究地名的始源，可以了解关于这个国家的背景。历史活动，甚至价值观。
　　我们从不同的资料汇集了美国洲名的来源，供学习研究英语、美国历史与文化的人们参考。
ALABAMA（阿拉巴马）：
　　来源于巧克陶印第安语，意思是 "thicket-clearers" 或者 "vegetation-gatherers"，"拓荒者"或者"打草人"。
　　AlASKA（阿拉斯加）:
　　来源于阿留申语，意思是"great land"或"that which the seas breaks against"，"伟大的土地"或"分割海的地方"。
　　ARIZONA（亚利桑那）：
　　来源于印第安语"Arimnac"，意思是"hule spring"，"小泉水"。
　　ARKANSAS（阿肯色）：
　　来源于印第安语，意思是"a breeze near the ground"，"靠近地面的微风"。
　　CALIFORNIA（加利福尼亚）：
　　来源于法语"Califerne"，是一部11世纪法国史诗中所想象的地方。
　　COLORADO（科罗拉多）：
　　来源于西班牙语，意思是"ruddy"或"red"，"红色的"。
　　CONNETICUT（康涅狄格）：
　　来源于印第安语，意思是"beside the long tidal river", "在长长的潮河旁"。
　　DELAWARE（德拉华）：
　　纪念托马斯·魏斯特爵士"Sir Thomas West, Lord De La Warr"，德拉华河和德拉华湾也以此命名。
　FRORIDA（佛罗里达）：
　　来源于西班牙语，意思是"feast flowers(Easter)"，"花的节日"，即复活节。
　　GEORGIA（乔治亚）：
　　纪念英国的乔治二世皇帝。In honor of George II of England.
　　HAWAII（夏威夷）：
　　来源不确定。这个群岛可能是以其发现者夏威夷·罗亚(Hawaii Loa) 命名，也可能以传统的波利尼西亚人的家乡Hawaii or Hawaiki命名。
　　IDAHO（爱达荷）：
　　来源于印第安语，意思是："gem of the mountains", "山中的宝石"；另一种说法的意思是"Good morning""早上好"。
　　ILLINOIS（伊利诺）：
　　来源于印第安语加上法语后缀，意思是"tribe of superior men"，"贵人的土地"。
　　INDIANA（印第安纳）：
　　来源于印第安语，意思是:"land of Indians"，"印第安人的土地"。
　　IOWA（依阿华）：
　　来源于印第安语，意思是"the beatiful land"，"这块美丽的地方"，另一种说法是"the sleepy ones"，"爱睡觉的人们"。
KANSAS（堪萨斯）：
　　来源于苏族印第安语，意思是"people of the south wind", "南风的人们"。
　　KENTUCKY（肯塔基）：
　　来源于易洛魁印第安语"Ken-tah-ten"，意思是"land of tomorrow"or"the dark or bolldy ground"，"希望的土地"，或"黑色的沃上"。
　　LOUISIANA（路易斯安那）：
　　纪念法国路易十四世皇帝，"In honor of Louis XIV fo France".
　　MAINE（缅因）：
　　纪念英国查理一世皇后海丽塔·玛丽亚，"Henrietta Maria, Queen fo Charles I of England"据说她拥有过法国的缅因省，"The province of Mayne in France"
　　MARYLAND（马里兰）：
　　纪念英国查理一世皇后海丽塔·玛丽"In honor of Henrietta Maria, Queen of Charles I of England".
　　MASSACHUSETTS（麻萨诸塞）：
　　来源于印第安语，意思是"great mountain place"，"伟大的山地"。
　　MICHIGAN（密执安）：
　　来源于印第安语，意思是"great lake"or"big water"，"大湖"。
　　MINNESOTA（明尼苏达）：
　　来源于达科他印第安语，意思是"sky-tinted water","天色的水域"。
　　MISSISSIPPI（密西西比）：
　　来源于印第安语，意思是"father of waters"，"水之父"。
MISSOURI（密苏里）：
　　来源于印第安语, 意思是"town of the Large canoes"，"大独木舟之乡"。
　　MONTANA（蒙大拿）：
　　由J.M.阿西从拉丁词典中选的词，是拉丁化的西班牙语，意思不详。
　　NEBRASKA（内布拉斯加）：
　　来源于澳托印第安语，意思是"flat water"，"平川之水"。
　　NEVADA（内华达）：
　　来源于西班牙语，意思是"snow-capped"，"雪山"。
　　NEW HAMPSHIRE（新罕布什尔）：
　　来源于英国的罕布什尔郡，"Hampshire"。
　　NEW JERSEY（新泽西）：
　　来源于海峡的泽西岛，"the Channel Isle of Jersey"。
　　NEW MEXICO（新墨西哥）：
　　来源于墨西哥，"the country of Mexico"。
　　NEW YORK（纽约）：
　　纪念英国的约克公爵，"In honor of the English Duke of York"。
　　NORTH CAROLINA（北卡罗来纳）：
　　纪念英国的查理一世，"In honor of Charles I of England".
　　NORTH DAKOTA（北达科他）：
　　来源于达科他印第安语，意思是"allies"or"leagued"，"同盟"或"联盟"。
OHIO（俄亥俄）：
　　来源于印第安语，意思是"great river"，"大河"。
　　OKLAHOMA（俄克拉荷马）：
　　来源于巧克陶印第安语，意思是"red people"，"红种人"。
　　OREGON（俄勒冈）：
　　来源不明。人们一般认为这个名字第一次在1778年由乔那森·卡佛(Jonathan Carver)使用，取自于英国军官罗伯特·罗杰斯(Robert Rogers)之书。
　　PENNSYLVANIA（宾夕法尼亚）：
　　纪念维廉·宾爵士"Sir William Penn”，意思是"penn's Woodland"，"宾的树林"。

　RHODE ISLAND（罗德岛）：
　　来源于希腊的罗德岛，"the Greek Island of Rhodes"。
　　SOUTH CAROLINA（南卡罗来纳）：
　　纪念英国的查理一世皇帝，"In honor of Charles I of England"。
　　SOUTH DAKOTA（南达科他）：
　　同北达科他。
　　TENNESSEE（田纳西）：
　　来源于柴罗基印第安语，意思是："the vines of the big bend"，"大弯的蔓藤"。
　　TEXAS（德克萨斯）：
　　来源于印第安语，意思是"friends"，"朋友"。
　　UTAH（犹他）：
　　来源于犹特印第安语，意思是"people of the mountains"，"山里人"。
VERMONT（佛蒙特）：
　　来源于法语"vert mont"，意思是"green mountain"，"绿山"。
　　VIRGINIA（佛吉尼亚）：
　　纪念伊丽莎白一世英国圣洁女皇，"In honor of Elizabeth I，'Virgin Queen' of England"。
　　WASHINGTON（华盛顿）：
　　纪念乔治·华盛顿，"In honor of George Washington"。
　　WEST VIRGINIA（西佛吉尼亚）：
　　同佛吉尼亚。
　　WISCONSIN（威斯康辛）：
　　法语化的印第安语，意思不详。
　　WYOMING（怀俄明）：
　　德拉华印第安语，意思是"mountains and valleys alternating"，"起伏的山谷"。

1. Never trouble trouble till trouble troubles you. 麻烦没来找你，就别去自找麻烦。
　　第一、四个trouble是动词，第二、三个trouble是名词。
　　
　　2. I think that that that that that student wrote on the blackboard was wrong. 我认为那个学生写在黑板上的那个“that”是错误的。 第一个that是连词，引起宾语从句；第二、五个that是指示代词“那个”；第三个that在这儿相当于名词；第四个that是关系代词，引起定语从句。
　　
　　3. I know. You know. I know that you know. I know that you know that I know. 我知道。你知道。我知道你知道。我知道你知道我知道。
　　
　　4. We must hang together, or we'll be hanged separately. 我们必须团结在一起，否则我们将被一个个绞死。
　　这是一句双关语。前面的hang together是“团结一致”的意思，后面的hanged是“绞死”的意思。
　　
　　5. The quick brown fox jumps over a lazy dog. 那只敏捷的棕色狐狸跳过了一只懒惰的狗。
　　这个句子包含了英语中的26个字母。
　　　　
　　6. Was it a bar or a bat I saw? 我看到的是酒吧还是蝙蝠？
　　这是一句回文句，顺着读和倒着读是一样的。
　　
　　7. 上联： To China for china, China with china, dinner on china. 去中国买瓷器，中国有瓷器，吃饭靠瓷器。
　　下联：到前门买前门，前门没前门，后门有前门。
　　这是一副对仗工整、妙趣横生的英汉对联。下联中的第二、四、五个“前门”指“大前门”香烟。
　　
　　8. 2B or not 2B, that is a ？
　　这是一种文字简化游戏。它的意思是：To be or not to be, that is a question. (生存还是毁灭，那是一个问题。)