904. Bits & Bobs 📚 Questions of English (Part 1)
Luke's ENGLISH Podcast - Learn British English with Luke Thompson
Deep Dive
What does the term 'Bits and Bobs' mean in British English?
Bits and Bobs is a British expression that means bits and pieces, or a collection of small, varied items.
Why do some British English words end with -ise and others with -ize?
Both -ise and -ize endings are acceptable in British English, and the choice is often a matter of preference or house style. The Oxford English Dictionary and Oxford University Press prefer -ize, while many other institutions prefer -ise. The important thing is to be consistent in your usage.
What is the historical significance of the -ize suffix in British English?
The -ize suffix has a long history in British English, rooted in Latinized Greek. It was standard in British English until the 1970s, when -ise became more common. Shakespeare, Milton, Caxton, and the King James Bible all used -ize endings.
What are some common words that always end in -ise in British English?
Common words that always end in -ise in British English include advertise, advise, arise, comprise, compromise, despise, devise, disguise, excise, exercise, improvise, incise, reprise, revise, supervise, surprise, and televise.
What is an example of a native English speaker misunderstanding their own language?
A Reddit user misheard the quote 'knowledge is power, Francis Bacon' as 'knowledge is power, France is bacon.' This misunderstanding persisted for years until the person saw it written down and realized the correct attribution.
What advice did Arnold Schwarzenegger give to someone feeling depressed about not working out?
Arnold Schwarzenegger advised the person not to be too hard on themselves, to start small by doing a little bit of exercise, and to not beat themselves up over not being perfect. He also encouraged them to seek help if needed.
How can Arnold Schwarzenegger's advice be applied to learning English?
Schwarzenegger's advice can be applied to learning English by not aiming for perfection, starting small with regular practice, and trusting the process even if results are not immediately visible. Consistency and small steps can lead to significant progress over time.
What did Kurt Vonnegut suggest to high school students about practicing art?
Kurt Vonnegut suggested that students practice any art, such as music, singing, dancing, acting, drawing, painting, sculpting, poetry, fiction, or essays, not for money and fame, but to experience becoming, find out what's inside them, and make their soul grow.
What assignment did Kurt Vonnegut give to the students?
Vonnegut assigned the students to write a six-line rhyming poem about anything, make it as good as possible, but never show it to anyone. After writing, they should tear it into small pieces and discard them in different trash bins. The act of creation itself is the reward.
How can Kurt Vonnegut's assignment be adapted for English learners?
English learners can write something in English, such as a diary entry, a story, or a letter, without the pressure of perfection. The act of writing and expressing oneself is beneficial for both language skills and personal growth. Regular practice, even if not shared, can lead to significant improvement over time.
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