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train_2100 | #Person1#: How came you were absent from class yesterday morning, Henry?
#Person2#: I'm sorry, Madam. My cousin was coming home from England, and I had to go to the airport with my father to meet him.
#Person1#: Better ask for permission next time. | absent from class |
train_2101 | #Person1#: Hello, Milton Hotel Reservations. How may I assist you?
#Person2#: Hi, I'm calling to make some changes to an existing reservation.
#Person1#: Certainly. Do you have the reservation number?
#Person2#: Sure, it's 219.
#Person1#: That's a reservation for Sally Menkel. Is that right?
#Person2#: Yes, that's right. I'd like to change the check-in date from September 15 to September 16.
#Person1#: Certainly. I can make that change for you. Is that the only change?
#Person2#: No, the check-out date will also change from the 23rd to the 24th.
#Person1#: No problem. We have you arriving on the 16th of September and leaving the 24th of September - altogether, eight nights. Will there be anything else?
#Person2#: Yes. Instead of a courtyard room, I'd like a room with a view, preferably on an upper floor.
#Person1#: I can certainly change that for you, but there will be a change in the room rate. The new rate is $199 per night, instead of the original $179.
#Person2#: That's OK. These are all the changes. Thank you very much.
#Person1#: You're welcome. Have a nice day! | hotel service |
train_2102 | #Person1#: Do you collect cola cans, Steve?
#Person2#: No. Why do you ask?
#Person1#: You have so many empty cans here.
#Person2#: Well, my mum wants me to keep all the cans, so that we can sell them after a while.
#Person1#: Aha, you are going to make a millionaire of yourself sooner or later with all those cans.
#Person2#: You bet I will. Well, that's not the point. The point is we separate reusable things from other rubbish. We have to pay the dustman for dealing with rubbish, but if we sell him these cans and other reusable material we pay less.
#Person1#: That sounds a clever idea. Now what are reused in China?
#Person2#: Metal, plastic, paper, books and the like.
#Person1#: Just as we do back home in the States.
#Person2#: And to avoid waste, the government is limiting the production of goods that can be used only once, such as bamboo chopsticks. For example, all the fast food boxes should be made of paper instead of non-reusable material.
#Person1#: That will surely be helpful for a clean environment. | reuse materials |
train_2103 | #Person1#: Hello? Um, can I get some help over here?
#Person2#: Sure thing. What'll it be?
#Person1#: A menu, please.
#Person2#: We don't serve food - just the beers you see on the wall.
#Person1#: All right. What about that one? It's German, right?
#Person2#: Yeah, it is. Is that what you'd like?
#Person1#: Sure, that'll do. But I'd like a cold one if you've got one.
#Person2#: Sure thing, sweetie. That'll be $6.25.
#Person1#: Say, you're kinda friendly, aren't you?
#Person2#: I suppose it comes with the job. It pays to be nice to people, don't you think?
#Person1#: I suppose it does. That's what my mother said to me anyway. Oh, wait. Wait a second. Oh, no. I can't believe this!
#Person2#: What's wrong?
#Person1#: I think I left my wallet somewhere.
#Person2#: It's gotta be around here. Maybe on the floor?
#Person1#: No. It's not there. I don't know where it could be. Any chance you can be nice and give me that beer for free?
#Person2#: No chance of that happening. If no one's paying, I'm not so nice. | be nice |
train_2104 | #Person1#: I feel terrible. I really need to relax. Do you know any good ways to fight stress?
#Person2#: Yeah, in fact, I read in a health magazine that you should drink two cups of lemon tea every day to fight stress.
#Person1#: Lemon tea?
#Person2#: That's right. Lemon tea makes you feel more relaxed. And also, you should eat low stress foods like apples and grapes.
#Person1#: Sounds very strange, I guess hamburgers and French fries cause stress, right?
#Person2#: Yep. Hamburgers are high stress food.
#Person1#: Well, I guess I need to change my diet. | fight stress |
train_2105 | #Person1#: I love slim girls, don't you?
#Person2#: Not particularly. I like fat girls.
#Person1#: And I like a girl with good skin, do you?
#Person2#: I can't say I do. What I like a girl with good manners.
#Person1#: Well, yes. But surely you like a girl with a nice figure.
#Person2#: Yes. But I like a girl with a nice personality.
#Person1#: But you like a girl to be rich, surely?
#Person2#: Not particularly. I like a girl to be good.
#Person1#: What about you, Henry? You haven't said a thing.
#Person3#: I don't like girls. I think they're awful. | girls |
train_2106 | #Person1#: You won't believe who's been elected to do overtime on the Baker account! Me! I've already logged in 20 hours of overtime!
#Person2#: Wow! Why so much? I thought they were getting you an assistant.
#Person1#: They were supposed to, but so far nobody's turned up, and I'm left on my own to do the work. This is the first break I've had all day.
#Person2#: They're really running you into the ground. Why don't you ask for some time off? You could take a long weekend and go away somewhere. | do overtime |
train_2107 | #Person1#: I'm reading an interesting report on Mars.
#Person2#: Oh, what does it say? Does it say water could still exist under the surface of Mars?
#Person1#: Absolutely! It says there is water on Mars buried beneath the surface. It's just a matter of how deep it is.
#Person2#: Then could the soil on Mars somehow be fertile enough to groh simple plants?
#Person1#: The soil would need quite a bit of fertilizer to grow anything. And it would need to be protected from the UV radiation.
#Person2#: Actually, we are doing a project in school that involves landing a ship and staying on Mars for an extended period of time. Doef NASA have any type of portable habitats that could be used to stay on the planet?
#Person1#: I'm not sure NASA has built any porteble habitats for extended stays on Mars , but they have looked at various designs.
#Person2#: One of the most exciting things about Mars is that there could have bean life on it. What are your personal opinions on the life on Mars theory?
#Person1#: Well, I'm not really an expert in this area, but my understanding is that anything is possible. It's just that it is so hard to determine what went on 4. 5 billion years ago.
#Person2#: But maybe there is a chance of gradually improving the surface and atmosphere of Mars so it may be inhabitable by humans.
#Person1#: I'm skeptical. Mars is made of rocks containing silicon,iron, and various minerals. It also has an atmosphere of carbon dioxide. It is so different from what we have on earth, you know.
#Person2#: I'd still like to hope that some day we could set up a human colony there.
#Person1#: But there are still other big problems we need to solve such as prolonged weightlessness, food storage, and a series of physiological effects. | Mars |
train_2108 | #Person1#: Well, I finished my last final today.
#Person2#: The end of all the hard work for my master's. what a nice feeling to get my degree!
#Person1#: Do you want to attend the convocation?
#Person2#: Certainly. After years of hard work, I wouldn't miss it. By the way, where can I find cap and gown?
#Person1#: Do you want to have them made or do you want to rent them?
#Person2#: Oh, I think they're provided by the school for that special day.
#Person1#: No. those you have to provide for yourself.
#Person2#: What do most of the students do?
#Person1#: Well, most of them only need a cap and gown for that particular convocation service, but some of the education majors have had them made, bucause they will be faculty members, and they'll need them for student commencement each year.
#Person2#: Then, I might as well have them made.
#Person1#: Mary, don't move. Stand right there. It's a good shot. The background is very pretty.
#Person2#: Hold it a second. I want to fix my hairpin.
#Person1#: It doesn't matter. Say'cheese'.
#Person2#: Here's Lisa. May I take a picture with her?
#Person3#: Certainly. Ok, got you. | attend the convocation |
train_2109 | #Person1#: Hey, Tyler. Long time no see.
#Person2#: Sylvia, I haven't seen you here at the gym for ages.
#Person1#: Yeah, I've just been too busy to work out.
#Person2#: How's school going?
#Person1#: Everything is OK, except for an 8:00 o'clock math class I have.
#Person2#: 8:00 o'clock math class. A friend of mine is also in that class.
#Person1#: Really? What's his name?
#Person2#: Zach Peterson. Do you know him?
#Person1#: I think so.
#Person2#: He tells me that the morning math class is his favorite. | discuss a class |
train_2110 | #Person1#: Jeff, what's your favorite Mexican holiday?
#Person2#: Definitely the Day of the Dead.
#Person1#: What is that? It sounds a little scary.
#Person2#: It's not really scary for us Mexicans. Actually, that day we celebrate, well, not celebrate, but remember our family members who are already dead.
#Person1#: OK. How do you remember them?
#Person2#: We put a big table decorated with flowers, bread, coffee or whatever the person that is dead used to like. And we think that on that day, that person is going to come back from the dead.
#Person1#: I see. And when do you have the holiday?
#Person2#: It's on November the first, and the second, too.
#Person1#: Do you do it just for your family or do you go and visit friends or other relatives?
#Person2#: No, we only keep it within the family actually. | favorite Mexican holiday |
train_2111 | #Person1#: Well, that's great that you have happy experiences of teaching in Indonesia and following up on what you just mentioned. What would you recommend for students who do not live in an English speaking country? I don't know about perfecting but they want at least to be able to communicate decently. How can they go about this?
#Person2#: Yeah, it is really hard that is the real struggle because right now I do live in Holland. But I really don't socialize much with Dutch People and my boyfriend's English is so good that we just basically speak English all the time. So I have to make a real effort to practice. There isn't as much listening exposure as I want, all I have to do is turn on the TV.
#Person1#: And reading also right?
#Person2#: Yeah, reading. There was plenty I can get to read and listen to. God for a speaking there really is no substitute for trying to speak and use the language in a relaxed atmosphere. o I think that is really the challenge for People who live in a country where their target language isn't spoken and for that. Gosh, what would I do. If I didn't have People here, probably try to find a club in Sweden. They have a really cool system called study circles where it's not it's like a course but really you just have a course leader who is there sort of. As a coaching guide and to help out and you don't get grades and you go just because you want to learn. | learn a language |
train_2112 | #Person1#: Friday, finally. Honey, let's do something fun this weekend.
#Person2#: I don't know. What do you have in mind?
#Person1#: We can go to the lake and have a swim.
#Person2#: I think it's going to be hot that day and I might get a sunburn. How about the library?
#Person1#: The library is boring. Then how about going mountain biking?
#Person2#: That sounds great. But I'd probably break my arm or something like I did last time.
#Person1#: You won't this time. Come on.
#Person2#: Well.
#Person1#: OK, forget it. How about fishing? Remember the last time we went, I caught like 10 fish.
#Person2#: Yeah, I remember and the only thing I caught was an old boot. Just forget it.
#Person1#: OK, what do you suggest?
#Person2#: We could stay home and pop some popcorn and play board games.
#Person1#: Listen, let's try something fun this time. You won't break your arm or get a sunburn. It'll be really pleasant. Just give it a try. Come on. let's do it. Come on. | do something fun |
train_2113 | #Person1#: Are you going out Ann? But supper will be ready in a minute.
#Person2#: I'm going to Mary's house for dinner this evening. I told you so this morning daddy.
#Person1#: Sorry, I forgot about it. So you were going to her birthday party?
#Person2#: Yes, and Jenny and Laura will be there, too. We were all good friends when we were at school you know?
#Person1#: Yes, and now all of you have graduated from University. Where does Mary work?
#Person2#: In the East Photo nearby as a photographer, you can go and have your picture taken there someday.
#Person1#: Ok, see you. | go to Mary's |
train_2114 | #Person1#: What kind of cuisine do you have?
#Person2#: We have Sichuan food, Hangzhou food and Beijing Food. Which do you like best?
#Person1#: Hangzhou food.
#Person2#: OK. How about Dongpo meat?
#Person1#: All right. I'll take it.
#Person2#: Do you like to use chopsticks
#Person1#: Yes, I like using chopsticks.
#Person2#: Do you like some soup?
#Person1#: Yes, but I don't know what soup you have.
#Person2#: We have beef soup and tomato soup.
#Person1#: Good. I prefer beef soup.
#Person2#: According to usual practices, we serve dishes first and then soup. If you like we'll bring you some soup first.
#Person1#: Save it until you've served dishes.
#Person2#: All right. I'll be back right away. | Hangzhou food |
train_2115 | #Person1#: We are looking for a bilingual secretary. Do you think you are proficient in both written and spoken English?
#Person2#: I think my English is fairly good. As you can see from my CV, I graduated from university with a B. A. degree in English. I studied the English language and English literature systematically.
#Person1#: How are your typing and shorthand skills?
#Person2#: I can type 80 words a minute, basically no mistake, and can take dictation in English at 120 words per minute. | bilingual secretary |
train_2116 | #Person1#: I ' m glad you could find time to meet with me, Mr. Johnson. I can ' t think of a nicer environment for our meeting today, the ambiance here is lovely!
#Person2#: No problem, if possible I always combine business with pleasure. Now, let ' s hear more about these chocolates you ' re offering.
#Person1#: Well, as you know, I have recently become the sole distributor for Grangers Gourmet Bon-bons here in the United States. They ' re a new manufacturer and are looking to break into the luxury market. Naturally, your restaurant sprang into my mind immediately. I think your brand exemplifies many of the same traits as Grangers and serving these chocolates would really add to your reputation for providing elegant, luxurious, first class dining.
#Person2#: Mmmm, sounds interesting... gourmet chocolates, where are they produced? Belgium?
#Person1#: Actually, the factory is located in Scotland.
#Person2#: Really? I didn ' t think they were known for their luxury chocolate production
#Person1#: That ' s what makes this such a fantastic opportunity! The government is one hundred percent supportive of creating new export markets and has guaranteed a low tariff for all wholesale orders of over one thousand units. They ' Ve also reduced the red tape involved at customs as well. Here, I brought these especially for you, try one!
#Person2#: Oh, thanks. Mmm, hmm, creamy texture, very smooth...
#Person1#: Unique, aren ' t they? I bet you ' Ve never tasted anything like it! Quality is assured as I personally visit the factory to make sure no one ' s cutting corners with the ingredients. Only the creme make it through inspection.
#Person2#: Yes, very interesting flavors... Slightly spicy, very unique, that ' s for sure. Exactly what ARE the ingredients?
#Person1#: I have it on highest authority that this traditional secret recipe has been handed down in the Granger family for generations. I ' m sure you can keep a secret. Buttermilk, cacao beans, sugar and Haggis.
#Person2#: Haggis? What ' s Haggis?
#Person1#: It ' s a traditional Scottish delicacy, you take sheep ' s liver, heart and lung and stuff it inside of the sheep ' s stomach.
#Person2#: Ah, get back to you.
#Person1#: Mr. Johnson? Mr. Johnson? | business talk |
train_2117 | #Person1#: Hide me, Yi-jun! The kids all think I'm the real Easter bunny!
#Person2#: Aw, that's sweet! I knew your costume would be a success.
#Person1#: It's a success all right. The kids keep trying to catch me.
#Person2#: Yeah, I saw that. I thought you were playing a game with them.
#Person1#: Some game! You try being tackled by ten kids at once!
#Person2#: Um, Holly? Look behind you. They're coming this way. | play with kids |
train_2118 | #Person1#: Can I help you find something?
#Person2#: I would like to buy a new fridge.
#Person1#: Is there one in particular that you like?
#Person2#: I was looking at this Kenmore refrigerator.
#Person1#: Ah yes, that is a great refrigerator.
#Person2#: What's so great about it?
#Person1#: It's both affordable and it comes with all the appliances.
#Person2#: What appliances?
#Person1#: It comes with an ice maker, water dispenser, and there is a lot of room inside.
#Person2#: May I see the inside for myself?
#Person1#: Be my guest.
#Person2#: Wow! You're right! This refrigerator is great. I'll take it. | refrigerator |
train_2119 | #Person1#: Dora, are you interested in going to the museum with me tomorrow? I read the newspaper this morning. I know there is an art exhibition in Taipei Modern Art Museum.
#Person2#: Sure. I am free tomorrow. It sounds interesting to me. Can we buy the ticket online?
#Person1#: I don't think so. I think we had better go there earlier, or we may have to spend a lot of time waiting.
#Person2#: I guess that is the thing we can do with we really want to visit the museum.
#Person1#: Look at the ticket booth in the center. There seems to be not as many people as we thought it would be.
#Person2#: Yeah. We are lucky. Let's go buy the tickets first. We can have breakfast later. I am so hungry.
#Person1#: Good idea.
#Person2#: ( After the breakfast ) Which floor is the art exhibition we are going to?
#Person1#: I have no idea. Let me take a closer look at my museum map
#Person2#: Sure, take your time. We have a whole day.
#Person1#: It's on the 2nd floor. We are going to see some beautiful paintings about the history of ancient Greece.
#Person2#: Look at the museum guide. It says there are also some sculptures and potteries in this area. Let's rent an audio guide. | visit the museum |
train_2120 | #Person1#: So, you friend's getting married on Saturday. What have you bought her as a wedding gift. I find is so hard to choose the right gift.
#Person2#: My friend and her fiance had a really good idea. They have cut out pictures from catalogues and pasted them in a notebook. The picture are of things they want. People sign their name by the item they will buy.
#Person1#: That's clever! Then everyone knows that they are buying something the couple really want and there's no chance of two people buying the same gift. What things were in the notebook?
#Person2#: Most of the things were household appliance. You know, everything from an iron through a vacuum cleaner to a cooker. I think it's an excellent way for everyone who knows the couple to help them set up home.
#Person1#: So, what did you get them?
#Person2#: I bought a sewing machine. I know that my friend likes making her own clothes, but her current sewing machine is quite old and has some problems.
#Person1#: What's wrong with it?
#Person2#: She says that after several years of use, it's not working properly. When she uses it, it makes a funny noise.
#Person1#: Household appliance don't seem to last for a long time nowadays.
#Person2#: I think it's because the manufactures are constantly bringing out new models. Because they know that we will buy the new models, the appliances don't need to last more than five or ten years at most. | wedding gift |
train_2121 | #Person1#: what's up?
#Person2#: not much. I'm just trying to hook up to the internet. I'm having a few problems though.
#Person1#: what's wrong?
#Person2#: I've got all the cords plugged in, but it appears that I'm offline.
#Person1#: Are you using dial-up or broadband?
#Person2#: actually, I've got a wireless connection.
#Person1#: In that case, you need to turn on your airport.
#Person2#: I hook up to the Internet every day. I can't believe I didn't do that.
#Person1#: do you like ever chat online?
#Person2#: No, but I'd like to. Do you have to pay to do instant messaging?
#Person1#: Oh, no. You can register for free. Just go to the yahoo website and it will tell you how to do it.
#Person2#: what do you do if people want to talk to you online but you don't want to talk to them?
#Person1#: well, you can always block them. When I don't feel like talking to certain people online, that's what I do.
#Person2#: what's your email address? I'll add you to my contacts list.
#Person1#: it's aubreyinchina@yahoo. com.
#Person2#: cool. We can meet up in a chat room sometime or just chat online using messenger. thanks for your help.
#Person1#: don't mention it. | hook up to the internet |
train_2122 | #Person1#: Would you like to go skiing with me? I heard the new ski area is great. They have safe tracks, especially for the beginners and provide free training. I think it suits you best.
#Person2#: Sounds not bad! You know, the only thing I worried about is the safety. I'm not an active exerciser and my muscle may be not strong enough for such an intense sport.
#Person1#: Well, Then you can go to the three-day-long training camp first. There're some professional teachers and they can guide you to do certain necessary exercise.
#Person2#: I will think about it.
#Person1#: Come on! It is really a fun game. | go skiing |
train_2123 | #Person1#: Do you like flowers?
#Person2#: Of course, I like.
#Person1#: What's your favorite flower?
#Person2#: Forsythia. It's also called winter jasmine which is the symbol of the spring's arrival.
#Person1#: Spring is a lively season.
#Person2#: Yes. How about you?
#Person1#: I admire plum blossoms very much. It seems that only it can blossom in the cold winter.
#Person2#: You have a perfect taste!
#Person1#: It is the symbol of laughing at hoar frost and fighting with snow. I admire the bravery of plum blossoms.
#Person2#: But it used to be ignored by many people.
#Person1#: The bright people will remember it forever.
#Person2#: Well, it's snowing. Let's enjoy the plum blossoms when snowing. | favourite flowers |
train_2124 | #Person1#: Did you have a part-time job when you were still in school?
#Person2#: No. I was way too busy studying all the time. How about you?
#Person1#: Yeah. I worked about 20 hours a week in a pizza restaurant.
#Person2#: What was that like?
#Person1#: It was always very busy there.
#Person2#: What did you do?
#Person1#: I stood behind the register and took pizza orders.
#Person2#: Did you get any perks on the job?
#Person1#: Yeah. I got to eat as much pizza as I could for free. | part-time job |
train_2125 | #Person1#: Have you heard of the Love Bug?
#Person2#: Do you mean the'I love you'virus that attacks computers through e-mail?
#Person1#: Yes. It is one of the most harmful computer viruses in the world. People say it will break out again om Valentines'Day this year.
#Person2#: This is terrible. Why do hackers play such a dirty trick?
#Person1#: Hackers are smart, and they want people to know about it.
#Person2#: So they create viruses to tell people they are smart? That's really sick. | Love Bug |
train_2126 | #Person1#: Want to meet for lunch this Saturday?
#Person2#: Sorry, I can't. I am busy.
#Person1#: What are you doing?
#Person2#: I always do volunteer work on the first Saturday of every month.
#Person1#: What kind of volunteer work?
#Person2#: I help out at the children's hospital. I help plan activities.
#Person1#: Oh, yeah?
#Person2#: Yes, it's exciting. This month we are doing crossword puzzles. | volunteer work |
train_2127 | #Person1#: Do you surf online regularly, Joe?
#Person2#: Of course. I stay online for four hours at least every day.
#Person1#: Are you crazy? What are you doing four hours online?
#Person2#: Millions of things. I surf the Net, check my e-mail, and most importantly, I chat with my friends.
#Person1#: Online chat? Aren't you afraid of meeting bad people who pretend to be what they are not?
#Person2#: No, I am not. And I love to meet new people in the chat rooms who share a lot in common with me.
#Person1#: It sounds interesting. | surf online |
train_2128 | #Person1#: Lots of elderly people want peace and quiet in their old age, but young people want an unconstrained life.
#Person2#: It would be good for both if they lived separately. My parents want to live apart from us.
#Person1#: What if old people are in poor health and need to be looked after?
#Person2#: Young people ought to carry out their responsibilities. If it's needed, they would live with their parents.
#Person1#: When I'm old, I'll also be like that.
#Person2#: You need a child first, and that's your duty, too.
#Person1#: I know that's what I must do. | live with elderly people |
train_2129 | #Person1#: Do you want to hear a funny joke?
#Person2#: OK. Are you sure it's funny, though?
#Person1#: Well, you'll see.
#Person2#: OK.
#Person1#: OK, an Englishman, a Scotsman, and an Irishman were going on a trip across the desert, and they could only take one thing with them.
#Person2#: I see.
#Person1#: So they met up at the start of the journey and showed each other their equipment.
#Person2#: Oh, that's funny!
#Person1#: Hang on, I haven't finished yet.
#Person2#: Oh, sorry.
#Person1#: Well, as I was saying, they showed each other what they had decided to bring. The Englishman had brought some water. ' If we get thirsty, we'll have something to drink, ' he said. The Scotsman brought a map. ' If we get lost, we'll be able to find our way. ' The Irishman had brought a car door.
#Person2#: A car door? You mean just one car door?
#Person1#: Yep. A car door. ' Why the door? ' the others asked him. ' Well, ' he said, ' If it gets hot, we can open the window. ' Do you get it?
#Person2#: Well. . . | joke |
train_2130 | #Person1#: I think that show biz stars have a really easy life. They have lots of money, so they can buy almost anything they want. They're famous, so everyone loves them.
#Person2#: I think they must have horrible lives. All the paparazzi take photos of them wherever they go and whatever they do. They must get sick of it.
#Person1#: I bet they love it really. Sure, they complain about it, but that just gets them more publicity, doesn't it?
#Person2#: I think that few of the show biz stars want any publicity for themselves. They only want it for their films.
#Person1#: No way! They want publicity for themselves, so that they get invited to make more films, go to lots of cocktail parties, and even make albums! They have such an easy life. They don't even pay for Drin
#Person2#: Show biz stars have plenty of expenses. That's why they need so much money. They need million of dollars to buy big, seclude houses and wonderful dresses. I bet most show biz stars would prefer to Wea
#Person1#: I don't understand how you can have any sympathy for show biz stars. They're overpaid, over-ambitious, and over-adored.
#Person2#: I think you should give them some credit. They're very talented people and they deserve all the money they earn. They even donate money to charity to help people who are less fortunate than themselves
#Person1#: Come on! They only do that to get even more publicity for their films and themselves. | show biz stars |
train_2131 | #Person1#: Can you suggest a few exercise to help me get fit and stretch my muscles a little?
#Person2#: Sure. If you want to stretch your legs, a good exercise is to lift your knee in front of your body, like this. It's a very simple exercise, but very effective.
#Person1#: I need to excise my arms too. How can I do that?
#Person2#: One good way is to do push-ups. Another way is to use weights. Make sure you grip the weights firmly. You don't want to drop them on your feet!
#Person1#: When I do push-ups, should I bend my elbows so that my nose touches the ground?
#Person2#: You don't need to bend your elbows that much. Bend them so that your arms are at a 90 degree angle. The most important think is to remember to keep your body straight. Many people bend their bodies at the waist, which reduces the effectiveness of the exercise.
#Person1#: What's a good exercise for my chest muscles?
#Person2#: One that I recommend is that you lie on your back. You should have a weight in each hand and stretch your arms out either side of your body.
#Person1#: So I need plenty of space for this exercise.
#Person2#: Yes, you do. Lift the weight up, keeping your arms straight all the time.
#Person1#: Great. Thanks for you advice! | exercise |
train_2132 | #Person1#: You look upset. What's wrong?
#Person2#: Nothing. It's just one of those days. Everyone at the office is sick and I'm getting blamed for work not being done.
#Person1#: Maybe you need a vacation or something, or maybe a bonus.
#Person2#: I'm sick of doing other people's job and getting blamed for not doing it right.
#Person1#: Why don't you talk to your boss about it? If you talk to him, he will surely understand.
#Person2#: I wish he could understand. You know what, if this goes on, I think I will get stick like everybody else. | office talk |
train_2133 | #Person1#: Excuse me, Ma'am. I would like to mail this package door to door via airmail to London. It is a very important package and has to be sent within 3 days.
#Person2#: No problem. But, the postage is much higher than the regular package.
#Person1#: That's fine with me. I am willing to pay for it as long as you can guarantee me the package can arrive in time.
#Person2#: OK. All the registered airmail packages can be received in 5 working days.
#Person1#: I see. How much do I need to pay in total for this package?
#Person2#: It's 500 dollars.
#Person1#: Can I have the receipt? Just in case I can trace it if something goes wrong.
#Person2#: Sure! Please just fill in your I. D. number and ways to contact you here.
#Person1#: Do I need to include my zip code in the address?
#Person2#: You had better include that because it is easier for the mailmen to find the correct mailing address.
#Person1#: Thank you very much. Here is 500 dollars.
#Person2#: Here is your receipt. Contact us if your friend still doesn't receive the package after 5 work days. | mail |
train_2134 | #Person1#: Welcome to China, Mr. White.
#Person2#: How do you do, Ms. Chi?
#Person1#: Welcome to this corporation, Mr. White. Won't you please sit down?
#Person2#: Thank you.
#Person1#: Our representative in your country faxed a letter that you showed an interest in some of our products on display at the Oct. Exhibition there. Now we'd like to know if you have any specific requirements in mind.
#Person2#: Yes, we have. I'Ve brought with me a list of the quantity of your products we'd like to import for the second half of this year. Here is a copy of it.
#Person1#: Good. Well, Mr. White, most of the items listed are available this year. I hope we can come to an agreement and sign the contracts soon to enable timely delivery.
#Person2#: I hope so, too. Now I'd like some of your sales literature and a price list for all of your export articles.
#Person1#: Here are our catalog and price list. The catalog lists all the commodities we export, and the price list gives indicative prices for all our export articles.
#Person2#: Thank you, Ms. Chi. What are your normal export terms?
#Person1#: We normally export CFR.
#Person2#: What commission do you usually pay for your exports? As you know, we import on commission basis.
#Person1#: That can be discussed.
#Person2#: All right. When can we meet again for more specific details, Ms. Chi?
#Person1#: What about tomorrow morning at 9? I'll come over to your hotel.
#Person2#: I'll be expecting you, then. | business talk |
train_2135 | #Person1#: Welcome, sir, what can I do for you?
#Person2#: I want to buy some records.
#Person1#: Whose record do you want?
#Person2#: Are there the records of Michael Jackson?
#Person1#: His records have been sold out. The new copies will be available next week.
#Person2#: Oh. it's too late. Maybe I should go to other video stores to have a look. | buy the records |
train_2136 | #Person1#: It doesn't look very nice outside today.
#Person2#: You're right. I think it's going to rain later.
#Person1#: In the middle of the summer, it shouldn't be raining.
#Person2#: That wouldn't seem right.
#Person1#: Considering that it's over ninety degrees outside, that would be weird.
#Person2#: Exactly, it wouldn't be nice if it started raining. It's too hot.
#Person1#: I know, you're absolutely right.
#Person2#: I wish it would cool off one day.
#Person1#: That's how I feel, I want winter to come soon.
#Person2#: I enjoy the winter, but it gets really cold sometimes.
#Person1#: I know what you mean, but I'd rather be cold than hot.
#Person2#: That's exactly how I feel. | weather |
train_2137 | #Person1#: Room service. What can I do for you?
#Person2#: I find the sheet in my room is so stained. Would you please help us change it for a clean one?
#Person1#: I am sorry. sir. Someone will there in a moment.
#Person2#: All right. Please be quick about it.
#Person1#: Yes, sir. I assure you it would never happen again. | room service |
train_2138 | #Person1#: Good morning, sir. Can I help you?
#Person2#: Good day. I'm looking for a one-bedroom apartment today.
#Person1#: Certainly. How much rent did you want to pay?
#Person2#: Well, I didn't want to pay more than $ 900 a month.
#Person1#: $ 900 a month? We don't often have apartment as inexpensive as that. We have one apartment for $ 985 a month today, on Eleventh Avenue. It's near the municipal buildings.
#Person2#: Is it furnished?
#Person1#: No, it's unfurnished. It has a kitchen, but there are not many cookers. There's a garden in the back, but the tenants can't use it. The landlord lives downstairs. Friends are forbidden in the apartment after midnight. No noise and no television after 11. . .
#Person2#: No, thank you! I want to take an apartment, not a prison.
#Person1#: Ok, we would do as your requirement. And we'll contact with you later! | house renting |
train_2139 | #Person1#: What can I do to help you?
#Person2#: I have some extra help with my project. What would you prefer to help me with, typing or xeroxing?
#Person1#: I could do some typing for you.
#Person2#: That is very kind of you to offer to do that. Can you start with the pages on the table?
#Person1#: Sure I will get to do that right now.
#Person2#: I like your positive attitude. How many years have you been employed here?
#Person1#: I have worked here long time.
#Person2#: We have a really interesting project coming up. Would you want to join us on it?
#Person1#: I'm not sure. Let me think about it.
#Person2#: OK. I will mention how great you were about helping me today. I appreciate your help. | project |
train_2140 | #Person1#: It's a beautiful day here in New Zealand at the Men's Volleyball world championship. My name is Rick Fields and I'm joined by the man with the plan, Bob Copeland.
#Person2#: Thank you, Rick. We'Ve got a very exciting encounter ahead of us today as two powerhouse teams, Brazil and China, face off against each other and try to qualify for the next round. Without a doubt, both teams are in top shape and this will prove to be a competitive match.
#Person1#: The ref signals the start of the game and here we go. Ribero serves and China quickly receives the ball. Chen bumps it to the setter, and. . . a very nice set by Chen!
#Person2#: Xu spikes it! Wow, what a great hit! The Brazilian blockers anticipated the play and tried to block him but he managed to get the ball in! Great play.
#Person1#: It's China's service now. What a superb jump serve by Li, oh, and we have a let serve. The ball was coming in fast and almost made it over the net.
#Person2#: Brazil calls for a time out and we'll be right back, after a short commercial break. | Men's Volleyball world championship |
train_2141 | #Person1#: Hello, Mr. Smith, Wang Peng speaks.
#Person2#: Hello! Mr. Wang. this is Smith.
#Person1#: I'm calling to thank you for the wonderful dinner I had yesterday.
#Person2#: It's a pleasure.
#Person1#: I'll come back to China tonight. I hope to see you again sometime.
#Person2#: I hope so.
#Person1#: I appreciate all help of you during my stay here.
#Person2#: Don't mention it.
#Person1#: Please let me know when you go to China and let me be of some assistance to you.
#Person2#: Yes, I will. Have a nice flight back.
#Person1#: Thanks, good-bye!
#Person2#: Good-bye! | phone call |
train_2142 | #Person1#: Do you get up early every morning?
#Person2#: About 6 in the morning. I like to walk to the office.
#Person1#: Good habit. How long does it take?
#Person2#: About 20 minutes. Do you live alone?
#Person1#: No, my little sister lives with me.
#Person2#: How old is she?
#Person1#: About 12. She is a good girl.
#Person2#: I think so. | daily talk |
train_2143 | #Person1#: Shall I phone and tell your secretary you're not coming today?
#Person2#: Yes, please, dear. Tell her I've got a cold and a headache, but I hope to be back in a day or two. You'd better say I'm staying in bed.
#Person1#: But you're not in bed! Do you want me to tell a lie?
#Person2#: Oh, it's only a very little one, dear. I'm not making a false excuse. I really have a bad headache.
#Person1#: Then put the cigarette out. It's very foolish of you to smoke when you've got a cold.
#Person2#: Very well, dear. You're quite right.
#Person1#: Look, here's some boiling water. Do as I tell you now. I've put something in the water that'll do you a lot of good. Put your nose over the water. That's right. Breathe in deeply. It'll do you a lot of good.
#Person2#: It smells nice. | ask for leave |
train_2144 | #Person1#: You're not looking very cheerful. What's the matter with you?
#Person2#: Oh, nothing special. I'm just thinking a lot.
#Person1#: About the job?
#Person2#: About everything, about catching the same train every morning, sitting in the same office all day, watching the same television programs....
#Person1#: You need a holiday.
#Person2#: It wasn't always like this, you know.
#Person1#: How do you mean?
#Person2#: Well, our great great grandfathers had more fun, didn't they? I mean, they hunted for their food and grew their own vegetables and did things for themselves. We do the same sort of job for years and years. There's no variety in our lives.
#Person1#: You need a holiday. That's what's the matter with you. | daily talk |
train_2145 | #Person1#: They say you've got a job in the New York City.
#Person2#: Yeah, we say it the United Nations.
#Person1#: How fascinating! It can meet people from all over the world.
#Person2#: Yeah, but just one problem. I'll have to leave my friends behind. | job |
train_2146 | #Person1#: Operator, can I help you?
#Person2#: Yes. I'd like to make a collect call. My number is 7683384.
#Person1#: And the number you're dialing?
#Person2#: That's 7638558. Oh, no, I'm sorry, I forgot it's just changed. It's now 7643388.
#Person1#: Please hold the line, caller. | collect call |
train_2147 | #Person1#: It's seven o'clock already, dear.
#Person2#: Yes, I know. I decided to work during the evening rush hour.
#Person1#: And so your dinner's cold. Why do you work so hard?
#Person2#: I just start, and then I can't stop.
#Person1#: You can stop any time. You don't need to keep on working at all.
#Person2#: And then what could I do?
#Person1#: We could move to Florida.
#Person2#: Oh, Florida. Is it any better than New York?
#Person1#: It's warm and sunny all year round. No more snow, no more ice.
#Person2#: And what about the children and the grandchildren?
#Person1#: They could come, and visit us every winter.
#Person2#: And what would we do every spring, summer, and fall?
#Person1#: A lot of our friends have moved to Florida. We know a lot of people there.
#Person2#: Well, I'll think about it. | move to Florida |
train_2148 | #Person1#: Don't be mad at me. I'm only five minutes late.
#Person2#: This is the last time I'm waiting for you. I mean it.
#Person1#: You know, I always have a good excuse. I promise you: you'll never have to wait for me again.
#Person2#: I hope so. Come on, let's go get our tickets now. Oh, by the way, you have got your wallet with you, don't you? I left mine at home. | wait for someone |
train_2149 | #Person1#: What do you think of this dress? Do you think it suits me?
#Person2#: Sure. Why don't you try it on? The fitting room is over there.
#Person1#: It's just the right size-a perfect fit! Have you seen anything you like?
#Person2#: I'm thinking about buying this sweater. I know it's june now, but it will be perfect for autumn and winter.
#Person1#: It looks too big for you, but I like the color and the material is good quality. Is it on sale?
#Person2#: Yes, it's half price. It's supposed to be too large-that's the fashion.
#Person1#: I might get one too, but in a different colour. I prefer light blue to while.
#Person2#: There. It looks great, don't you think? I'm going to get these jeans as well. I need a new pair. I need a new pair. I 'm also going to buy this scarf ready for winter.
#Person1#:
#Person2#: Don't worry. I've got my credit card. You can pay me back later.
#Person1#: Thanks! Now I don't need to come back to the shop a second time. | shopping |
train_2150 | #Person1#: It's my wife's birthday. I need to buy some flowers for her.
#Person2#: Most women love red roses for their birthday.
#Person1#: How much will the roses be?
#Person2#: You can get a dozen for only $20.
#Person1#: Now, that's a price that I like.
#Person2#: You're in luck today because the roses are on sale.
#Person1#: Okay, I'll take the roses.
#Person2#: Very good. Perhaps you'd like something else to go with the roses?
#Person1#: No, the roses are good enough.
#Person2#: Women love roses, so your wife will be very happy. | birthday gift |
train_2151 | #Person1#: Do you believe in god?
#Person2#: Not at all. I'm an agnostic. Do you?
#Person1#: I'm not sure. Why don't you believe there is a god?
#Person2#: I think everything has a scientific explanation rather than a theological one.
#Person1#: I basically believe in science over theology. I mean, I believe in evolution for example. However, there are many things that science hasn't explained yet.
#Person2#: I'm sure that science will explain everything eventually. I think that the strangest thing about religion is that so many religions people act in ways that their religion claims are wrong.
#Person1#: For example?
#Person2#: Religions preach tolerance, but many wars are caused by intolerant religious fanatics.
#Person1#: Yes. Such people don't appear to be acting in accordance with their religious beliefs. | religion |
train_2152 | #Person1#: What do you think are the main causes of war today?
#Person2#: I'd say the main reason is poverty. Countries and their people get frustrated because they have so little. If their neighbors have some resources, they try to steal them by military force.
#Person1#: It seems that a lot of wars nowadays are really civil wars. People from different ethnic groups in the same country sometimes fight for power in that country.
#Person2#: Several of those civil wars have been going on for years and years. It seems they will never end.
#Person1#: How do you think they could be ended?
#Person2#: I don't think that there is any easy way. The united nations could send peacekeepers into the country. At least then the warring parties could be forced to negotiate. The thing is to find the real problem form the war and solve that.
#Person1#: So, if the cause is poverty, there should be a program to make the country richer. If the problem is resources, share them.
#Person2#: It sounds easy when you say it like that. In reality, it's harder to make peace between countries.
#Person1#: Yes. It is. One way to stop countries fighting is to cut off their financial support. Wars are very expensive.
#Person2#: The problem is that many poor people might suffer. | war |
train_2153 | #Person1#: Is there a lot of crime in your city?
#Person2#: There's some, but I don't think it's a big problem. A lot of it is petty crime, burglary and car theft. There's very little major crime.
#Person1#: It's the same in my city. We also have a lot of drug addicts. A lot of the crime is committed by drug addicts who need money for drugs.
#Person2#: That happens in many places. In my city, there is a very good drug rehabilitation program. The police and courts are also tough on people who commit crimes, but I don't know if that's the reason for our relatively low crime rate.
#Person1#: Some people believe that a tough approach is better. Other prefer a more lenient approach.
#Person2#: I think that the best way to reduce crime is to spread wealth more evenly. If most people have similar amounts of money, they will not think of stealing from others.
#Person1#: That's possible, but I'm not sure it would really happen like that. | crime |
train_2154 | #Person1#: What are the seasons like in your city?
#Person2#: Summers are hot and usually lasts a long time. Winters are short, but cold, wet, and windy. I love the summers in my city, but I hate the wintertime.
#Person1#: Does it ever rain in summer?
#Person2#: We usually get a big thunderstorm every two weeks, but apart from that, summers are dry. Thunderstorms make the air fresh again, so most people don't mind then.
#Person1#: What are spring and autumn like?
#Person2#: I like spring because flowers bloom and trees grow leaves again. In spring, the weather is very changeable-sometimes cold, sometimes warm. It's usually windy with some rain. Autumn is usually sunny and dry, but it's gradually gets colder as winter arrives. What are the seasons like in you city?
#Person1#: Well, I live in the southern hemisphere, so our summertime is your wintertime, and vice versa. We get some rain in every season, but most is in winter. In winter, it sometimes gets cold, but our winters are usually quite mild. Summers are warm, but not hot. Spring and autumn are both very short-sometimes just a few weeks each. The weather is very changeable then-just like spring in your city.
#Person2#: Do you usually go on a summer holiday?
#Person1#: No, I don't. I go on a winter holiday instead. I go somewhere warm.
#Person2#: I usually go on holiday during the spring or the autumn. I try to go somewhere where the weather is more reliable than in my city. | climate |
train_2155 | #Person1#: Hi Peter, what are you doing?
#Person2#: I am reading some papers about stock.
#Person1#: Ah, Great! I happen to want to ask you something about it!
#Person2#: Yes, sure. What it is?
#Person1#: When it comes to select a fund, many people will always read 'Past performance is not an indication of future results', do you believe that?
#Person2#: Maybe it is right since everything is possible. You know the market changes quickly these days.
#Person1#: Do you really think so? But I still have doubted those funds with bad stock performance. For me, a stock record is the very important criteria to decide which to buy. I really want to decrease the risk reach the minimum and achieve the maximum returns.
#Person2#: If you refuse to take risk, you can't have better returns.
#Person1#: Sure, maybe you are right. I will think about it. Thanks a lot!
#Person2#: You are most welcome. | returns and risks |
train_2156 | #Person1#: Pam, where is the closest ATM?
#Person2#: Do you see that yellow building over there?
#Person1#: Yes.
#Person2#: It's right next to it on the right.
#Person1#: Do you know if there's a convenience store around here?
#Person2#: I don't think there's one around here, the closest one is on third street. But that's probably close now.
#Person1#: I really need to get some things before I leave.
#Person2#: Well. You could go down to twenty second street. There are lots of stores down there that are open 24 hours a day.
#Person1#: Can I take the subway to get there?
#Person2#: Yes, but that will probably take about half an hour. You should just take a cab.
#Person1#: Won't that be expensive?
#Person2#: No, from here, I think it's only about $5. | ask for directions |
train_2157 | #Person1#: They told me Steven is a very special boy, and he seldom plays with the children. What do you think of him?
#Person2#: Oh, yes. He is a very special boy in many ways. He doesn't have the normal abilities for the boys of his age. It's very difficult for him to read and write in my class. For example, many 8 year-old boys can do much more than he can. But of course, he has a special gift.
#Person1#: In drawing?
#Person2#: Yes. He's always been good at it. Steven can look at any building for about 5 minutes and then draw it perfectly.
#Person1#: Tell us something about some of the drawings he's done.
#Person2#: Well, his drawings are most about famous buildings, like the Gulf Palace in Venice and Kremlin in Moscow. They're wonderfully drawn. Famous artists looked at his drawings and said that Steven's an excellent painter.
#Person1#: And he just looks at these buildings for a few minutes and draws them?
#Person2#: That's right. It's very strange, isn't it? He has such a special gift in one thing, but finds other things difficult. | a gifted boy |
train_2158 | #Person1#: Where are you from, Corey?
#Person2#: I'm from Canada. I'v just moved here.
#Person1#: Canada! Are you good at winter sports then?
#Person2#: Yeah! I love winter sports very much, such as skiing and snowboarding. I also like ice diving.
#Person1#: Wow, that sounds quite exciting!
#Person2#: Yeah, I've been doing that for 7 years since I was 9. What do you do in your free time?
#Person1#: Well, swimming used to be my favorite hobby. But now I spend most of my spare time in the acting club I joined last year, and I really love the theater. I really want to be an actress one day. Have you got any other hobbies?
#Person2#: Uhm, I guess I enjoy playing online computer games. I feel quite relaxed when playing the games, and it helps me make new friends. How about you? Do you spend much time online?
#Person1#: Well, I'm not interested in computer games. I think it makes no sense spending time playing something with strangers. I prefer chatting face to face with my friends.
#Person2#: I like chatting with friends too.
#Person1#: Oh, it's time for class. Our English teacher is coming. After class I'll introduce you to some of my friends. | hobbies |
train_2159 | #Person1#: It is Jane's birthday tomorrow.
#Person2#: Are you sure? I think it should be the day after tomorrow.
#Person1#: Well, let me see. Oh, I'm sorry. You're right. It is the day after tomorrow. Shall we buy her a present?
#Person2#: Yes, of course. Shall we give her some flowers?
#Person1#: Flowers are lovely. But I think it's better to buy her an ice box of chocolates.
#Person2#: Jane doesn't like sweet things, didn't you know that?
#Person1#: You are right. Uh...I know we can give her a record. She loves music.
#Person2#: That's a good idea. Let's go to the music shop and choose one for her. | birthday gift |
train_2160 | #Person1#: Daddy, are you going to the park with us this weekend?
#Person2#: Honey, I have a lot of work to do.
#Person1#: So you can't go with us, right?
#Person2#: No.
#Person1#: Daddy, you always arrange your schedule so tight on weekdays. You should have a rest on weekends.
#Person2#: What park do you want to go to?
#Person1#: Daniel wants to go to the aquarium. While Mom wants to visit the Summer Palace.
#Person2#: Haven't we been these places already?
#Person1#: Yeah. I don't agree with them, but I don't have a better choice.
#Person2#: What about the Olympic park?
#Person1#: Right, ah. It is so close to our home. How come we've never thought of that?
#Person2#: The Olympic Park has a small forest. It is fit for picnic.
#Person1#: Very well, Go ahead. | going to park |
train_2161 | #Person1#: Sally, you look so corporate! What interview do you have today?
#Person2#: Amalgamated Trading Company. It's Swiss. Don't you think working at a foreign company would be glamorous?
#Person1#: Yeah, I guess so. I've never actually heard of this one, but...
#Person2#: Well, it's small, but it's a young, dynamic, rapidly-growing company with a progressive, humanistic philosophy.
#Person1#: You didn't read their brochure or anything, did you?
#Person2#: Four times. I'm totally prepared. Oh, no! I forgot to take off my nail polish! And I have to be there in 15 minutes! That's it. I blew it.
#Person1#: Well, they are progressive and humanistic-maybe they don't care about nail polish... uh... even blue nail polish. Just keep your confidence up and you'll do great.
#Person2#: But the competition is fierce this year... and it seems like I'm the only one left who hasn't found a job.
#Person1#: Not quite the only one. I really wanted that job at the magazine, but I still haven't heard from them. | job seeking |
train_2162 | #Person1#: Do you work well under pressure?
#Person2#: Working under pressure is exciting and challenging. I don ' t mind working under pressure. I work well under that circumstance. People can, I can.
#Person1#: Do you have any particular conditions that you would like the company to take into consideration?
#Person2#: No, nothing in particular.
#Person1#: How soon can you begin working for us?
#Person2#: I need about two to three weeks for necessary formalities. I will quit then transfer to your company. | job interview |
train_2163 | #Person1#: I'd like to buy a bottle of Centrum, a dozen tooth brushes, some baby's wipes, and a small bottle of aspirin.
#Person2#: Centrum? We have bottles of thirty and one hundred tablets. Which kind do you want?
#Person1#: Give me one bottle of one hundred tablets.
#Person2#: And what kind of toothbrushes would you like?
#Person1#: Can I have a look at them?
#Person2#: Sure. This brand is supposed to be very good, but they're expensive. Those are new products. They come in several colors and sizes. There is also hard, soft, and medium.
#Person1#: Are they cheaper?
#Person2#: This one is 10 % off. That one has no reduction, but you can get a free tube of toothpaste with six toothbrushes.
#Person1#: So if I buy a dozen, I'll get two free tubes of toothpaste?
#Person2#: That's right.
#Person1#: Good. I ' ll take a dozen of them then.
#Person2#: And here is your aspirin. What else did you say you want?
#Person1#: Baby's wipes. Johnson's.
#Person2#: Anything else?
#Person1#: Well, actually I'd like to buy some vitamins for my son. He's five months old. Can you suggest any?
#Person2#: Sure. Here you are. This one is excellent. Just mix one drop of it with milk.
#Person1#: Thanks. That'll be all. | buying something |
train_2164 | #Person1#: Excuse me! What time is it? My watch stopped.
#Person2#: Let me see. It's 9
#Person1#: Is your watch right?
#Person2#: I think so. I set it by the radio this morning.
#Person1#: By the way, can you tell me what the date it is today, and what day it is, please?
#Person2#: Well, it's the 10th and on the Tuesday. | time and date |
train_2165 | #Person1#: How can we develop a new brand image with no direction whatsoever?
#Person2#: With the fifty forwards he sent out today, maybe we'll inadvertently get inspired.
#Person1#: I guess this is a good excuse to surf the Net on someone else's dime.
#Person2#: Who'd have thought Bean would be this kind of e-mail fanatic?
#Person1#: He must have just got online for the first time last week. He still thinks it's some kind of new toy. | inspring idea |
train_2166 | #Person1#: If we give you the job, what's the most important thing you except to get?
#Person2#: Well, I just want to enjoy what I'm doing. it's the most important thing to me.
#Person1#: Just this?
#Person2#: Yes, because I think being interesting thing is the best teacher. Or have more opportunities to have career growth.
#Person1#: Do you want to get a promotion?
#Person2#: Yes, of course.
#Person1#: Where would you like to be in 5 years?
#Person2#: In five years, I'd like to be a senior manager of this corporation.
#Person1#: How do you plan to accomplish this?
#Person2#: By doing whatever is necessary. | job interview |
train_2167 | #Person1#: Honey, we are all out of wine and cheese. Do you mind running to the deli and picking up a few things?
#Person2#: Can't it wait? I'm watching the game right now!
#Person1#: Your friends and family are coming over tonight and we still need to get a lot of things.
#Person2#: Fine! What do you need?
#Person1#: OK, pick up some cured meats to go with the wine. Maybe a pound of polish sausages, ham, liverwurst, salami and any other cold cuts that are on sale. I think I saw a promotion for pastrami. Also get some cole slaw and a jar of olives.
#Person2#: Whoa wait a minute! Isn't that a bit too much? I mean, how much is all of this going to cost!
#Person1#: Never mind that. Get some dips as well. Get a jar of spinach and blue cheese dip and also some Tzatziki. If they have bean dip get that as well. Last but not least, get some pickles.
#Person2#: Is that all, your majesty?
#Person1#: Very funny! Get a move on! People will be here any minute. | buying somenthing |
train_2168 | #Person1#: The fried shrimp is crunchy! But my mom will never cook shrimp this way. She always says that fried food is not healthy.
#Person2#: How does she cook the shrimp?
#Person1#: She often cooks it in a large pan of boiling water.
#Person2#: I don't like that. I like fried food, fried potatoes, fried chicken, fried sausage. . . I can't see why fried food is not healthy.
#Person1#: My mom says it has a lot of fat. I also suggest you do not eat so many fried things.
#Person2#: It's all right! I often fry sausages when my mom is not at home.
#Person1#: Really? I really want to have a try!
#Person2#: Come to my house this Sunday. My mom will not be at home then. We can cook some wonderful fried food by ourselves!
#Person1#: That sounds like a good idea! But I'm afraid my mom will be angry about it. | fired food |
train_2169 | #Person1#: Are you travelling in America?
#Person2#: No, I am on business. I will spend half a month for the business.
#Person1#: What do you do?
#Person2#: I am currently working in a foreign company as a salesman.
#Person1#: I know all the tricks of the trade. It is quite tiring and difficult to be promoted.
#Person2#: Maybe. But it provides much wider space for me to improve the skills and increase the experience. What about you?
#Person1#: I am a reporter at a TV station.
#Person2#: Do you like your job?
#Person1#: Yes, I have good working conditions and I would require a salary at least 15, 000 $ a year.
#Person2#: Which kind of news do you catch?
#Person1#: I report the social news which means I always interview the citizens of various professions and trades.
#Person2#: Are you feel tired?
#Person1#: Sometimes. News happened out of expectation. Sometimes I have to get up in the early morning while I can't sleep for editing and interviewing.
#Person2#: You have to experience this if you want to be an extraordinary reporter.
#Person1#: That's right. I am still wet behind the ears. | occupation |
train_2170 | #Person1#: Dan, Dan, dude. You have to come over to my house right now!
#Person2#: Is everything OK?
#Person1#: Just get over here!
#Person2#: Come in! Quickly!
#Person1#: So, since when is your house a bank?
#Person2#: What do you mean?
#Person1#: I mean, what's up with the locks and iron bars on your windows.
#Person2#: Security, Dan, security! You can never be too safe you know! A lot of sickos out there. Just the other day they caught that peeping tom red handed! Had a high power telescope and binoculars by his window.
#Person1#: What's the matter with you? Why are you acting all paranoid?
#Person2#: Paranoid? I'm not paranoid! I'm cautious! You see Dan, we have to be on guard at all time! People just invade your privacy as if they knew you! Telemarketers, solicitors, even your bank! They have way too much information! I like to keep everything on a need to know basis.
#Person1#: OK, well, what did you want to see me about?
#Person2#: You are being watched! Be careful Dan! Be careful! | paranoid |
train_2171 | #Person1#: Mr. : There are two things that you'll need to know.
#Person2#: What are they?
#Person1#: Mr. : The school has three lunch periods, and the kids are divided into three groups to go to lunch.
#Person2#: Wow!
#Person1#: Mr. : Furthermore, when you are dismissed in the afternoon, you will be divided into two waves.
#Person2#: Two waves?
#Person1#: Mr. : The school parking lot is not big enough for all the school buses to come in at one time. So only half the buses come in first to pick up the first wave's students.
#Person2#: And the other half come in later to pick up the second wave. | school rules |
train_2172 | #Person1#: Hello?
#Person2#: Hi, Kathy. Have you had lunch?
#Person1#: Not yet. And I'm really hungry now.
#Person2#: I'm starving, too. There is a new Chinese restaurant close by. Do you want to go there for lunch?
#Person1#: Why not?
#Person2#: It's my treat this time.
#Person1#: Thanks. I could eat a cow. | lunch invitation |
train_2173 | #Person1#: Do you offer a course in business management?
#Person2#: Yes, we do.
#Person1#: How many nights a week is it?
#Person2#: It's 3 nights a week, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.
#Person1#: And how long does the course last?
#Person2#: It lasts for 9 months.
#Person1#: When does it start?
#Person2#: The next beginning class starts on October 25th.
#Person1#: What time is the class?
#Person2#: From 7 to 9 o'clock.
#Person1#: How much does it cost?
#Person2#: It costs 125 dollars a month.
#Person1#: Yes, that's all right. I want to enroll in the course.
#Person2#: Thank you, please fill out this form for us.
#Person1#: Do you want me to fill it out now?
#Person2#: Yes, please. we need a record of you education and your work experiences. | course enrollment |
train_2174 | #Person1#: Mom, did you feel the earthquake this afternoon?
#Person2#: Oh, that scared me.
#Person1#: The breaking news just reported some houses were destroyed by the earthquake.
#Person2#: Oh, dear! How ruthless!
#Person1#: Do you think we can donate some clothes and food for the victims?
#Person2#: Why not? That's a good idea to help them. | earthquake |
train_2175 | #Person1#: Were you born in the U. S. , Melissa?
#Person2#: No, I wasn't. I came here in 1992.
#Person1#: How old were you?
#Person2#: I was seventeen.
#Person1#: So, did you go to college right away?
#Person2#: No, because my English wasn't very good. I studied English for two years first.
#Person1#: Wow, your English is really fluent now.
#Person2#: Thanks. Your English is pretty good, too.
#Person1#: Yeah, but I was born here!! | fluent English |
train_2176 | #Person1#: It's going to strike 12 o'clock. Let's get the firecrackers ready, Rose.
#Person2#: Aren't firecrackers forbidden in the city?
#Person1#: Well yes, but they are not allowed only in downtown areas. It's OK here. It would be difficult to ban customs that have thousands of years of tradition. The habit does bring kids joy and excitement so long as precautions are taken. Let's go out and set off firecrackers out there.
#Person2#: Fantastic! The whole city is echoing with crackling sounds!
#Person1#: What other activities will you have tomorrow?
#Person2#: Quite a lot. The celebration of the New Year has just started. The first day we southerners have sweet rice cakes for breakfast, and people in the North have Jiaozi. Afterward, we will make New Year calls on family relatives, husband's side on the first day and wife's side on the second.
#Person1#: Do you bring some gifts along?
#Person2#: That's for sure. Fruit, cream cakes, medical tonics are often for parents and aged relatives, and cash enclosed in a red envelope for the kids. All this, of course, should be well prepared beforehand.
#Person1#: Is it the same practice for all families?
#Person2#: Not all the same nowadays I must say. Many families, especially those of newly married couples, choose to make an overseas trip to escape the routines. Rose and I had a tour to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Hong Kong last year. We stayed there for two weeks until the last day of the holiday.
#Person1#: I really appreciate the way you Chinese people exchange feelings. The holiday's long enough for you to relax.
#Person2#: Well, for city dwellers, the Spring Festival is a holiday of seven days. While in the country where traditions are still heavily emphasized, the festival lasts ten days. | New Year celebration |
train_2177 | #Person1#: Hi. You enjoying the party?
#Person2#: Yes, actually. I don't really know anyone, but it's a nice place. Are you having a good time?
#Person1#: Yes. The drinks are very good! I'm Paul, by the way.
#Person2#: Hello Paul. I'm Jane. So what do you do?
#Person1#: I'm in finance. You?
#Person2#: Really? Me, too. I work for an accountancy company, T & D. Maybe you've heard of them.
#Person1#: T & D? Oh, yes, sure. How long have you worked there?
#Person2#: About two years. And you? Are you based here?
#Person1#: No. Actually, I'm based in Shanghai. I'm just here for the conference. So, T & D eh. . . | first time meeting |
train_2178 | #Person1#: My boss wore a real stupid tie to work today. Can you guess why?
#Person2#: He isn't a man of good taste for clothes, is he?
#Person1#: He is, but I didn't mean that. His daughter bought him a tie as a Father's Day gift, and he was very happy to wear it and show it off to us in the office.
#Person2#: It must be hard being a father.
#Person1#: No, it's great being a father, seeing your children growing up and loving you and admiring you.
#Person2#: Maybe you'll only feel that way on Father's Day. | tie |
train_2179 | #Person1#: Is there any ticket for New York left? I want to go coach.
#Person2#: SW113 leaves at 13:25. Would you want one?
#Person1#: Yes. What's the fare?
#Person2#: $ 88 for a single ticket.
#Person1#: Well, I thought it was $ 83.
#Person2#: Yes. From October lst we have to charge every passenger $ 5 for the airport tax.
#Person1#: see. Here is the money. | coach ticket |
train_2180 | #Person1#: Can you make the tea, Sam?
#Person2#: Yes, of course I can, Penny. Is there any water in this kettle?
#Person1#: Yes, there is.
#Person2#: Where's the tea?
#Person1#: It's over there, behind the teapot. Can't you see it?
#Person2#: I can see the teapot, but I can't see the tea.
#Person1#: There it is! It's in front of you.
#Person2#: Ah yes, I can see it now. Where are the cups?
#Person1#: There are some in the cupboard. Can you find them?
#Person2#: Yes. Here they are.
#Person1#: Hurry up, Sam. The kettle's boiling. | make the tea |
train_2181 | #Person1#: Excuse me, professor. I need to go home now.
#Person2#: Is everything OK?
#Person1#: I just feel funny.
#Person2#: What exactly seems to be the matter?
#Person1#: I have a terrible headache.
#Person2#: Do you think that you should go to the Student Health Center?
#Person1#: I already have some medicine at home if I could just get there.
#Person2#: Do you need someone to drive you home?
#Person1#: Thank you, but the bus stops right at my house.
#Person2#: Well, go home and rest up. Make sure you check the website for your assignments. | ask for leave |
train_2182 | #Person1#: How about the repair fee?
#Person2#: It's for free, because your computers are still in the period of guarantee--two years.
#Person1#: Great! When can your technicians come to our factory?
#Person2#: They are working in another factory to provide maintenance right now. Let me call them and see whether they have solved the problem. Please wait a moment.
#Person1#: I've just contacted our technicians. They say they can go to your factory tomorrow afternoon. Can you tell me your factory's address, so they can find you easier?
#Person2#: That's wonderful. I appreciate your efficiency and cooperation.
#Person1#: To provide the As excellent after-sales service is our motto. Please wait for our maintenance staff in your factory tomorrow afternoon. They will be there on time.
#Person2#: Thank you again! | after-sales service |
train_2183 | #Person1#: hello! How are you.
#Person2#: not too well! I'm just to the doctor. I haven't been feeling too well. . over the last few days.
#Person1#: what have you got? A cough? A cold?
#Person2#: that's the funny thing. I don't what's wrong with me. I just feel exhausted.
#Person1#: perhaps you'Ve been working too hard. You do have a high-pressure job.
#Person2#: maybe. I haven't been able to keep my food down either. That's unusual.
#Person1#: well. I'm sure the doctor will be able to prescribe something to make you well again. Dr. Jameson is very good.
#Person2#: yes, he is. I'Ve make an appointment for 10 o'clock, so I'd better move along.
#Person1#: OK. Hope you feel better soon. You should take it easy. I'm sure the doctor will prescribe rest, you know. | under the weather |
train_2184 | #Person1#: I would like to exchange Chinese money into German currency please.
#Person2#: Certainly. How much will you be exchanging today?
#Person1#: How about 50, 000 RIB. Would that be a problem?
#Person2#: That's a hefty amount. But that should have no problem at all. You should be aware that there is a ten-percent service charge, though.
#Person1#: Ten percent! Now that's hefty!
#Person2#: Wait a minute. . . do you have an account with us?
#Person1#: Yes I do; here is my account number.
#Person2#: For members, there is a small transaction charge, but it's only 5 dollars per transaction. Any particular denomination?
#Person1#: 3, 000 marks in hundreds and the rest in tens and twenty's, please.
#Person2#: Here you are Mr. Lee. Will there be anything else? | currency exchange |
train_2185 | #Person1#: Have you begun cleaning up that room of yours?
#Person2#: I haven't started yet, but I will.
#Person1#: What time are you going to clean it up?
#Person2#: I'm planning on cleaning it up a little later.
#Person1#: I told you to clean it up earlier.
#Person2#: I know. I am still going to clean it up.
#Person1#: Make sure you vacuum and dust your room.
#Person2#: I won't forget.
#Person1#: I don't want you to leave until you clean up.
#Person2#: My plans aren't until later, so I'll clean it before I go. | room clean-up |
train_2186 | #Person1#: Harry, let's play some ping-pong today.
#Person2#: I'd love to play a set or two, but my right arm hurts. I've decided to stop playing ping-pong until it feels better.
#Person1#: Well, how about going skating?
#Person2#: I'd like to, but my knee hurts, too.
#Person1#: Harry, stop making excuses! You're just lazy.
#Person2#: No, I'm not! You know, there's a basketball match on TV today. Let's just stay home and watch it.
#Person1#: OK. You stay, and I'll play with Helen. | make excuses |
train_2187 | #Person1#: Is it true that you don't swim at all now?
#Person2#: I'm afraid so. I'm too old.
#Person1#: But you are only 20.
#Person2#: That's too old for a swimmer. If I swam in an international competition now, I wouldn't win. So I'd rather not swim at all.
#Person1#: But don't you enjoy swimming?
#Person2#: I used to, when I was small. But if you enter for big competitions you have to work very hard. I used to get up at 6 to the pool. I had to train before school, after school and at weekends. I swam thirty-five miles every week!
#Person1#: But you were famous at fifteen. And look at all those cups.
#Person2#: It's true that I have some wonderful memories. Olympics were very exciting. But I missed some important things too. While other girls were playing, I was swimming. | swimming |
train_2188 | #Person1#: Well, Sally. Why do you look unhappy?
#Person2#: Oh, Hill, I have just had a quarrel with Mr. Smith.
#Person1#: What on earth was it about?
#Person2#: Well, I have made three bad mistakes so far this week, so he got very angry with me.
#Person1#: But I don't understand. You are usually very careful and never make mistakes.
#Person2#: I'm just so tired. I don't know what I'm doing.
#Person1#: Why? Have you been going to bed late these days?
#Person2#: No, I'm usually in bed at about eleven. But I've been woken up at about half past four every morning. And then I cannot go back to sleep again,
#Person1#: Why?
#Person2#: It's my new neighbor, the milkman next door. He gets up at half past four and he always turns the radio on loudly. And it's difficult to ask him to mm it down. I don't know him yet.
#Person1#: If you don't want to see him, write him a letter. I'll help you write the letter.
#Person2#: OK. Let's try. | noisy neighbour |
train_2189 | #Person1#: Here comes the Sunday newspaper again.
#Person2#: Can I have the sports section?
#Person1#: Sure, here you are.
#Person2#: Let me check if there's anything exciting next week?
#Person1#: You mean football matches, do you?
#Person2#: Yes. Here it is! There will be a great football match on Monday at the City stadium.
#Person1#: So you'll go and watch it.
#Person2#: Of course. But do you think they will cancel the football match if it rains on Monday?
#Person1#: I think they will.
#Person2#: If they do cancel it, will they have it on Wednesday?
#Person1#: I really can't tell.
#Person2#: I want to make sure about it because I will be out of town on Wednesday. I really can't miss the game.
#Person1#: Why don't you check the weather on the internet?
#Person2#: Good idea. I'll do it right now. | football match |
train_2190 | #Person1#: This week's program Up Your Street takes you to Harrogate, a small town in Yorkshire. Harrogate became a fashionable resort during Victorian times, when people came to take a bath in the mineral waters. Today, few people come to visit the town for its mineral waters. Instead, Harrogate has become a popular town for people to retire to. Its clean air, attractive parks, and the absence of any industry, make this an ideal spot for people looking for a quiet life. Now, to tell us more about Harrogate, I have with me Tom Percival, President of the Chamber of Commerce. Tom, one of the things visitor notices about Harrogate is the large area of open park land right down into the middle of the town. Can you tell us more about it?
#Person2#: Yes, certainly. The area is called the Stray.
#Person1#: Why the Stray?
#Person2#: It's called that because in the old days, people let their cattle stray on the area, which was common land.
#Person1#: Oh, I see.
#Person2#: Then, we've changes in farming and in land ownership. The Stray became part of the land owned by Harrogate.
#Person1#: And is it protected?
#Person2#: Oh, yes, indeed. As a special law, no one can build anything on the stray. It's protected forever.
#Person1#: So it will always be park land?
#Person2#: That's right. As you can see, some of the Stray is used for sports fields.
#Person1#: I believe it looks lovely in the spring.
#Person2#: Yes, it does. There're spring flowers on the old trees, and people visit the town just to see the flowers. | introduction of Harrogate |
train_2191 | #Person1#: Hi, this is Stephanie. I can't answer the phone right now. I'm away, but feel free to call, leave a message, or text. Alright. Bye.
#Person2#: Uh, hello, uh yeah. Hi, Stephanie, or Steffi. Uh, I can't do this? Oh yeah. Uh. Yes, Stephanie, my name is Ronald, but my friends call me Ron. My parents call me, well, forget about that. Uh, I'm originally from Canada, but I grew in Texas. I'm 24 years old, and uh, I graduated from high school about five years ago, and I'm the manager of an exotic pet shop. We carry all kinds of birds, and snakes, and spiders, and fish. We even have one snake that is about four meters long, but I keep him at home. And oh, yeah. Um, my hobbies. I fish, hunt, and ride horses in my free time. My favorite foods are beef, beef, and beef. I don't eat many vegetables, except potatoes with my beef. And, oh yeah, I sometimes eat apples and beef sometimes. I have two brothers. Both of them live with me because they don't have jobs, and my mom lives with me, and I have three dogs: Brutus, Charlie, and Samantha. Oh, and one more thing. This might seem strange, but I enjoy reading poetry. So, that's about it. I hope to hear from you. You can call me if you want. The number is 789-1350. Yeah, uh, right. Catch later, alligator. Oh, oh, that's so stupid. Uh, oh, Good-bye. | phone message |
train_2192 | #Person1#: Tell me, Peter, what makes Harrods so famous?
#Person2#: Well, it's the biggest department store in the UK. And its food hall and the Egyptian hall are very famous. People come to Harrods just to see them.
#Person1#: What is special about the food hall?
#Person2#: It sells many different kinds of food. For example, it has 250 kinds of cheese from all over the world and more than 180 kinds of bread. Customers also love all the different kinds of chocolate. They buy a hundred tons every year.
#Person1#: That's amazing! And why is the Egyptian hall so famous?
#Person2#: Well, when people see it, they feel they are in another world. It looks like in Egyptian building from 4,000 years ago. And it sells beautiful objects. They are not 4,000 years old, of course.
#Person1#: Is it true that Harrods produces its own electricity?
#Person2#: Yes, it does 70%, enough for a small town. To light the outside of the building, we use 11,500 light bulbs.
#Person1#: Really? Tell me, how many customers do you have on an average day? And how much do they spend?
#Person2#: About 30,000 people come on an average day. But during the sales, the number increases to 300,000 customers a day. How much do they spent? Well, on average, customers spend about 1.5 million pounds a day. The record for one day is nine million pounds.
#Person1#: Nine million pounds in one day?
#Person2#: Yes, on the first day of the January sales.
#Person1#: Harrods says it sells everything to everybody, everywhere. Is that really true?
#Person2#: Oh, yes. of course! Absolutely everything! | Harrods store |
train_2193 | #Person1#: Hello! 6896443.
#Person2#: Hello! Is that Lucy?
#Person1#: Speaking!
#Person2#: Hi! This is Tom! Can I speak to Lily?
#Person1#: Sorry. She isn't in at the moment. Can I take a message?
#Person2#: Could you please tell her not to wait for me this evening? We planned to go to a party together, but something important came up and I have to rush off. I'll be back in Cairo at the beginning of next week.
#Person1#: Right. I'll tell her. Are you leaving now?
#Person2#: Yes, I leave at half past two. Please give my love to her. Thank you!
#Person1#: You're welcome.
#Person2#: Could you ask her to phone me when she gets in?
#Person1#: Sure. You'd better give me your number.
#Person2#: Yes, it's 13962-72854.
#Person1#: OK. I've recorded it.
#Person2#: Thanks very much indeed. Bye!
#Person1#: Bye! | convey information |
train_2194 | #Person1#: Excuse me, waiter? Waiter!
#Person2#: Yes, sir? What can I do for you?
#Person1#: I've been sitting here for the past twenty minutes and no one has offered me a glass of water, brought any bread to the table and our appetizers haven't been served yet! You know, in this kind of establishment, I'd expect much better service.
#Person2#: I am sorry, sir. I'll check on your order right away.
#Person3#: Relax honey, the place is busy tonight, but I've heard the food is amazing. Anyway. . .
#Person2#: Here you are, sir. The foie gras for the lady, and a mushroom soup for you.
#Person1#: Waiter, I ordered a cream of mushroom soup with asparagus. This soup is obviously too runny, and it's over-seasoned. It's completely inedible!
#Person2#: Okay, I do apologize for that. Can I bring you another soup, or would you like to order something else?
#Person1#: Take this foie gras back as well, it's rubbery and completely overcooked. And look at the portion size! How can you charge twenty-five dollars for a sliver of duck liver?
#Person2#: Right away. . . sir.
#Person3#: Honey come on! The foie gras was fine, why are you making such a big deal? Are you trying to get our meal comped again?
#Person1#: What do you mean? We are paying for this. If I'm shelling out my hard earned bucks, I expect value for money!
#Person2#: Here you are, sir. I hope it is alright now. The chef has prepared it specially for you.
#Person1#: Yes, fine.
#Person3#: Honey, are you alright? | food recook |
train_2195 | #Person1#: Alright, tell me what you think.
#Person2#: Don't you think it's a bit bright?
#Person1#: Yeah, maybe you're right. How about this outfit?
#Person2#: This dress looks lovely on you, but it's not very practical, is it?
#Person1#: No, I don't have any plans to go to a formal dance any time soon, but I love the way it looks. I just had to try it on! What do you think about this? It's casual, yet sophisticated.
#Person2#: I like the jeans, but you need something to go with the top. It's too plain on its own.
#Person1#: How about this scarf, these earrings, amd an anklet?
#Person2#: That might be going overboard a bit. How about just that scarf with a bracelet?
#Person1#: That's a good idea. You have a lot of good fashion sense.
#Person2#: Thanks. You'd be ok on your own. There are loads of fashion victims out there, and you are not one of them. Have you tried it on yet?
#Person1#: Yep. Here it is. What do you think?
#Person2#: That looks great. Just one more thing---you need some high heels with those jeans. Do you want a pair with a plain pattern or ones with a leopard print on them?
#Person1#: The leopard print sounds fabulous. Are they a name brand?
#Person2#: No, they're a Prada knock-off for 1/10 of the price of the real thing.
#Person1#: That's even better than the real thing.
#Person2#: If I were you, I'd buy that now while it's on sale. If you spend $100, you get a $50 voucher for more clothes.
#Person1#: It's too bad I did all that shopping yesterday! | try on clothes |
train_2196 | #Person1#: You have a lovely house, Jack.
#Person2#: Thank you. But a number of things have been going wrong lately.
#Person1#: That's too bad. What problems are you having.
#Person2#: Oh, the whole house needs re-painting for starters. The carpet in the living room is worn out, and I'd like to put in new wall-to-wall carpeting. Last week, I had to call the plumber to fix the toilet. Anyway, all par for the course when you own a house, I guess. I think I am going to hire an interior decorator to look the place over.
#Person1#: I've studied home decoration as a hobby. Could I make some suggestions?
#Person2#: Go right ahead.
#Person1#: Well, I think a crystal chandelier would look great in your living room, and maybe some new drapes for the windows. Also, a grandfather clock would look great in the den. Perhaps you could buy some potted plants for the dining room
#Person2#: Well, you really do have a talent for this, Alice. Thanks for the suggestions.
#Person1#: You are welcome, Jack. Glad to be of help. | house decoration |
train_2197 | #Person1#: I'll be away for a moment.
#Person2#: Yes? Anything I can do for you?
#Person1#: Look! I'v been watching that man down in the street. He keeps peeping into the shop. Keep your eyes skinned for that guy, will you?
#Person2#: Ok. | vigilance |
train_2198 | #Person1#: I would love to be famous and have thousands of adoring fans.
#Person2#: Really? I'm not sure that I would like all the attention. There have been numerous cases of paparazzi interfering with star's private live in recent years.
#Person1#: I love being photographed! If I were famous, I'd do interviews for all the top magazines, like cosmo and elle.
#Person2#: I wouldn't mind having my photo taken a few times or being interviewed once or twice, but it would get tedious after a while. Imagzine the things the gossip columnists would write about you.
#Person1#: no-one really believes gossip columnists.
#Person2#: I think you'll find that many people believe what they read in gossip columns. You'd also have to be very careful about every word you said. If you appeared on a chat show and said something silly, it would be reported in all the newspapers and magazines.
#Person1#: I think you're right about that. I'd need a good manager to be my spokesperson. I could do a lot of charity work, which would help a lot of people.
#Person2#: That's a great idea. Which charities would you support?
#Person1#: I love children, as you know, so probably a children's charity.
#Person2#: You'd have to remember that anything you said or did might reflect on the charity, so you'd really need to be very careful. Anyway, I'd be the first to buy your posters and I'd attend your first book-singing when you wrote your autobiography.
#Person1#: Thanks, but actually I was hoping I could ask you to write my biography. | being famous |
train_2199 | #Person1#: Hey, Sarah. This year I'm going to the rock festival for all three days.
#Person2#: Oh, lucky you, Leo. Are you going with your cousin again?
#Person1#: Not this year. My brother has promised at take me there now. My sister is too busy with her college work.
#Person2#: How will you get there?
#Person1#: We want to drive but dad said no and it's too far from the city for us to cycle there. But there are special buses so we'll use those.
#Person2#: What do you have to take with you?
#Person1#: Just a tent in clothes really. We'll need lots of water but we'll buy that an all our meals there. Hey, come with us.
#Person2#: Maybe I will. | rock festival |
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