Life in the US

Questions to Ask Before You Marry

February 11, 2019
Marriage. Is it a romantic situation with some practical parts? Or it is a practical situation with some
romantic parts?
Couples and cultures differ. But experts on marriage warn that, in general, romantic love – you know, that
excited feeling you have at the beginning of a relationship – lasts only for about a year. As the relationship
continues, partners need to make sure they can still live together happily. In other words, they need to
be compatible.
But how do you know if you are compatible with someone? Like in a job interview, you need to ask
questions.
Several websites suggest questions you should ask your future bride or groom. We have collected here
some of the ones that appear most often.
What kind of debt do you have?
A 2018 poll by the Pew Research Center found that money is one of the top five things couples fight about.
Before tying the knot – another way of saying “getting married” – you should talk to your partner about
any money each of you owes – such as student loans, house or car payments.
One reason to talk about debt is because married couples may want to make a costly purchase together,
such as a house. Debt could limit your ability to do so.
And do not forget about credit card debt. This probably tells more about a person’s relationship with money
than any other kind of debt. That leads us to our next question.
What are your spending habits?
Some people are good at saving money. They take comfort in having extra in the bank. Others are good at
spending money. Shopping, for them, can bring comfort.
If you and your partner spend money differently it could lead to conflict. Now is a good time to talk about
savings, budgets and how you will handle your finances together.
How do you feel about a clean house?
Cleaning up around the house may not seem like a big deal. However, the same poll noted earlier found
that 62 percent of all Americans said sharing household duties is important to a successful marriage. How
will you and your partner divide them?
When talking about cleaning the house, there is another related question.
How do you feel about clutter?
For some people, living in a house with things everywhere can be very stressful. Other people have a hard
time throwing anything away. It is important to know how you and your partner will deal with the everyday
stuff of life.
How much time do you spend on social media or other technology?
Some people can spend hours on Facebook or playing video games. Other people hate using their time in
such a way. Maybe they like to go hiking or play an instrument for hours instead.
So, at the heart of this question is this simpler but all-important one: “How do you like to spend your
time?” Couples who share the same interests -- whatever they may be -- are more likely to succeed at being
married.
Do you want children?
Okay, whether or not to have children is a big question.
In marriage, many areas are negotiable. Couples can find a compromise. However, the question of whether
or not to have children is not one of these areas. For many people the issue of children can be a deal-
breaker.
So, find out before you walk down the aisle, find out if you both have the same expectations about babies
– yes, no, how many and when?
Have you ever been arrested? If you have … for what?
This may sound obvious. But you may be surprised by what you learn. Before you marry someone, it is a
good idea to find out if your partner has a criminal record.
But keep in mind that not having an arrest record may simply mean that they have never been caught. So,
while you are on the topic, you could also ask about a history of gambling, overusing alcohol or drugs or,
perhaps, violence.
How much time alone do you need to be happy?
You can’t spend every minute together. Or can you? Best to ask.
Some people are most happy when they are around others. In fact, some people hate to be alone. But other
people may need large amounts of time by themselves.
It is important to share where you fall on this line. Some people may take it personally if their partner does
not want to be with them all the time. And the people who need to be alone may feel trapped by being with
someone day in and day out, even if it is someone they love.
These are just some of the questions you may want to ask before getting married. These topics may be
uncomfortable. But a couple hours of feeling uncomfortable is better than a lifetime of conflict.
Also, experts warn to be careful of someone who does not want to answer questions such as these. That is
perhaps the greatest warning sign of all.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Love and marriage
Love and marriage
Go together like a horse and carriage
This I'll tell you, brother,
You can't have one without the other...
_________________
Words in This Story
compatible – adj. capable of existing together in a satisfactory relationship (as marriage)
practical – adj. relating to what is real rather than to what is possible or imagined
romance – n. a love affair (romantic – adj. of, relating to, or involving love between two people
clutter – n. a crowded or confused mass or collection
negotiable – adj. able to be discussed and changed before an agreement or decision is made
compromise – n. a way of reaching agreement in which each person or group gives up something that was
wanted in order to end an argument or dispute
walk down the aisle – idiomatic phrase to get married
deal-breaker – n. something that is important enough to you to prevent you from agreeing to something,
buying something, etc.
obvious – adj. easily discovered, seen, or understood

Valentine's Day History

(12 Feb 2019)
Every February we celebrate Valentine's Day by giving flowers, candy and cards to those we love. We do
this in honor of St. Valentine. You may be wondering, "Who is St. Valentine"? Time to brush up on your
Valentine's history!

There are different ideas as to where or how the celebration of Valentine's Day began. The Roman's
celebrated a festival called Lupercalia on February 15. This festival was held to ward off the danger of
wolves to their flocks and honored their God Lupercalia. Some people think that Valentine's Day is based
on this festival.

Another legend is that St. Valentine was a priest who served during third century Rome. During that time,
there was an Emperor who ruled Rome named Claudius II. Emperor Claudius II decided that single men
made better soldiers than those that were married and outlawed marriage for all young men serving in his
army. Supposedly, Valentine, decided this decree just wasn't fair and chose to marry young couples secretly.
When Emperor Claudius II found out about Valentine's actions he had him impisoned, and later put to
death. Some stories say that the young couples, who Valentine had married, gave flowers and letters to
Valentine when they visited him in the prison.

In a slightly different version of the legend, Valentine was an imprisoned man who fell in love with his
jailor's daughter. Before he was put to death he sent the first 'valentine' to his love when he wrote her a
letter and signed it 'Your Valentine'. These words are still used on cards today.

Perhaps we'll never know the true identity and story behind the man named St. Valentine, but this much is
for sure...February has been the month to celebrate love for a long time, dating way back to the Middle
Ages. In fact, Valentine's Day ranks second only to Christmas in number of greeting cards sent

Another famous person from Valentine's Day that you may be wondering about is Cupid (Latin cupido,
"desire"). In Roman mythology Cupid is the son of Venus, goddess of love. His counterpart in Greek
mythology is Eros, god of love. Cupid is often said to be a mischievous boy who goes around wounding
both gods and humans with his arrows, causing them to fall in love.

What Is 5G Wireless Technology?

February 13, 2019
There has been a lot of publicity recently surrounding 5G, the next generation of wireless technology for
the world. But what is this technology and how might it change our lives?
What is 5G?
5G stands for fifth generation, meaning the next step in the progression of technology to replace the current
4G system. 4G was the replacement for 3G, which came after 2G, and so on.
These systems are wireless computer networks.
Earlier “G” systems were designed to improve mobile communication operations. Each new technology
brought major improvements in speed and greatly increased network capacity.
The new 5G system promises more of the same. It is expected to permit more users to do more things -- at
a faster rate. Higher internet speeds and larger network capacity should result in better performance for
device users connected to 5G.
However, technology experts say there is a major way that 5G is different than the earlier systems. It will
move well beyond mobile network technology to affect many more devices and industries than other “G”
versions.
When will it be available?
Before we can all use 5G, wireless companies and phone makers will have to complete and deploy a whole
new system. New phones and communication equipment must be built.
American wireless companies have been preparing for the new system for some time. They have been
creating new network equipment and buying broadcasting space to carry 5G signals. They have built new
5G antennas to serve American cities and towns. Wireless providers will invest at least $275 billion in 5G-
related networks in the United States, the industry group CTIA reported.
The first U.S. launch of 5G is expected to happen sometime this year. Industry experts expect it will take a
few more years to go nationwide. It will take even longer to reach rural areas.
China is expected to launch 5G sometime in 2020, while European nations are likely to build their systems
more slowly over time.
In the United States, the first 5G-ready phones should be available in the first half of this year. The first 5G
iPhone, however, is not expected until 2020.
4G phones will work on 5G networks, but not at 5G speeds.
What can 5G do?
Wireless industry groups say 5G will help fuel future “smart cities” by connecting sensor networks. Such
networks will be able to control vehicle traffic and quickly identify streetlight outages.
5G is also expected to connect self-driving cars and support new technologies involving virtual reality.
Higher 5G speeds could also permit doctors to commonly perform remote medical operations. Factories
and businesses could use 5G technology to increase automation and improve the collection of information.
What are the security concerns?
More data -- and many more kinds of data -- will be traveling across 5G networks. Much of the data could
contain private details about individuals, businesses or government organizations. The increased data flow
would give internet attackers a lot more possibilities to steal and misuse data.
In addition, the wider use of a 5G wireless network means any breakdown of the system would have more
widespread and severe results. Such difficulties could affect public safety as well as world economic
activity.
Government system failures could create national security risks. A failure during a doctor’s remotely guided
operation could lead to the death of a patient. Or a network breakdown could cause self-driving vehicles to
crash.
The 5G network has caused tensions between the United States and China. The U.S. government has urged
American companies not to use Chinese technology in communications networks because of security
concerns. It has also pressed other countries to ban Huawei, a Chinese telecom company, from building 5G
networks.
U.S. officials have long suspected the Chinese government could use Huawei network equipment to help
carry out spying activities.
Huawei has rejected such accusations.
_____________________________________________________________
Words in This Story
network – n. system permitting people to communicate and share information through the internet using a
computer or mobile phone
capacity – n. the largest amount something can handle
antenna – n. piece of metal used for receiving television or radio signals
sensor – n. device that detects or senses heat, light, sound, etc.
virtual reality – n. computer images and sounds that make you feel an imagined situation is real
remote – adj. far away from where something is happening
automation – n. the controlling of something using machines and not people

Also, Too and As Well

February 15, 2019
Question:
Could you explain to us how and when to use "as well" and "too"?
Answer:
I am happy to talk about the terms “as well” and “too.” I am also happy to talk about the word “also.” All
three are adverbs that mean “in addition.” They are used in similar ways.
When to use
Let me start with when to use them.
“Too” is the most informal but is often the best choice when speaking American English.
“As well” is a little more formal than “too” and less common in American spoken English. Many
Americans do use it in writing, however.
“Also” is generally more common in writing than speech.
How to use
Now let’s examine how they are used.
“Too” and “as well” usually come at the end of sentences. Listen to a short exchange:
Jerome is going to Mardi Gras.
I’m going to Mardi Gras, too!
The person could use “as well,” although it sounds somewhat formal:
I’m going to Mardi Gras as well.
Where is ‘also’?
The word “also” can appear many places in a sentence or clause. Here are a few.
At the start of a sentence, it can be used to present a new subject:
We’re so excited. Also, we brought a surprise.
But more often “also” appears in other positions, such as before the main verb:
We’re so excited. We also brought a surprise.
When “be” is the main verb, “also” comes after “be”:
I am also really excited.
Revelers parade during a Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Negatives
Lastly, none of these adverbs are used in negative statements. Instead, use the word “either” or “neither.”
I can’t go to Mardi Gras this year.
That’s sad. Neither can I.
I can’t either.
______________________________________________________________
Words in This Story
adverb – n. a word that is often used to show time, manner, place or degree
informal – adj. not suited for serious or official speech and writing
Mardi Gras – n. the Tuesday before the beginning of Lent (40 days of fasting before Easter in the
Christain Calendar) that is often celebrated with parades and parties
clause – n. a part of a sentence that has its own subject and verb
excite – adj. very enthusiastic and eager about something
negative – adj. expressing denial or refusal

2.
Under, Below, Beneath and Underneath
February 14, 2019
The middle of February is winter here in Washington, DC. I walked outside this morning and the
temperature was below freezing! And I made the mistake of wearing light clothing. So I went back in the
house and put on a sweater under my coat.
The words “under” and “below” are close in meaning. They are also similar to the words “beneath” and
“underneath.” All of them can act as prepositions or adverbs. I will have more on that shortly.
So, if all four words are similar, how do we know which word to use? In our program today, we will answer
that.
First, I have some good news: The word “under” is the most widely used of the four words and can often
replace the others. If you are ever unsure which one to use, choose “under.”
A lower place: under, below, beneath, underneath
Now let’s begin.
The words “under,” “below,” “beneath” and “underneath” can all mean “in a lower place or position and
sometimes covered by something else.”
“Under” is the most used of the three in everyday speech when talking about a lower physical position, like
this:
We sat under the stars and listened to the night sounds.
Keeping the boxes under the bed helps to save space.
“Beneath” differs here only in that it is more formal and less common in spoken English. But,
you could use it for those two examples.
“Underneath” is often used to say that something is under and covered by something else, so you could use
it for the boxes example.
You could also use “below,” but we normally use this word for things of a similar grouping. Listen to the
examples:
I hung the new family photo below the old one.
Please carefully read and sign the below document.
In the first example, the photos are on the same wall; in the second, the document is part of an email or
group of papers.
Three of the words – “under” “below” and “beneath” – can also be used when identifying someone of a
lower rank or with less power than someone else. Here is an example:
In the U.S. army, a lieutenant is below a captain.
Covered by: under, beneath, underneath
The words “under” “beneath” and “underneath” can also more specifically mean “covered or hidden by
something.” This can refer to something physically covered by another thing. Or, it can refer to hidden
personal qualities.
Listen to someone use the first meaning:
I’m wearing a black sweater underneath this coat.
Note that the word “underneath” is a preposition. It has an indirect object: this coat.
And, now the second:
Her personality seems cold but she’s really warm underneath.
Note that the word “underneath” comes at the end of the sentence – the most common placement when our
four words today act as adverbs.
Not worthy of: below, beneath
Next, “below” and “beneath” can refer to people or things that are unworthy in some way or of a lower
social ranking.
Here is how someone might use the words:
He refuses to take a job that he sees as beneath him.
Some people think she married below her family.
This meaning is negative, however. So exercise care when using it.
Lower in number: under, below
Another meaning for “under” and “below” relates to measurement. It means “lower than in age, number or
level.”
The word “under” is common in reference to age:
It is unlawful to buy cigarettes if you are under 21 years of age.
In this example, the word “under” is a preposition. It has an indirect object: 21 years of age.
Now here it is again but serving an adverb:
It is unlawful to buy cigarettes if you are 21 years of age or under.
Now, onto measurements.
We usually use “below” when discussing such things as height and temperature. Have a listen:
Temperatures in the Midwest fell below zero last week.
A large part of New Orleans is at or below sea level.
More about ‘under’
I want to quickly tell you two more meanings of the word “under” since it’s such a common word with a
lot of meanings.
It can mean “guided by or managed by,” as in this:
The restaurant will be under new management starting in March.
It can also mean “in a condition or state,” as in this:
The shopping center is under construction until next year.
Used as a prefix
“Under” can also be used as a prefix – a group of letters added at the beginning of a word to change its
meaning.
As such, it can mean “below” or “less than an expected or correct amount” and can be an adjective or a
verb. Listen to the first sentence, which uses an adjective, and the second, which uses a verb:
I cannot permit you to enter this club. You’re underage.
Oh no! They undercooked the chicken. I can’t eat it now.
‘Under’ expressions
And, lastly, “under” is also used in common English expressions, such as:
under the weather
under pressure
under the law
under arrest and
under your breath
There are many and you don’t need to memorize them. But keep in mind that expressions often cannot be
understood from the meanings of their separate words.
And now, be sure to do the practice below.
_____________________________________________________________
Practice
Choose the best answer for each sentence. Some sentences have more than one possible answer. Write your
answers in the comments section.
I do not want to engage in small disagreements. Such behavior is _______ me.
In school systems, teachers are _______administrators.
A cat ran _______ the car this morning and has been hiding there for hours.
The temperatures in summer here usually do not fall _______ 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
I have a good friend who lives ________ me in my apartment building.
This game is suited for children ages 10 and _________.
The university’s English program is ________ new supervision.
______________________________________________________________
Words in This Story
sweater – n. a warm usually knitted piece of clothing for the upper part of your body
formal – adj. suitable for serious or official speech and writing
rank – n. a position in a society, organization or group
refer to – v. to have a direct connection or relationship to something
indirect object – n. a noun phrase referring to someone or something that is affected by the action of a verb
negative – adj. expressing dislike or disapproval
construction – n. the act or process of building something
club – n. a business that provides entertainment, such as music or a show, and that usually serves food and
alcohol
practice – v. the activity of doing something again and again in order to become better at it

3.
Learn Why 'The Proof Is in the Pudding'
February 16, 2019
In American English. we often say: The proof is in the pudding.
This expression means that the best way to find out if something is good or successful is to test it yourself.
The Oxford Dictionary of Quotations claims this expression was first used in early 14th century. As with
many expressions, this one has changed over the years. People back then said it this way: the proof of the
pudding is in the eating.
Knowing the full original version is important when explaining this expression. Also important is
understanding the two main words in the sentence: pudding and proof.
First, pudding. You may ask, “What is that?”
Well, the answer depends on whether you are using American English or British English.
In the United States, Canada and many countries in South America, “pudding” is a treat made with milk,
eggs, sugar and flavoring like vanilla or chocolate.
However, if you order pudding at a restaurant in London and expect a soft, sweet dessert, you could be in
for a big surprise. In Britain, pudding is a savory meat dish. In fact, the British would call our sweet dessert
pudding a custard.
Now, the British do have sweet puddings such as their sticky toffee pudding and Christmas pudding. But
they are solid puddings made with a lot of dried fruits. Again, nothing like an American milk-based pudding.
And their savory puddings are even more different.
Centuries ago in Britain, people combined different meats, placed them into an animal membrane, or tissue,
and then made a kind of sausage. They covered the meat-filling with a soft shell made from flour and meat
fat. Then they would cook the pudding by boiling or steaming it.
Like I said, the two puddings are very different.
But it is this traditional English “pudding,” that gives us the expression: “The proof is in the pudding.”
And that brings us to the second word: proof.
Today “proof” means something that shows that something else is true. A similar word is evidence. But
centuries ago “proof” meant to test something. So we could say the expression this way: “The test of the
pudding is in the eating.”
And now, another question. Why is testing the pudding important?
Well, to answer this we need to go back to the main ingredient in the British pudding: sausage.
Centuries ago, there was no refrigeration to keep food cool and fresh. So meat would often go bad.
If you weren’t careful, you could get “botulism,” a food-borne sickness. And the root word of
botulism, botulus, is the Latin word for – you guessed it – sausage.
So, testing the pudding was the only way to really know if the meat was still good to eat.
So, that is the story of this expression. Now, let’s talk about when and how to use it.
The proof is in the pudding is very common. I would feel at home using it with an office supervisor,
strangers or people much older than me. Other ways to say this expression are: “I’ll believe that when I see
it” and “I’ll be the judge of that!” These are both a little more casual.
To best explain how to use it, I’ll give you a few examples.
In this first one, a woman’s car won’t start. So, her friend is helping to fix it. Or is he?
A: And then after I connect this wire here … your car will be fixed.
B: Are you sure? That doesn’t look right.
A: Yes, I’m sure!
B: Well the proof is in the pudding. Let’s start it up!
B: Yeah, I didn’t think that was right. Here, give me the tools.
In this next example, a team leader is talking to a group of computer programmers. They have been working
hard on a new product and are preparing to test it.
A: All right, team. This is it. We have written the program and designed the website. Tomorrow we run our
first live test.
B: We have worked so hard! I’m sure it will work!
A: I know you’ve all worked really hard. But the proof is in the pudding. If it doesn’t work, be prepared to
work over the weekend to fix it.
__________________
Words in This Story
version – n. a form of something (such as a product) that is different in some way from other forms
flavoring – n. a substance that is added to a food or drink to give it a desired taste
dessert – n. a usually sweet course or dish (as of pastry or ice cream) usually served at the end of a meal
savory – adj. having a spicy or salty quality without sweetness
custard – n. a pudding-like usually sweetened mixture made with eggs and milk
boil – v. to cook in boiling water
steam – v. to cook, heat, or treat (something) with steam
ingredient – n. one of the things that are used to make a food, product, etc.
casual – adj. designed for or permitting ordinary dress, behavior, etc. : not formal