4/29 Talk about cell phone service plan in Korea.

Almost everyone in Korea owns a cell phone. There are three major mobile service providers – SKT, KT, and LG U+.

Mobile carriers offer a complex variety of service plans to compete against one another.

* mobile carrier: 이동통신사

ex> Mobile carriers often provide phone subsidies.

When picking a payment plan, you should think about how you use your phone.

* payment plan: 요금제

ex> You can change your payment plan if you need to.

Do you primarily use it to make phone calls, send texts, or surf the Internet?

Most people pick a monthly flat rate that provides a certain amount of free calls and texts.

* monthly flat rate: 월 정액제,

ex> I think the monthly flat rate I’m using now is good for me.

ex> I got a flat rate of 5.1 percent for the interest.  (고정금리)

Since smartphones can access the Internet, a big part of cell phone bills now comes from data transmission.

ex> The speed of data transmission has gotten a lot faster with the LTE service.

People can also use their cell phones to pay for small-scale transactions.

* small-scale transaction: 소액 결제

ex> I make small-scale transactions with my smartphone quite often.

@ We’re all in this together.  우리 모두 한 배를 탄 거야.

<HOMEWORK>

1. The company is the biggest mobile carrier in Korea.

2. You can choose from a variety of payment plans.

3. The monthly flat rate is the most popular payment plan.

4. Data transmission takes up a large part of my cell phone bill.

@ Related Topics>> Getting a cell phone,

PE 4/29 Al Gore’s Speech – Part 5

Many people have been waiting for some sign that our country is ready for such change. How will we know when it’s beginning to take hold?

* take hold: to gain footing; become established

ex> Once the swine flu took hold in the big city, there was nothing the doctors could do to stop it.

You recognize that he represents a clean break from the politics of partisanship and bitter division.

* a clean break: a complete and permanent separation from something or someone

ex> When the newspaper shifted over to an online format, they made a clean break from printed papers.

ex> If you want to give up smoking or drinking, it’s best to make a clean break from the habit.

There are times in the history of our nation when our very way of life depends upon awakening to the challenge of a present danger, shaking off complacency to rise, clear-eyed and alert, to the necessity of embracing change.

* shake off: to be rid of something

ex> I can’t seem to shake off the feeling that someone is following me.

* complacent / complacency: contented or unconcerned

ex> People who become complacent in their jobs cease to advance in their career.

* embrace: to willingly adopt a cause or idea

ex> You must fully embrace the classical genre if you want to understand it better.

PE 4/28 Applying for a Loan

Okay, Elizabeth, it looks like your paperwork is almost in order. I do need a few more things before we can consider your loan.

* in order: completed or organized

ex> Once our hotel reservations are in order, we’re ready to go.

Since you are a single mother, so we need to factor in the costs associated with education and medical expenses for your child.

* factor in: to consider something when making a calculation or decision

ex> If you factor in the tax and custom fee, it is very expensive to bring whiskey into the country.

We won’t leave you twisting in the wind. If you drop them off tomorrow or even fax them from your office, I can at least give you a solid “maybe.”

* leave someone twisting in the wind: to keep a person waiting for an answer

ex> When I asked my girlfriend to marry me, she walked away without a word and left me twisting in the wind.

Note> This expression alludes to the corpse of a hanged man left dangling and twisting in the open air.

Please, Mr. Danza, this house means the world to me. My son deserves to have a yard to play in and his own bedroom.

* mean the world to someone: to have the utmost importance for someone

ex> It meant the world to Judy to be invited to the annual convention of jewelers and gemologists.

I know you've scrimped and saved for several years to get to this point, so I will do my best to get you this loan.

* scrimp and save: to be very frugal; not spend money on unnecessary things

ex> My parents had to scrimp and save to send my sister and me to college.

4/28 Tell us about Admiral Yi Sun-sin (Chung Mugong).

Exactly 469 years ago today, the most famous admiral in Korean history was born. His name was Yi Sun-sin (a.k.a. Chung Mugong).

ex> He was one of the most famous admirals in the world.

Admiral Yi was a naval commander who was famous for his innovative turtle ships and naval strategy.

* naval commander: 해군 지휘관

ex> He was bold and determined as a naval commander.

He fought against the Japanese during the Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592.

* the Japanese invasion of Korea: 임진왜란

ex> Many national treasures were destroyed during the Japanese invasion of Korea.

He was victorious in every naval battle he was in. The Battle of Myeong-ryang was one of his biggest victories.

ex> He was victorious in every election that he ran for.

Admiral Yi was killed in battle during the Battle of No-ryang in 1598.

* be killed in battle: 전사하다, = killed in action (KIA)

ex> So many young men and women were killed in battle.

As he died, he uttered his famous last words: “Do not let my death be known to the enemy.”

Admiral Yi can be found on the 100 won coin in Korea. His statue is a very famous landmark in downtown Seoul as well.

@ She has your eyes.  네 눈을 쏙 빼 닮았구나.

<HOMEWORK>

1. He served in the Navy as a naval commander.

2. The Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592 lasted for 7 years.

3. The team was victorious in every single match in the qualifiers.

4. His father was dead in battle during the war.

@ Related Topics>> Yi Sun-Shin, Admiral Yi Sun-Sin

4/25 Talk about menstrual cramps.

Some ladies have regular periods, while others have irregular ones.

* regular period: 규칙적인 생리 주기

ex> Women with regular periods tend to get pregnant more easily.

Having to use sanitation pads can be a hassle in itself. However, the worst thing about menstruation is probably menstrual cramps.

* menstrual cramps: 생리통

ex> I usually suffer from menstrual cramps every month.

ex> I have the cramps today.

cf> I have cramps in my left foot.

The level of pain varies from person to person.

* vary: 각기 다르다

ex> The ages of the children in the class varies from 5 to 7.

Some women hardly have any cramping and can go through their day without any problems.

Others have severe cramps and can’t even function properly.

ex> I could not function properly because of my menstrual cramps.

Many women take pain medication when they are on their period.

* be on one’s period: 생리 중이다

ex> I am very sensitive when I am on my period.

Women simply have to ride out the pain until their cycle ends.

* ride out the pain: 고통을 참고 견뎌 내다

ex> Do you think the president will be able to ride out this latest crisis?

@ Speaking of the devil, here he comes.  호랑이도 제 말 하면 온다더니, 저기 온다.

<HOMEWORK>

1. Healthy women tend to have regular periods.

2. She took a day off because of menstrual cramps

3. I cannot function properly when I’m hungry.

4. You should not go in a tub when you are on your period.

PE 4/25 Husband’s Allowance Negotiation

You swiped my card from me? Okay, I get your point, so give it back now, please.

* swipe: to steal; borrow without asking

ex> I swiped my dad’s tie to wear for my job interview, but I don’t think he’ll mind.

I don’t think so, honey. If we ever want to move out of this apartment and into a house of our own, you can’t keep spending like there’s no tomorrow.

* like there’s no tomorrow: as if there were no possible consequences

ex> The famous poker player gambled like there was no tomorrow.

Those were your words, not mine. I’m just trying to stem the tide of money flowing out of our account.

* stem the tide: 새 stop something bad that is happening

ex> The failing company tried to stem the tide of employees leaving for rival companies.

Wow, Mary, you mean business! I don’t know how well that’s going to work.

* mean business: to be very serious

ex> Don’t laugh at what I have to say, I mean business!

Well, when you put it that way, I guess I could switch to coffee with cream and brown bag it more often.

* put it that away: 그렇게 받아들이다

* brown bag it: to bring a meal from home

ex> The drive to my mother’s house is very far, so I think we should brown bag it.

ex> My kids have been brown-bagging it this week.

PE 4/24 Canucks

Why, because I’m a girl? I’ll have you know that my mother and grandmother took me to my first Canucks game when I was 6. We sat right next to the glass. I was hooked.

* be hooked (on): to be enthusiastic about something

ex> It’s hard not to get hooked on the new video games, as they look so realistic.

Oh look, they’re about to have the faceoff. By the way, you really have good seats, Kelly.

I can’t believe how blasé you are about it. I was impressed before, but now I’m completely in awe of you!

* blasé [blɑ:^|zeɪ]: nonchalant; unimpressed

ex> Not to be blasé about you meeting the president, but I know many famous people.

Look, Henrik Sedin scored! Keep it up, Canucks!

* keep it up: to continue doing what one is doing

ex> “Keep it up, and you’ll find yourself in the principal’s office,” the teacher said to the disruptive student.

Those guys are really going at it down there. I was going to get a drink, but I don’t want to miss a second of this match.

* go at it: to play or fight aggressively

ex> The boxers were going at it for 12 rounds before one of them got knocked out.

I can assure you that I won’t be leaving my seat for anything short of a fire!

* short of: less than

ex> It will be nothing short of luck if we make it to the airport on time.

4/24 Talk about the craze to learn English in Korea.

There has been an English-learning craze in Korea for a long time.

* craze: 열풍, 광풍

ex> The English-learning craze has swept the whole country.

ex> The K-Pop craze is spreading across Asia.

Kids start to learn English as early as kindergarten.

Many parents give up other expenses to send their children to extracurricular language schools.

Trillions of won are spent on private-sector English education every single year. People also learn English through online video lectures, or through programs on TV or radio.

ex> A lot is invested in private-sector English education.

Adults are not free from the English-learning fever either.

* be not free from: ~로 부터 자유롭지 못하다

ex> I was not free from the peer pressure.

ex> Even young children are not free from the pressure to do well in school.

College students study English for better career prospects.

* career prospect: 진로 전망

ex> Some people get plastic surgery for better career prospects.

Many large companies require English test scores from their employees regularly.

* Requiring English test scores from job seekers is nothing new in Korea.

At times, it seems like the whole country is learning English.

There is no sign of this craze winding down anytime soon.

@ Don’t give me that look.  그런 표정으로 보지 마.

<HOMEWORK>

1. There are some side effects in the English-learning craze.

2. You are not completely free from the blame.

3. Her career prospects are not that bright.

4. Our company requires English test score from the employees regularly.

@ Related Topics>> Studying English,  

4/23 Talk about Korea’s aging society.

Korea is one of the most rapidly aging countries in the world.

ex> Japan has one of the most rapidly aging populations among advanced nations.

It was officially labeled an “aging society” back in 2000. That’s when the elderly started to take up more than 7% of the country’s population.

* the elderly: 노년층

ex> You should always try to respect the elderly.

Korea is now approaching the next level – an “aged society.” That’s when the elderly account for more than 14% of the total population.

It is expected to hit that mark within the next decade.

* within the next decade: 향후 10년 안에

ex> I’m not sure whether I would get married within the next decade.

ex> The company has set a goal to go public within the next decade.

The main factors behind this trend are the country’s low birthrate and longer life expectancy.

ex> The Korean population enjoys a longer life expectancy than ever.

If the current trend holds, Korea will face lower economic productivity in the future.

ex> The government needs to boost economic productivity.

Plus, the burden of the working population to support the elderly will increase greatly.

@ I’ll meet you halfway in between.  중간에서 만나자

<HOMEWORK>

1. Japan is one of the most rapidly aging countries in the world.

2. The young people should respect the elderly.

3. Women have a longer life expectancy than men.

4. Health problems can lower economic productivity.

@ Related Topics>> Aging Society

PE 4/23 Fire Drill at the Office

Anyway, I need to knuckle down and finish this report. If there’s no fire, I don’t have to leave, right?

* knuckle down: to concentrate on one’s work

ex> We knuckled down and built a shelter when we saw the clouds rolling in.

ex> If you knuckle down for a few hours a day, you can learn English in less than a year.

No, you have to leave. If not, the fire department will give our company a failing grade and that could lead to a fine. And you’d be the one to answer for it.

* answer for: to take the blame for something; suffer the consequences for one’s actions

ex> The stock trader was asked to answer for the discrepancies in his monthly report.

First, you need to snap out of it and stop hitting the panic button. And second, we should just walk to the back stairs and leave the building.

* snap out of it: to quickly come out of a bad mental state

ex> You’re going to find another job, so snap out of your depression.

* hit the panic button: to suddenly be unable to cope with a situation

ex> At the slightest sign of turbulence during the flight, the old lady hit the panic button.

Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s get out of this place and fast! And when we find Tony, I’m gonna go ballistic on him.

* go ballistic: to lose one’s temper toward another person

ex> Tom’s basketball coach tended to go ballistic when the team lost because of stupid errors.

PE 4/22 Al Gore’s Speech – Part 4

This administration and the special interests who control it lock, stock, and barrel after barrel, have performed this same sleight of hand on issue after issue.

* lock, stock, and barrel: everything; all of the components of a thing

ex> The F.B.I. confiscated everything in the warehouse, lock, stock, and barrel.

* sleight of hand: a trick in which the hands or fingers secretly manipulate an object

ex> Through sleight of hand, the thief stole the lady’s watch.

The last eight years demonstate that the special interests who have come to control the Republican Party are so powerful that serving them and serving the national well-being are now irreconcilable choices.

* irreconcilable: incompatible; conflicting

ex> Our disagreement is not irreconcilable – we can work something out.

Note> The concept of “irreconcilable differences” provides possible grounds for divorce in a number of jurisdictions.

We can carry Barack Obama’s message of hope and change to every family in America. And pledge that we will be there for Barack Obama – not only in the heat of this election but in the aftermath as we put his agenda to work for our country.

* put someone/something to work: to implement something or someone

ex> As soon as I got to my parents’ house, my father put me to work cleaning up the garage.

ex> The security company put their program to work to protect their client’s computers.

After they wrecked our economy, it is time for a change. After they abandoned the search for the terrorists who attacked us and redeployed the troops to invade a nation that did not attack us, it’s time for a change.

* wreck: to make a mess of something; destroy

ex> It’s amazing how quickly 10-year-old boys can wreck a clean house.

4/22 Talk about homeless pets.

Raising pets can cost quite a lot of money. Therefore, when the economy goes bad, some pet owners cannot afford to keep their pets anymore.

* cannot afford to: ~할 여유가 없다, ~할 형편이 안 된다

ex> I cannot afford to support my parents.

It was estimated that there were more than 25,000 homeless pets in Korea as of 2013.

* homeless pet: 유기 동물

ex> I adopted a homeless pet from a local shelter.

ex> The number of homeless people has steadily risen.

Most local districts run animal shelters. But they do not have enough room or funds to take care of all the homeless animals.

* animal shelter: 동물 보호소

ex> There is no animal shelter in my neighborhood.

Many places have no choice but to put them to sleep.

* put someone/something to sleep: ~을 안락사시키다

ex> I was very sad when my dog was put to sleep.

More recently, the public has become more aware of these animals thanks to campaigns held by animal rights groups.

There have been calls to adopt pets from animal shelters. Pet owners have also been urged to become more responsible with their pets.

* adopt pets: 애완동물을 입양하다

ex> I've always wanted to adopt homeless pets.

@ He still has a lot of growing-up to do.  그 친구 아직도 철이 덜 들었어.

<HOMEWORK>

1. I cannot afford to buy a new car.

2. I saw many homeless pets on the street.

3. I adopted my cat from an animal shelter.

4. Some homeless pets are put to sleep.

@ Related Topics>> Homeless Dogs and Cats, Homeless Cats

4/21 Talk about late-night snacks.

Korea can be a heaven for late-night snackers, especially if you live in a big city with a busy night life.

* a heaven for: ~의 천국

ex> The mall is a heaven for shoppers.

Whenever you feel like eating, there are tons of 24-hour places that you can go to.

ex> The area is packed with 24-hour places.

Many places deliver food to your door as well.

Many of these delivery services are open around the clock, so it doesn't matter when your hunger kicks in.

* open around the clock: 24시간 영업하다

ex> The coffee shop is open around the clock.

The menu for late-night snacks is endless!

ex> Fried chicken is one of the most popular late-night snacks.

You can take your pick from Korean style stews, pig trotters or Chinese dishes, just to name a few.

Ironically, even fast food chains deliver their burgers to their customers 24/7 in some areas.

ex> The café is open 24/7 throughout the year.

Once again, there is always a place to go when your munchies hit three in the morning!

* munchies [^|mʌntʃɪz] : 출출한 느낌

ex> I always have the munchies after school.

@ He’s going through a lot.  그 친구 요즘 힘들어.

<HOMEWORK>

1. The theme park is a heaven for children.

2. There are a few 24-hour places to eat near my house.

3. The library is open around the clock.

4. My favorite late-night snack is instant noodles.

PE 4/21 Tree Planting for Earth Day

Yeah, but that won’t help the rainforests in Brazil. They’re being cut down at a rate of 15,500 square kilometers a year. We’re in a race against time.

* a race against time: a rush to beat a deadline

ex> When the accident victim arrived at the hospital, it was a race against time to save him.

I didn’t know it was so bad. Sounds like we’re fighting an uphill battle.

* an uphill battle: a nearly impossible task

ex> Beating a large corporation in court is always an uphill battle.

At best! I’d say we’re doing the best we can in our own community. But we need governments to step up.

* step up: to take responsibility for something

ex> It’s time you step up and take control of your family’s company.

Considering that this is the 45^th annual observance of Earth Day and things have seemed to have gotten worse since 1970, all we can do is keep on keeping on.

* keep on keeping on: to continue to do what you are doing

ex> Don’t give up the fight. You have to keep on keeping on.

One day things will turn around. You’ll see. But I guess I’m preaching to the choir, right?

* preach to the choir: to express your views to people who agree with you.

ex> Don’t tell me how bad the pollution is here, you’re preaching to the choir.

PE 4/18 Packing for the Weekend

You crack me up! We’re going to the beach for three days, not a month. Why do you need so much stuff?

* crack someone up: to make a person laugh or amuse them

ex> It cracks me up how you always seem to appear out of nowhere.

Note> crack “something” up: to crash something; to destroy sth in an accident

ex> The driver cracked the car up in an accident.

I don’t think you understand what us women go through in order to look like a million bucks for you men. I need options when we get there.

* look like a million bucks: to appear very beautiful or handsome

= look drop-dead gorgeous; look like a knockout; look stunning

ex> With a tuxedo and a nice pair of shoes, you’ll look like a million bucks.

Like what? What’s in these monstrous bags?

* monstrous: 말도 안 되는

Don’t be silly. Towels, sun block, bathing suits, three hats, extra sunglasses, more shoes, and a few odds and ends. Where’s your bag?

* odds and ends: miscellaneous items

ex> My top desk drawer is mainly full of odds and ends like paper clips and sticky notes.

I’m all squared away. I just crammed a few things in my computer bag and tossed my sandals in the back seat. Guys can be ready at a moment’s notice.

* squared away: ready; arranged properly

ex> Once you get squared away at your desk, I’ll drop by with some papers for you to fill out.

* at a moment’s notice: with very little warning

ex> A Navy Seal must be ready to go on a mission at a moment’s notice

4/18 Talk about original Korean beef.

Korea is one of the top beef-consuming countries in the world.

ex> Austria is one of the top pork-consuming countries in the world.

Generally speaking, the beef of choice for many Koreans is the native Korean cattle, hanwoo.

Hanwoo is not foreign cattle, which was simply raised in Korea.

They are a native breed. Of course, Korea also imports beef from other countries such as US, Australia, and New Zealand.

* native breed: 토종 품종

ex> Some farms only raise native breed cattle.

Price-wise, hanwoo is more expensive than imported beef. But Koreans love it as it suits their tastes the best.

ex> The consumption of imported beef fell to its lowest level during the mad cow disease crisis.

Hanwoo is known for being lower in cholesterol and having a high omega-3 fatty acid count.

ex> I always try to choose foods that are low in cholesterol.

cf> Grapes are rich in vitamins B and C.

Farmers who raise hanwoo in Korea are trying their best to promote the Korean beef.

ex> the government has launched a campaign to promote the Korean beef.

@ I have no clue what you’re talking about.  대체 무슨 말인지 모르겠어.

<HOMEWORK>

1. This chart shows the top-beef consuming countries in the world.

2. Imported beef is generally cheaper than domestic beef.

3. Fish is lower in cholesterol than meat.

4. They have formed an organization to promote the Korean beef consumption.

@ Related Topics>> Korean Beef

PE 4/17 North Hollywood

My old college buddy is shooting a film up here with Joe Cornwall, the British star, so I gave him a ring and he said to come out and be extras.

* give someone a ring: to call someone on the phone

ex> I’ll give you a ring the next time I’m in town.

Well, if we do meet him, I’ll play it cool and act like he’s an ordinary guy.

* play it cool: to not be nervous; not flinch under pressure

ex> Try to play it cool if you get pulled over by a police officer.

Maybe if the lead actress gets sick, I can fill in for her. He has a love interest in this one, right?

* love interest: a person one is romantically involved with

ex> The actor’s love interest is usually 10 or 20 years younger than him.

Don’t bet on it. It’s a “buddy movie.” His co-star are Bruno Jones, the ex-football player, and a German shepherd named Rex. I don’t think there’s much romance in it.

* don’t bet on it: it is not very likely to happen

= don’t count on it; don’t be too sure; don’t think so

ex> Don’t bet on getting a friendly reception at the Russian border.

<whisper> I think he heard us! I can feel my face turning red as a beet. <clears throat> Hello Mr. Cornwall, I’m your biggest fan! <giggles>

* red as a beet: blushing from embarrassment or nervousness

ex> I turned red as a beet when my mother saw me kiss my girlfriend goodnight.

ex> Her face turns red as a beet when she drinks alcohol.

4/17 Talk about Yeouido in Seoul.

Yeouido is an 8.4 square kilometer (km²) island by the Han River. It’s one of Seoul’s main political and financial districts.

* square kilometer (km²): 제곱킬로미터

ex> Koreans typically use square kilometers when describing how large an area is.

ex> The company is located in the center of the financial district.

It is packed with famous landmarks. The most prominent one is the National Assembly Building.

ex> The Empire State Building is a famous landmark in New York City.

Yeouido is also home to two of the four major broadcasting networks in Korea, KBS and MBC.

* be home to: ~가 위치한 곳이다, ~의 고향이다

ex> The city is home to half a million people.

ex> The national park is home to several endangered species.

ex> Korea is home to some of the largest electronics companies in the world.

The Korea Stock Exchange is also located in the area.

The well-known 63 Building, which was Korea’s tallest building upon its completion in 1985, is also in Yeouido.

Subway Lines 5 and 9 connect Yeouido with the rest of Seoul.

The area is a popular destination to enjoy cherry blossoms in the spring.

ex> Many people go to Yeouido to enjoy cherry blossoms.

@ I was so relieved.  정말 다행이었어. / 한시름 놓았어.

<HOMEWORK>

1. He has his own office in the financial district.

2. There is no famous landmark in this area.

3. Europe is home to many successful global brands.

4. My family goes to enjoy cherry blossoms every spring.

@ Related Topics>> Cherry Blossom Festival

4/16 Talk about gastritis.

Gastritis is a common illness that many people suffer from. It is the inflammation of the lining of the stomach.

ex> She is currently suffering from depression.

ex> The lining of the stomach can be damaged by several reasons.

Causes of gastritis include excessive alcohol consumption or prolonged usage of painkillers. Other leading causes include genetics, irregular meals, and stress.

ex> Excessive alcohol consumption can cause various health problems.

Common symptoms are stomach pain, indigestion and vomiting.

Some people also complain of a burning sensation in the upper stomach area.

* burning sensation: 쓰린 느낌

ex> I have a burning sensation in my chest when I get stressed.

Typically, a diagnosis is made based on the patient’s symptoms. A patient can also get a gastroscopy to get more accurate diagnosis.

* get a gastroscopy: 위 내시경 검사를 받다

ex> I got a gastroscopy because my stomach pain was getting worse.

ex> I got an endoscopy to see what was wrong with my stomach.

@ She’s a bit uptight.  성격이 약간 까다로워

<HOMEWORK>

1. I’m suffering from a terrible headache.

2. Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the liver.

3. I feel a burning sensation in my throat.

4. Getting a gastroscopy will cost you extra money.

@ Related Topics: Pricking Fingers, Gastritis

PE 4/16 Landscape Designers

We have two days left before the ribbon cutting ceremony for the building. We need to get the landscaping in shipshape.

* in shipshape: in a clean and orderly state

ex> Mother never left for vacation until the house was in shipshape.

We dug the drainage trenches yesterday and planted the small maple trees. What’s the plan for today?

We can roll that out in the afternoon and then water everything right before we call it a day.

* call it a day: to finish a work shift

ex> We aren't going to finish this project tonight, so why don’t we call it a day.

But before we do that we have to test the sprinkler system. I’d hate to have to pull up wet grass to fix a glitch in the system.

It sounds like we have our work cut out for us.

* have one’s work cut out for one: to have the task ahead is difficult or labor-intensive

ex> Judging by the size of your class, you have your work cut out for you this semester, Professor Riggs.

Don’t jinx us! Just keep your nose to the grindstone and let’s get it done.

* jinx: to bring bad luck to something or someone

ex> He jinxed our camping trip when he said he couldn't believe how nice the weather was.

ex> I don’t want to jinx you, but I don’t think anyone else can beat you today.

* keep one’s nose to the grindstone: to work hard without a break

ex> My father taught me to keep my nose to the grindstone in every endeavor I take on.

PE 4/15 Al Gore’s Speech – Part 3

We are facing a planetary emergency which, if not solved, would exceed anything we’ve ever experienced in the history of humankind. In spite of John McCain’s past record of open-mindedness on the climate crisis, he has apparently now allowed his party to browbeat him into abandoning his support of mandatory caps on global warming pollution.

* open-minded: unprejudiced; receptive to new and different ideas and opinions

ex> Philosophy professors tend to be very open-minded people.

* browbeat: to intimidate or abuse verbally

ex> I hate when parents browbeat their children in public.

And it just so happens that the climate crisis is intertwined with the other two great challenges facing our nation: reviving our economy and strengthening our national security.

Almost a hundred years ago, Thomas Edison said, “I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power! I hope we don’t have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that.”

* put one’s money on: to be very sure about something

ex> I’d put my money on the fact that your battery is dead.

* tackle: to work on a project to completion

ex> The construction crew tackled the rebuilding of the house with zeal.

But how did this no-brainer become a brain-twister? Because the carbon fuels industry – big oil and coal – has a 50-year lease on the Republican Party, and they are drilling it for everything it’s worth.

* no-brainer: something that is very easy or mentally unchallenging

ex> The science test was a no-brainer. I hope all of the professor’s exams are like that.

4/15 Talk about indigestion.

Indigestion or an upset stomach is a common problem. It can happen when you eat something wrong or eat too fast or too much.

ex> I had a stomachache because I ate something wrong.

You can have abdominal pain or a feeling of fullness.

ex> I have persistent abdominal pain.

You can have symptoms such as burping, heartburn and nausea.

Indigestion can be caused by gastritis. It can also indicate the presence of an ulcer or a tumor.

There are many over-the-counter medications for indigestion.

* over-the-counter: 처방전 없이 구입할 수 있는

ex> Those painkillers are available over-the-counter.

You can even get them at convenience stores now in Korea.

Doctors recommend a change in lifestyle to prevent indigestion in general.

ex> I've changed my job because I needed a change in lifestyle.

A Korean folk remedy for indigestion is to prick the tip of one’s thumb with a needle to let out the bad blood.

* prick the tip of one’s thumb: 엄지 손가락을 따다

@ Let’s just leave it as it is.  그냥 그대로 두자.

<HOMEWORK>

1. I think I might have eaten something wrong yesterday.

2. Abdominal pain is one of the common side effects.

3. I bought the medicine over-the-counter.

4. You need a change in lifestyle for better healthy.

@ Related Topics>> Pricking Fingers, Gastritis

4/14 Talk about the debate on abortion in Korea.

Under the Korean law, abortion is illegal except in special circumstances.

ex> All sorts of narcotics are illegal in Korea.

Such cases are when a pregnancy results from rape or when the life of a mother is in danger by the pregnancy.

However, it is true that Korea has turned a blind eye to abortions.

* turn a blind eye to: ~을 묵인하다

ex> The government has turned a blind eye to those practices.

ex> You should not turn a blind eye to his mistakes any more.

It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of abortions are being performed annually.

ex> Large scale anti-smoking campaigns are being performed.

There are incidents that refuel the debate on abortion off and on.

* refuel: 재점화하다

Pro-life supporters insist that the government should crack down on illegal abortion.

* crack down on: ~을 단속하다

ex> The government has started to crack down on smoking on the street.

On the other hand, pro-choice supporters argue that these laws violate women’s rights.

ex> Customs that violate women’s rights need to be changed.

@ Do yourself a favor and get a haircut.  너 자신을 위해서 하는 말이야.

<HOMEWORK>

1.      Selling a cigarette to minors is illegal.

2.      I've turned a blind eye to the problem so far.

3.      A concert will be performed at the park tonight.

4.      The authorities have been cracking down on illegal workers.

PE 4/14 Why I Buy Organic Food

I swung by the grocery store and bought some fruit for the kids’ lunches.

* swing by: to make a brief visit somewhere

= drop by; stop by; pop by

ex> Please swing by my office after lunch.

  

I only buy organic food for our family. The stuff you bought is brimming with chemicals and is probably genetically modified. It’s still up in the air as to what that stuff does to people.

* brimming with: full of something

ex> The children were brimming with excitement as the gates to the park opened for the day.

note> brim = a border or an edge

> the brim of a hat

* up in the air: undecided

ex> I don’t know if Tracey will move back to Korea or not, it’s still up in the air.

Come on. After you wash the fruit, there’s hardly a trace of pesticides left.

* trace: a tiny amount; minuscule

ex> The trace minerals found in bananas are good for your heart.

That’s not happening. If you don’t mind all the chemicals, you can eat them yourself.

* that’s not happening: something is very unlikely

ex> You may thing your team is going to win, but I can tell you that’s not happening.

4/11 Talk about dance clubs in Korea.

Dance clubs are becoming more popular in Korea especially in the capital city, Seoul.

Hondae, Gangnam and Itaewon are the go-to areas if you want to enjoy a night of dancing.

* go-to area: 반드시 가 봐야 할 장소

ex> It’s a go-to area for those who like clubbing.

There are a number of hip-hop clubs, house clubs, salsa clubs and clubs that turn on oldies these days.

* turn on oldies: 옛날 음악을 틀다

Many youngsters dance the night away at packed dance clubs.

* dance the night away: 춤을 추며 밤을 즐기다

ex> All the guests danced the night away at the party.

Some clubs have cover charges, while some don’t.

* cover charge: 입장료

ex> You have to pay the cover charge at the entrance.

cf> How much is the admission fee for the exhibition?

Some clubs have dress codes and bouncers who enforce those rules.

* dress code: 복장 규정

ex> The dress code is written in the invitation

Some clubs are more casual and laid-back.

* laid-back: 편안한, 느긋한

ex> the café has a very cozy and laid-back atmosphere.

It all depends where you go.

One thing is for sure: you will see plenty of party-goers who enjoy the mood until the sun comes up.

@ I've been there before myself.  나도 그런 경험 해 봤거든.

<HOMEWORK>

1.      명동 is definitely a go-to area for tourists.

2.      I’d like to dance the night away tonight.

3.      I didn't know that I had to pay a cover charge.

4.      He has a laid-back personality.

@ Related Topics>> Dance Clubs, 

PE 4/11 He Forgot Their Wedding Anniversary – or Did He?

Why are you giving me the cold shoulder? Did I say something wrong?

* give someone the cold shoulder: to ignore or refuse to speak to someone

ex> After Rita insulted Tom, he gave her the cold shoulder for the rest of the day.

Someone’s at the door. Do you mind getting it? I’m still in my pajamas.

* Do you mind…?: Would you do something for me?

ex> Do you mind holding the door for me? I've got a lot of bags to carry.

Whatever. <pause> Oh my gosh! You got me three dozen roses! Dean, you didn't forget.

I’m sorry I snapped at you. You've never forgotten our anniversary yet and this year is no different.

* snap at: to respond angrily and curtly

ex> When my mom was upset, she tended to snap at everyone.

Thanks sweetheart. Happy 10^th anniversary. And I hope, years from now, if I ever do forget this date you won’t jump down my throat again!

* years from now: in the far future

ex> Years from now, I want to be living on a farm raising chickens and goats.

* jump down someone’s throat: to get mad at someone and say something mean

ex> You really didn't need to jump down her throat – she was just doing her job.

ex> He has a tendency to jump down people’s throats when they question the grades he gives.

PE 4/10 Whistler – Blackcomb Ski Resort

I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to give snowboarding a try. I already signed up for classes online.

* I don’t know about you: as for me…  너는 어떻게 생각할지 모르지만, 나라면

ex> I don’t know about you, but I’m not voting for the incumbent candidate.

Well, once I get up to speed, we can ride the trails together. Until then, you do your thing and I’ll do mine.

* do one’s (own) thing: to do what one wants to do

ex> When I was a kid, my parents let me do my own thing as long as I came home early.

You’re a quick study. I have no doubt you’ll be racing me to the bottom by Saturday afternoon.

* quick study: one who learns new skills fast

ex> The child prodigy was a quick study when it came to learning new pieces of music.

ex> I've always been a quick study in math and science classes.

That’s my plan, at least. I learned to ski pretty quickly when I was little, so this should be a breeze.

* a breeze: an easy thing to do

ex> My first marathon was a breeze.

You read my mind! I’ll go slap together some sandwiches while you finalize the reservations.

* slap something together: to assemble something quickly or haphazardly

ex> Even when my mom worked late, she could still slap something together for dinner pretty fast.

cf> slap (something) on or slap on (something): to add (something, such as an extra charge) to an amount

ex> The hotel slapped an extra $50 on his bill to cover the damage.

4/ 10 Talk about credit card usage in Korea.

When you use your credit card in Korea, you can decide how to pay off each purchase later on.

* pay off: 지불하다, 결제하다

ex> It took me several years to pay off my student loans.

You can either choose immediate payment or an installment plan.

* immediate payment: 일시불 결제

ex> I prefer immediate payment to installments.

Of course, you have to pay interest if you decide to pay in installments.

* pay in installments: 할부로 결제하다

ex> I paid for the air-conditioner in installments.

Also, some credit cards offer minimum payment plans. Card holders can pay a small portion of their credit card bill and pay off the remaining portion the following month.

This helps customers make their payments without hurting their credit.

* make one’s payment: 결제하다

ex> You can make your payment anytime and anywhere through online banking.

Korean credit cards commonly have cash back services.

Users can get a small portion of their spending back in points.

* a small portion of: ~의 일부

ex> I donate a small portion of the money I make every month.

They can use those points to get discounts at various places.

@ I’m gonna take off now.  나 이제 갈게.

<HOMEWORK>

1.      I have some debt to pay off.

2.      You can pay for the cell phone in installment.

3.      I usually make my payment online.

4.      I save up a small portion of my pay.

@ Related Topics>> Green Credit Card, Debit Cards, Credit Cards

PE 4/9 annual Health Checkup

I think it’s an invasion of privacy. Who cares if my cholesterol level is too high? If I want to eat donuts for dinner, that’s my business.

* invasion of privacy: personal information demanded or taken by an employer or government agency

ex> Sam sued his company for invasion of privacy when they went through his personal emails.

When you got the job here you signed a contract that stipulated you had to submit to a basic health checkup every year. Anyway, we do get a reward for doing it.

* stipulate: 규정하다

Don’t put me on the spot. If I say no, you’ll take it personally and if I say yes, I’m most likely not going to show up every time, and then you’ll get mad at me.

* put someone on the spot: to compel someone to give an answer to a difficult question immediately

ex> I hate to put you on the spot, but can you take me to the airport?

Okay, let’s wait and see how your checkup goes. Last year’s checkup was a real eye opener for me. My blood pressure was far too high.

* eye opener: something that surprises or shocks someone

ex> Having a heart attack at 40 was a real eye opener for my dad.

ex> The documentary about starvation in Africa was quite an eye opener.

Yeah, I remember how pale you were when you came back. You really turned your life around after that.

* turn one’s life around: to eliminate bad habits and adopt a healthier lifestyle

ex> After the accident, Jake decided to turn his life around and be more careful.

You can do it too. Come on, it’s time to face the music.

* face the music: to confront something unpleasant that is a result of one’s own actions.

= face the facts; bite the bullet; come to grips with it

ex> It’s time to face the music. The judge is going to give his verdict now.