【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. respite /ˈrɛs pɪt/ (n.) – a temporary period of relief
Example: I’m taking the day off today to seek respite from last week’s awful deadlines.
2. confess /kənˈfɛs/ (v.) – to say something embarrassing or awkward
Example: Andrea confessed her feelings to her coworker when she was drunk.
3. overseas /oʊ vərˈsiz/ (adv.) – in another country across an ocean or sea
Example: It’s hard to live overseas, especially because you’re miles away from your family.
4. getaway /ˈgɛt əˌweɪ/ (n.) – a short trip or vacation
Example: We will be having a getaway at the beach this weekend.
5. exaggerate /ɪgˈzædʒ əˌreɪt/ (v.) – to overstate or to describe something as greater than it really is
Example: She exaggerates even the simplest news.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
One in three British citizens admits spending too much time on their mobile devices while on vacation, a survey reveals.
The survey conducted by Hotels.com focused on the vacation habits of almost 2,500 people from 28 countries. From the sampled population of Britain, 83% declared to use their vacation as respite from work.
According to a poll, half of the British population confessed to checking their work emails during vacations, recognizing the need to connect to social media when overseas. The poll also ranked 28 countries in terms of people’s dependence to their mobile devices when traveling. The United Kingdom landed on the fifteenth place in a tie with Germany.
On another note, Thai people ranked first, with 85% unable to travel without mobile devices. Asian technology giants South Korea (78%) and Japan (69%) came in second and third place, respectively.
The poll also determined which countries tend to make stories about their getaway experiences. China topped the list; Germany ranked second, and the United Kingdom came in thirteenth. Travelers from the said countries tend to exaggerate stories to their friends and family upon coming back.
In addition, the poll ranked things that travelers make sure to bring during vacation. Based on the level of importance, participants ranked smartphones in fifth place, behind passport, sunscreen, travel insurance, and sunglasses.
Alison Couper from Hotels.com stated that going on vacations should be reserved for relaxing. Smartphones are reliable companions while taking time off from work, but travelers could have more work-life balance by switching it off.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· What do you think are the other reasons why people rely too much on their mobile devices? Explain briefly.
· How can the overuse of mobile devices affect one’s vacation?
Discussion B
· In your opinion, is taking vacations important to one’s lifestyle? Why or why not?
· Why do you think some people lie about their traveling experiences?