📚 English Speeches' Newsletter #42

Hello, English Speeches community!

Welcome to our 42nd newsletter, your weekly treasure trove for enhancing your English learning journey and immersing yourself in diverse cultural narratives. This edition is brimming with thought-provoking content, from the heated debates in U.S. politics to the mysterious origins of everyday expressions and the common pitfalls in English grammar.

• In English with News, we delve into the contentious issue surrounding the potential TikTok ban in the U.S.
  

• Speak Like a Native takes us on a linguistic voyage to the high seas, uncovering the maritime roots of the phrase "under the weather."
  

• Our Article of the Week shifts the focus to the realm of English grammar, highlighting common mistakes that can ensnare even the most diligent learners.
  

• Finally, English Speeches presents the empowering words of Lili Reinhart at the Glamour 2018 Women of the Year Summit.

Each section of this newsletter is designed to challenge, educate, and inspire you. Whether you're grappling with grammatical nuances, exploring linguistic history, or seeking motivation from public figures, there's something in this edition for you. So dive in, explore, and let's continue our journey of learning and discovery together!

ENGLISH WITH NEWS

Potential TikTok Ban in the U.S.

This week, we explore a significant development in the United States that has sparked widespread debate and concern. A bill proposing a ban on the social media platform TikTok on national security grounds is gaining momentum in Congress. This move has led to a rare display of bipartisan agreement and has raised questions about free speech, data privacy, and international relations.

Key Words:

• Bipartisan: (adj.) Involving two political parties. (The bill has seen bipartisan support in Congress.)
  

• National Security: (n.) The protection of a country's citizens and territory against threats. (The proposed TikTok ban is justified on national security grounds.)
  

• First Amendment: (n.) Part of the U.S. Constitution that protects freedom of speech and expression. (The ban raises significant First Amendment questions.)
  

• Data Surveillance: (n.) The monitoring of online data and activities by governments or other entities. (There are concerns about TikTok being used for data surveillance by foreign powers.)
  

• Geopolitical: (adj.) Related to politics, especially international relations, as influenced by geographical factors. (The TikTok issue is part of larger geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China.)

The proposed TikTok ban highlights the complexities of modern digital life, where social media platforms become arenas for international politics, data privacy concerns, and cultural expression. This story not only informs us about a current legislative effort but also prompts us to think about the broader implications of technology on society and individual rights.

SPEAK LIKE A NATIVE

"Under the Weather": The Maritime Origins of a Common Expression

The phrase "under the weather" is commonly used to describe feeling ill or unwell, but did you know it has maritime origins? This idiom dates back to the days of sailing ships. When a sailor felt sick, they would often go below deck to protect themselves from the harsh weather conditions. Being below deck, or "under the weather (bow)," meant they were away from the wind, rain, or any unpleasant weather that could exacerbate their condition.

Over time, "under the weather" has transitioned from a literal term used at sea to a figurative expression used by people on land to indicate a state of feeling sick or less than optimal in health. This transition from maritime jargon to everyday language demonstrates how the harsh realities of life at sea have influenced the way we express health-related discomfort in modern times.

ENGLISH RESOURCES

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ARTICLE OF THE WEEK

Common Grammar Mistakes

This week, we turn our attention to the pitfalls of English grammar that can ensnare even the most careful writers. Understanding and avoiding common grammar mistakes is not merely an academic exercise; it's essential for clear communication and maintaining credibility in any form of writing.

Here's a snapshot of the key insights:

Understanding Common Mistakes: Grammar mistakes can distract readers and detract from the message you're trying to convey. Even in less formal web copywriting, maintaining correct grammar is crucial for credibility.

Common Challenges: The English language is full of traps for the unwary, with words that sound alike but have different meanings or uses. These include:

• There, Their, They’re: Confusion arises from their similar pronunciation despite different meanings related to possession, location, and the contraction for 'they are'.
  

• Your and You’re: These words are often mixed up, with 'your' indicating possession and 'you’re' being a contraction for 'you are'.
  

• Affect or Effect: 'Affect' is a verb meaning to influence, while 'effect' is a noun referring to the result of an influence.
  

• Whether or Weather: 'Whether' expresses a choice or doubt, whereas 'weather' refers to atmospheric conditions.

Learning Strategies: To avoid these common errors, understand their distinct meanings and applications. Practice by writing sentences using each word correctly, and read your work aloud to catch mistakes that your eyes might skip over.

This guide aims to sharpen your grammar skills, making your English communication more precise and effective. For a deeper understanding and more examples, ensure to explore the full article.

ENGLISH SPEECHES

Lili Reinhart: Imperfectly Beautiful

In this edition, we feature Lili Reinhart's heartfelt speech from the Glamour 2018 Women of the Year Summit, where she addresses body image, self-love, and the unrealistic standards set by social media. The "Riverdale" actress shares her personal journey, confronting the pressures of the entertainment industry and societal expectations.

Key Points for English Learners:

• Vocabulary on Self-Perception and Social Media: The speech is rich with terms related to body image, mental health, and media influence, such as 'body dysmorphia', 'self-conscious', and 'catfishing'.
  

• Descriptive Language and Emotional Expression: Reinhart uses vivid language to describe her feelings and experiences, providing an excellent opportunity for learners to explore expressive English and emotional vocabulary.
  

• Reflective and Inspirational Tone: The speech's tone allows learners to understand how to convey personal stories and motivational messages effectively.

🤔 SPEECH RECAP QUIZ

Let's test your understanding of English grammar and the key points in the speech above:

1. "I didn't want the world to think that I was ________ them with my appearance."

   A. misleading

   B. guiding

   C. catfishing
   

2. "Is that body dysmorphia or is this the normal part of being ________ that no one really talks about?"

   A. a woman

   B. famous

   C. misunderstood
   

3. "We are all ________ beautiful, so let's embrace that and practice that in a healthy way."

   A. imperfectly

   B. perfectly

   C. unusually

Check your understanding and see if you've grasped the key points of the speech. The correct answers are waiting for you further down—keep reading to see how you did!

🔍 VOCABULARY SPOTLIGHT

This edition highlights the words 'catfishing' and 'body dysmorphia' from Reinhart's speech:

Catfishing: This term refers to the act of luring someone into a relationship by means of a fictional online persona. In the speech, it's used metaphorically to describe presenting oneself in a misleading way on social media.

• Example in a sentence: "Lili Reinhart expressed concern over the idea of 'catfishing' the world with altered images of her appearance."

Body Dysmorphia: A mental health condition where a person spends a lot of time worrying about flaws in their appearance. These flaws are often unnoticeable to others.

• Example in a sentence: "Reinhart opened up about the challenges of distinguishing between normal self-awareness and body dysmorphia influenced by societal standards."

ENGLISH RESOURCES

Ultimate English Mastery Combo

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+3000 English Phrasal Verbs: Delve into the intricacies of English phrasal verbs with over 3000 entries, each accompanied by clear explanations and examples.

Learn English with Speeches: Embark on a transformative journey through iconic speeches. This eBook not only offers clear explanations and practical exercises but also provides insights into the cultural nuances and real-life contexts of English.

Together, these resources promise a holistic learning experience, ensuring you communicate effectively and confidently. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer to elevate your English proficiency!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In your journey of learning English, embracing imperfection is a vital step. It’s better to speak awkwardly, write with mistakes, and fumble through conversations than to stay silent in pursuit of perfection.

Each attempt, no matter how imperfect, is a step forward in your language learning. Every mispronounced word, every grammatically incorrect sentence is a chance to learn, to improve, and to move closer to fluency.

So, don't let the fear of making mistakes paralyze you. Embrace the imperfections in your learning process. It's far more productive to do something imperfectly than to do nothing at all. Keep speaking, keep writing, and keep learning — your confidence and skills will grow with every imperfect step.

NEWSLETTER RECOMMENDATIONS

Are you on the lookout for something intriguing and enriching? Dive into our specially selected collection of newsletters. We've scoured various topics to bring you the best, ensuring there's something for everyone. 🌍✨

From the latest trends to timeless wisdom, our recommendations are a gateway to a world of knowledge and discovery. Whether it's for learning, inspiration, or just a good read, you're sure to find something that piques your interest.

English Quiz Answers: 1.c | 2.a | 3.a

We're grateful for your continued companionship on this language-learning voyage. Don't hesitate to share your thoughts, ideas, or inquiries. Together, we'll keep exploring, expanding, and expressing ourselves with confidence in the English language!

Keep learning and thriving,

Ricardo
Founder, English Speeches YouTube Channel

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