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like 8

train_500

#Person1#: What is your great struck? #Person2#: I think I'm very good at planning. I manage my time perfectly, so that I can always get things done on time. #Person1#: Why do you think you be a good fit or this job? #Person2#: Because I'm very competent in this area. #Person1#: Can you working under pressure? #Person2#: Yes, I work well under pressure and find it dimly. However, I believe planning and probable management of my time can reduce tight deadlines. #Person1#: Are you more a follower or a leader? #Person2#: I don't try to go ahead of people and lead them, I'd rather cooperate with everybody else and get the job done by working together.

interview

train_501

#Person1#: Can I help you, Madam? #Person2#: Yes, I'd like to exchange some US dollars into RIB. #Person1#: How much would you like to exchange? #Person2#: What's the exchange rate for RIB? #Person1#: It's US 100 for RMB 802 today. #Person2#: I'd like to exchange 3, 000. #Person1#: Fill out this exchange memo, please. #Person2#: Yes. Here you are. #Person1#: Wait a second, please. . . These are 24, 060 RMB and the receipt, please check them. #Person2#: All right, thank you so much, good-bye. #Person1#: Good-bye.

exchange money

train_502

#Person1#: we'd like to rent a flat near the university. #Person2#: are you looking for somewhere for two people? #Person1#: yes, we are. obviously, we'd like something as cheap as possible. we've heard that there are places for 80 to 100 pounds a month. #Person2#: yes, there are several place available in that price range near the university. do you have any other requirements? #Person1#: net really, no. we'd preferably like to live in a quiet street. #Person2#: how many rooms do you need in the flat? #Person1#: we'll need two bedrooms. the kitchen and dining room can be separate or combined. #Person2#: ok. i've got a list of place that fit your requirements. let's just go through them. the first on the list costs 80 pounds a month, but it's on a noisy street and it's a little far from t #Person1#: how far away is it from the campus? #Person2#: it's about two miles away. that might be a little far to walk. here's one that's about half a mile from the campus. the cost is 100 pounds a month and it's on a small street, just off a #Person1#: that sounds ideal. can we go to have a look at it? we'd like to see it before making a final decision. #Person2#: of course. i'm not very busy at the moment. if you can wait for about 15 or 20 minutes. i can take you there. #Person1#: thank you. that would be great.

rent a flat

train_503

#Person1#: Can I get you any dessert? #Person2#: Yes, I'd like to try the blueberry pie. #Person1#: Excellent choice. ( He brings her the pie. After she finishes, the waiter comes back. ) Would you like anything else? #Person2#: No, I'm stuffed. I'm ready for the check. #Person1#: Here you are. Thank you and have a nice evening. #Person2#: Thank you.

restaurant

train_504

#Person1#: When the interview finally comes to an end, the interviewee will probably breathe a sigh of relief. #Person2#: Still, you should not let down your guard. Some details should be paid attention to. #Person1#: At this moment you can thank the interviewer again for the opportunity of the interview. #Person2#: You can also ask the interviewer about your performance today. #Person1#: Don't forget to ask when you can receive a reply. #Person2#: And it's best to ask about the second interview if necessary. #Person1#: You should state politely that you will wait for the results patiently. #Person2#: You can ask questions about the position you are applying for. #Person1#: In this case, you should remember to give thanks for the reply you get. #Person2#: Of course. #Person1#: Just say goodbye to the interviewer before you leave. #Person2#: Besides, remember to make acknowledgments through an E-mail or a call.

interview

train_505

#Person1#: What do you think this flat? #Person2#: It's not really all that good. The bedroom is a little small for us. #Person1#: Small? But it should be enough for our needs, I think. #Person2#: But there's no hot water after 10 at night. Sometimes I like to have a hot shower before bed, especially in the winter, it feels good. #Person1#: That's true, but I love the living room, it's huge and filled with sunshine. #Person2#: True, and I like the kitchen. It's new and well equipped. #Person1#: It has a great balcony with an incredible view of the park. #Person2#: You are right. The view is spectacular. But that bedroom is so small. We'd never be able to fit all of our stuff in there. #Person1#: May be we could get some new furniture, better stuff. #Person2#: I haven't thought of that.

flat

train_506

#Person1#: Hello. Mr. Rodriguez? #Person2#: Yes. Is this Paula? #Person1#: Yes, sir. I'Ve just dropped those slides off at the Winthrop office. Do you need anything else while I'm out? #Person2#: No, that's all right. Paula. Why don't you get something to eat, and I'll see you this afternoon.

slides

train_507

#Person1#: It's hot today, shall we go for a dip at the beach? #Person2#: That's a good idea. Let's bring our trunks and towels. #Person1#: Would you like to swim in the swimming pool or at the beach? #Person2#: I'd prefer the pool. #Person1#: OK. Let's pay the entrance fee and change our clothes in the dressing room. #Person2#: What style do you use? #Person1#: Well, I use breast stroke for long distance, crawl or free style for short distance and back stroke just for fun.

swim

train_508

#Person1#: Hello, is there anything I can do for you? #Person2#: Yes. I would like to check in. #Person1#: Have you made a reservation? #Person2#: Yes. I am Belen. #Person1#: So your room number is 201. Are you a member of our hotel? #Person2#: No, what's the difference? #Person1#: Well, we offer a 10 % charge for our members.

check in

train_509

#Person1#: To which gate do I need to go to catch connection flight Ll 01 to Madrid? #Person2#: Go to gate 18. The plane is boarding now. You should hurry up. #Person1#: Show me the fastest way to get there. #Person2#: Instead of walking. you can take this shuttle to get you there faster. #Person1#: Do you think the plane will leave without me? #Person2#: No, I'll call the attendants at the gate to tell them that you are on your way. #Person1#: Thank you so much. I really appreciate that.

connecting flight

train_510

#Person1#: What wrong with you? You look pale? #Person2#: I'm not sure. I feel hot and cold. #Person1#: When did the trouble start? #Person2#: I was sick most of the night. #Person1#: It sounds like you're coming down with the flu. Let me take your temperature. #Person2#: Have I got high fever? #Person1#: Yes. Thirty-eight point seven. Do you have a headache, chestache or throat pain? #Person2#: Yes, I have. #Person1#: Now, Let me have a look at you. I'd like to listen to your chest. Breathe then, deep breath, that's it. Cough, now again. I want to exam your throat too. Open wide, say A. #Person2#: ah. #Person1#: Yes, It does look a bit sore. Let's take your extra way of your chest and give you a few tests. #Person2#: All right, thanks. #Person1#: The tests showed nothing wrong. a slight by infection. #Person2#: What shall I do today? #Person1#: I'm giving you some antibiotic and aspirin. Taking aspirin when you'Ve got a fever and take one antibiotic until four hours and go home lie in bed for two days. Take some water then you feel better.

flu

train_511

#Person1#: Good morning, sir. How may I help you? #Person2#: I'd like to open an account. #Person1#: Certainly, sir. Would you like to open a time deposit savings account or a checking account? #Person2#: Actually, I'd like to open one of each, if that's possible. #Person1#: No problem, sir. What sort of time deposit account would you like to open? #Person2#: What are my choices? #Person1#: The minimum time period is three months. The longer the period, the higher the interest rate. If you withdraw your money before time is up, there are penalties.

open an account

train_512

#Person1#: How much tea are you going to order? #Person2#: We want to order 3, 000 cases and hope to deliver the goods in two equal lots. #Person1#: When do you want to deliver the goods? #Person2#: We'd like you to execute the first delivery by June 30 and the second delivery by August 15. #Person1#: I'm sorry, but June 30 is quite soon. I can't guarantee 1 500 cases, I'd prefer the first shipment to be 1, 000 cases and the next 2, 000 cases. #Person2#: I can agree to that. #Person1#: Let me affirm this again - the first shipment of 1, 000 cases, to be delivered in 27 days, by June 30, and the second shipment of 2, 000 cases by August 15. Right? #Person2#: Right. #Person1#: Well, if there's nothing else, I think we've settled everything. #Person2#: Let's hope it's the beginning of a long and prosperous relationship.

order

train_513

#Person1#: Good morning, Laura, what do you want to talk to me about? #Person2#: Good morning, professor Smith. I want to talk to you about changing my major. You see, I've decided to work in art museum when I graduate in three years, I think I should change my major to art history. #Person1#: You know, Laura, I think you should give this decision after some more thought. You've do well in your years of business major, the sign is, all organizations need good managers. #Person2#: That's true, but wasn't I still have to know a lot about art? #Person1#: Why not attend a few lectures in art history and try working a few hours a week as a volunteer at the local art museum to see if you really like working there.

change major

train_514

#Person1#: Jane, what would you do if you were on vacation overseas and lost all your money and credit cards? #Person2#: Well, I guess I'd probably sell my watch and camera... Or I might get a job as a waitress somewhere till I made enough money to buy a plane ticket to return home.

lost money

train_515

#Person1#: I'm sorry to have kept you waiting for such a long time. I didn't think the meeting would be so long. #Person2#: That's all right, Dr. Green. I've got the data you required and a few reference books which I think may be useful to your representation at the conference.

keep people waiting

train_516

#Person1#: Morning, Mr. Roberts, have you been to that new shop in the High Street. #Person2#: Good morning, Mrs. White. Yes, I just thought I pop in and browse around, seeing if there is anything I like. I must say I'm very impressed. They have a very good literature section and there is a little care where you can go and read a book in peace. #Person1#: Have they got any nice love stories? That's what I really like, a bit of romance and excitement.

shop

train_517

#Person1#: Jane, I hear that you are leaving school now. What do you want to do? Have you made up your mind yet? #Person2#: No, not yet. But I think I'm going to take up singing. #Person1#: Any special reasons? #Person2#: Yes. It's because I am good at singing songs. All my classmates say so. Besides, singing is quite interesting and you can meet a lot of people. #Person1#: And you will have to please them too. #Person2#: Well, you do in any job, don't you? #Person1#: And what do your parents think about it? #Person2#: They don't quite agree with my idea. That is the only trouble. #Person1#: Have they got any other plans for you, then? #Person2#: Yes, um...they're trying to send me to an art college because they want me to be an actress. #Person1#: Then what will you do? #Person2#: Er...I haven't decided yet. But I usually get my own way in the end.

be a singer

train_518

#Person1#: Where did you put my new red tie? #Person2#: It's right there in the cupboard with your other ties. #Person1#: There's a green one and a couple of brown ones, but no red one. #Person2#: Here it is in your drawer. You must have put it there when you brought it home. #Person1#: I suppose so. We'd better hurry up or we're going to be late. The Smiths said to come at 7:00. #Person2#: Oh, it's 6:24 now. Sue isn't here to take care of the children yet. #Person1#: She shall be here at 6:40. That still gives us time to get there. #Person2#: Who else is coming tonight? #Person1#: The Browns and the Franks. And Mrs. Johnson's sister will be there too. #Person2#: Well. I think we'd better go down. Sue should be here pretty soon.

in a hurry

train_519

#Person1#: By the way, do you know what time it is? #Person2#: Well, it's a quarter to two. #Person1#: Oh, I've got to go. #Person2#: See Linda in the library? #Person1#: No. Actually I'm going to meet with Professor Smith at ten past two. You may continue our project discussion with Michael. #Person2#: All right.

project discussion

train_520

#Person1#: Jim, are you planning to buy that nice blue Ford car you looked at last week? #Person2#: I'm afraid that's impossible because I haven't been able to come up with the cash, and someone else has already made a down payment on it.

buy a car

train_521

#Person1#: Did you hear Jakie's going to work in another department? We need to have a really good party so that we can send her off really well. So, what shall we do? #Person2#: Why don't we have a surprise party, Maggie? #Person1#: That's a good idea. We could go to the Holiday Inn Hotel. #Person2#: That's too expensive. Maybe we can ask Carrie to make a cake. #Person1#: Yeah, let's do that. Perhaps we could just give the party in the office and put up some balloons. #Person2#: That's great. I think we should also buy a really big card, a huge card, and we should get everybody to sign it. #Person1#: Shall we have some music? #Person2#: I was thinking exactly that myself. But ...

surprise party

train_522

#Person1#: Hi, Mary. I haven't seen you in ages! I heard that you and Daniel are getting married on August 8th, the opening day of the 2008 Olympic Games. Is it true? #Person2#: Yes, it is. We've been dating for over 7 years. We have decided to get married on a special day and we think August 8th, 2008 is a red-letter day. #Person1#: Good for you! It sounds like you've done a lot of planning in a very short time. #Person2#: Yes, there is a lot of to be taken care of---wedding photos, wedding dress, catering, transport, hotel, etc... #Person1#: Is everything ready now? #Person2#: Almost. The only thing that isn't ready is the hotel. As a lot of people have chosen that day to get married, it is hard to find a hotel that isn't too expensive. #Person1#: Have you tried The Peninsula Palace Beijing? My wedding reception was held there and they did an excellent job. #Person2#: Yes, we called, but it is booked up. The only choice is the Regent Beijing but we haven't made up our minds yet. #Person1#: It's an excellent hotel. A friend of mine had her wedding reception there and sasid it was perfect, though very expensive. #Person2#: That's why we want to have a look at other hotels. We don't want to spend too much on an extravagant wedding reception. #Person1#: I guess you're right. I can help you ask other hotels. I am sure there are probably some available. #Person2#: Thank you. #Person1#: My pleasure.

wedding

train_523

#Person1#: Can you help me set up my voicemail message? I just got this service and I am not really sure what I am supposed to say. #Person2#: Sure! You just basically gotta let the caller know who they called, and ask them for their contact information so you can call them back. #Person1#: Ok, so can I say, 'This is Abby's voicemail. I will call you later, so leave me your name and number'. #Person2#: That's more or less the idea, but try something that sounds more friendly. #Person1#: Ok, so how about this, 'This is Abby and I am really happy you called! I promise I will give you a ring as soon as I can, so please leave me your name and number. Talk to you soon! '. #Person2#: A little too friendly Abby. Just say this, 'Hi, you have reached Abby. I am unable to answer your call right now, but if you leave me your name and phone number, I will get back to you as soon as possible. Thanks'. #Person1#: That's perfect! Can you say that again and record it for me?

voicemail message

train_524

#Person1#: For our lunch meeting with the investors, do we have to make a reservation at the restaurant or do we just show up? #Person2#: Usually for lunch, we don't have to reserve a table, they should allow walk-ins. But to be on the safe side, I'll order a table for half-past twelve. Will that suit your schedule? #Person1#: I've arranged to meet them at the restaurant at twelve. Can you make the reservation a little earlier? If we start earlier, it will give us more time for a longer lunch. #Person2#: Are you planning on treating the investors to a full-course meal? #Person1#: Yes, we'll start with appetizers, follow with a soup and salad course, then main dishes of prime RMB or cordon bleu chicken, and finish up with a delicious rich dessert of some sort. #Person2#: That'll be pretty heavy for a mid-day meal, don't you think? #Person1#: As along as we stay away from anything alcoholic, we should be okay. #Person2#: With your prime RMB and chicken choices, you'd better hope nobody's vegetarian. #Person1#: We can make some special arrangement if we need to. After all, it's the company who is footing the bill.

lunch meeting

train_525

#Person1#: Did your company go union? I heard that many companies in out industry are being unionized, so It's getting harder and harder to compete on a level playing field. #Person2#: Yes, we're hopping on the bandwagon and signing up for the union. Mostly people are pretty happy about it... I guess it depends on if you are in management or in the labor force. #Person1#: Management isn't looking on the labor unions too favorably, I'd guess. I don't blame them... labor unions can really put the squeeze on the executives. #Person2#: Sure... but it's probably better for the workers, because the union's whole purpose is to look out for the little guys. The only way that the little guys can take on the big bosses is if they unite. Labor unions are all about getting a voice for the underdog.

labor union

train_526

#Person1#: The country is strong only in appearance. Don't you think so? #Person2#: Yes. In fact there are quite a large number of people who have no food to eat and no place to live in. #Person1#: You can say that again. The government must open it's eyes to the fact.

country

train_527

#Person1#: Guess who I saw yesterday? #Person2#: Who? #Person1#: My cousin Monik. Have you seen her lately? #Person2#: Not for a couple of years. What happened to her? #Person1#: Nothing exactly. She's grown into a very attractive young lady. #Person2#: Oh, she is. #Person1#: You know, her long lovely blond hair and beautiful blue eyes really make her stand out from others. #Person2#: Not surprising. I bet she's very tall and slim. #Person1#: Yean. Around five feet five inches tall.

attractive young lady

train_528

#Person1#: Can I help you, Madam? #Person2#: Yes. I'd like to buy a sweater for my husband. Which style is the latest? #Person1#: These are all the latest fashion. How do you like this white turtleneck one? #Person2#: I like this style. But do you have any other colors? I feel that this color doesn't suit his complexion. #Person1#: We also have it in grey. #Person2#: Great! I will take it. And could you suggest a pair of trousers to match this sweater? #Person1#: It's my pleasure. I think this pair of jeans will suit the sweater well. #Person2#: Let me see. Yes, they are perfectly matched!

buy clothes

train_529

#Person1#: Do you like this dress, madam? #Person2#: I like the colour very much. It's a lovely dress, but it's too small for me. #Person1#: What about this one? It's a lovely dress. It's very smart. Short skirts are in fashion now. Would you like to try it? #Person2#: All right. I'm afraid this green dress is too small for me as well. It's smaller than the blue one. I don't like the colour either. It doesn't suit me at all. I think the blue dress is prettier. Co #Person1#: I'm afraid I haven't got a larger dress. This is the largest dress in the shop.

dresses

train_530

#Person1#: It looks delicious. I will order it. #Person2#: I am sorry, sir, it's for 4 persons to have. I think it's too large for you. #Person1#: Would you please make it for a single person? #Person2#: Sorry, sir. We have never done that before.

order food

train_531

#Person1#: Can I help you, sir? #Person2#: Yes, I've been sitting here for a few minutes. I'm waiting for someone to put gas in my car. #Person1#: I'm sorry, sir. But this is the self-service pump. #Person2#: Self-service? #Person1#: Yes. You must fill up the car yourself. #Person2#: Are you serious? #Person1#: Yes. Are you traveling here? #Person2#: Yes, I'm from Taiwan. I never heard of a gas station where you fill up your own car. #Person1#: In America, most gas stations are like this. #Person2#: Do I really have to do it? I don't know how. #Person1#: Well, since this is your first time, I will do it for you. But next time, if you want a full-service gas station, you should look at the sign. #Person2#: What sign? #Person1#: Under the sign for the gas station, there will be a smaller sign that says Self-Serve or Full-Service. And some gas stations have both. But if they have both, some pumps will be self-serve and some will be full-serve. You have to look at the signs. #Person2#: I see.

gas station

train_532

#Person1#: Hi, Jack. It's several months since I last saw you. #Person2#: Hi, Sue. I've been busy with my book. #Person1#: Haven't you finished it yet? #Person2#: I will have in a few days. #Person1#: Are you going to advertise it yourself? #Person2#: Hmm...Some friends suggested I should, but I'm still in 2 minds about it. #Person1#: If I were you, I would. #Person2#: Thank you for your advice. I think I'll market it.

advertise the book

train_533

#Person1#: Do you have any plans during this summer? #Person2#: Well, I want to get a summer job, I'd like to save money for a vacation. #Person1#: Really? Where would you like to go? #Person2#: I'd love to travel to Latin America. #Person1#: What about you Melissa? #Person2#: Well, I'm not going to get a job right away. First, I want to go to Spain and Portugal. #Person1#: Sounds great, but how are you going to pay for it? #Person2#: I know I can't ask my parents for money anymore. So I'll borrow some money from my brother. I have a good excuse. I plan to take courses in Spanish and Portuguese. #Person1#: Oh, I'm tired of studying. #Person2#: So am I. But I also hope to take people on tourist to Latin America. Why don't you come on my first tour? #Person1#: Count me in.

travel

train_534

#Person1#: Hello Brian speaking #Person2#: Hi Brian, it's Mary here. Hope I haven't troubled you at such a time. #Person1#: No no. I was just watching TV. #Person2#: Oh good. Did you have a good weekend? #Person1#: Yeah, it was good. I went to the cinema with some friends yesterday. What about you? #Person2#: Not too bad. Hey actually I'm calling because it's my birthday this Saturday. I was wondering if you would come. #Person1#: That sounds good. What time? #Person2#: Is 7:00 o'clock OK? David won't finish work until 6:30. #Person1#: Oh sorry I'm afraid I can't make it. Is 7:30 alright? #Person2#: Sure. 7:30 then. #Person1#: Do you want me to bring something like a cake or some drinks? #Person2#: Oh no. I'll get the food and everything. Just come and help me celebrate. #Person1#: Well, in that case, I'll invite you to a piano concert next Friday. #Person2#: That would be great, thanks. #Person1#: OK. I'll book the tickets now.

celebrate birthday

train_535

#Person1#: Excuse me. #Person2#: Yeah. #Person1#: You didn't see someone pick up a blue sports bag, did you? #Person2#: Sorry? #Person1#: Yeah, a Big Blue nylon sports bag with a big white Adidas logo on the side. #Person2#: I said no. #Person1#: I only put it down for a moment when I went into the restroom, then I came out and... #Person2#: I can't help you. #Person1#: I don't believe it. I had a brand new racket in there and 10 new balls and er... #Person2#: Well, these are public courts Madam, anyone can walk in here, you should be more careful.

sports bag

train_536

#Person1#: Hi, Peter. What's up? You look upset. #Person2#: We are planning a trip through the western states and want to take our dog with us. We have trouble finding a hotel that allows dogs, so we'll probably have to leave the dog at our neighbor's house. #Person1#: I saw a program on TV that said there were more and more pet friendly hotels now. If a hotel advertises as pet friendly, it means you can bring your dog. #Person2#: I don't think my father knows about that. Where can we find more information? #Person1#: Peter, everything can be found on the Internet. #Person2#: Oh yeah, I'll do it right away.

find a hotel

train_537

#Person1#: Would you like to order now, sir? #Person2#: Yes, please. I like the steak and mushrooms. #Person1#: How would you like your steak? Rare, medium or well done? #Person2#: I'd like it medium, please. #Person1#: What kind of potatoes would you like to go with that? Mashed, boiled or baked? #Person2#: I think I'll have baked potatoes, and I'll have an iced tea with a lemon on the side, please. #Person1#: Good, and would you care for soup or salad to start with? #Person2#: I'd like a cream and onion soup, please. #Person1#: Will you be having dessert today, sir? #Person2#: I want to skip dessert. That's all, thank you. #Person1#: OK, I'll be with you in a moment.

take orders

train_538

#Person1#: Excuse me, is this the Auto Consumer Loan Center? #Person2#: Yes. Is there anything I can do for you? #Person1#: Could you tell me something about the terms and interest rates for personal automobile consumer loan? #Person2#: The deadline is normally no more than 5 years with the interest adopted according to the corresponding lending rates announced by the PBC. #Person1#: I plan to take the loan for 3 years. #Person2#: Well, the yearly interest rate is 5.49 % for 3 years. I'm sure you are qualified to apply for this loan. #Person1#: What about the loan repayment? #Person2#: You may choose a repayment pattern by consulting with our bank, for example, payment of equal amount of principal or of principal and interest on monthly installments. #Person1#: Does that mean I should deposit sufficient money to my account prior to the monthly payment date so that you can directly deduct the repayment of the principal and interest? #Person2#: Exactly. You are permitted to effect and early payment in part or in full with the consent of our bank. #Person1#: That's very thoughtful of you. Thank you so much. #Person2#: You're welcome.

automobile consumer loan

train_539

#Person1#: What may I help you with? #Person2#: I need to file a complaint. #Person1#: What is your complaint about? #Person2#: I got robbed. #Person1#: When did this happen? #Person2#: It happened this morning. #Person1#: What was taken? #Person2#: My wallet and cell phone. #Person1#: Did you get a good look at the person who robbed you? #Person2#: I sure did. #Person1#: Would you able to pick him out of a line-up? #Person2#: That shouldn't be a problem.

robbery complaint form

train_540

#Person1#: Well, Peter, you have to do better than that next time, won ' t you? #Person2#: Have I really got to do those exams again, Dad? #Person1#: Of course, you have. You must try harder this time. #Person2#: And must I go back to school? #Person1#: No, you needn ' t do that. You ' d better get a part-time job somewhere and go to evening classes. #Person2#: But Dad, I should be working full-time at my age. I ' m nearly 17. #Person1#: You ought to have worked harder then you wouldn ' t have failed your exams. You have to take a job and study. #Person2#: What else I ' Ve got to do? Join the army? #Person1#: Who knows! That might come to later.

study and job

train_541

#Person1#: Have you got any experience in advertising? #Person2#: Yes, I have been working in the Public Relations Section of a company in the past two years. I plan the advertising campaign and cooperate the work of artists and typographers. Sometimes I have to do the work of a specialist when there ' s something urgent. #Person1#: Do you have any practical experience as a secretary? #Person2#: Yes, sir. I acted as a secretary in an insurance company. #Person1#: Would you tell me the essential qualities a secretary should maintain? #Person2#: Well, to begin with, I would say she needs to be diligent, and the second point is that she has to do a lot of things on her own initiative. Finally, she can make notes in shorthand and types and has the skills in report writing, summary writing, keep minutes at meetings, and so on. Most important of all is that she seems to have a better memory than average. #Person1#: Have you had any experience with computer? #Person2#: Yes, I studied in a computer training program, and can process data through the computer. #Person1#: That's fine. What about operating the fax and duplicator? #Person2#: I can handle them without any trouble #Person1#: What have you learned from jobs you have held? #Person2#: Above all, I have learned that what is good for the company is good for me. So I follow the instructions strictly and always keep my boss informed. #Person1#: Very good.

work experience

train_542

#Person1#: Were you at the scene during the robbery? #Person2#: Yes, I was, Officer. #Person1#: Were you able to see a lot? #Person2#: I was there as it happened. #Person1#: What happened? #Person2#: The robber came in with a gun. #Person1#: Could you see his face? #Person2#: He had a mask over his face. #Person1#: Was he with someone else? #Person2#: He was alone. #Person1#: Would you be willing to come down to the station for further questioning? #Person2#: I would be happy to.

robbery witness

train_543

#Person1#: Which church do you attend? #Person2#: I am Mormon, so I go to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. #Person1#: What's the difference between this and other Churches? #Person2#: Mormons believe that, after the death of Christ and the death of the Apostles 10, their church Christ founded became corrupt and the authority of Christ on earth was lost to men. In 1830, a prophet named Joseph Smith was brought up by God to restore the church. #Person1#: Then does that mean the other churches are corrupt? #Person2#: That means that they all have parts of the original gospel, but not all. #Person1#: Do you believe that Mormons have all of it? #Person2#: Yes. #Person1#: Why do you really go to church? #Person2#: We gather together to encourage each other, because we have common beliefs. We come together and call it church.

Mormon

train_544

#Person1#: Susan, good evening. Why are you so dressed up? #Person2#: I am on my way out to a New Year's banquet. How do I look? Is my make-up OK? #Person1#: You look great. Your make-up is perfect. #Person2#: Do you think I should wear a different dress? #Person1#: No, the one you have on looks fabulous, especially with your hair like that. #Person2#: Thanks for saying. Do you have any ideas which necklace I should wear? #Person1#: With that dress I'd say your white diamond necklace would look perfect. #Person2#: Thanks for helping out. Now that I'm ready, what are you doing tonight? #Person1#: Not much, just a house party with some friends. #Person2#: Sounds fun. Anyone I know? #Person1#: Yeah, most of the people are from our office. #Person2#: Sounds Like I'm missing out on a good time. Oh, well, there is always next year. #Person1#: I'm sure you'll have fun no matter where you go. Remember to take your bag.

banquet dressing

train_545

#Person1#: Excuse me, miss. I'm Bob. #Person2#: I'm Amy. How do you do? #Person1#: I'm very glad to meet you. May I have this dance with you? #Person2#: Certainly! I suppose you dance often. #Person1#: No, I don't often dance. Isn't this a wonderful party? #Person2#: Yes, I'm glad I have come. #Person1#: How do you like fox-trot? #Person2#: I like it very much. #Person1#: You dance beautifully. #Person2#: Thank you. It's lucky that I have got a good partner. #Person1#: Thank you.

dance invitation

train_546

#Person1#: What are you reading? #Person2#: It's an article about language. It talks about the idea of having a single global language. #Person1#: It seems that English already is the main global language. Does the article suggest that there should be an artificial language like Esperanto as the world language. #Person2#: Actually, it suggest English. The main argument is that English is already being studied as a second language in most countries-china, India, mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, and japan, so beginning again #Person1#: Does the article say anything about other language? How will they survive in an English-speaking world? #Person2#: The article points out that many languages have been lost and will be lost, but others will continue to be used for generation, even if English continues to be the dominant language.

language

train_547

#Person1#: This place is great. I'm surprised there are so many things here. #Person2#: Yes, but it takes a while to find things. It's not organized as carefully as a regular store. #Person1#: What's the difference between an outlet and a regular store? #Person2#: Usually a clothes company will send their overstock to an outlet. The prices are very low. But you may find faulty products here too. #Person1#: Faulty products? #Person2#: Yes. Sometimes the fault is very small ; if you have a needle and thread, you can fix it yourself. So it's a good deal to buy it. #Person1#: Oh, that's easy for me. I think it's really a good deal. #Person2#: Yes. You can save a lot of money in this way. #Person1#: That's great for me. Look, children's clothes! I'd like to buy some winter clothes for my son and daughter. #Person2#: Why not buy the sweater? It only costs 30 Yuan. #Person1#: Yes, I'll take it. Are there any jeans? Xiaohui's jeans are always dirty. I also need four pairs of slippers. #Person2#: How many do you want to buy? #Person1#: I ought to make the most of it while I'm here, don't you think? #Person2#: You're right.

outlet store

train_548

#Person1#: Steven, why are you so depressed? #Person2#: I'm feeling very sad. I just read the newspaper. #Person1#: What's the news? #Person2#: According to the newspaper, the town was razed by an earthquake and more than 10 thousand people died in the earthquake. #Person1#: It's horrible. #Person2#: Yeah, we have to do something to help the people in the stricken area. #Person1#: Yes. How about donating some money? #Person2#: It's a good idea. But where can we donate money? #Person1#: Just find the answer through Internet. #Person2#: Yes, let's do it now.

earthquake news

train_549

#Person1#: Can I help you? #Person2#: Yes, I need to buy a computer for this semester. I was told it is cheaper to buy computers here. #Person1#: Well, you heard right. You can get an excellent deal on a new computer here. We have great discounts for students. #Person2#: I don't know much about computers. But I know I want a desktop computer with a lot of memory. And I need a printer. #Person1#: Well, first let's consider your computer. Here, for example, is a system I highly recommend--the Power Macintosh G3. It comes with 64 megabytes of total memory. #Person2#: Is that a lot? Sixty-four? #Person1#: Yes, it is. It should be enough for any student needs you might have. What department are you in? #Person2#: History. #Person1#: Well, so you will mostly be using word processing, for writing papers. I recommend the Corel Word Perfect program for word processing. We can talk about software later. Let's talk about your #Person2#: Thirty percent? #Person1#: Yes. #Person2#: Wow. That's really good. And you think this is really a good system for a graduate student? #Person1#: Yes. It's an excellent system. #Person2#: Hmm. Hey, wait. This has an Apple on it. Is this an Apple computer? #Person1#: Yes, it's a Macintosh. It's Apple. Macintosh and Apple are the same thing. #Person2#: I don't want Macintosh. I want PC. #Person1#: I'm sorry, but our university computer center only sells Macintosh equipment. #Person2#: What? Are you serious? #Person1#: Yes. #Person2#: But nobody uses Macintosh! #Person1#: That's not true. Most of the students and professors in the university here use Macintosh. They find it is better for writing and word-processing, and that is what students mostly do. Ma #Person2#: Yes, I'm from Taiwan. #Person1#: Well, I know that in most Asian countries Apple is not very popular. But here in America, especially in universities and publishing companies, Apple is very commonly used. #Person2#: But I need a computer that can handle writing in Chinese. #Person1#: There are several Chinese writing programs you can use with Macintosh. Chinese is no problem for Apple. #Person2#: Hmm. I think I should ask some of my friends for advice before I make a decision. I'm sorry. #Person1#: No, don't be sorry. It's reasonable to ask your friends. But believe me, most of the students here in the university--Asian students included--most of them use Apple. #Person2#: Well, thanks for your advice. I will probably come back later. #Person1#: You're very welcome. Here is my card, if you need any help.

buying a computer

train_550

#Person1#: Excuse me, can you tell me which is Bob Rice's office? #Person2#: Sure. It's the third office down this hall. Are you looking for Bob? #Person1#: Yes. He told me to come by this morning. #Person2#: I'm sorry, but he's not in the office now. Do you have an appointment? #Person1#: An appointment? #Person2#: Yes. What time did he expect you? #Person1#: He said I should come by this morning. He didn't give me a time. He said I could come any time before noon. #Person2#: I see. He's usually here on Tuesday mornings. . . #Person1#: Today is Tuesday. #Person2#: I know. He's usually here, but today he went out to a site on the east side. #Person1#: That's too bad. I need to discuss these plans with him. #Person2#: Why don't you make an appointment for later in the week? #Person1#: Alright. #Person2#: He's here on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. What day did you want to see him? #Person1#: Friday is good. #Person2#: Morning or afternoon? #Person1#: Morning. #Person2#: I can put you down for ten o'clock. Is that alright? #Person1#: Yes. My name is Laura Wills. #Person2#: Alright. I have you down for ten AM this Friday. #Person1#: Thank you. #Person2#: You are welcome.

make another appointment

train_551

#Person1#: You'Ve been a sales manager for three years. How do you like the job? #Person2#: I like it very much. #Person1#: If I may ask, are you happy with your salary? #Person2#: No, I don't mind at all. I receive 3, 000 RMB a month, after tax. #Person1#: Is there a bonus system or any other incentive plan in place? #Person2#: I'm afraid there isn't. My boss only pays lip service. #Person1#: What is your salary expectation for this position? #Person2#: My expectation is in the 3800 to 4500 RMB range. That's the take-home pay.

salary

train_552

#Person1#: Hello, excuse me! #Person2#: Hello! Is there anything I can help you with? #Person1#: Yes. I wanna know where I can get on the bus going downtown. #Person2#: Go straight then turn right, and you will see a big bus station there. #Person1#: Ok, I see. Thank you! #Person2#: You are welcome!

ask the way

train_553

#Person1#: This is our rock - bottom price, Mr. Li. We can't make any further concessions. #Person2#: If that's the case, there's not much point in further discussion. We might as well call the whole deal off. #Person1#: What I mean is that we'll never be able to come down to your price. The gap is too great. #Person2#: I think it unwise for either of us to insist on his own price. How about meeting each other half way so that business can be concluded? #Person1#: What is your proposal? #Person2#: Your unit price is 100 dollars higher than we can accept. When I suggested we meet each other half way, I meant it literally. #Person1#: Do you mean to suggest that we have to make a further reduction of 50 dollars in our price? That's impossible. #Person2#: What would you suggest? #Person1#: The best we can do will be a reduction of another 30 dollars. That'll definitely be rock bottom. #Person2#: That still leaves a gap of 20 dollars to be covered. Let's meet each other half way once more, then the gap will be closed and our business completed. #Person1#: You certainly have a way of talking me into it. All right, let's meet half way again. #Person2#: I'm glad we've come to an agreement on price. We'll go on to the other terms and conditions at our next meeting. #Person1#: Yes, there's one other point I wish to clear up. #Person2#: What is it? #Person1#: My friends in business circles all seem to be of the opinion that the U. S. import and export corporations have become more flexible in doing business recently. #Person2#: Yes, they're right. In fact, we have either restored or adopted international practices in our foreign trade. #Person1#: I'm glad to hear that. With a view to expanding and further enhancing the bilateral relations between our two parties, and in particular, exchanging timely views on specific problems in the execution and enforcement of contracts, is it possible for us to have a representative that could stay permanently in Washing - ton D. C. ? #Person2#: Basically speaking, yes, we welcome the establishment of repry - tentative offices by foreign companies in Washington D. C. Of course, there are more details to be attended to. We cannot settle it in a few words. #Person1#: Yes, of course. I'll call my home office tonight and let them know about it. When do we meet again? #Person2#: How about tomorrow morning at 9? #Person1#: Good. I'll come back tomorrow, and we can then discuss it more specifically.

price agreement

train_554

#Person1#: Kelly, the guys and I think you should run for senior class president. #Person2#: Me? Why me? Why not you? #Person1#: We talked to our older brothers and sisters last night and got the scoop on what that job is all about. #Person2#: And you think I fit the qualifications? #Person1#: Yes. Did you know that the senior class president works for the class for life? The job doesn't stop when we graduate. #Person2#: Really? What is there to do after we graduate? #Person1#: Every class reunion is organized by the president and council and anything our class does for the school in later years is headed by the president. #Person2#: I'm honored that you think I would be qualified. But I would really have to think about this first.

senior class president

train_555

#Person1#: I really appreciate your filling me in on yesterday's lecture. #Person2#: No problem. I thought you might want to go over it together. And, anyway, it helps me review, Hope you're feeling better now. #Person1#: I am. Thanks. So, you said she talked about squid? Sounds a little strange. #Person2#: Well, actually, it was about the evolution of sea life--a continuation from last week. The octopus and the squid descended from earlier creatures with shells. They survived by shedding their shells--somewhere between 200 and 500 million years ago. #Person1#: That's a pretty long span of time. #Person2#: I know. That's what she said, though. To be precise: 'Exactly when they emerged is uncertain ... and why is still unexplained.' #Person1#: Some squid are really huge. Can you imagine something that big if it still had a shell? #Person2#: Actually, it's because they lost their shells that they could evolve to a bigger size. #Person1#: Makes sense. But some are really huge. I've read about fishermen that caught squid that weighed over a ton. Did she talk about how that happens? #Person2#: Not really. But she did mention some unusual cases. In 1933 in New Zealand they caught a squid.., let's see here.., it was twenty-two yards long. Its eyes were eighteen inches across. Can you imagine? #Person1#: Reminds me of all those stories of sea monsters. #Person2#: Dr. Simpson thinks there are probably even larger ones that haven't been found because squid are intelligent and fast---so they can easily get away from humans. Maybe some of those monster stories are true.

lecture review

train_556

#Person1#: Solomon Department Store. May I help you? #Person2#: Yes, could you tell me when the store closes today? #Person1#: We close at 7:00. #Person2#: I see. And when do you open? #Person1#: Ten o'clock on the weekend. #Person2#: Fine. Thank you very much.

business hours

train_557

#Person1#: I want to see about getting a private room as soon as possible. Also please put a 'No Visitors' sign on my door. #Person2#: I'll take care of both things, but first put this in your mouth so that I can take your temperature.

take the temperature

train_558

#Person1#: Can you believe that we've finally found a house? #Person2#: Good for you. Tell me about the house! #Person1#: It doesn't look good outside. but it is lovely inside. #Person2#: How nice! How many bedrooms does it have? #Person1#: Well, it has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, one big sitting room and a modern kitchen. #Person2#: Then your two boys don't need to share a room. They are happy with it? #Person1#: Yeah, they can have their own rooms. What interests me most is the small garden before the house. You know I love gardening so much.

new house

train_559

#Person1#: I've noticed that you spend a lot of time tending your garden. Would you like to join our gardening club? We meet every other Wednesday. #Person2#: Oh, thanks for the invitation, but this is how I relax. I'd rather not make it something formal and structured.

gardening club invitation

train_560

#Person1#: Hi! Weren't you two at the English Evening yesterday? #Person2#: Yes. How did you like it? #Person1#: I thought it was great! I'm Jeff. What are your names? #Person2#: I'm Allison and this is Melissa. #Person1#: Nice to meet both of you.

greeting

train_561

#Person1#: Excuse me. Uh, I want to get my girlfriend a sweater for her birthday, but I can't find the right one. #Person2#: Well, um, what about these over here? #Person1#: Uh, this one is okay. I like the style, but do you the same thing in a blue, a blue color? #Person2#: Um, well, Hmm. I don't ... I don't see a blue one, but about this green one? #Person1#: Uh, do you have the same thing in a dark green? And what size is this one anyway? #Person2#: It's a large. #Person1#: Oh, my girlfriend wears a small. That won't work. #Person2#: Well, what about this red one? #Person1#: Ummm, it's okay. How much is it? I don't see a price tag. #Person2#: Well, let's see. It usually sells for $34, but it's on sale for $16. #Person1#: Hmm. Okay, I'll take it. Thanks.

birthday gift

train_562

#Person1#: Great party, isn't it? #Person2#: Sure is. Jane and Ted always have great parties. #Person1#: This is my first. Jane and I teach at the same school. #Person2#: Oh, so you're a teacher? #Person1#: Yeah, history. What about you? #Person2#: I work for General Motors. #Person1#: What do you do there? #Person2#: I'm a manager's assistant. #Person1#: Oh, I see. By the way, my names's Bob Evans. #Person2#: Glad to meet you. I'm Jane Taylor.

greeting

train_563

#Person1#: I'm worried about Monday's exam. #Person2#: Take it easy. I'm sure you will do well if you take it easy and remain calm. #Person1#: Is it all right if I use dictionaries? #Person2#: You are not allowed to use them. I think. #Person1#: Do you think I could discuss the questions with others during the exam? #Person2#: I'm afraid that's impossible. Teachers would not allow that to happen. #Person1#: May I bring some paper to write drafts? #Person2#: Yes, that's all right, I suppose. #Person1#: Thank you very much for the information.

exam information

train_564

#Person1#: Are you feeling all right, Mary? You look a little tired. #Person2#: My brother and I had a birthday for my sister last night. So I didn't have much sleep. #Person1#: Where did you have the party? #Person2#: It was at my uncle's house. #Person1#: Did you go back home very late? #Person2#: Not really. But when I was home, I had to start typing a literature paper that was due first thing in the morning. #Person1#: Couldn't you do it today? #Person2#: No, our professor said she wouldn't accept any late papers. #Person1#: Then how did you manage it? #Person2#: Well, I just turned my paper in, and now I'm going home to bed. See you!

stay up

train_565

#Person1#: With us now, is Malcolm Bricklin, CEO of Visionary Vehicles. #Person2#: Hello, everyone. #Person1#: We have been hearing a couple of things about this news that Ford Motor Company is slashing up to 30,000 jobs, shutting down 14 plants nationwide. Is it a big deal if we are no longer manufacturing these cars, Malcolm? #Person2#: I think it's a huge deal. I mean the companies are massive employers both directly and indirectly. If you look at Ford after their restructuring, they've actually got 87,000 employees which is twice as many as Microsoft have worldwide. Moreover, if you look at those jobs, they are very high-paying jobs. These are people who can afford to buy their own products. #Person1#: Er, it seems to indicate a big hit for our economy if these jobs go bye-bye. #Person2#: Yeah, it's a really sad day for America. #Person1#: But it is not as if cars are stopped being made, right? #Person2#: Correct. Still a large number of cars are being made by American manufacturers. More than half of the American cars sold in America are American. So what has happened over time is that as the market share has fallen, foreign car companies have come in, taken over plants and set up new plants, and they have taken over that capacity. So, it is not like there are fewer cars being produced in America than there were 30 years ago. #Person1#: Let me ask you about the Chinese coming in. What would it mean to American jobs, if and when that happens? #Person2#: The Chinese cars we have seen so far aren't that great and they don't have the branding necessary to make a huge impact in the world stage.

car manufacturing

train_566

#Person1#: Hi, Johanna! Are you interested in going to an Art Exhibition on Sunday? A friend of mine is showing some of her paintings there. It's the opening night. Free drinks and food! #Person2#: Well, actually, I don't have anything planned. It sounds kind of fun!

art exhibition invitation

train_567

#Person1#: I've been thinking about joining a health club myself. My doctor has been encouraging me to get more exercise. Which club do you belong to? #Person2#: It's called the Good-life Health Club. I've only been going since Jan., but I've already noticed a big improvement. I feel like a new person. #Person1#: Really? What do you do there? #Person2#: They have a gym with exercise equipment and an indoor pool. I usually start by working out for about half an hour. Then I take a swim. After exercising, the water feels great. #Person1#: That sounds good. But aren't you afraid of over-working yourself? #Person2#: No, no. Everything is carefully controlled and supervised. If you're interested in seeing for yourself, I'm going again on Tuesday. Why don't you come along as my guest? You'll enjoy yourself. #Person1#: That's a good idea. Thanks. I just might.

exercise

train_568

#Person1#: It's too hot to read. #Person2#: We'd better go out for a walk. #Person1#: Which season do you like best? #Person2#: Spring. #Person1#: How about summer? #Person2#: I dislike it most. #Person1#: Why? #Person2#: Because the hottest season is summer in a year. #Person1#: But sometimes summer is more charming than the other seasons.

different seasons

train_569

#Person1#: Excuse me, I'm looking for the Alanis Morrissette album Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie. #Person2#: Let's see. If we have it, it should be over there under M. ( He looks through the CDs. ) Hmm, it looks like we've sold out of that one, but we should be getting some more copies in soon. If you want, we can order it for you. #Person1#: That's okay, I'll just check back later. Do you have the new Sting album? #Person2#: Yes, it's right over here. #Person1#: Great. One last question, where is your jazz section? #Person2#: Back there against that wall. #Person1#: Oh, I see it. Thanks for your help. #Person2#: No problem.

album

train_570

#Person1#: are you ready to go the concert? #Person2#: yes. Shoud we go there by bus so we aren't late? #Person1#: actually, why don't we go there by bike? We could get stuck in traffic if we travel by bus in ruch hour. #Person2#: that's true. Cycling is good for our environment, too. Let me just get my helmet then. #Person1#: is your helmet comfortable? #Person2#: not really, but I liked the design, so I got it. #Person1#: maybe you shoud think about getting a round helmet; they're better. #Person2#: I'll think about it. #Person1#: is that your new bicycle? #Person2#: yes, my father gave it to me for my birthday. Do you like it? #Person1#: it's the newest 10 speed cycling mountain bike. These are really expensive! #Person2#: nothing but the best from my dad. I like everything about it except for the brakes. They are a bit sticky. #Person1#: I can fix those for you. Is there anything else wrong with it? #Person2#: well, my saddle is too low for me. Do you know how to change the height? #Person1#: that's easy. It's important to have the saddle high enough so that your legs can extend fully when you are on your bicycle. #Person2#: is that why my knees have felt sore after every time I've ridden my bike? #Person1#: it's possible. Give me a minute and I can fix these for you and then we can go.

fix a bike

train_571

#Person1#: Mom, I just finished my paper. Can you proofread it before I hand it in? #Person2#: Sure, let's take a look. Sweetie, this is terrific. Your ideas are so original. #Person1#: Thanks. #Person2#: I can tell you worked hard on it. #Person1#: I really did! I started thinking about what I wanted to say three weeks ago. #Person2#: Well, it was definitely worth all the time. #Person1#: Let's just hope my teacher agrees.

paper proofread

train_572

#Person1#: John, if you don't mind, I'd like to ask you a personal question. #Person2#: I don't mind at all. #Person1#: All right. Are you married? #Person2#: To tell you the truth, I'm not married. I'm still single. #Person1#: Then, when do you plan to get married? #Person2#: I don't know. It's still up in the air.

marital status

train_573

#Person1#: Hey, Jenny. Would you like to go to dinner with me? #Person2#: I don't know. You know what they say about office romances. #Person1#: No, I don't. What do they say about office romances? #Person2#: They say you shouldn't mix love and work. #Person1#: That's silly. What I do on my own time is no one else's business. Besides, it's pretty hard to meet people outside of the office when we spend long hours here. #Person2#: You've got a point. Once I dated one of my supervisors and all of my co-workers accused him of favoritism. Then when the relationship went bad, he fired me. #Person1#: People fall in love with people they work with. That's a fact. #Person2#: That may be true, but I don't want an inter-office relationship to affect my productivity. #Person1#: If it does, it will only make you more productive, because we can support each other. #Person2#: You are sounding like we are already married. #Person1#: Good grief. All I did was ask you out. I am sorry. #Person2#: Well, I don't feel right about it. #Person1#: I am talking about dinner tonight, not a lifetime. #Person2#: Most starts with dinner, but then it gets out of hand. Besides, haven't you asked out every woman in the entire office? #Person1#: I like company. #Person2#: Company? I heard about you from Linda. She said you were an octopus! #Person1#: What can I say? I am a passionate guy. #Person2#: Well, I hope you can find something else to be passionate about. #Person1#: You want to go out with me and you know it. #Person2#: In your dreams. Now if you don't mind, I've got some work to do. #Person1#: Ok, I get the message. Hey, do you have any sisters?

office romances

train_574

#Person1#: Hey, look at these paintings on the wall! Aren't they beautiful? Linda bought some good paintings. #Person2#: Yeah, very impressive. Oh, this one's marvelous! #Person3#: Sure, they're very colorful. #Person4#: Thank you. You are very generous with your compliments. #Person1#: You know the first thing most Chinese students would ask is how much did this painting cost? #Person2#: Right. I've noticed that too. They always ask that question before they say anything else. #Person3#: That's true. Most Chinese do that. I don't know why. It's just a habit. I've noticed that foreigners often make compliments soon after they see a product someone has bought - even if they don't really mean it. #Person1#: Yeah, we're just different. We can't figure out why many Chinese people don't give big hugs to their own parents after they grow up. #Person3#: No, we don't do that. At least very few people I know do that. #Person2#: And as far as I know, it's not common for a Chinese to say, I love you to anyone including his or her soul mate. #Person4#: Cindy, please don't misunderstand. We're not saying that one way is better than another. They're just different, that's all.

Chinese habits

train_575

#Person1#: Hi, there. I'm looking for a jacket for the fall. Do you have any suggestions? #Person2#: Sure, do you need something that you can wear in the rain or are you looking for something lighter? #Person1#: Well, it does rain a lot here. What is the difference between the 2? #Person2#: If you look at this black jacket here, you can see that it is made of heavier material. It has more pockets, too. This green one is much lighter. #Person1#: So, what if I want something that will protect me from the wind and the rain? #Person2#: Then you'll want a winter coat, like this red one. #Person1#: All right You can put the others back on the shelf. #Person2#: Great. You've made a wise decision, sir.

buying clothes

train_576

#Person1#: Mark, I remember last week you told me that you wanted to learn a foreign language. Here is an ad that you may be interested in. Jackson College language school. They have German, Russian and Spanish. Is there a language that you want to learn? #Person2#: Yes, the last one. I want to go to Spain and settle down there. Where do they offer the courses? #Person1#: Their classes are given in different places. You could go to their branch school called New Century. It's just 3 blocks away. #Person2#: That's really close. I can get there by bike. #Person1#: Yes, by the way, would you like to go with me to the History Museum this Thursday? #Person2#: I'd like to but I have to practice the piano in the morning and then I have an art class in the afternoon.

language class

train_577

#Person1#: Your garden looks beautiful this summer, the flowers are really colorful. #Person2#: Thank you. I have roses, tulips and daffodils. Do you like the rockery with the small flowers? #Person1#: Yes, I do. Those are violets are they? #Person2#: Yes, they are. This afternoon I'm going to water these flowers. #Person1#: The lower branches on that tree are hanging very low. Would you like me to cut them off for you? #Person2#: Thank you. That would be very kind of you. I have a saw in the garden shed. #Person1#: When the lower branches are removed you'll be able to sit under the tree. #Person2#: Tomorrow, I'll cut the grass. Then the garden will look perfect. #Person1#: Just make sure children don't play in the flower beds and destroy the flowers.

gardening

train_578

#Person1#: What are you surfing, Jack? #Person2#: The parenting site parentdish come made a survey, a little funny. #Person1#: About what? The relationship between parents and children? #Person2#: No, to find the Top gift on Mother's Day. #Person1#: What if the result? #Person2#: Those choose time with my family are 63% over chocolates and Flowers. #Person1#: You smile because the way helps save money?

Mother's Day gift

train_579

#Person1#: Excuse me Madam? #Person2#: What can I do for you? #Person1#: I'm a newcomer here. Can you tell me the way to the Renaissance Hotel? #Person2#: Sure. You first go along this Main Street until you come to a crossroad where you will see a shopping mall, then turn right at that Crossroad and continue until you see a Citibank, keep going past the bank until you see a coffee shop. The Renaissance Hotel is just around there. #Person1#: How long does it take to get there? I must get there before 11:00 o'clock. 30 minutes from now. #Person2#: Don't worry Sir, it's about a 20 minute walk. #Person1#: Thanks a lot.

asking the way

train_580

#Person1#: What's all that screaming about? #Person2#: I just poured some ice water on Amy, while she was in the hot shower, you should have seen her face. #Person1#: You shouldn't tease your sister so much. #Person2#: Aaah it was just a joke mom. #Person1#: You take it too far sometimes Matt, if my brother had been like you when I was growing up, I would have gone crazy. Remember the time you replaced her toothpaste with hot pepper? And when you put salt in her cake, that was just before her tenth birthday. #Person2#: Sorry about that mom, that was a little too much. But Amy likes my jokes, she always laughs about it afterwards. #Person1#: She does have a good sense of humor. You are lucky she loves you so much. My brother and I weren't as close. He was 5 years older and if he teased me, I always felt hurt. It's good that you and Amy are only one year apart in age. #Person2#: She's my best friend, I like making her scared but I'll never hurt her.

joke

train_581

#Person1#: Hello, uh I'm a first-time caller. My problem is that my father went away on a business trip and I borrowed his new car, but I had an accident. I was not hurt, but the car was broken. #Person2#: Where is your mother? #Person1#: She is away, visiting some friends. #Person2#: Alright, go on. #Person1#: Well, I told my father the car was lossed. Someone had stolen it. #Person2#: Oh, you should've told your father the truth. He would understand about a car accident and he would be glad you weren't hurt. #Person1#: I'm not too sure about that. #Person2#: Give it a try, young man, because the truth is always better than a lie. #Person1#: OK. I think you're right.

tell the truth

train_582

#Person1#: RU ru. Hey, can you get your dog to stop barking? Some people are trying to sleep around here. #Person2#: Now wait a minute. Princes just barking because your cat is screaming all over the place. #Person1#: But do you know what time it is? It's 1:00 AM and I've got to get up at 6:00 to go to work. If I don't get some sleep soon, they'll be 1 less dog in the world. #Person2#: Are you frightening my dog? #Person1#: I'm merely telling you the truth, barking at night is one of the leading causes of death in dogs. #Person2#: You're mad. #Person1#: That's possible. Get your dog to close his mouth. #Person2#: You ought to shut your own mouth. #Person1#: Berenice, get the poison. #Person2#: Now come here, Prince. Nice boy. I'm going to take you inside.

midnight dog barking

train_583

#Person1#: What are you doing, little Sarah? #Person2#: I am looking at my pictures. dad. I painted them in class. #Person1#: Show me your pictures, dear. Oh, what's that, Sarah? #Person2#: It's a house. #Person1#: And what are those? #Person2#: Those are rooms. This room is the kitchen. That's my bedroom. #Person1#: What are those green lines? #Person2#: They are not lines, dad. They are trees. These trees are in the blue sky. #Person1#: Is that a plane? #Person2#: It's not a plane, dad. It's you? You are in the sky!

painting

train_584

#Person1#: I wonder why the Sunflower went out of business? It got a great review and dining magazine, and every time I ate there, there was a big crowd. #Person2#: It's not closed forever. There was a fire in the kitchen last month. But they planned to re-open as soon as the damage is repaired. #Person1#: I'm glad to hear that. It was one of the best spots in town. It was so clean, the workers were so friendly and the food was great.

closed restaurant

train_585

#Person1#: Hey Lucy, I have a question I'd like to ask you. #Person2#: Yes, go ahead. #Person1#: Well, don't laugh. But I met this really nice woman through an online music group. I need some advice. You see, Claudia. #Person2#: Ok, so it's Claudia. #Person1#: Yeah yeah, she invited me to spend 2 weeks in Germany. She is planning on introducing me to her parents. What should you do when you greet someone for the first time in Germany? #Person2#: Well, it depends upon your relationship with the person. Now Speaking of your girlfriend Claudia. #Person1#: Hey, I didn't say she was my girlfriend. #Person2#: Oh, ok ok, now, if you're meeting someone for the first time, like Claudia's parents, you should make sure you arrive on time. #Person1#: Ok, so arrive on time. Uh, what about common greetings? #Person2#: Well, Germans often shake hands and they use the person's family name unless they're really close friends. #Person1#: Ok. What about with Claudia? #Person2#: Uh, you can call her Claudia, shake hands and why don't you take her some flowers?

Germany greeting

train_586

#Person1#: Good afternoon. May I help you, sir? #Person2#: Could you please change this note for me? #Person1#: Don't you want to buy anything in my shop? #Person2#: Sorry, I just need some change. I have got to phone someone. #Person1#: OK. Let me see if I can help you. #Person2#: That's very kind of you. #Person1#: I'm sorry I'm rather short of change myself, but there is a bank across the road you can get some there. #Person2#: Well, thank you all the same.

money change

train_587

#Person1#: Can I help you? #Person2#: I'm looking for someone who works here, but I lost his business card. His name's Long or Sang or something like that. #Person1#: Chang? #Person2#: Yeah, that sounds right. #Person1#: There are about twenty people named Chang who work here. What department? #Person2#: Let me think... accounting, finance, something like that. #Person1#: Eric Chang in accounting? #Person2#: That's him! #Person1#: I'll call him and tell him you're here. #Person2#: I appreciate your help. #Person1#: Would you like to have a seat over there? It'll just be a minute. And can I have your name? #Person2#: Here's my card. #Person1#: OK. I'll have him come up to get you.

look for someone

train_588

#Person1#: Excuse me, I need to get to Cambridge today. #Person2#: Would you like to go by train or by bus? #Person1#: I am not sure, which one is better? #Person2#: The bus is cheaper but also slower. It will take about two-and-a-half hours. #Person1#: And how long does the train take? #Person2#: If you take the fast train, it will take about 50 minutes. #Person1#: Where do I catch the train? #Person2#: The trains for Cambridge leave from King's Cross Station. They run approximately every half hour. Most trains to Cambridge go from Platform 9. #Person1#: How do I get to King's Cross? #Person2#: The best way is to take an underground tube train directly to King's Cross. The Underground station is just round the corner from here. #Person1#: Can you show me on the map? #Person2#: It is very easy. Just turn right when you leave and then turn right again at the first crossroads. The entrance to the Underground station is about 50 meters further on. #Person1#: Thank you very much. #Person2#: You're welcome.

ask for directions

train_589

#Person1#: Have you graduated now? #Person2#: Yes. I graduated this past June. #Person1#: Which university did you graduate from? #Person2#: Guangzhou University. #Person1#: What degree did you receive? #Person2#: I received a bachelor's degree in Economics. #Person1#: What courses did you take in college? #Person2#: My major courses were Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, International Trade, International Finance, World Economy, Psychology and Business English #Person1#: Why did you choose to study Economics? #Person2#: Because I was quite interested in Economics then. #Person1#: Can you speak other languages except English? #Person2#: I can also speak a little Japanese. #Person1#: I am very satisfied with your answers. #Person2#: Thank you very much.

conversation about university

train_590

#Person1#: Are you interested in mountaineering? #Person2#: Yes, in some sense. I should say I like mountain climbing, you know, because I'm not so professional. How about you #Person1#: I'm the same with you, an amateur mountain climber. I went climbing in the Rocky Mountains with my friends last summer vacation. We spent two days in the mountains. #Person2#: How did you spend the night there? #Person1#: We pitched a tent in the night, waiting for the sunrise. Wow! It was too beautiful. #Person2#: I had a similar experience, but that was on the top of Tasha Mountain in my country. #Person1#: Tasha Mountain? It's very famous in China, isn't? #Person2#: Yes. It is one of the Five Mountains. #Person1#: I want to climb Tasha Mountain this summer vacation. Would you be my guide? #Person2#: I'd love to.

amateur mountain climbers

train_591

#Person1#: Hello. I bought a China dress in your shop this morning. #Person2#: Yes? #Person1#: I bought it one size up by mistake. #Person2#: Oh, did you? #Person1#: I wonder if you can change it to one size down. #Person2#: Yes, of course. Will you come with the receipt? #Person1#: Then I'll come to your place later in the evening, and how late is your shop open? #Person2#: Until 8 o'clock, ma'am. We are looking forward to seeing you.

change size

train_592

#Person1#: What seems to the trouble Mr. Brown? #Person2#: I ' m in pretty bad shape, Doctor Ford. #Person1#: Oh, In what way. #Person2#: No appetite, always unaged and I can ' t sleep well. #Person1#: Did you lose any weight? #Person2#: YES. I ' Ve lost quite a few pounds since last month. #Person1#: when was the last time you have track up? #Person2#: About two month ago. #Person1#: Let me take your blood pressure. You look anilic. Well, Mr. Brown. I ' m happy to say it ' s nothing serious. You just a little run down from overwork. #Person2#: What am I suppose to do? #Person1#: I think you ' ll needs just vacation. Try to get out doors more. I ' ll be sure if you get more rest. #Person2#: Thank you, doctor. I ' ll do what you say.

at the doctor's

train_593

#Person1#: Hello, what can I do for you today? #Person2#: Well, I'Ve got a terrible stomach-ache and I keep needing the toilet. #Person1#: I see. Well, with those symptoms maybe you'Ve got food poisoning. What have you eaten recently? #Person2#: Well, I went to a seafood restaurant last night and I ate lots of oysters. #Person1#: Hmm. It may be those then, especially if they were raw. Well, I'll give you these tablets and you should feel fine by tomorrow. #Person2#: Ok. Thank you very much.

food poisoning

train_594

#Person1#: Are you going to helen's birthday party on Friday evening? #Person2#: I wouldn't miss it for the world! It's sure to be fun. She's invited a lot of people. Do you think everyone will be able to get into her house? #Person1#: If everyone turned up, it would be a squeeze. But a few people said that they couldn't go. So I think it should be OK? #Person2#: Are you taking anything? #Person1#: I'Ve got her a birthday present and I'll take a bottle fo wine too. #Person2#: That's a good idea. She told me that she had bought plenty of food and snacks. I think it's going to be a noisy party. I hope her neighbors don't mind too much. #Person1#: Helen gets on very well with her neighbors. I wouldn't be surprised if they went to the party too. #Person2#: I'm really looking forward to it. This party is going to be a blast! #Person1#: Well, don't be late. I'll see you on Friday at helen's.

Helen's birthday party

train_595

#Person1#: What would you like to drink? #Person2#: I feel like a cup of black tea. #Person1#: Wouldn't you like something to eat? #Person2#: Yes, I'd like a portion of that strawberry tart. #Person1#: Right. I'll see if I can catch the waitress's eye.

ordering food

train_596

#Person1#: I am going to give you an end-of-the-unit test this Friday. Please be prepared for it. #Person2#: Would you please tell us how to review our lessons? #Person1#: Review all the lessons in this unit and see if you can understand the main idea of each lesson. #Person2#: Any other requirements? #Person1#: Phrases and sentence patterns are also very important. You should know how to use them. #Person2#: Should we remember all the new words and expressions? #Person1#: Certainly. #Person2#: Sorry, I don't quite understand some difficult points in this unit. I wonder if you could help us to solve the problems. #Person1#: Well. When you review your lessons, mark the places which you don't understand, then I will give you some coaching. #Person2#: When shall we have a coaching period? #Person1#: How about tomorrow? #Person2#: Ok.

end-of-unit test

train_597

#Person1#: Oh dear, Miss, you are soaked! Wow, it's really raining heavily outside. #Person2#: Yes, it sure is. I had to run here from work! I need to rush as I'm on my lunch break. #Person1#: Well please, why don't you go ahead of me in line? I'm in no hurry. #Person2#: Oh, that's so nice of you! Thank you very much. #Person1#: My pleasure Miss. Actually, could you recommend what to eat here? I've never been here before. #Person2#: Sure. Well, the avocado sandwich is delicious, and it's the healthiest thing on the menu. Personally, I think the beef salad is the tastiest choice. I usually get that. Also, the milkshakes are the best milkshakes in town! #Person1#: Well, thanks for the suggestions. #Person2#: Oh, don't mention it.

conversation in restaurant

train_598

#Person1#: Are there many idioms in English? #Person2#: There are hundreds and hundreds. English is particularly rich in idiomatic expressions. #Person1#: Can you give us an example? #Person2#: I'll look up the rate. To look up doesn't mean to look high into the sky or to look at the roof. It means to search for and find some information. #Person1#: What about the expression ' goodbye '? Is that an idiom? #Person2#: That is just a natural, grammatical English expression. It has a direct translation in other languages. #Person1#: This is interesting, Ms. Parker.

English idioms

train_599

#Person1#: Any plans tonight? #Person2#: Not really, do you? #Person1#: Well, I am wondering if we took a hang-out for a drink or something. You know, I just came back from a really tough interview. I was quite nervous during the interview. I really want to have the job. Right now, I am still a little on the edge. I am not sure if I could convince them during the interview. #Person2#: Take it easy. It is all over now. How was it going, anyway? #Person1#: I don't know. I think I did well in the paper exams. I was prepared to answer a lot of questions, but they didn't ask those as I expected. To my surprise, the manager tried to talk about the Chinese poesy with me. #Person2#: That's strange. But probably, it is the new interview technique they call it ' Getting to know you more personally '. What about your answers? #Person1#: Just did my best.

after interview