Get the media picture right
Apropos Vir Sanghvi’s Return of the Censor (Counterpoint, January 11), some television anchors might overdo things to push up their TRP ratings. But criticism of officials who didn’t intervene to prevent telecasts during the Mumbai siege is unfair. It is the public’s right to know how politicians and bureaucrats are carrying out their duties. Of course, restraint and decency is required on the part of channels. But before passing any restrictions, care should be taken to protect the fundamental rights of the people.
Shadab Husain, Lucknow
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?sectionName=ViewsSectionPage&id=c0668a2d-3898-49d7-8446-630b6b29501a&&Headline=One+man%e2%80%99s+defence+is+another+man%e2%80%99s+survival
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Saturday, January 10, 2009
English Class
English Class
Today’s English class is crucial, so we all need to be alert. In this class I am providing an editorial of The Hindu for your perusal. Mr. N. Ram, Editor-in-Chief, The Hindu, told me that he is “happy” to grant me the permission of using this editorial. I will try to chop off the important parts from it which would provide us the idea of how to choose the bright expressions from a piece.
Israeli aggression against Gaza
Courtesy: The Hindu
Regardless of the supposed provocation, Israel’s brutish military onslaught on the Gaza Strip marks a new low even by the Zionist state’s habit of using disproportionate and lawless force against the people of Palestine. To understand why Israel is politically and morally wrong in the present case, one need not go back as far as its 1967 invasion and occupation of Palestinian territory, an original sin that has yet to be reversed despite United Nations resolutions and more than a decade of the ‘Middle East Peace Process.’ The events of the past few years — the failure to accept the victory of Hamas in a democratic election, the inhuman blockade, frequent air strikes, and the expedient violations of the ceasefire — provide sufficient grounds to condemn Tel Aviv for the tragedy that is under way today in the glorified penal colony known as Gaza. Israeli air strikes have already claimed the lives of more than 300 women, children, and men. There is talk of a ground invasion as well. To be sure, the firing of rockets by Palestinian militants into Sderot, Ashkelon, and other Israeli towns near the border with Gaza was an act of mindless provocation that fed neatly into the aggressive mindset that was building up inside political Israel. The country will soon go to the polls and the leadership there knows that the best way to burnish their credentials is war. The probable goal is the pipe dream of destroying Hamas, not just weakening it. That is why Gaza has been put to the sword. The rocket attacks, which claimed their first Israeli casualty only after the air strikes began, were an excuse. With Hamas calling for a third Intifada, including a return to ‘martyrdom’ operations, against Israeli occupation, the stage is set for further bloodshed.
The latest Israeli war crimes come at a time when the Palestinian movement itself remains divided and the Bush administration is on its way out. Barack Obama initially held out the promise of a more even-handed American approach to Israel but his presidential campaign saw him embracing the same kind of amoral support for Tel Aviv that U.S. politicians invariably display. Nevertheless, it is possible that Prime Minister Ehud Olmert decided not to take any chances and to use the interregnum to present the incoming Obama administration with a fait accompli. Either way, it is unlikely that Washington will use its considerable influence to get Tel Aviv to back off and end this bloody assault. True to form, the United Kingdom finds itself out of sync with France and the European Union, which have condemned the disproportionate use of force and the “unacceptable toll on Palestinian civilians.” The Manmohan Singh government has done well to oppose the Israeli aggression. But what Israel needs to be told by India and the civilised world is that so long as it denies the Palestinians the right to exist as a nation, a people, and as human beings, it cannot hope to secure itself.
http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/30/stories/2008123054740800.htm
With permission from The Hindu
Well, I hope you carefully read this excellent piece. Now let’s chip out the bright parts from it.
Mark the usage of the word “low” in the first sentence. 'Regardless of the supposed provocation, Israel’s brutish military onslaught on the Gaza Strip marks a new low even by the Zionist state’s habit of using disproportionate and lawless force against the people of Palestine.' The meaning of “low” here is “Violating the standards of morality or decency; mean.” Using small words in such a manner shows the writer’s command on the language.
Burnish: v. 1. To make smooth or polished by rubbing. 2. To rub with an apparatus that is especially to smooth or polish. 'The country will soon go to the polls and the leadership there knows that the best way to burnish their credentials is war.'
Amoral: adj. 1. Without admitting the moral differences or judgments; neither moral nor immoral. 2. Short of moral feeling; without caring about right and wrong. 'Barack Obama initially held out the promise of a more even-handed American approach to Israel but his presidential campaign saw him embracing the same kind of amoral support for Tel Aviv that U.S. politicians invariably display.'
Interregnum: n. 1. The gap of time between the end of a ruler’s reign and the accession of a successor. 2. A time of brief suspension of the functions in routine of government or control. 3. A break in continuity. 'Nevertheless, it is possible that Prime Minister Ehud Olmert decided not to take any chances and to use the interregnum to present the incoming Obama administration with a fait accompli.'
Idioms
Fait accompli n. A decision or deed which has already been made and which cannot be changed. ‘Nevertheless, it is possible that Prime Minister Ehud Olmert decided not to take any chances and to use the interregnum to present the incoming Obama administration with a fait accompli.’
A pipe dream: A plan or an idea which would never happen as it is impossible. ‘The probable goal is the pipe dream of destroying Hamas, not just weakening it.’
True to form: If anyone does anything true to form, they behave in the bad manner which was supposed. ‘True to form, the United Kingdom finds itself out of sync with France and the European Union, which have condemned the disproportionate use of force and the “unacceptable toll on Palestinian civilians.”’
Combinations of words
Mindless provocation: ‘To be sure, the firing of rockets by Palestinian militants into Sderot, Ashkelon, and other Israeli towns near the border with Gaza was an act of mindless provocation that fed neatly into the aggressive mindset that was building up inside political Israel.’
Aggressive mindset: ‘To be sure, the firing of rockets by Palestinian militants into Sderot, Ashkelon, and other Israeli towns near the border with Gaza was an act of mindless provocation that fed neatly into the aggressive mindset that was building up inside political Israel.’
Considerable influence: ‘Either way, it is unlikely that Washington will use its considerable influence to get Tel Aviv to back off and end this bloody assault.’
So this was today’s English class. Your homework is to learn the chipped out part, reread the editorial, and write it in your own words. If you wish, you can send it to me as well. I will tell how is it, and if it had any flaws, I will try to strike them out. Remember, If I used your piece your name would be changed. You can also submit your works as an anonymous person in the comment box.
Today’s English class is crucial, so we all need to be alert. In this class I am providing an editorial of The Hindu for your perusal. Mr. N. Ram, Editor-in-Chief, The Hindu, told me that he is “happy” to grant me the permission of using this editorial. I will try to chop off the important parts from it which would provide us the idea of how to choose the bright expressions from a piece.
Israeli aggression against Gaza
Courtesy: The Hindu
Regardless of the supposed provocation, Israel’s brutish military onslaught on the Gaza Strip marks a new low even by the Zionist state’s habit of using disproportionate and lawless force against the people of Palestine. To understand why Israel is politically and morally wrong in the present case, one need not go back as far as its 1967 invasion and occupation of Palestinian territory, an original sin that has yet to be reversed despite United Nations resolutions and more than a decade of the ‘Middle East Peace Process.’ The events of the past few years — the failure to accept the victory of Hamas in a democratic election, the inhuman blockade, frequent air strikes, and the expedient violations of the ceasefire — provide sufficient grounds to condemn Tel Aviv for the tragedy that is under way today in the glorified penal colony known as Gaza. Israeli air strikes have already claimed the lives of more than 300 women, children, and men. There is talk of a ground invasion as well. To be sure, the firing of rockets by Palestinian militants into Sderot, Ashkelon, and other Israeli towns near the border with Gaza was an act of mindless provocation that fed neatly into the aggressive mindset that was building up inside political Israel. The country will soon go to the polls and the leadership there knows that the best way to burnish their credentials is war. The probable goal is the pipe dream of destroying Hamas, not just weakening it. That is why Gaza has been put to the sword. The rocket attacks, which claimed their first Israeli casualty only after the air strikes began, were an excuse. With Hamas calling for a third Intifada, including a return to ‘martyrdom’ operations, against Israeli occupation, the stage is set for further bloodshed.
The latest Israeli war crimes come at a time when the Palestinian movement itself remains divided and the Bush administration is on its way out. Barack Obama initially held out the promise of a more even-handed American approach to Israel but his presidential campaign saw him embracing the same kind of amoral support for Tel Aviv that U.S. politicians invariably display. Nevertheless, it is possible that Prime Minister Ehud Olmert decided not to take any chances and to use the interregnum to present the incoming Obama administration with a fait accompli. Either way, it is unlikely that Washington will use its considerable influence to get Tel Aviv to back off and end this bloody assault. True to form, the United Kingdom finds itself out of sync with France and the European Union, which have condemned the disproportionate use of force and the “unacceptable toll on Palestinian civilians.” The Manmohan Singh government has done well to oppose the Israeli aggression. But what Israel needs to be told by India and the civilised world is that so long as it denies the Palestinians the right to exist as a nation, a people, and as human beings, it cannot hope to secure itself.
http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/30/stories/2008123054740800.htm
With permission from The Hindu
Well, I hope you carefully read this excellent piece. Now let’s chip out the bright parts from it.
Mark the usage of the word “low” in the first sentence. 'Regardless of the supposed provocation, Israel’s brutish military onslaught on the Gaza Strip marks a new low even by the Zionist state’s habit of using disproportionate and lawless force against the people of Palestine.' The meaning of “low” here is “Violating the standards of morality or decency; mean.” Using small words in such a manner shows the writer’s command on the language.
Burnish: v. 1. To make smooth or polished by rubbing. 2. To rub with an apparatus that is especially to smooth or polish. 'The country will soon go to the polls and the leadership there knows that the best way to burnish their credentials is war.'
Amoral: adj. 1. Without admitting the moral differences or judgments; neither moral nor immoral. 2. Short of moral feeling; without caring about right and wrong. 'Barack Obama initially held out the promise of a more even-handed American approach to Israel but his presidential campaign saw him embracing the same kind of amoral support for Tel Aviv that U.S. politicians invariably display.'
Interregnum: n. 1. The gap of time between the end of a ruler’s reign and the accession of a successor. 2. A time of brief suspension of the functions in routine of government or control. 3. A break in continuity. 'Nevertheless, it is possible that Prime Minister Ehud Olmert decided not to take any chances and to use the interregnum to present the incoming Obama administration with a fait accompli.'
Idioms
Fait accompli n. A decision or deed which has already been made and which cannot be changed. ‘Nevertheless, it is possible that Prime Minister Ehud Olmert decided not to take any chances and to use the interregnum to present the incoming Obama administration with a fait accompli.’
A pipe dream: A plan or an idea which would never happen as it is impossible. ‘The probable goal is the pipe dream of destroying Hamas, not just weakening it.’
True to form: If anyone does anything true to form, they behave in the bad manner which was supposed. ‘True to form, the United Kingdom finds itself out of sync with France and the European Union, which have condemned the disproportionate use of force and the “unacceptable toll on Palestinian civilians.”’
Combinations of words
Mindless provocation: ‘To be sure, the firing of rockets by Palestinian militants into Sderot, Ashkelon, and other Israeli towns near the border with Gaza was an act of mindless provocation that fed neatly into the aggressive mindset that was building up inside political Israel.’
Aggressive mindset: ‘To be sure, the firing of rockets by Palestinian militants into Sderot, Ashkelon, and other Israeli towns near the border with Gaza was an act of mindless provocation that fed neatly into the aggressive mindset that was building up inside political Israel.’
Considerable influence: ‘Either way, it is unlikely that Washington will use its considerable influence to get Tel Aviv to back off and end this bloody assault.’
So this was today’s English class. Your homework is to learn the chipped out part, reread the editorial, and write it in your own words. If you wish, you can send it to me as well. I will tell how is it, and if it had any flaws, I will try to strike them out. Remember, If I used your piece your name would be changed. You can also submit your works as an anonymous person in the comment box.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
English Language: Peculiarities, Slips
English Language: Peculiarities, Slips
“Medal” and “Meddle”. “M-E-D-A-L” is used when anyone is awarded for outstanding performance. “M-E-D-D-L-E” means to interfere or to handle something absentmindedly.
The word “Formula” has two plurals: “formulae” and “formulas”. “Formulae” is used while discussing scientific topics such as “chemical formulae”. The second plural, “formulas”, is used elsewhere: “all the formulas have failed to establish a long-term peace between Israel and Gaza”.
We generally say “office timings”, “college timings”, “train timings” etc. In this context the usage of “timings/timing” is wrong. The correct English is “office hours”, “college hours” and so on. You might not believe this, but in order to confirm what you have read, look up the meaning of “timing” in the dictionary. But, I must add, whatever wrong is widely used fells in the category of correct!
“Advice” is a noun and “advise” a verb. So, you will write, “your advice is good”, “I need your advice”. You cannot say “I advice you” or “he adviced me”. It should be “I advise you” or “he advised me”.
Using “Enter” and “enter into”. “Enter” is used when you say “he entered the park”, “I entered your house” etc. you cannot say “I entered into your house” etc. “Entered into” is used in conversation, agreement etc. “John entered into our conversation because it was very cheerful”.
It is “scissors” and not “scissor”. In a sentence we can write, “A pair of scissors were kept” and “a pair of scissors was kept”. Both are correct. “Scissor” is a verb which means “To cut or clip with scissors”. “My mama scissored my hair while I was asleep”.
The past tense of “Quit” is “Quit” and “Quitted”. If you have left the gym, you can say “I have quit / quitted the gym”. But if you have left smoking, you can only say “I have quit smoking” and not “I have quitted smoking”. Better, use “quit” as the past tense.
It is “He phoned me” and not “he phoned to me”.
The past tense of “put” is “put” and not “putted”.
“If anyone wants to read, they can go to the library”. This sentence is correct, though grammatically it may not appear. “They” here means “he / she”. Since “he / she” and “his / her” appears untidy so now the native speakers have started using “they”, “them” and “their”. If anyone says this is wrong, tell them”it isn’t!”
“Medal” and “Meddle”. “M-E-D-A-L” is used when anyone is awarded for outstanding performance. “M-E-D-D-L-E” means to interfere or to handle something absentmindedly.
The word “Formula” has two plurals: “formulae” and “formulas”. “Formulae” is used while discussing scientific topics such as “chemical formulae”. The second plural, “formulas”, is used elsewhere: “all the formulas have failed to establish a long-term peace between Israel and Gaza”.
We generally say “office timings”, “college timings”, “train timings” etc. In this context the usage of “timings/timing” is wrong. The correct English is “office hours”, “college hours” and so on. You might not believe this, but in order to confirm what you have read, look up the meaning of “timing” in the dictionary. But, I must add, whatever wrong is widely used fells in the category of correct!
“Advice” is a noun and “advise” a verb. So, you will write, “your advice is good”, “I need your advice”. You cannot say “I advice you” or “he adviced me”. It should be “I advise you” or “he advised me”.
Using “Enter” and “enter into”. “Enter” is used when you say “he entered the park”, “I entered your house” etc. you cannot say “I entered into your house” etc. “Entered into” is used in conversation, agreement etc. “John entered into our conversation because it was very cheerful”.
It is “scissors” and not “scissor”. In a sentence we can write, “A pair of scissors were kept” and “a pair of scissors was kept”. Both are correct. “Scissor” is a verb which means “To cut or clip with scissors”. “My mama scissored my hair while I was asleep”.
The past tense of “Quit” is “Quit” and “Quitted”. If you have left the gym, you can say “I have quit / quitted the gym”. But if you have left smoking, you can only say “I have quit smoking” and not “I have quitted smoking”. Better, use “quit” as the past tense.
It is “He phoned me” and not “he phoned to me”.
The past tense of “put” is “put” and not “putted”.
“If anyone wants to read, they can go to the library”. This sentence is correct, though grammatically it may not appear. “They” here means “he / she”. Since “he / she” and “his / her” appears untidy so now the native speakers have started using “they”, “them” and “their”. If anyone says this is wrong, tell them”it isn’t!”
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Assignment
Assignment
For the new readers I feel it necessary to tell that I give assignments or homework to the readers of this blog. They go through my previous posts and make their own sentences using the material I have furnished here, which I check. Currently, Amar Jain, 18, who is blind and passionate to improve English, submits his assignments.
This is the third assignment of this blog. Since it was submitted to my email id before I dealt with the previous two assignments, so some mistakes might appear repetitive.
Amar Jain writes:
1. "A no-lose situation":
Whatever is the result of the work you are going to be benefited by it.
I don't know that weather my late registration for AI will be accepted or not but if I go to Ahemdabad then I would be able to meet the various people. So, if I go then also I would be in a no-lose situation.
2. "For a song":
At a very low price.
You can get the 50000's original software in just 10000. So, you can fullfill your dream of getting original software for a song!
3. "Be quick on the Draw":
To act promptly and to understand anything quickly.
My principle was quick on the draw for the notification of computer examinations.
Explaination: She acted on the notification quickly.
Shadab Husain responds:
Well Amar, thanks for the submission. Your sentences are good - but they need a bit of Trimming. Try to write using as less words as you can. In your first example, you wrote: “I don't know that weather my late registration for AI will be accepted or not but if I go to Ahemdabad then I would be able to meet the various people. So, if I go then also I would be in a no-lose situation“. This can be shortened to:
I am in a no-lose situation even if my late AI registration gets rejected because going to Ahmedabad will provide me the opportunity of meeting various people.
I feel this sentence has expressed everything you wanted to. Am I right?
You wrote “weather” instead of “whether” whereas “Ahemdabad” appears to be a typo - it should be “Ahmedabad”. I well understand the limitations of a screen reading software! “The various people” should be “various people”.
In your second example you slipped using the possessive form “50000's original software”; it should be “an original software of 50000”. Needless to mention that you misspelled “fulfill” because I presume your ensuing assignments will pass the spell check of Word. Just to remind the command to check spellings is (F7). Additionally, try to use fewer words and avoid making separate sentences for idioms.
In your third example, you erred where many err. It has often been seen that when we write, we generally miss those points which are common for us. I think that this we do because we unselfconsciously presume that since these points are common for us, so they will be common for the readers as well. But, things are contrariwise.
You wrote “My principle was quick on the draw for the notification of computer examinations.” Ask yourself will your readers be able to grasp what you said? I presume you wanted to say “My principal, quick on the draw, read the notification and allowed me to take exams using computers.” (Leave your comment if I am wrong, I will improve by it.) Further, it is “explanation” instead of “explaination”. I also used to make the same mistake.
So this was today’s assignment. Was it good?
For the new readers I feel it necessary to tell that I give assignments or homework to the readers of this blog. They go through my previous posts and make their own sentences using the material I have furnished here, which I check. Currently, Amar Jain, 18, who is blind and passionate to improve English, submits his assignments.
This is the third assignment of this blog. Since it was submitted to my email id before I dealt with the previous two assignments, so some mistakes might appear repetitive.
Amar Jain writes:
1. "A no-lose situation":
Whatever is the result of the work you are going to be benefited by it.
I don't know that weather my late registration for AI will be accepted or not but if I go to Ahemdabad then I would be able to meet the various people. So, if I go then also I would be in a no-lose situation.
2. "For a song":
At a very low price.
You can get the 50000's original software in just 10000. So, you can fullfill your dream of getting original software for a song!
3. "Be quick on the Draw":
To act promptly and to understand anything quickly.
My principle was quick on the draw for the notification of computer examinations.
Explaination: She acted on the notification quickly.
Shadab Husain responds:
Well Amar, thanks for the submission. Your sentences are good - but they need a bit of Trimming. Try to write using as less words as you can. In your first example, you wrote: “I don't know that weather my late registration for AI will be accepted or not but if I go to Ahemdabad then I would be able to meet the various people. So, if I go then also I would be in a no-lose situation“. This can be shortened to:
I am in a no-lose situation even if my late AI registration gets rejected because going to Ahmedabad will provide me the opportunity of meeting various people.
I feel this sentence has expressed everything you wanted to. Am I right?
You wrote “weather” instead of “whether” whereas “Ahemdabad” appears to be a typo - it should be “Ahmedabad”. I well understand the limitations of a screen reading software! “The various people” should be “various people”.
In your second example you slipped using the possessive form “50000's original software”; it should be “an original software of 50000”. Needless to mention that you misspelled “fulfill” because I presume your ensuing assignments will pass the spell check of Word. Just to remind the command to check spellings is (F7). Additionally, try to use fewer words and avoid making separate sentences for idioms.
In your third example, you erred where many err. It has often been seen that when we write, we generally miss those points which are common for us. I think that this we do because we unselfconsciously presume that since these points are common for us, so they will be common for the readers as well. But, things are contrariwise.
You wrote “My principle was quick on the draw for the notification of computer examinations.” Ask yourself will your readers be able to grasp what you said? I presume you wanted to say “My principal, quick on the draw, read the notification and allowed me to take exams using computers.” (Leave your comment if I am wrong, I will improve by it.) Further, it is “explanation” instead of “explaination”. I also used to make the same mistake.
So this was today’s assignment. Was it good?
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Assignment
Assignment
Before I could shed light on the assignment, I must tell that whenever idioms are used, it should look like that they are well embellished in the sentence - and it must never appear as if the writer has used them merely to brag about.
This is the second assignment of this blog which was sent to my email address.
Amar Jain writes:
1. "Of two minds":
When we are not able to choose the right option from the available two options. Or, when we are confused between two options.
One side "HAL" saves my money and at the other side "Jaws" offers me the best features with very little extra expenditure. So I am of two minds for which software I should go.
2. "Fiddle while rome burns":
Enjoying or wasting your time while some important matters has not been attended yet.
I am giving first priority to internet while my first priority should be my studies because my exams are approaching. So, I am fiddling while the rome burns.
3. "Go into a tailspin":
To suddenly become bad or worse.
When Virendar Sehvag got married with Arti Singh, his performance in Cricket is going into tailspin day by day.
Shadab Husain responds:
Well Amar, thank you for your interest. You mentioned in the comment box that you don’t care a toss about others. I too don’t care. My sir, Mr Carlyle Andre McFarland, corrects me in front of the whole class.
Your first example is good. But wouldn’t it look more pleasing if we prune the two sentences slightly? How about more neatly knitting the idiom in the sentence? For instance, we can write:
HAL saves money while Jaws offers better features at a slightly higher price - so I really am of two minds which software to choose.
In your second example it should be “Enjoying or wasting your time while some important matters have not been attended yet” instead of “Enjoying or wasting your time while some important matters [has] not been attended yet”. I have bracketed the mistake.
In the same example, you wrote: “I am giving first priority to internet while my first priority should be my studies because my exams are approaching. So, I am fiddling while the Rome burns.” Priority means “the most important thing that must be dealt with first”. Therefore, when we use “priority” - we shouldn’t use “first”. Furthermore, I feel that we shouldn’t use idioms in a separate sentence. And check capitalisation for Rome.
Your third example, “When Virendar Sehvag got married with Arti Singh, his performance in Cricket is going into tailspin day by day.” It is “Into a tailspin” and not “into tailspin” - you missed the article “A”. In addition, I feel that the sentence would make a better reading if it is written “Ever since Virendar Sehvag married Arti Singh, his performance in cricket started going into a tailspin.” There’s no need of adding “day by day” because “started going” is already conveying that meaning. Try to be precise.
So the assignment is over.
Correction
I have said when we use “priority” we should not use “first” because this word already means “anything which must be dealt with first”. But after that I have noticed many eminent journalists coupling both these words, and therefore, I was wrong to point this out. Please pardon me for this mistake - (special apologies to Amar).
Before I could shed light on the assignment, I must tell that whenever idioms are used, it should look like that they are well embellished in the sentence - and it must never appear as if the writer has used them merely to brag about.
This is the second assignment of this blog which was sent to my email address.
Amar Jain writes:
1. "Of two minds":
When we are not able to choose the right option from the available two options. Or, when we are confused between two options.
One side "HAL" saves my money and at the other side "Jaws" offers me the best features with very little extra expenditure. So I am of two minds for which software I should go.
2. "Fiddle while rome burns":
Enjoying or wasting your time while some important matters has not been attended yet.
I am giving first priority to internet while my first priority should be my studies because my exams are approaching. So, I am fiddling while the rome burns.
3. "Go into a tailspin":
To suddenly become bad or worse.
When Virendar Sehvag got married with Arti Singh, his performance in Cricket is going into tailspin day by day.
Shadab Husain responds:
Well Amar, thank you for your interest. You mentioned in the comment box that you don’t care a toss about others. I too don’t care. My sir, Mr Carlyle Andre McFarland, corrects me in front of the whole class.
Your first example is good. But wouldn’t it look more pleasing if we prune the two sentences slightly? How about more neatly knitting the idiom in the sentence? For instance, we can write:
HAL saves money while Jaws offers better features at a slightly higher price - so I really am of two minds which software to choose.
In your second example it should be “Enjoying or wasting your time while some important matters have not been attended yet” instead of “Enjoying or wasting your time while some important matters [has] not been attended yet”. I have bracketed the mistake.
In the same example, you wrote: “I am giving first priority to internet while my first priority should be my studies because my exams are approaching. So, I am fiddling while the Rome burns.” Priority means “the most important thing that must be dealt with first”. Therefore, when we use “priority” - we shouldn’t use “first”. Furthermore, I feel that we shouldn’t use idioms in a separate sentence. And check capitalisation for Rome.
Your third example, “When Virendar Sehvag got married with Arti Singh, his performance in Cricket is going into tailspin day by day.” It is “Into a tailspin” and not “into tailspin” - you missed the article “A”. In addition, I feel that the sentence would make a better reading if it is written “Ever since Virendar Sehvag married Arti Singh, his performance in cricket started going into a tailspin.” There’s no need of adding “day by day” because “started going” is already conveying that meaning. Try to be precise.
So the assignment is over.
Correction
I have said when we use “priority” we should not use “first” because this word already means “anything which must be dealt with first”. But after that I have noticed many eminent journalists coupling both these words, and therefore, I was wrong to point this out. Please pardon me for this mistake - (special apologies to Amar).
Friday, December 19, 2008
Draconian
Draconian
http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/20/stories/2008122052511003.htm
The editorial, “Two steps backward” (Dec. 19), rightly points out that combating terrorism needs the beefing up of the intelligence and investigative system, and the police force. Draconian measures have only proved counterproductive. When POTA and TADA were in place, innumerable people were detained. But how many among them were terrorists?
By amending the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and not doing much to improve policing, the UPA government has chosen an easy way out. Will draconian laws prevent terrorists who don’t care about their lives and remain eager to take as many lives as they can?
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/20/stories/2008122052511003.htm
The editorial, “Two steps backward” (Dec. 19), rightly points out that combating terrorism needs the beefing up of the intelligence and investigative system, and the police force. Draconian measures have only proved counterproductive. When POTA and TADA were in place, innumerable people were detained. But how many among them were terrorists?
By amending the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and not doing much to improve policing, the UPA government has chosen an easy way out. Will draconian laws prevent terrorists who don’t care about their lives and remain eager to take as many lives as they can?
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
Monday, December 15, 2008
Errors to Avoid
Errors to Avoid
On this blog I receive some encouraging comments amidst many discouraging ones. Some encouraging comments I received for my post “Avoid Common Errors” - so I felt that furnishing a couple of more errors would be sensible. They are as follows:
“In mornings, drinking tea is preferred more to eating apples by many.” In this sentence “more” is needless - because “preferred” is already conveying that idea. The correct sentence will read: “In mornings, drinking tea is preferred to eating apples by many.” It must be remembered that when “prefer” is used, “more” should be avoided.
Distinguishing between “it’s” and “its” is very simple yet many people err. When an apostrophe is sandwiched between (T) and (S) - it means “It is”. But many miscue it to be a possessive form. For example, they say “the model of this car is good, but it’s average is bad.” It should be “the model of this car is good, but its average is bad.” Similarly, if you need to say “it is raining” using an apostrophe, you should say “it’s raining” instead of “its raining.”
“I am going to give my exams” instead of “I am going to take my exams”
“Don’t make no mistakes” instead of “Don’t make mistakes”
“The circus will return again” instead of “The circus will return”
“I didn’t received any letter” instead of “I didn’t receive any letter”
“John and Joe are both talking together” instead of “John and Joe are talking together”
“Whenever I read Dickens, I always enjoy” it should be “Whenever I read Dickens, I enjoy”
“Passing by the building, I noticed it is very old” it should be “Passing the building, I noticed it is very old”
“I was in the college” instead of “I was at the college”
So these were a few more errors. If I slip anywhere, please let me know by leaving your comments.
On this blog I receive some encouraging comments amidst many discouraging ones. Some encouraging comments I received for my post “Avoid Common Errors” - so I felt that furnishing a couple of more errors would be sensible. They are as follows:
“In mornings, drinking tea is preferred more to eating apples by many.” In this sentence “more” is needless - because “preferred” is already conveying that idea. The correct sentence will read: “In mornings, drinking tea is preferred to eating apples by many.” It must be remembered that when “prefer” is used, “more” should be avoided.
Distinguishing between “it’s” and “its” is very simple yet many people err. When an apostrophe is sandwiched between (T) and (S) - it means “It is”. But many miscue it to be a possessive form. For example, they say “the model of this car is good, but it’s average is bad.” It should be “the model of this car is good, but its average is bad.” Similarly, if you need to say “it is raining” using an apostrophe, you should say “it’s raining” instead of “its raining.”
“I am going to give my exams” instead of “I am going to take my exams”
“Don’t make no mistakes” instead of “Don’t make mistakes”
“The circus will return again” instead of “The circus will return”
“I didn’t received any letter” instead of “I didn’t receive any letter”
“John and Joe are both talking together” instead of “John and Joe are talking together”
“Whenever I read Dickens, I always enjoy” it should be “Whenever I read Dickens, I enjoy”
“Passing by the building, I noticed it is very old” it should be “Passing the building, I noticed it is very old”
“I was in the college” instead of “I was at the college”
So these were a few more errors. If I slip anywhere, please let me know by leaving your comments.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
English Class
English Class
I received the first assignment of this blog in the comment box which was submitted by Amar Jain.
Amar Jain writes:
1. "Take a pot shot": To suddenly find a fault with someone.
The distributor of Jaws was telling that the pronounciation of Hindi Jaws is very good but when I typed some words in Hindi just for testing, I found that the pronounciation of "," in Hindi Jaws was wrong. So, I took pot shot at him.
2. "Be writ large" (this is formal): To be very clear.
I instructed the dealer before giving the franchisee that you will have to be writ large with regard to the pricing policy of the company.
3. "Shore up something": To strengthen something by giving support.
"The Employees Insurance Scheme" is the way to shore up the workers's working.
Shadab Husain responds:
Well Amar, thank you for submitting your assignment. You did a brave thing by telling me to openly point out your errors - such brave hearts are rare. Here are a few errors I spotted in your assignment:
In your first sentence the spelling of “pronunciation” was wrong. You can avoid spelling mistakes by writing in MS Word. The command to check spelling mistakes is (F7). Pick up the misspelled words and Key them in a separate file and make a rule of typing those words till you feel you won’t misspell them again. I too do this.
Additionally, you missed the article “A” when you wrote “So, I took pot shot at him.” It should be “I took a pot shot at him”.
I feel that the first sentence would make a better reading if it is change to:
Just to test I typed a few words in the Hindi Jaws and Finding that it is mispronouncing 'comma' - I took a pot shot at the Jaws distributor - who was telling that the pronunciation of the Hindi Jaws is very good.
Your second sentence is very good. But it would look better if it is changed to:
I instructed the dealer before giving the franchisee that you will have to be writ large regarding the pricing policy of the company.
In the third one, it should be “workers’” instead of “workers’s”.
So today’s assignment is over. I hope you all would have enjoyed it.
I received the first assignment of this blog in the comment box which was submitted by Amar Jain.
Amar Jain writes:
1. "Take a pot shot": To suddenly find a fault with someone.
The distributor of Jaws was telling that the pronounciation of Hindi Jaws is very good but when I typed some words in Hindi just for testing, I found that the pronounciation of "," in Hindi Jaws was wrong. So, I took pot shot at him.
2. "Be writ large" (this is formal): To be very clear.
I instructed the dealer before giving the franchisee that you will have to be writ large with regard to the pricing policy of the company.
3. "Shore up something": To strengthen something by giving support.
"The Employees Insurance Scheme" is the way to shore up the workers's working.
Shadab Husain responds:
Well Amar, thank you for submitting your assignment. You did a brave thing by telling me to openly point out your errors - such brave hearts are rare. Here are a few errors I spotted in your assignment:
In your first sentence the spelling of “pronunciation” was wrong. You can avoid spelling mistakes by writing in MS Word. The command to check spelling mistakes is (F7). Pick up the misspelled words and Key them in a separate file and make a rule of typing those words till you feel you won’t misspell them again. I too do this.
Additionally, you missed the article “A” when you wrote “So, I took pot shot at him.” It should be “I took a pot shot at him”.
I feel that the first sentence would make a better reading if it is change to:
Just to test I typed a few words in the Hindi Jaws and Finding that it is mispronouncing 'comma' - I took a pot shot at the Jaws distributor - who was telling that the pronunciation of the Hindi Jaws is very good.
Your second sentence is very good. But it would look better if it is changed to:
I instructed the dealer before giving the franchisee that you will have to be writ large regarding the pricing policy of the company.
In the third one, it should be “workers’” instead of “workers’s”.
So today’s assignment is over. I hope you all would have enjoyed it.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
New Plan for Learning English
New Plan for Learning English
It is encouraging to learn that for some of you this blog is commendable. I feel deeply honoured when you tell me that reading my posts is beneficial and joyous for you. Adding to my joy, some visitors have found this blog so interesting that they have read all the posts just in a time span of two or three days.
But, I feel that, only skimming over the posts of this blog would not yield very good results. In order to excel at your communication, it is imperative that you all should put in a little more effort.
Therefore, I am planning to start giving assignments to all the readers of this blog. Your job would be to make your own sentences using the words, idioms and combinations of words I have provided and will provide here. In the comment boxes of my blog, I will review your assignments and whatever errors I will spot, I will point them out.
You might feel embarrassed if I openly pointed out your errors, so don’t reveal your identity. Click “Comments” and keep on hitting (R) - you will see a radio button “Anonymous” - check this button and post your assignments.
I am confident that learning in this novel fashion would be very interesting. First I will publish your posts and then my responses will ensue.
What do you think? Is my idea fine or should I add anything in this?
Postscript: The English classes will continue.
It is encouraging to learn that for some of you this blog is commendable. I feel deeply honoured when you tell me that reading my posts is beneficial and joyous for you. Adding to my joy, some visitors have found this blog so interesting that they have read all the posts just in a time span of two or three days.
But, I feel that, only skimming over the posts of this blog would not yield very good results. In order to excel at your communication, it is imperative that you all should put in a little more effort.
Therefore, I am planning to start giving assignments to all the readers of this blog. Your job would be to make your own sentences using the words, idioms and combinations of words I have provided and will provide here. In the comment boxes of my blog, I will review your assignments and whatever errors I will spot, I will point them out.
You might feel embarrassed if I openly pointed out your errors, so don’t reveal your identity. Click “Comments” and keep on hitting (R) - you will see a radio button “Anonymous” - check this button and post your assignments.
I am confident that learning in this novel fashion would be very interesting. First I will publish your posts and then my responses will ensue.
What do you think? Is my idea fine or should I add anything in this?
Postscript: The English classes will continue.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Needed, action (Taken from The Hindu)
Needed, action
Though Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari sounded sincere (“The terrorists want to destroy Pakistan, too” — Op-Ed article, Dec. 10), it is clear that the sabre-rattling by the Pakistani military impedes his actions. Otherwise, why would he have taken a ‘u’-turn on sending the ISI chief to India? There are a host of accused and confirmed terrorists living freely in Pakistan. If he really wants to wipe off terrorism, he should be strong enough to defy all the forces that come in the way of peace. Indians and Pakistanis are acutely suffering from terrorism. It would be better for us if Mr. Zardari, instead of his emotive articulations, takes the required actions against the terrorists. We want business.
Shadab Husain
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/11/stories/2008121155620801.htm
Though Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari sounded sincere (“The terrorists want to destroy Pakistan, too” — Op-Ed article, Dec. 10), it is clear that the sabre-rattling by the Pakistani military impedes his actions. Otherwise, why would he have taken a ‘u’-turn on sending the ISI chief to India? There are a host of accused and confirmed terrorists living freely in Pakistan. If he really wants to wipe off terrorism, he should be strong enough to defy all the forces that come in the way of peace. Indians and Pakistanis are acutely suffering from terrorism. It would be better for us if Mr. Zardari, instead of his emotive articulations, takes the required actions against the terrorists. We want business.
Shadab Husain
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/11/stories/2008121155620801.htm
Humourous English Class
Humourous English Class
Well friends, till now we have sincerely studied like obedient, innocent students. Now it is the time to do a bit of fun! So here are a few humourous sentences which made me laugh:
“I am feeling round round round circles” instead of “I am feeling giddy”!
“Open the door of the window” instead of “Open the window”!
Teacher to three talkative students: “Stand up both of you three” instead of “Stand up all you three”!
A football match was going on. Suddenly a controversy sparked off between the teams. Captain of one team said to his counterpart “I will not play with you”. The other replied, “You play not play I go my team go - what my father’s pocket go?” This second captain was trying to say: “You play or don’t play, my team and I will go - what would my father lose?”
Person to driver, “Car ko zara pechay back karo”!
“I want one half class of water” instead of “I want a half glass of water”!
“Water is raining down” instead of “It’s raining”!
“I know no English” instead of “I don’t know English”!
“I talk you, you talk me, who talk you?” Guess what this person is trying to say! I will love to have an interpretation of this in the comment box.
The English class is over! How was it?
Well friends, till now we have sincerely studied like obedient, innocent students. Now it is the time to do a bit of fun! So here are a few humourous sentences which made me laugh:
“I am feeling round round round circles” instead of “I am feeling giddy”!
“Open the door of the window” instead of “Open the window”!
Teacher to three talkative students: “Stand up both of you three” instead of “Stand up all you three”!
A football match was going on. Suddenly a controversy sparked off between the teams. Captain of one team said to his counterpart “I will not play with you”. The other replied, “You play not play I go my team go - what my father’s pocket go?” This second captain was trying to say: “You play or don’t play, my team and I will go - what would my father lose?”
Person to driver, “Car ko zara pechay back karo”!
“I want one half class of water” instead of “I want a half glass of water”!
“Water is raining down” instead of “It’s raining”!
“I know no English” instead of “I don’t know English”!
“I talk you, you talk me, who talk you?” Guess what this person is trying to say! I will love to have an interpretation of this in the comment box.
The English class is over! How was it?
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Avoid Common Errors
Avoid Common Errors
I see that often people good in expressing make small mistakes. Unfortunately, such small errors discolour the beauty of the piece regardless of how well it was expressed. It is imperative to avoid such blunders. Here are a few blunders I found common even in well-educated people:
“Have you learnt the English alphabets” It should be “Have you learnt the English alphabet” or “Have you learnt the English letters”
“It was preplanned from before” instead of “It was preplanned”. (Preplan is already conveying the meaning of before. Although the word “preplan” appears needless - because planning is always done beforetime! But be Roman in Rome)
“What is the criteria?” instead of “What is the criterion?” (Criteria is plural and criterion singular)
“Between the three” instead of “Between the two”. (Between is only used when there are two options)
“Among the two” instead of “among the three”. (Among is only used when there are more than two options)
“According to me” instead of “in my opinion”
“I will revert back” instead of “I will revert”
“I and my friends” instead of “My friends and I”
“It is very excellent” instead of “It is excellent”. (Excellent itself is superlative)
“It would be more better” instead of “It would be better”. (Using double comparative is wrong)
“It is worstest” instead of “It is worst”
“Softwares” instead of “Software”
“Fill the complete page” instead of “Fill the page”
“John is most powerful than George” instead of “John is more powerful than George”
“Tim is the most richest person of this vicinity” instead of “Tim is the richest person of this vicinity”
Well, these were a few common errors. In time, I will catch more and shall post. Meanwhile, if you find any error in my writing, either use the message box or mail me.
I will add a new feature in the English Classes. It would be famous sayings as “be Roman in Rome”. Keep on tracking this blog!
I see that often people good in expressing make small mistakes. Unfortunately, such small errors discolour the beauty of the piece regardless of how well it was expressed. It is imperative to avoid such blunders. Here are a few blunders I found common even in well-educated people:
“Have you learnt the English alphabets” It should be “Have you learnt the English alphabet” or “Have you learnt the English letters”
“It was preplanned from before” instead of “It was preplanned”. (Preplan is already conveying the meaning of before. Although the word “preplan” appears needless - because planning is always done beforetime! But be Roman in Rome)
“What is the criteria?” instead of “What is the criterion?” (Criteria is plural and criterion singular)
“Between the three” instead of “Between the two”. (Between is only used when there are two options)
“Among the two” instead of “among the three”. (Among is only used when there are more than two options)
“According to me” instead of “in my opinion”
“I will revert back” instead of “I will revert”
“I and my friends” instead of “My friends and I”
“It is very excellent” instead of “It is excellent”. (Excellent itself is superlative)
“It would be more better” instead of “It would be better”. (Using double comparative is wrong)
“It is worstest” instead of “It is worst”
“Softwares” instead of “Software”
“Fill the complete page” instead of “Fill the page”
“John is most powerful than George” instead of “John is more powerful than George”
“Tim is the most richest person of this vicinity” instead of “Tim is the richest person of this vicinity”
Well, these were a few common errors. In time, I will catch more and shall post. Meanwhile, if you find any error in my writing, either use the message box or mail me.
I will add a new feature in the English Classes. It would be famous sayings as “be Roman in Rome”. Keep on tracking this blog!
Friday, December 5, 2008
English Class
English Class
I said that in order to communicate creative in a language which isn’t your mother tongue, sensing the spirit of it is very crucial. If you fail to bring the spirit of the language you communicate in, your readers won’t get the real taste of that language.
But, I venture to add that, English is a very adoptive language. I see that it welcomes various cultures and tempers and charmingly jells with them. So, if you are successful in simply expressing yourself - this alien language will look very familiar in your hands.
Words of the day
Blitzkrieg: n. A quick, sudden military offensive, usually by combined air and mobile land forces. Journalists are opining that at such a sensitive time a blitzkrieg against Pakistan would be premature.
Cahoots: n. A secret, questionable partnership. It is being speculated that retired army officers of Pakistan worked in cahoots with the terrorists who engineered the Mumbai attacks.
Inter alia: adv. Among other things. The Black Cat Commandos were brave, daring, inter alia, humble.
Idioms of the day
Sabre-rattling: Threatening behaviour intended to make someone afraid. Zardari’s u-turn on sending the ISI chief to India might have been resulted from saber-rattling from Pakistani army.
Connect the dots: To understand the relationship between different ideas or experiences. Connecting the dots between the terrorists and Pakistani government is crucial before taking any military action.
The bane of your life: Someone or something that is always causing problems for you and upsetting you. My servant often comes up with an excuse to be away from work - he has become the bane of my life. My computer has become the bane of my life as it crashes at regular intervals.
Combinations of words
Constrained politeness: Her constrained politeness really moved me beyond control.
Immoderate grief (immoderate = adj. Excessive): Losing a young son fills up the parents with immoderate grief.
Creative and inventive: A creative and inventive mind is enough to spin money.
The class is over. Let’s run!
I said that in order to communicate creative in a language which isn’t your mother tongue, sensing the spirit of it is very crucial. If you fail to bring the spirit of the language you communicate in, your readers won’t get the real taste of that language.
But, I venture to add that, English is a very adoptive language. I see that it welcomes various cultures and tempers and charmingly jells with them. So, if you are successful in simply expressing yourself - this alien language will look very familiar in your hands.
Words of the day
Blitzkrieg: n. A quick, sudden military offensive, usually by combined air and mobile land forces. Journalists are opining that at such a sensitive time a blitzkrieg against Pakistan would be premature.
Cahoots: n. A secret, questionable partnership. It is being speculated that retired army officers of Pakistan worked in cahoots with the terrorists who engineered the Mumbai attacks.
Inter alia: adv. Among other things. The Black Cat Commandos were brave, daring, inter alia, humble.
Idioms of the day
Sabre-rattling: Threatening behaviour intended to make someone afraid. Zardari’s u-turn on sending the ISI chief to India might have been resulted from saber-rattling from Pakistani army.
Connect the dots: To understand the relationship between different ideas or experiences. Connecting the dots between the terrorists and Pakistani government is crucial before taking any military action.
The bane of your life: Someone or something that is always causing problems for you and upsetting you. My servant often comes up with an excuse to be away from work - he has become the bane of my life. My computer has become the bane of my life as it crashes at regular intervals.
Combinations of words
Constrained politeness: Her constrained politeness really moved me beyond control.
Immoderate grief (immoderate = adj. Excessive): Losing a young son fills up the parents with immoderate grief.
Creative and inventive: A creative and inventive mind is enough to spin money.
The class is over. Let’s run!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
English Class
English Class
I think that languages reflect the culture and environment of the place they originate from. Communicating creatively in a language which isn’t your mother tongue means you are taking a fleet from your culture. I, therefore, feel that if you are trying to communicate creatively in English, it is very crucial for you to understand the English culture and environment. By doing this, you will understand the spirit of the language, which will enable you to communicate more effectively in English. Remember being fluent is a different thing and sensing the spirit of the language a different one. The latter will need your acutest sensibility.
Words of the day
Suave: adj. Smoothly agreeable and courteous. Most of the salesmen pretend to be suave.
Belie: v. To misrepresent, to picture falsely. The media belied Tata Nano.
Fraught: adj. Filled with a specific element or elements. A discouraged person’s way is fraught with difficulties and sadness.
Idioms of the day
A watched pot never boils: Something that you say which means that if you anxiously wait for anything to happen, it seems to take a lot of time. I am waiting for my friend’s email, but alas, a watched pot never boils.
Sweet nothings: Romantic things that people who are in love say to each other. Instead of having a sensible talk with us, both idiots kept on saying sweet nothings to each other.
Not for quids (Australian, informal): If you say you will not do something for quids, you mean you would hate to do it. Boss, mind your language otherwise I won’t do your work for quids.
Combinations of words
Integral element (integral = adj. Essential, necessary): Jon thinks that a robust pickup is an integral element of a motorbike.
Obstacles and disasters: Crush your obstacles and disasters otherwise they will crush you.
Kindled enthusiasm: George was feeling very dull and sad but a gentle smile of his child kindled enthusiasm in his heart.
The class is over.
I think that languages reflect the culture and environment of the place they originate from. Communicating creatively in a language which isn’t your mother tongue means you are taking a fleet from your culture. I, therefore, feel that if you are trying to communicate creatively in English, it is very crucial for you to understand the English culture and environment. By doing this, you will understand the spirit of the language, which will enable you to communicate more effectively in English. Remember being fluent is a different thing and sensing the spirit of the language a different one. The latter will need your acutest sensibility.
Words of the day
Suave: adj. Smoothly agreeable and courteous. Most of the salesmen pretend to be suave.
Belie: v. To misrepresent, to picture falsely. The media belied Tata Nano.
Fraught: adj. Filled with a specific element or elements. A discouraged person’s way is fraught with difficulties and sadness.
Idioms of the day
A watched pot never boils: Something that you say which means that if you anxiously wait for anything to happen, it seems to take a lot of time. I am waiting for my friend’s email, but alas, a watched pot never boils.
Sweet nothings: Romantic things that people who are in love say to each other. Instead of having a sensible talk with us, both idiots kept on saying sweet nothings to each other.
Not for quids (Australian, informal): If you say you will not do something for quids, you mean you would hate to do it. Boss, mind your language otherwise I won’t do your work for quids.
Combinations of words
Integral element (integral = adj. Essential, necessary): Jon thinks that a robust pickup is an integral element of a motorbike.
Obstacles and disasters: Crush your obstacles and disasters otherwise they will crush you.
Kindled enthusiasm: George was feeling very dull and sad but a gentle smile of his child kindled enthusiasm in his heart.
The class is over.
Monday, December 1, 2008
English Class
English Class
[Before beginning with today’s English class, I will request to all the readers to pray for the people who lost their lives in the gruesome Mumbai attacks.]
Words of the day
Fainthearted: adj. Lacking conviction, courage or boldness. Challenging the Mumbai terrorists wasn’t a job for the fainthearted.
Abseil: v. To go down by a rope fastened at the top and tied around the body. Crack Black Cat Commandos did a daring job when they abseiled on the terrace of the hotel from the helicopter.
Bedlam: n. A place or situation of noisy uproar and confusion. As the inhuman terrorists started spraying bullets on the common people it was a bedlam in the hotel lobby.
Idioms of the day
Grin and bear it: To accept an unpleasant or difficult situation because there is nothing you can do to improve it. The terror strikes are widening the divide between Hindus and Muslims but many of us have to grin and bear it.
Hit a snag: To experience a difficulty. The round-to-clock media coverage of the shootout hit a snag on the actions of the security personnel.
In a bind: Forced to deal with a difficult situation. If the war between India and Pakistan takes place, it will keep the common countrymen of both the nations in a bind.
Combinations of words
Dread and terror: The dread and terror was clearly visible on the faces of the people who were coming out from the hotels.
Disaster of the first magnitude: If India attacked Pakistan in the view of the recent terror strikes - it would be a disaster of the first magnitude for them.
Ambitions and dreams: Those unforgivable brutes in Mumbai have crushed many ambitions and dreams.
Let’s pray and vow to fight terror being united. I shudder to think about an internal divide. Unity is power. I am not afraid from terror strikes; the thing which frightens me is our division. It is to be remembered that people belonging to all the religions were killed in the assault. Will all of us remain united in this tough time? I humbly hope and pray.
[Before beginning with today’s English class, I will request to all the readers to pray for the people who lost their lives in the gruesome Mumbai attacks.]
Words of the day
Fainthearted: adj. Lacking conviction, courage or boldness. Challenging the Mumbai terrorists wasn’t a job for the fainthearted.
Abseil: v. To go down by a rope fastened at the top and tied around the body. Crack Black Cat Commandos did a daring job when they abseiled on the terrace of the hotel from the helicopter.
Bedlam: n. A place or situation of noisy uproar and confusion. As the inhuman terrorists started spraying bullets on the common people it was a bedlam in the hotel lobby.
Idioms of the day
Grin and bear it: To accept an unpleasant or difficult situation because there is nothing you can do to improve it. The terror strikes are widening the divide between Hindus and Muslims but many of us have to grin and bear it.
Hit a snag: To experience a difficulty. The round-to-clock media coverage of the shootout hit a snag on the actions of the security personnel.
In a bind: Forced to deal with a difficult situation. If the war between India and Pakistan takes place, it will keep the common countrymen of both the nations in a bind.
Combinations of words
Dread and terror: The dread and terror was clearly visible on the faces of the people who were coming out from the hotels.
Disaster of the first magnitude: If India attacked Pakistan in the view of the recent terror strikes - it would be a disaster of the first magnitude for them.
Ambitions and dreams: Those unforgivable brutes in Mumbai have crushed many ambitions and dreams.
Let’s pray and vow to fight terror being united. I shudder to think about an internal divide. Unity is power. I am not afraid from terror strikes; the thing which frightens me is our division. It is to be remembered that people belonging to all the religions were killed in the assault. Will all of us remain united in this tough time? I humbly hope and pray.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Make India safe
Make India safe
The gruesome terror attacks have shown how vulnerable we are. Blaming the police for these attacks is not correct. It must be accepted that it is physically impossible for the police to check every vehicle and person across the country. The police did remarkably well by plunging into action and neutralizing the terrorists. The nation fervently salutes them. The job of the intelligence agencies, however, leaves much to be desired.
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2008/11/29/stories/2008112955720904.htm
The gruesome terror attacks have shown how vulnerable we are. Blaming the police for these attacks is not correct. It must be accepted that it is physically impossible for the police to check every vehicle and person across the country. The police did remarkably well by plunging into action and neutralizing the terrorists. The nation fervently salutes them. The job of the intelligence agencies, however, leaves much to be desired.
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2008/11/29/stories/2008112955720904.htm
English Class
English Class
I have heard that if you feel frustrated or sad over anything and write it, you feel relieved. It is being said that besides providing you the patience and courage to keep going, your writing makes you calmer and happier. So, write.
Words of the day
No-brainer: n. (this is informal) Something so easy that it doesn’t require any thinking. It is a no-brainer that overdoing a thing proves harmful.
Angst: n. A feeling of anxiety or apprehension, often accompanied with depression. Angst stems from negative attitude, not from hostile circumstances.
Laconic: adj. Using or noticed for few words - concise, to the point. Speeches of all the great leaders are laconic.
Idioms of the day
The nitty-gritty: The most important or basic facts of a thing. I prefer starting off with the nitty-gritty of the issues.
An open sesame: A very successful way of achieving something. A clear, crisp communication is an open sesame to earn respect, fame and money - irrespective of the stream you belong to.
Right up your alley: Matching your interests or abilities. It is always wiser to seek career in the stream which is right up your alley.
Combinations of words
Farfetched dream (farfetched = adj. Unlikely): Defeating John is a farfetched dream for his poor enemies.
Fresh as a spring: She was so humble and truthful that she appeared as fresh as a spring to me.
Historical perspective: Before giving your opinion on any issue, examining the historical perspective of it is a must.
The class is over. Run!
I have heard that if you feel frustrated or sad over anything and write it, you feel relieved. It is being said that besides providing you the patience and courage to keep going, your writing makes you calmer and happier. So, write.
Words of the day
No-brainer: n. (this is informal) Something so easy that it doesn’t require any thinking. It is a no-brainer that overdoing a thing proves harmful.
Angst: n. A feeling of anxiety or apprehension, often accompanied with depression. Angst stems from negative attitude, not from hostile circumstances.
Laconic: adj. Using or noticed for few words - concise, to the point. Speeches of all the great leaders are laconic.
Idioms of the day
The nitty-gritty: The most important or basic facts of a thing. I prefer starting off with the nitty-gritty of the issues.
An open sesame: A very successful way of achieving something. A clear, crisp communication is an open sesame to earn respect, fame and money - irrespective of the stream you belong to.
Right up your alley: Matching your interests or abilities. It is always wiser to seek career in the stream which is right up your alley.
Combinations of words
Farfetched dream (farfetched = adj. Unlikely): Defeating John is a farfetched dream for his poor enemies.
Fresh as a spring: She was so humble and truthful that she appeared as fresh as a spring to me.
Historical perspective: Before giving your opinion on any issue, examining the historical perspective of it is a must.
The class is over. Run!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
On Duckworth-Lewis
On Duckworth-Lewis
This refers to the letters arguing that the Duckworth-Lewis method should be changed as England lost the Bangalore ODI because of it (Nov. 25). The Indian team had no way of knowing that the match would be shortened to 22 overs, which is why it did not score quick runs. On the other hand, the England team was aware that it would get only 22 overs to bat. Thus it had an advantage over India. It was imperative to level this imbalance. Therefore, England was asked to score a few more runs. Where is the defect in the D/L method and where is the misfortune for England?
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2008/11/26/stories/2008112655821006.htm
This refers to the letters arguing that the Duckworth-Lewis method should be changed as England lost the Bangalore ODI because of it (Nov. 25). The Indian team had no way of knowing that the match would be shortened to 22 overs, which is why it did not score quick runs. On the other hand, the England team was aware that it would get only 22 overs to bat. Thus it had an advantage over India. It was imperative to level this imbalance. Therefore, England was asked to score a few more runs. Where is the defect in the D/L method and where is the misfortune for England?
Shadab Husain,
Lucknow
http://www.hindu.com/2008/11/26/stories/2008112655821006.htm
English Class
English Class
When you speak any word beginning with the letter (W), your mouth should take a round shape as in pronouncing (O). But when you speak a word beginning with the letter (V), your upper teeth should touch your lower lip.
Now, if you have a dictionary which speaks the pronunciation aloud, key in the words beginning with these two letters and note the difference. But if you don’t have such a dictionary, listen to the perfect speakers and note how they speak.
In order to finely utter the words beginning with these two letters, first take a word which begins from the letter (W) and keep on speaking it till you feel you are easy with it. After this do the same with the letter (V). Then, mingle the words and keep on practicing till you fit them properly into your mouth. It will not require enough time or work; 10 minutes devoted till 15 days to this practice would be enough. I tell this out of my own experience.
Words of the day
Quintessential: adj. The most typical example or representative of a type. A quintessential Indian woman devotedly works for her husband and children without caring for herself.
Iota: n. A very small amount, a bit. I am sure that Tim is the robber, and there isn’t even an iota of doubt in it.
Downplay: v. To minimise the significance of anything. John downplayed the threats he was receiving from his opponents and suffered heavy loss.
Idioms of the day
Step into the breach (this is formal): To do a substituting job because the real person is suddenly not present. Mr James, the director of my company has suddenly got ill and Mrs Brown has step into the breach.
A turf war (this is American): A fight or an argument to decide who holds an area or an activity. Suddenly the road changed into a battleground as a turf war triggered off between two gangsters. Emerging victorious after a series of turf wars with Clinton, Obama went ahead to stamp his victory over McCain.
At/on the cutting edge: In the area of a subject or activity where the newest changes or developments are taking place. Dr Woodsworth is on the cutting edge of gene therapy.
Combinations of words
Needless innovations: It is always better to stick to simplicity by neglecting the needless innovations the glamourous blokes promote.
Work and constancy (constancy = n. Steadfastness, changelessness): Thinking about success without work and constancy is impractical.
Wild havoc: The storm created such a wild havoc that children started to panic.
The class is over.
When you speak any word beginning with the letter (W), your mouth should take a round shape as in pronouncing (O). But when you speak a word beginning with the letter (V), your upper teeth should touch your lower lip.
Now, if you have a dictionary which speaks the pronunciation aloud, key in the words beginning with these two letters and note the difference. But if you don’t have such a dictionary, listen to the perfect speakers and note how they speak.
In order to finely utter the words beginning with these two letters, first take a word which begins from the letter (W) and keep on speaking it till you feel you are easy with it. After this do the same with the letter (V). Then, mingle the words and keep on practicing till you fit them properly into your mouth. It will not require enough time or work; 10 minutes devoted till 15 days to this practice would be enough. I tell this out of my own experience.
Words of the day
Quintessential: adj. The most typical example or representative of a type. A quintessential Indian woman devotedly works for her husband and children without caring for herself.
Iota: n. A very small amount, a bit. I am sure that Tim is the robber, and there isn’t even an iota of doubt in it.
Downplay: v. To minimise the significance of anything. John downplayed the threats he was receiving from his opponents and suffered heavy loss.
Idioms of the day
Step into the breach (this is formal): To do a substituting job because the real person is suddenly not present. Mr James, the director of my company has suddenly got ill and Mrs Brown has step into the breach.
A turf war (this is American): A fight or an argument to decide who holds an area or an activity. Suddenly the road changed into a battleground as a turf war triggered off between two gangsters. Emerging victorious after a series of turf wars with Clinton, Obama went ahead to stamp his victory over McCain.
At/on the cutting edge: In the area of a subject or activity where the newest changes or developments are taking place. Dr Woodsworth is on the cutting edge of gene therapy.
Combinations of words
Needless innovations: It is always better to stick to simplicity by neglecting the needless innovations the glamourous blokes promote.
Work and constancy (constancy = n. Steadfastness, changelessness): Thinking about success without work and constancy is impractical.
Wild havoc: The storm created such a wild havoc that children started to panic.
The class is over.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
English Class
English Class
In the essay “On the Art of Speaking” I suggested you to recapitulate aloud whatever you read in order to be fluent.
I recapitulate editorials and news analyses. To my joy, I have noticed that whenever I recapitulate anything, my mind unselfconsciously develops an inclination to counter the points I am speaking about and brings forth the aspects which makes the recapitulated piece stronger. This recapitulation practice, besides making the speaker fluent and expressive, develops debating skills and brings forth the aspects which he would have overlooked. I feel that this is an excellent discovery.
Words of the day
Unselfconscious: adj. Not self-conscious, natural. The unselfconscious singing of any child is really very sweet.
Anglophile: n. One who admires England, its culture, and its people. It was due to a bunch of idiotic anglophiles that the Brits ruled India for so long.
Delve: v. 1. To search deeply and laboriously. 2. To dig the ground, as with a spade. I delved the whole lot of papers to get my certificate. An archeologist should be very patient because often delving doesn’t give any results.
Idioms of the day
Feet of clay: If you say that someone you praise have feet of clay, it means he has hidden faults. Most of the social workers have feet of clay.
At first blush (American): When you first start to think about something. At first blush holidaying in Vienna appeared a fine idea but later we decided flying to Paris.
Weigh your words: To think carefully before you say anything. A wise man always weighs his words.
Combinations of words
Indelible mark (indelible = impossible to remove): Parents must remember that child abuse leaves an indelible mark on the minds of children.
Inseparably linked: It is said that hearts of the true lovers are inseparably linked - no matter how far the both live.
Chain of connection: From Bollywood to drugs and police to underworld, there seem to be a chain of connection.
The class is over.
In the essay “On the Art of Speaking” I suggested you to recapitulate aloud whatever you read in order to be fluent.
I recapitulate editorials and news analyses. To my joy, I have noticed that whenever I recapitulate anything, my mind unselfconsciously develops an inclination to counter the points I am speaking about and brings forth the aspects which makes the recapitulated piece stronger. This recapitulation practice, besides making the speaker fluent and expressive, develops debating skills and brings forth the aspects which he would have overlooked. I feel that this is an excellent discovery.
Words of the day
Unselfconscious: adj. Not self-conscious, natural. The unselfconscious singing of any child is really very sweet.
Anglophile: n. One who admires England, its culture, and its people. It was due to a bunch of idiotic anglophiles that the Brits ruled India for so long.
Delve: v. 1. To search deeply and laboriously. 2. To dig the ground, as with a spade. I delved the whole lot of papers to get my certificate. An archeologist should be very patient because often delving doesn’t give any results.
Idioms of the day
Feet of clay: If you say that someone you praise have feet of clay, it means he has hidden faults. Most of the social workers have feet of clay.
At first blush (American): When you first start to think about something. At first blush holidaying in Vienna appeared a fine idea but later we decided flying to Paris.
Weigh your words: To think carefully before you say anything. A wise man always weighs his words.
Combinations of words
Indelible mark (indelible = impossible to remove): Parents must remember that child abuse leaves an indelible mark on the minds of children.
Inseparably linked: It is said that hearts of the true lovers are inseparably linked - no matter how far the both live.
Chain of connection: From Bollywood to drugs and police to underworld, there seem to be a chain of connection.
The class is over.
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