【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. team up /tim ʌp/ (phrasal v.) – to join and work with another person or group for a task or project
Example: Samsung will team up with Google for a new project.
2. crease /kris/ (n.) – a wrinkle or fold mark on a cloth
Example: I ironed out my dress to remove its creases.
3. built-in /ˈbɪltˌɪn/ (adj.) – being naturally or originally part of something
Example: Our washing machine has a built-in dryer.
4. plumbing /ˈplʌm ɪŋ/ (n.) – refers to structure or system of pipes carrying water to an establishment
Example: Poor plumbing causes frequent pipe leaks.
5. launder /ˈlɔn dər/ (v.) – to clean and iron clothes
Example: I launder my dirty clothes every weekend.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
Two leading brands teamed up to build a new appliance that can wash, dry, and remove wrinkles from clothes in just 10 minutes.
Home appliances manufacturer Whirlpool and consumer products maker Procter & Gamble (P&G) introduced their creation as “Swash.” The appliance combines the functions of a washing machine and a flat iron into one portable device. The user only needs to hang an item of clothing, press a button, and wait until the timer signals that it is ready.
Swash works by spraying liquid on the front and back of clothes, thus removing odors and dirt. The manufacturers claim that the liquid has a special formula that helps remove wrinkles from the clothes. Swash also has a thermal drying function that releases heat to dry the clothes and to straighten the creases.
The product measures 54 inches in height and 17 inches in width. It has a built-in water source and does not require plumbing from its user. Also, the device can be folded and reduced to 30 inches long, which makes it ideal for apartment dwellers. Swash can be used for denim, wool, polyester [POL-ee-es-ter], cotton, laces, and beaded clothes.
According to Charles Pierce [peers], P&G’s Group President for New Business Creation, several people have asked better ways to do their laundry. He said that Swash will let users launder clothes more effectively without needing many resources.
Currently, Swash can be pre-ordered in the online shop Bloomingdale's. The appliance costs $499 and is expected to be released in the United States later this year. No announcements have been made yet on its international release and pricing.
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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
· Would you buy and use Swash? Why or why not?
· In what instances do you think Swash will be used often? Kindly discuss.
Discussion B
· What laundry tips do you know? Kindly discuss.
· Do you think letting laundry shops wash your clothes is practical? Why or why not?