English During
A Coffee Break
LANGUAGE GUIDE
Julia Roberts Shares Rare Insight into Her 23-Year Marriage With Danny Moder
Julia Roberts and Danny Moder might be one of the most private couples in Hollywood, but the Pretty Woman alum isn’t afraid to sing her husband’s praises.
Roberts and Moder, who tied the knot 23 years ago in a secret New Mexico wedding, have kept with the same low-profile ethos all these years later.
Roberts rarely walks a red carpet with the screenwriter (although Moder is happy to be on the sidelines snapping photos of his wife), and their social media posts about each other have been few and far between since they met on the set of The Mexican.
However, the Mona Lisa Smile actress couldn’t resist gushing about her husband during a group interview with the cast of her latest thriller, After the Hunt—and she had the sweetest thing to say about Moder.
Roberts rarely walks a red carpet with the screenwriter (although Moder is happy to be on the sidelines snapping photos of his wife), and their social media posts about each other have been few and far between since they met on the set of The Mexican.
However, the Mona Lisa Smile actress couldn’t resist gushing about her husband during a group interview with the cast of her latest thriller, After the Hunt—and she had the sweetest thing to say about Moder.
Roberts didn’t have to think twice when she was asked about the sources of joy in her life. While her co-star Andrew Garfield argued, “I think it changes all the time," Roberts responded, "Mine doesn't” before confirming that “Danny Moder” is the main source of her happiness.
Roberts—who shares twins Hazel and Phinnaeus, both 20, and Henry, 18, with Moder—previously opened up about the simple yet non-negotiable secret to their long marriage. “Two bathroom sinks and lots of kissing.”
Nicole Kidman Files for Divorce From Keith Urban After 19 Years of Marriage
Nicole Kidman has officially filed for divorce from Keith Urban. After shocking the internet with the news of their separation, the couple is moving forward with divorce proceedings.
Kidman filed for divorce on Tuesday, one day after it was confirmed that the two had split. The longtime—and beloved—couple married back in 2006 and share daughters.
Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban are on different pages about their split. "Nicole's hurt and feels betrayed," adds another source. "It's devastating to her. She's shocked."
The breakup was reportedly not a surprise to the pair's inner circle, with a source telling that the split “really hasn’t been a secret" to their friends, especially Urban's who saw it as “inevitable."
The couple has even allegedly “been living separately for a while now," and another insider notes that Urban even got his own place. “Their lives were moving in different directions, and once he quietly set up his own place, it felt like the writing was on the wall,” they said.
The breakup was reportedly not a surprise to the pair's inner circle, with a source telling that the split “really hasn’t been a secret" to their friends, especially Urban's who saw it as “inevitable."
The couple has even allegedly “been living separately for a while now," and another insider notes that Urban even got his own place. “Their lives were moving in different directions, and once he quietly set up his own place, it felt like the writing was on the wall,” they said.
The news of their split comes just months after they celebrated their 19th wedding anniversary.
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Role of a Peacemaker
Sarah walked into the breakroom, the kind of place where bad news busts out before the coffee's even brewed. She had a secret up her sleeve and a plan to use it. The group was standing around the water cooler, and their conversation was definitely some gossip. They were talking about Tom, the new project manager.
"He's a disaster," Lisa whispered. "I have a prediction he won't last the month. His position here is up in the air."
"He seems to be handling it so effortlessly though," Mark said, leaning against the counter. "He gave that presentation this morning, and it was so smooth."
"Keep me in the loop as soon as you have any updates."
Sarah smiled. She decided to embrace the role of a peacemaker, or at least someone with better information.
"Actually, I heard he's getting transferred to the main office next week. This was just a temporary assignment."
The room went silent. The gossip was replaced by a quiet embarrassment. Sarah felt a small victory. The truth was far less dramatic than the rumors, and sometimes, that was the most powerful secret of all. She poured herself a cup of coffee and enjoyed the rare peace.
"He's a disaster," Lisa whispered. "I have a prediction he won't last the month. His position here is up in the air."
"He seems to be handling it so effortlessly though," Mark said, leaning against the counter. "He gave that presentation this morning, and it was so smooth."
"Keep me in the loop as soon as you have any updates."
Sarah smiled. She decided to embrace the role of a peacemaker, or at least someone with better information.
"Actually, I heard he's getting transferred to the main office next week. This was just a temporary assignment."
The room went silent. The gossip was replaced by a quiet embarrassment. Sarah felt a small victory. The truth was far less dramatic than the rumors, and sometimes, that was the most powerful secret of all. She poured herself a cup of coffee and enjoyed the rare peace.
Kristen Bell Is the Perpetual Helper
She is a fan of vulnerability and seems to have empathy in her DNA
perpetual постоянный
vulnerability уязвимость
to have in DNA это в крови
underqualified недостаточно квалификации
wonky неустойчивый, еле стоит на ногах
ROI and endcaps рентабельность инвестиций и заглушки
to feel out to sea не в своей тарелке
to give credit отдать должное
emotional intelligence эмоциональный интеллект
to spread the word донести всем
to make amends загладить вину
RS: You seem to move through your many roles—actor, producer, CEO, parent—with confidence. Do you ever doubt yourself?
Kristen: It’s only recently that I realized I might be qualified for any of this! I often feel underqualified, whether for an acting scene or a parenting moment.
When I feel wonky about my day, I tell my husband, “I like doing this, but I don’t really know what I’m doing.”
And he goes, “All you need to do is get the project to the finish line.”
When I think about it like that, I realize I might actually be good at it.
RS: You’re pretty honest about your feelings, which isn’t always valued in a leader. Do you think it makes good business?
Kristen: I don’t have an MBA. When I’m working on projects and people are talking about ROI and endcaps, I feel out to sea.
I’ve worked with people who are amazing in front of a computer but not as good with people.
But there’s a place for that—for those of us who value the people over the process. Perhaps one of the things I work on is giving myself credit for the emotional intelligence I do have—and spreading the word about how valuable that can be.
RS: Who is a game changer in your life?
Kristen: My husband keeps my mind and heart open and moving forward every single day, because he’s a challenger.
We disagree about 99 percent of the things on earth, which is just fun and interesting. And I started taking mother-daughter jujitsu classes last year. I could break your arm.
RS: What’s a skill or behavior that you think is underrated?
Kristen: If you can maintain a sense of vulnerability, people read you in a different way. You are more successful in every aspect of your life. It’s the most attractive characteristic on the planet.
RS: What are you teaching your kids?
Kristen: Making amends and apologizing is an important thing in our family.
RS: Your superpower is that you make reality seem doable.
Kristen: That is the hugest compliment you could possibly give me, so thank you.
vulnerability уязвимость
to have in DNA это в крови
underqualified недостаточно квалификации
wonky неустойчивый, еле стоит на ногах
ROI and endcaps рентабельность инвестиций и заглушки
to feel out to sea не в своей тарелке
to give credit отдать должное
emotional intelligence эмоциональный интеллект
to spread the word донести всем
to make amends загладить вину
RS: You seem to move through your many roles—actor, producer, CEO, parent—with confidence. Do you ever doubt yourself?
Kristen: It’s only recently that I realized I might be qualified for any of this! I often feel underqualified, whether for an acting scene or a parenting moment.
When I feel wonky about my day, I tell my husband, “I like doing this, but I don’t really know what I’m doing.”
And he goes, “All you need to do is get the project to the finish line.”
When I think about it like that, I realize I might actually be good at it.
RS: You’re pretty honest about your feelings, which isn’t always valued in a leader. Do you think it makes good business?
Kristen: I don’t have an MBA. When I’m working on projects and people are talking about ROI and endcaps, I feel out to sea.
I’ve worked with people who are amazing in front of a computer but not as good with people.
But there’s a place for that—for those of us who value the people over the process. Perhaps one of the things I work on is giving myself credit for the emotional intelligence I do have—and spreading the word about how valuable that can be.
RS: Who is a game changer in your life?
Kristen: My husband keeps my mind and heart open and moving forward every single day, because he’s a challenger.
We disagree about 99 percent of the things on earth, which is just fun and interesting. And I started taking mother-daughter jujitsu classes last year. I could break your arm.
RS: What’s a skill or behavior that you think is underrated?
Kristen: If you can maintain a sense of vulnerability, people read you in a different way. You are more successful in every aspect of your life. It’s the most attractive characteristic on the planet.
RS: What are you teaching your kids?
Kristen: Making amends and apologizing is an important thing in our family.
RS: Your superpower is that you make reality seem doable.
Kristen: That is the hugest compliment you could possibly give me, so thank you.
Escape the Monotony
Travelling, for me, is the best way to escape the monotony of my mundane life. When I travel, I try to give a wide berth to the overly touristy areas, preferring to find hidden gems. It's not always easy, but the best experiences are often found when you travel off the beaten path.
I love how some people travel so effortlessly, packing light and navigating foreign cities with ease. I am, however, not one of those people.
I get stuck in the details of planning, trying to imagine every possible situation. Case in point: last year I spent an entire week researching the best train routes in Italy when I could have just bought a ticket and enjoy my trip.
Sometimes, it feels like all my travel plans are up in the air, with dates and destinations constantly changing. This year, my trip to Japan was put on the backburner because of some unexpected work commitments. It's frustrating, but I things happen.
I've learned to take in the world around me, rather than just rushing from one place to another. I try to avoid the latest travel fads, focusing instead on what truly interests me.
I don't want to feign excitement for a landmark just because everyone else is doing it. And I've certainly had enough of travel agencies that promise the world but deliver a rushed itinerary. I've learned that a great trip is not about where you go, but how you experience it.
I love how some people travel so effortlessly, packing light and navigating foreign cities with ease. I am, however, not one of those people.
I get stuck in the details of planning, trying to imagine every possible situation. Case in point: last year I spent an entire week researching the best train routes in Italy when I could have just bought a ticket and enjoy my trip.
Sometimes, it feels like all my travel plans are up in the air, with dates and destinations constantly changing. This year, my trip to Japan was put on the backburner because of some unexpected work commitments. It's frustrating, but I things happen.
I've learned to take in the world around me, rather than just rushing from one place to another. I try to avoid the latest travel fads, focusing instead on what truly interests me.
I don't want to feign excitement for a landmark just because everyone else is doing it. And I've certainly had enough of travel agencies that promise the world but deliver a rushed itinerary. I've learned that a great trip is not about where you go, but how you experience it.
Reese Witherspoon Just Shared a Brilliant Hack for Calming Your Nerves—and It Actually Works
You can do it anywhere, anytime
an age-old problem - старая как мир проблема
an encounter - встреча
to get out of your head and into your hands - от размышлений к действиям
to swear by - ручаться (за что-либо)
pathophysiology - патофизиология
to alert - оповещать, приводить в состояние готовности
Reese Witherspoon might have the solution to an age-old problem: calming your nerves. In a recent post, Witherspoon shared an encounter with her friend’s daughter, whose high school life causes her lots of stress—and Witherspoon had the perfect response.
“I was with a friend’s daughter last week, and she was telling me that she gets really nervous,” she explains in the video. “She’s in high school; we all get nervous, right? It’s a stressful time.”
“I said ‘whenever you get nervous, get out of your head and into your hands,’” the actress and lifestyle expert says.
“So she and I went and made chocolates. It doesn’t matter if you’re making chocolate, you’re picking flowers, you’re painting by numbers, you’re cooking a meal for your family and friends—you’re busy doing something.”
And it’s not just Witherspoon who swears by turning stress into action. In fact, a 2013 study showed that regular activity can positively impact our pathophysiology. While exercise is a popular choice for those trying to work through their thoughts and feelings, any form of physical activity alerts our brain that we’re in control.
an encounter - встреча
to get out of your head and into your hands - от размышлений к действиям
to swear by - ручаться (за что-либо)
pathophysiology - патофизиология
to alert - оповещать, приводить в состояние готовности
Reese Witherspoon might have the solution to an age-old problem: calming your nerves. In a recent post, Witherspoon shared an encounter with her friend’s daughter, whose high school life causes her lots of stress—and Witherspoon had the perfect response.
“I was with a friend’s daughter last week, and she was telling me that she gets really nervous,” she explains in the video. “She’s in high school; we all get nervous, right? It’s a stressful time.”
“I said ‘whenever you get nervous, get out of your head and into your hands,’” the actress and lifestyle expert says.
“So she and I went and made chocolates. It doesn’t matter if you’re making chocolate, you’re picking flowers, you’re painting by numbers, you’re cooking a meal for your family and friends—you’re busy doing something.”
And it’s not just Witherspoon who swears by turning stress into action. In fact, a 2013 study showed that regular activity can positively impact our pathophysiology. While exercise is a popular choice for those trying to work through their thoughts and feelings, any form of physical activity alerts our brain that we’re in control.
to apply to your life — применить к своей жизни
easier said than done — легче сказать, чем сделать
coping strategy — стратегия преодоления трудностей
to engage in dopamine-boosting hobbies — заниматься хобби, которые повышают уровень дофамина
to increase your feel-good hormones — увеличить количество гормонов счастья
ultra coziness — невероятный уют
to connect with your inner child — соединиться со своим внутренним ребёнком
to head to — направиться к
to whip up — быстро приготовить (что-либо)
pimiento spread — паштет из перца пименто
to pair with — сочетать с
maple twists — кленовые завитушки (выпечка)
While certain pieces of advice are much easier said than done, there are multiple ways to try this coping strategy for yourself.
For example, you might engage in dopamine-boosting hobbies to increase your feel-good hormones, turn to some grandma-inspired hobbies for ultra coziness, or connect with your inner child through some nostalgic hobbies.
If you’re more inclined to head to the kitchen when stressed, consider whipping up one of these comforting recipes, just like Witherspoon.
Pimiento Cheese Spread – It takes 15 minutes, and you can pair the dish with crackers for a quick afternoon snack!
Curry Tomato Soup – There’s almost nothing a warm bowl of soup can’t do.
Cinnamon Maple Twists – Sweet treats are never a bad idea, especially when there’s cinnamon involved!
easier said than done — легче сказать, чем сделать
coping strategy — стратегия преодоления трудностей
to engage in dopamine-boosting hobbies — заниматься хобби, которые повышают уровень дофамина
to increase your feel-good hormones — увеличить количество гормонов счастья
ultra coziness — невероятный уют
to connect with your inner child — соединиться со своим внутренним ребёнком
to head to — направиться к
to whip up — быстро приготовить (что-либо)
pimiento spread — паштет из перца пименто
to pair with — сочетать с
maple twists — кленовые завитушки (выпечка)
While certain pieces of advice are much easier said than done, there are multiple ways to try this coping strategy for yourself.
For example, you might engage in dopamine-boosting hobbies to increase your feel-good hormones, turn to some grandma-inspired hobbies for ultra coziness, or connect with your inner child through some nostalgic hobbies.
If you’re more inclined to head to the kitchen when stressed, consider whipping up one of these comforting recipes, just like Witherspoon.
Pimiento Cheese Spread – It takes 15 minutes, and you can pair the dish with crackers for a quick afternoon snack!
Curry Tomato Soup – There’s almost nothing a warm bowl of soup can’t do.
Cinnamon Maple Twists – Sweet treats are never a bad idea, especially when there’s cinnamon involved!
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Jessica Biel Chopped a Foot of Hair
Here's How She Makes It Look So Effortlessly Cool
to chop a foot of hair отрезать 30 см волос
effortlessly непринуждённо, без усилий
to bust out доставать
flat iron утюжок для волос
stunner красавица
to nurse наслаждаться, медленно потягивать
buttered noodles лапша с маслом
to have a secret up your sleeve иметь туз в рукаве, иметь секретное преимущество
over-the-counter без рецепта врача
to commiserate сочувствовать
to debute впервые появиться
I had the pleasure of chatting with stunner Jessica Biel and, as it turns out, we have a lot more in common than I expected. We’re both nursing summer colds, we've both served our kids buttered noodles for breakfast, and we both have a few hair secrets up our sleeves.
While most people know Jessica as a talented actor, she’s also a busy mom of two and co-founder of KinderFarms, a health and wellness company offering clean-ingredient alternatives to traditional over-the-counter medicines for kids.
As we commiserated about parenting and being under the weather, I couldn’t resist asking her about her newish haircut—the trendy bob she debuted for her role as Chloe in The Better Sister.
effortlessly непринуждённо, без усилий
to bust out доставать
flat iron утюжок для волос
stunner красавица
to nurse наслаждаться, медленно потягивать
buttered noodles лапша с маслом
to have a secret up your sleeve иметь туз в рукаве, иметь секретное преимущество
over-the-counter без рецепта врача
to commiserate сочувствовать
to debute впервые появиться
I had the pleasure of chatting with stunner Jessica Biel and, as it turns out, we have a lot more in common than I expected. We’re both nursing summer colds, we've both served our kids buttered noodles for breakfast, and we both have a few hair secrets up our sleeves.
While most people know Jessica as a talented actor, she’s also a busy mom of two and co-founder of KinderFarms, a health and wellness company offering clean-ingredient alternatives to traditional over-the-counter medicines for kids.
As we commiserated about parenting and being under the weather, I couldn’t resist asking her about her newish haircut—the trendy bob she debuted for her role as Chloe in The Better Sister.
blunt с прямым срезом
freeing дающий свободу
“That was the shortest I’ve ever had before; it was amazing,” she says of the blunt bob.
“I loved it—it was fun and freeing, and you know, it was a really great change."
As someone who has long hair, I had to ask: Were you nervous to go that short?
“I was a little bit nervous but I was really ready—you know I had kind of the same length hair, like really long. We chopped 12 inches off,” she explains, posting some highlights of the process.
freeing дающий свободу
“That was the shortest I’ve ever had before; it was amazing,” she says of the blunt bob.
“I loved it—it was fun and freeing, and you know, it was a really great change."
As someone who has long hair, I had to ask: Were you nervous to go that short?
“I was a little bit nervous but I was really ready—you know I had kind of the same length hair, like really long. We chopped 12 inches off,” she explains, posting some highlights of the process.
to stick straight лежать прямо
to section off отделить
at the bottom нижний слой
to smooth разглаживать
middle part пробор посередине
Bobs may be trending, but according to Jessica, it’s the styling that gives the cut its cool factor.
“I love my hair stick straight when I have a super short cut, in particular,” she says. “So I love the flat iron, and I think my trick is you really have to take the time and you have to section it off.
Start at the bottom—like the under layers—and smooth each section. Once those are straight, then everything lays down.”
Another signature element? “I love the middle part. For me, that’s my favorite style for myself.”
to section off отделить
at the bottom нижний слой
to smooth разглаживать
middle part пробор посередине
Bobs may be trending, but according to Jessica, it’s the styling that gives the cut its cool factor.
“I love my hair stick straight when I have a super short cut, in particular,” she says. “So I love the flat iron, and I think my trick is you really have to take the time and you have to section it off.
Start at the bottom—like the under layers—and smooth each section. Once those are straight, then everything lays down.”
Another signature element? “I love the middle part. For me, that’s my favorite style for myself.”
prediction предсказание, предположение
to grow out отрастать
to spark a question побудить вопрос
to embrace принять
a silver look седые волосы
as much as I possibly can насколько могу
to cultivate your inner space развивать внутреннее пространство
surface and exterior поверхность и наружная сторона
Jessica’s character’s bob has already started to grow out, but it sparked a bigger hair question: What hair looks are next—would she ever embrace a silver look?
“Am I ever going to be that woman who like lets that gray hair come out and just rock a silver bob? I hope so,” she says.
“I’m not totally there yet.” But Jessica's take on aging is just as refreshing as her cool cut.
"I'm just trying to accept myself every day, in every moment, as much as I possibly can. There's so much more to me than this exterior body.
I think cultivating your inner space and knowing who you are and what you care about and keeping curious about your world; you know, just trying to get out of this idea that surface and exterior is like the main parts of who you are."
to grow out отрастать
to spark a question побудить вопрос
to embrace принять
a silver look седые волосы
as much as I possibly can насколько могу
to cultivate your inner space развивать внутреннее пространство
surface and exterior поверхность и наружная сторона
Jessica’s character’s bob has already started to grow out, but it sparked a bigger hair question: What hair looks are next—would she ever embrace a silver look?
“Am I ever going to be that woman who like lets that gray hair come out and just rock a silver bob? I hope so,” she says.
“I’m not totally there yet.” But Jessica's take on aging is just as refreshing as her cool cut.
"I'm just trying to accept myself every day, in every moment, as much as I possibly can. There's so much more to me than this exterior body.
I think cultivating your inner space and knowing who you are and what you care about and keeping curious about your world; you know, just trying to get out of this idea that surface and exterior is like the main parts of who you are."
Finally, I had to ask: Between her and husband Justin Timberlake, whose hair routine takes longer?
“Oh, me, for sure,” she laughs. “His hair is amazing; it doesn’t move. It’s like he gets out of the shower, and I’m like, ‘How did your hair do that?’ He doesn’t see it that way but, yeah, I love it.”
“Oh, me, for sure,” she laughs. “His hair is amazing; it doesn’t move. It’s like he gets out of the shower, and I’m like, ‘How did your hair do that?’ He doesn’t see it that way but, yeah, I love it.”
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Weaponized Incompetence
Spot the sneaky excuse that can lead to relationship inequality
weaponized incompetence стратегическая некомпетентность
sneaky excuse - хитрая отговорка
inequality - неравенство
it's fair to say - справедливо сказать
fly under the radar - быть вне поля зрения
get out of doing - уклониться от чего-либо
feign - притворяться, симулировать
unappealing - непривлекательный
GP (General Practitioner) - терапевт
pick it up - подхватить (болезнь)
prevalent - преобладающий
to varying degrees - в разной степени
sequence - последовательность
outside of conscious awareness - неосознанно
wind up - оказаться в каком-либо состоянии или месте
It’s fair to say that things like household chores and daily responsibilities aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. That said, what needs to be done, has to get done. But, sometimes, people have sneaky ways of avoiding those responsibilities – and it might be flying under the radar, until now.
‘Weaponised incompetence’ is used to describe a scenario where one person leads another to believe they are bad at a task, in order to get out of doing it altogether. The key thing here is that they’re feigning the incompetence, and it’s likely to be related to unappealing or tricky chores – think using the washing machine, navigating a GP’s booking system, or doing a child’s hair before school – so that someone else has to pick it up. This dynamic can happen in many different ways, but it’s particularly prevalent in long-term relationships.
“Weaponised incompetence can be considered a psychological game played by many couples, to varying degrees,” explains Hannah Beckett-Pratt, a transactional analysis counsellor.
“A psychological game is where both partners play out a certain sequence of behaviours together, that repeat patterns with which they have become familiar. This happens outside of conscious awareness, so we usually do not notice we have been playing the game until we wind up with the same end result.”
sneaky excuse - хитрая отговорка
inequality - неравенство
it's fair to say - справедливо сказать
fly under the radar - быть вне поля зрения
get out of doing - уклониться от чего-либо
feign - притворяться, симулировать
unappealing - непривлекательный
GP (General Practitioner) - терапевт
pick it up - подхватить (болезнь)
prevalent - преобладающий
to varying degrees - в разной степени
sequence - последовательность
outside of conscious awareness - неосознанно
wind up - оказаться в каком-либо состоянии или месте
It’s fair to say that things like household chores and daily responsibilities aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. That said, what needs to be done, has to get done. But, sometimes, people have sneaky ways of avoiding those responsibilities – and it might be flying under the radar, until now.
‘Weaponised incompetence’ is used to describe a scenario where one person leads another to believe they are bad at a task, in order to get out of doing it altogether. The key thing here is that they’re feigning the incompetence, and it’s likely to be related to unappealing or tricky chores – think using the washing machine, navigating a GP’s booking system, or doing a child’s hair before school – so that someone else has to pick it up. This dynamic can happen in many different ways, but it’s particularly prevalent in long-term relationships.
“Weaponised incompetence can be considered a psychological game played by many couples, to varying degrees,” explains Hannah Beckett-Pratt, a transactional analysis counsellor.
“A psychological game is where both partners play out a certain sequence of behaviours together, that repeat patterns with which they have become familiar. This happens outside of conscious awareness, so we usually do not notice we have been playing the game until we wind up with the same end result.”
point out - указывать
hard done by - пострадавший от несправедливости
resort - прибегать (к чему-либо)
affected in beneficial ways - положительно сказалось
drive a wedge - вбить клин
stem from - проистекать из
leftover tool - оставшийся инструмент
Hannah points out that the partner on the receiving end of the weaponised incompetence can often end up feeling as though they know best, or are more competent, and so do the task – but at the same time feel hard done by and confused. This feeling of frustration is usually what then drives them to complete the task they really want their partner to do, and so the cycle repeats.
“If we are playing the other side – resorting to manipulating our partner into doing something for us because we ‘can’t’ – we are victimising ourselves, and will likely feel guilty, powerless, and inadequate,” Hannah adds. “It can appear that the partner weaponising their incompetence is only affected in beneficial ways, but actually, these behaviours are reinforcing their own helplessness, and also driving a wedge between them and their partner.”
Hannah explains that this behaviour might stem from low self-esteem, difficulty with boundaries and control, or could perhaps be a leftover tool of getting out of boring chores in childhood. Alternatively, she points out that they might be overcommitted in other areas of their lives, but find it hard to communicate that directly.
“Whatever the reasons underlying the game of weaponised incompetence, neither partner is acting as an autonomous adult, responsible for their own needs,” Hannah concludes. “Instead, partners engage in a battle for who can control the other one, without directly stating what they really want, or do not want, to do.”
Weaponised incompetence lays the foundations for an unequal relationship. So, what can you do to address this? The answer is rooted in communication, and Hannah has some tips for navigating it.
hard done by - пострадавший от несправедливости
resort - прибегать (к чему-либо)
affected in beneficial ways - положительно сказалось
drive a wedge - вбить клин
stem from - проистекать из
leftover tool - оставшийся инструмент
Hannah points out that the partner on the receiving end of the weaponised incompetence can often end up feeling as though they know best, or are more competent, and so do the task – but at the same time feel hard done by and confused. This feeling of frustration is usually what then drives them to complete the task they really want their partner to do, and so the cycle repeats.
“If we are playing the other side – resorting to manipulating our partner into doing something for us because we ‘can’t’ – we are victimising ourselves, and will likely feel guilty, powerless, and inadequate,” Hannah adds. “It can appear that the partner weaponising their incompetence is only affected in beneficial ways, but actually, these behaviours are reinforcing their own helplessness, and also driving a wedge between them and their partner.”
Hannah explains that this behaviour might stem from low self-esteem, difficulty with boundaries and control, or could perhaps be a leftover tool of getting out of boring chores in childhood. Alternatively, she points out that they might be overcommitted in other areas of their lives, but find it hard to communicate that directly.
“Whatever the reasons underlying the game of weaponised incompetence, neither partner is acting as an autonomous adult, responsible for their own needs,” Hannah concludes. “Instead, partners engage in a battle for who can control the other one, without directly stating what they really want, or do not want, to do.”
Weaponised incompetence lays the foundations for an unequal relationship. So, what can you do to address this? The answer is rooted in communication, and Hannah has some tips for navigating it.
shared decision of labor - совместное распределение труда
contribute - вносить вклад, способствовать
compassion - сочувствие
“When it comes to conflict within a relationship, I love the analogy of being on the ‘same page’ as our partner,” she explains. “Arguments around weaponised incompetence, or shared division of labour, usually result in a ‘me vs you’ dynamic. It’s like standing on opposite sides of a mountain, arguing about who put it there, both of you struggling to be heard.
“Instead, try considering the weaponised incompetence as a relational issue between you, rather than a problem with one of you. Imagine you and your partner side by side, facing the mountain, and forming a plan together of how to climb it. Be curious about how this dynamic has been created between you, when it appears, and how you each contribute. This gives you the best chance to work on the issue together.”
Hannah rightly points out that in abusive relationships, where one partner is deliberately manipulating the other to exploit or bully them, professional help is needed. But, often, approaching problems with curiosity and patience is the key to making progress.
“When we have a fair or equal relationship, we show our partner we respect them, and are committed to the partnership,” Hannah says. “This is the basis of the trust, and teamwork, that happy relationships depend on.”
Communication doesn’t have to be a chore. Call it how it is, but do it with care and compassion, and – together – you could be laying the way to a more equal, and more fulfilling, relationship.
contribute - вносить вклад, способствовать
compassion - сочувствие
“When it comes to conflict within a relationship, I love the analogy of being on the ‘same page’ as our partner,” she explains. “Arguments around weaponised incompetence, or shared division of labour, usually result in a ‘me vs you’ dynamic. It’s like standing on opposite sides of a mountain, arguing about who put it there, both of you struggling to be heard.
“Instead, try considering the weaponised incompetence as a relational issue between you, rather than a problem with one of you. Imagine you and your partner side by side, facing the mountain, and forming a plan together of how to climb it. Be curious about how this dynamic has been created between you, when it appears, and how you each contribute. This gives you the best chance to work on the issue together.”
Hannah rightly points out that in abusive relationships, where one partner is deliberately manipulating the other to exploit or bully them, professional help is needed. But, often, approaching problems with curiosity and patience is the key to making progress.
“When we have a fair or equal relationship, we show our partner we respect them, and are committed to the partnership,” Hannah says. “This is the basis of the trust, and teamwork, that happy relationships depend on.”
Communication doesn’t have to be a chore. Call it how it is, but do it with care and compassion, and – together – you could be laying the way to a more equal, and more fulfilling, relationship.
Напишите слова и словосочетания по алфавиту:
7 things to do on your phone (that aren't doomscrolling)
minutes to spare - свободные минуты
doomscrolling - думскроллинг (бесконечное чтение плохих новостей в интернете)
replace with - заменить на
an excessive amount of time - чрезмерное количество времени
linked to - связано с
existential anxiety - экзистенциальная тревога
constant exposure to - постоянное соприкосновение с / воздействие
reinforce - подкреплять
justice - справедливость
downtime - свободное время
take its toll on - сказаться на, нанести ущерб
‘Doomscrolling’ refers to spending an excessive amount of time consuming negative news or content, and it has a real impact on our mental health and wellbeing.
In a recent study researchers found that doomscolling was linked to feelings of existential anxiety, distrust and suspicion of others, and despair. What the researchers hypothesised was that the constant exposure to negative news reinforced the idea that ‘humankind is imperfect and there is no justice in the world’.
While it’s important to be informed, spending too much time consuming this sort of content – or finding that you do it passively in your downtime rather than intentionally looking for important information – could be taking its toll on your mental health. That said, it’s an easy habit to fall into. So, when you have five minutes to spare, what quick, beneficial things can you do instead of doomscrolling?
doomscrolling - думскроллинг (бесконечное чтение плохих новостей в интернете)
replace with - заменить на
an excessive amount of time - чрезмерное количество времени
linked to - связано с
existential anxiety - экзистенциальная тревога
constant exposure to - постоянное соприкосновение с / воздействие
reinforce - подкреплять
justice - справедливость
downtime - свободное время
take its toll on - сказаться на, нанести ущерб
‘Doomscrolling’ refers to spending an excessive amount of time consuming negative news or content, and it has a real impact on our mental health and wellbeing.
In a recent study researchers found that doomscolling was linked to feelings of existential anxiety, distrust and suspicion of others, and despair. What the researchers hypothesised was that the constant exposure to negative news reinforced the idea that ‘humankind is imperfect and there is no justice in the world’.
While it’s important to be informed, spending too much time consuming this sort of content – or finding that you do it passively in your downtime rather than intentionally looking for important information – could be taking its toll on your mental health. That said, it’s an easy habit to fall into. So, when you have five minutes to spare, what quick, beneficial things can you do instead of doomscrolling?
flip on its head - перевернуть с ног на голову, в корне изменить
bring up - поднимать тему, показывать
curating feeds - настраивать ленты
adjust - настроить
Flip doomscrolling on its head and try ‘joyscrolling’. Joyscrolling is all about browsing the internet in search of things that bring you happiness or entertainment. Now, this may take a bit of preparation – the average social media feed will automatically bring up bad news. So you may want to work on curating your feeds in advance by adjusting who you are following.
Alternatively, you may choose to browse for inspiration on Pinterest, join in discussions on your hobbies and interests on Reddit forums, or research something that fascinates you.
bring up - поднимать тему, показывать
curating feeds - настраивать ленты
adjust - настроить
Flip doomscrolling on its head and try ‘joyscrolling’. Joyscrolling is all about browsing the internet in search of things that bring you happiness or entertainment. Now, this may take a bit of preparation – the average social media feed will automatically bring up bad news. So you may want to work on curating your feeds in advance by adjusting who you are following.
Alternatively, you may choose to browse for inspiration on Pinterest, join in discussions on your hobbies and interests on Reddit forums, or research something that fascinates you.
entirely new - принципиально новый
on the backburner - на втором плане
pick back up - возобновить
Now, we’re not suggesting that you master an entirely new skill in just five minutes – but if you have something on the backburner that you’re working on, these moments of downtime could be perfect for picking it back up instead of doomscrolling. It could be learning a different language, mastering a new programme, or studying for a qualification. Use these small moments to keep on progressing with whatever it is that inspires you.
on the backburner - на втором плане
pick back up - возобновить
Now, we’re not suggesting that you master an entirely new skill in just five minutes – but if you have something on the backburner that you’re working on, these moments of downtime could be perfect for picking it back up instead of doomscrolling. It could be learning a different language, mastering a new programme, or studying for a qualification. Use these small moments to keep on progressing with whatever it is that inspires you.
therapeutic - терапевтический, целебный
Freewriting is about putting down in words whatever is on your mind in that moment. There doesn’t need to be any structure, any story, or even any purpose beyond just getting your thoughts out there. Freewriting can be a therapeutic task, and you may be surprised at what comes out in the moment – and what it might be able to tell you about where you’re at. Working in the notes app on your phone, this can be a fun and revealing activity to include in life’s quiet moments.
Freewriting is about putting down in words whatever is on your mind in that moment. There doesn’t need to be any structure, any story, or even any purpose beyond just getting your thoughts out there. Freewriting can be a therapeutic task, and you may be surprised at what comes out in the moment – and what it might be able to tell you about where you’re at. Working in the notes app on your phone, this can be a fun and revealing activity to include in life’s quiet moments.
pull away from - оторваться от
fragmented - разрозненный
overload - перегрузка
deliberate - осознанный
Pick up a physical book or an e-reader. Dive into fiction, learn a new skill from a non-fiction book, or explore a topic that genuinely interests you.
Engaging with a book, whether fiction or non-fiction, requires focused attention, which pulls you away from the fragmented and often negative information overload of scrolling. It can transport you to different worlds, expand your knowledge, or help you understand complex ideas. It's a deliberate and enriching activity.
fragmented - разрозненный
overload - перегрузка
deliberate - осознанный
Pick up a physical book or an e-reader. Dive into fiction, learn a new skill from a non-fiction book, or explore a topic that genuinely interests you.
Engaging with a book, whether fiction or non-fiction, requires focused attention, which pulls you away from the fragmented and often negative information overload of scrolling. It can transport you to different worlds, expand your knowledge, or help you understand complex ideas. It's a deliberate and enriching activity.
overstimulation - сенсорная перегрузка, перевозбуждение
multitasking - многозадачность
Choose engaging stories, educational content, or even comedy podcasts that uplift your mood.
This offers a more controlled and often more positive input than endless social media feeds. You can choose content that educates, entertains, or inspires you. It allows you to consume information or stories without the visual stimulation that can contribute to overstimulation and anxiety. It's also great for multitasking, like during a commute or while doing chores.
multitasking - многозадачность
Choose engaging stories, educational content, or even comedy podcasts that uplift your mood.
This offers a more controlled and often more positive input than endless social media feeds. You can choose content that educates, entertains, or inspires you. It allows you to consume information or stories without the visual stimulation that can contribute to overstimulation and anxiety. It's also great for multitasking, like during a commute or while doing chores.
combat - противодействовать
exacerbated by - усугубляется (чем-либо)
lifting weights - поднятие веса (тренировки в зале)
a healthy outlet - здоровый выход
pent-up energy - накопленная энергия
Go for a walk in nature, practice yoga, cycle, or engage in any sport you enjoy. Exercise is a powerful stress reliever.
Moving your body is one of the most effective ways to combat stress and anxiety, which are often exacerbated by doomscrolling. Whether it's a brisk walk, a run, yoga, or lifting weights, physical activity releases endorphins, improves mood, and provides a healthy outlet for pent-up energy. It also forces you to be present in your body rather than in your head.
exacerbated by - усугубляется (чем-либо)
lifting weights - поднятие веса (тренировки в зале)
a healthy outlet - здоровый выход
pent-up energy - накопленная энергия
Go for a walk in nature, practice yoga, cycle, or engage in any sport you enjoy. Exercise is a powerful stress reliever.
Moving your body is one of the most effective ways to combat stress and anxiety, which are often exacerbated by doomscrolling. Whether it's a brisk walk, a run, yoga, or lifting weights, physical activity releases endorphins, improves mood, and provides a healthy outlet for pent-up energy. It also forces you to be present in your body rather than in your head.
out and about - вне дома, по делам
check in with - проверить состояние
restorative - восстанавливающий
frazzled and overstimulated - измотанный и перевозбужденный
wound up - взвинченный, напряженный
let off some steam - выпустить пар, сбросить напряжение
vigorous - энергичный, интенсивный
If you’re out and about when the desire to doomscroll arises, you could use this time to make a more detailed plan for some self-care activities to do later in the day. You could stop and check in with yourself, taking some time to think about what you need. For example, if you’re feeling tired a restorative activity could do the trick.
If you’re frazzled and overstimulated, something quiet and peaceful may be the answer. And if you’re wound up then you may want to let off some steam with something a bit more vigorous. Whatever it may be, leave the doomscrolling behind and use these quiet moments to connect with yourself.
check in with - проверить состояние
restorative - восстанавливающий
frazzled and overstimulated - измотанный и перевозбужденный
wound up - взвинченный, напряженный
let off some steam - выпустить пар, сбросить напряжение
vigorous - энергичный, интенсивный
If you’re out and about when the desire to doomscroll arises, you could use this time to make a more detailed plan for some self-care activities to do later in the day. You could stop and check in with yourself, taking some time to think about what you need. For example, if you’re feeling tired a restorative activity could do the trick.
If you’re frazzled and overstimulated, something quiet and peaceful may be the answer. And if you’re wound up then you may want to let off some steam with something a bit more vigorous. Whatever it may be, leave the doomscrolling behind and use these quiet moments to connect with yourself.
Завершите предложения по смыслу:
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✅ 5 powerful ways to romanticise your life
call for closer inspection - требовать более тщательного изучения
case in point - показательный пример
commute - ежедневная поездка на работу и обратно
day-to-day life - повседневная жизнь
do the rounds - циркулировать, распространяться
enamor - очаровывать, влюблять в себя
fads - повальное увлечение
wait for the next big thing - в ожидании чего-то нового и значительного
get stuck in - увязнуть, застрять
give a wide berth - держаться подальше, избегать
mundane - обыденный, рутинный
wish away - отмахнуться
From fads and fake news to misinformation, there are lots of so-called ‘wellness trends’ doing the rounds on social media that are best given a wide berth. However, some do call for closer inspection. Case in point: romanticising your life. The idea, which has been viewed 525 million times on TikTok, has nothing to do with the romance that comes with dating or partnerships, but the relationship with yourself and your day-to-day life.
Romanticising your life is all about finding happiness, joy, and beauty in the mundane, and celebrating the small moments each day. The idea itself is nothing new, but has been rebranded for a different generation.
The concept can help us to enjoy what we have today, instead of wishing our lives away.
We’re often so focused on working for the next big thing, that we’re too stressed or worried to enjoy the present. When we get stuck in that way of thinking, by the time that big thing finally comes around, we might be just as worried about the next ‘big thing’ to enjoy it.
When we romanticise the everyday things – our morning coffees, tidying our homes, the commute – we can start to enjoy the things we do daily, which means we begin to like the life we live, instead of living a life where we’re waiting for a holiday or a day off.
If you’re looking to bring some romance into your life, and truly appreciate the small things, here are five ideas to enamour you.
case in point - показательный пример
commute - ежедневная поездка на работу и обратно
day-to-day life - повседневная жизнь
do the rounds - циркулировать, распространяться
enamor - очаровывать, влюблять в себя
fads - повальное увлечение
wait for the next big thing - в ожидании чего-то нового и значительного
get stuck in - увязнуть, застрять
give a wide berth - держаться подальше, избегать
mundane - обыденный, рутинный
wish away - отмахнуться
From fads and fake news to misinformation, there are lots of so-called ‘wellness trends’ doing the rounds on social media that are best given a wide berth. However, some do call for closer inspection. Case in point: romanticising your life. The idea, which has been viewed 525 million times on TikTok, has nothing to do with the romance that comes with dating or partnerships, but the relationship with yourself and your day-to-day life.
Romanticising your life is all about finding happiness, joy, and beauty in the mundane, and celebrating the small moments each day. The idea itself is nothing new, but has been rebranded for a different generation.
The concept can help us to enjoy what we have today, instead of wishing our lives away.
We’re often so focused on working for the next big thing, that we’re too stressed or worried to enjoy the present. When we get stuck in that way of thinking, by the time that big thing finally comes around, we might be just as worried about the next ‘big thing’ to enjoy it.
When we romanticise the everyday things – our morning coffees, tidying our homes, the commute – we can start to enjoy the things we do daily, which means we begin to like the life we live, instead of living a life where we’re waiting for a holiday or a day off.
If you’re looking to bring some romance into your life, and truly appreciate the small things, here are five ideas to enamour you.
nourishing - питательный
take a chore out of - избавлять от рутины/неприятной обязанности
Finding the time and inspiration to cook three meals a day can sometimes feel like just another thing on your to-do list.
However, from the perspective of romanticising your life, cooking can be seen as a self-care exercise. Preparing food can be a relaxing, mindful task, and the end result is a nourishing gift to yourself.
Spending time making a meal you enjoy cooking, and look forward to eating, can really help to take the chore out of mealtimes.
take a chore out of - избавлять от рутины/неприятной обязанности
Finding the time and inspiration to cook three meals a day can sometimes feel like just another thing on your to-do list.
However, from the perspective of romanticising your life, cooking can be seen as a self-care exercise. Preparing food can be a relaxing, mindful task, and the end result is a nourishing gift to yourself.
Spending time making a meal you enjoy cooking, and look forward to eating, can really help to take the chore out of mealtimes.
an overused trope - избитый штамп
approach - подойти к чему-либо
arrange the bed - заправить кровать
make a monumental difference to - значительно повлиять на
scented candle - ароматическая свеча
sentiment - настроение, чувство
settle in - устроиться
tidy house, tidy mind - порядок в доме – порядок в голове
Tidy house, tidy mind might be an overused trope, but its sentiment has value; our physical environments do really affect how we feel about ourselves.
Create an environment you want to be in. While everyone has their own definition of what makes a home inviting, figuring out what works for you is key. This is often best approached through daily rituals.
Perhaps that’s the way you arrange the bed and open the windows in the morning, or close the curtains and light a scented candle before you settle in for a night on the sofa. A space that reflects your personality, and makes you feel truly safe and at home, can make a monumental difference to your daily life.
approach - подойти к чему-либо
arrange the bed - заправить кровать
make a monumental difference to - значительно повлиять на
scented candle - ароматическая свеча
sentiment - настроение, чувство
settle in - устроиться
tidy house, tidy mind - порядок в доме – порядок в голове
Tidy house, tidy mind might be an overused trope, but its sentiment has value; our physical environments do really affect how we feel about ourselves.
Create an environment you want to be in. While everyone has their own definition of what makes a home inviting, figuring out what works for you is key. This is often best approached through daily rituals.
Perhaps that’s the way you arrange the bed and open the windows in the morning, or close the curtains and light a scented candle before you settle in for a night on the sofa. A space that reflects your personality, and makes you feel truly safe and at home, can make a monumental difference to your daily life.
a side hustle - подработка
let go of - отпустить что-либо
serve a practical purpose - служить практической цели
too attached to the outcome of - слишком привязан к результату чего-либо
Spend more time doing the things that make you happy. Even if you think you’re not very good at them, you don’t need to be good at it, it just needs to make you feel good.
Sometimes we can become too attached to the outcome of our actions, or think they must always serve a practical purpose, but often we are happiest when we let go of this and simply enjoy the moment.
Try painting a picture, decorating a cake, or making up a dance – just because you can. Not everything has to be a side hustle, or impress others, it can be simply for the joy of doing something.
let go of - отпустить что-либо
serve a practical purpose - служить практической цели
too attached to the outcome of - слишком привязан к результату чего-либо
Spend more time doing the things that make you happy. Even if you think you’re not very good at them, you don’t need to be good at it, it just needs to make you feel good.
Sometimes we can become too attached to the outcome of our actions, or think they must always serve a practical purpose, but often we are happiest when we let go of this and simply enjoy the moment.
Try painting a picture, decorating a cake, or making up a dance – just because you can. Not everything has to be a side hustle, or impress others, it can be simply for the joy of doing something.
act of self-love - проявление любви к себе
brighten up - оживить, сделать ярче
bunch - букет; связка; куча
charity - благотворительность
special-edition hardback - коллекционное издание в твердом переплете
spend a fortune - потратить целое состояние
splurge on - раскошелиться на что-либо
treat yourself - баловать себя
You don’t need to wait for someone else to buy you flowers, a plant, or a new book.
It’s an act of self-love. Flowers brighten up your home and make you smile whenever you see them.
It’s not about having to splurge on the fanciest bouquet, or a special-edition hardback. An affordable bunch of supermarket flowers can be just as lovely, especially when you take the time to arrange them nicely in a vase.
And you might find your next favourite read in a charity shop. You don’t have to spend a fortune every day, but take opportunities to show yourself you are deserving of the love you give to others.
brighten up - оживить, сделать ярче
bunch - букет; связка; куча
charity - благотворительность
special-edition hardback - коллекционное издание в твердом переплете
spend a fortune - потратить целое состояние
splurge on - раскошелиться на что-либо
treat yourself - баловать себя
You don’t need to wait for someone else to buy you flowers, a plant, or a new book.
It’s an act of self-love. Flowers brighten up your home and make you smile whenever you see them.
It’s not about having to splurge on the fanciest bouquet, or a special-edition hardback. An affordable bunch of supermarket flowers can be just as lovely, especially when you take the time to arrange them nicely in a vase.
And you might find your next favourite read in a charity shop. You don’t have to spend a fortune every day, but take opportunities to show yourself you are deserving of the love you give to others.
get on with - приступать к (чему-либо)
mindful - внимательный, осознанный
pass by - проходить мимо
pause for a moment - сделать паузу на мгновение
rush through - торопиться, проноситься сквозь что-либо
see the wonder in the ordinary moments - видеть чудо в обычных моментах
set a day off to a positive start - начать выходной день с положительным настроем
take in - осмысливать
A mindful morning can set your day off to a positive start. Typically we rush through tasks just to get on with our day, never pausing for a moment to appreciate it. But even taking 10 to 15 minutes to take it in can be powerful.
Sit in a comfortable spot, and take the time to enjoy the morning, rather than rushing it. If the weather’s nice, try sitting outside and listening to the world around you. Or listen to music or a podcast.
It’s about seeing the wonder in the ordinary moments, instead of always letting them pass us by, or only valuing the grand events. There’s certainly magic, and romance, to be found in the mundane.
mindful - внимательный, осознанный
pass by - проходить мимо
pause for a moment - сделать паузу на мгновение
rush through - торопиться, проноситься сквозь что-либо
see the wonder in the ordinary moments - видеть чудо в обычных моментах
set a day off to a positive start - начать выходной день с положительным настроем
take in - осмысливать
A mindful morning can set your day off to a positive start. Typically we rush through tasks just to get on with our day, never pausing for a moment to appreciate it. But even taking 10 to 15 minutes to take it in can be powerful.
Sit in a comfortable spot, and take the time to enjoy the morning, rather than rushing it. If the weather’s nice, try sitting outside and listening to the world around you. Or listen to music or a podcast.
It’s about seeing the wonder in the ordinary moments, instead of always letting them pass us by, or only valuing the grand events. There’s certainly magic, and romance, to be found in the mundane.
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40 small joys in life (and how to cherish them)
bedsheets - простыни
cherish - лелеять, дорожить
chirp - щебетать
crisp - свежий, хрустящий
cuddle - обниматься
embrace the little joys - наслаждаться маленькими радостями
gentle flicker - мягкое мерцание
gratitude - благодарность
hanging - висящий
have a little perspective - смотреть на вещи под другим углом
increased demand - возросший спрос
intentionally choose to - намеренно выбрать
jigsaw puzzles - пазлы
just because - просто так, без особой причины
large drop - значительное падение
lift one's mood - поднять настроение
microjoy - микрорадость
on the surface - на поверхности, внешне
outline - набросать в общих чертах
pattering rain - стучащий дождь
perceive - воспринимать
poached egg - яйцо-пашот
resonate with - находить отклик у
seeking - поиск
set the tone for - задавать тон для
snuggled under - сжаться под
so with that - таким образом
take for granted - принимать как должное
tick off - отмечать галочкой в списке
uptake - усвоение, принятие чего-либо
The supermarket chain Tesco has seen a 25% rise in the sale of its bouquets of flowers in the last six months. This increased demand follows a large drop in sales during the pandemic, and now, according to Tesco's flower buyer, Ryan Daley, it’s believed that “the age of romance is back.” But this uptake could go beyond more people choosing to gift flowers to their loved ones – it might mean that more of us are embracing the little joys that life has to offer.
Microjoys are small pockets of happiness that can be found in the everyday aspects of life that we often take for granted. These brief moments might not seem significant on the surface, but they have the power to really lift our mood and set the tone for the day. We can intentionally choose to be happy by seeking microjoys in what we might otherwise perceive as ‘mundane’ activities like making a cup of tea or hanging the washing out to dry.
In our article, ‘What are microjoys and how can they help us feel more positive?’, we outline some of the simplest ways to learn to cherish the little things. From practising gratitude to celebrating others’ joy, we truly can create these experiences for ourselves – it’s just about having a little perspective. So with that, take a moment to slow down and see if any of the below resonate with you…
cherish - лелеять, дорожить
chirp - щебетать
crisp - свежий, хрустящий
cuddle - обниматься
embrace the little joys - наслаждаться маленькими радостями
gentle flicker - мягкое мерцание
gratitude - благодарность
hanging - висящий
have a little perspective - смотреть на вещи под другим углом
increased demand - возросший спрос
intentionally choose to - намеренно выбрать
jigsaw puzzles - пазлы
just because - просто так, без особой причины
large drop - значительное падение
lift one's mood - поднять настроение
microjoy - микрорадость
on the surface - на поверхности, внешне
outline - набросать в общих чертах
pattering rain - стучащий дождь
perceive - воспринимать
poached egg - яйцо-пашот
resonate with - находить отклик у
seeking - поиск
set the tone for - задавать тон для
snuggled under - сжаться под
so with that - таким образом
take for granted - принимать как должное
tick off - отмечать галочкой в списке
uptake - усвоение, принятие чего-либо
The supermarket chain Tesco has seen a 25% rise in the sale of its bouquets of flowers in the last six months. This increased demand follows a large drop in sales during the pandemic, and now, according to Tesco's flower buyer, Ryan Daley, it’s believed that “the age of romance is back.” But this uptake could go beyond more people choosing to gift flowers to their loved ones – it might mean that more of us are embracing the little joys that life has to offer.
Microjoys are small pockets of happiness that can be found in the everyday aspects of life that we often take for granted. These brief moments might not seem significant on the surface, but they have the power to really lift our mood and set the tone for the day. We can intentionally choose to be happy by seeking microjoys in what we might otherwise perceive as ‘mundane’ activities like making a cup of tea or hanging the washing out to dry.
In our article, ‘What are microjoys and how can they help us feel more positive?’, we outline some of the simplest ways to learn to cherish the little things. From practising gratitude to celebrating others’ joy, we truly can create these experiences for ourselves – it’s just about having a little perspective. So with that, take a moment to slow down and see if any of the below resonate with you…
- A warm cup of tea on a cold, crisp morning.
- Climbing into fresh bedsheets.
- Drying washing outside.
- A day off with no plans.
- A relaxing bath.
- That first page of a new notebook.
- The birds chirping in the trees.
- Cuddling a pet.
- Calling a loved one.
- The smell of freshly cut grass.
- Waking up a few minutes before your alarm.
- Ticking something off your to-do list.
- The satisfaction after organising.
- A perfectly poached egg.
- Laughing with friends.
- The sound of rain pattering on the roof.
- Warm sun streaming through your window.
- Stargazing.
- The sound of sea waves rolling in.
- Being snuggled under a cosy blanket.
- The gentle flicker of a candle flame and its aroma.
- The smell of clean laundry.
- Reading.
- Bright white clouds against a perfectly blue sky.
- Re-watching your favourite TV show.
- Remembering a happy memory.
- Listening to your favourite music.
- A beautiful sunrise/sunset.
- The changing leaves in Autumn.
- Completing a jigsaw puzzle.
- Successfully trying out a new recipe.
- Seeing your gardening efforts in bloom.
- Peace and quiet after an intense day.
- Waking up from a great night’s sleep.
- People-watching from your favourite coffee shop window.
- Donating items to charity.
- A smile from a stranger.
- Giving a compliment.
- A beautiful rainbow after a rainy day.
- Buying yourself flowers, just because.
New Vocabulary
get into it with - вступить в спор/конфликт, выяснять отношения, вовлечься в ссору или серьезное разногласие
I got into it with my boss about the new project.
willing to - готовый к чему-либо, желающий сделать что-либо, согласный на что-либо
She's willing to help us with the move.
lowlife scumbag, prick - негодяй
prepubescent flush - предпубертатный румянец (покраснение кожи, которое может возникать у детей до начала полового созревания, часто из-за смущения, стыда или эмоций)
to pick noses - ковырять в носу, бездействовать, отлынивать от работы
He was supposed to be leading the team, but he acted like a child picking his nose.
to cave - сдаться, отступить, поддаться (уступить давлению или отказаться от своей позиции)
He refused to cave to their demands.
vest - власть, полномочия, обязанности
The power to make decisions is vested in the committee.
internalize - принимать близко к сердцу
(сделать что-либо частью своих убеждений, ценностей или мышления, часто на подсознательном уровне)
She internalized the criticism and felt very bad.
social slight - социальное пренебрежение, легкое оскорбление, незначительное унижение
He felt it was a social slight when he wasn't invited.
let guard down - потерять бдительность, расслабиться, ослабить защиту
Don't let your guard down in negotiations.
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Fill in the blanks with the following expressions
intermittently, nourishment, genuinely, spread evenly, consistent, desperate, pathetic, agitated, a deft touch, where I stand, fiddle with, sparkly demeanor, the bee's knees, a passing whim, exorbitant
New Idioms
- to relax and enjoy yourself without worryingAfter a long week, she went out to let her hair down and have some fun.
- to start dancing, usually in a lively wayAs soon as the DJ played our song, we hit the dancefloor and went wild!
- to deliberately make time for something important, despite being busyEven with a packed schedule, he managed to carve out time for his morning run.
- a hidden danger or difficulty that can cause problemsSocial media can be fun, but a major pitfall is comparing yourself to others.
- to go to the gym to exercise or work outHe wakes up early every morning to hit the gym before work!
Fill in the blanks with the following expressions
hit the gym, let my hair down, carve out some time, a pitfall, hit the dancefloor
Fill in the gaps with the following expressions
to pull myself together, to give her the cold shoulder, a twisted idea, to torture, to be about to do something, to follow in somebody's footsteps, to make sure that, to hold a grudge against someone, godspeed, a bike lane, godsend
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Idiom Practice
Fill in the gaps with the following idioms:
coming down with something, have money to burn, a sweet tooth, recharge my batteries, rings a bell, down a rabbit hole, copycat,
spill the tea,
hidden gem, under the weather, tighten our belts, buzz killer,
in the same boat,
money down the drain, go Dutch, bit off more than he could chew,
soaked in, bring home the bacon,
doesn't grow on trees,
on the same page,
do as the Romans do,
a penny for your thoughts,
on a shoestring, put my feet up,
great minds think alike, itchy feet
coming down with something, have money to burn, a sweet tooth, recharge my batteries, rings a bell, down a rabbit hole, copycat,
spill the tea,
hidden gem, under the weather, tighten our belts, buzz killer,
in the same boat,
money down the drain, go Dutch, bit off more than he could chew,
soaked in, bring home the bacon,
doesn't grow on trees,
on the same page,
do as the Romans do,
a penny for your thoughts,
on a shoestring, put my feet up,
great minds think alike, itchy feet
- He ___ by agreeing to manage three projects at once.
- I started researching idioms and went ___ for hours.
- Come on, ___! What happened at the party?
- She has ___ and always orders dessert.
- You look lost in thought. ___?
- Let's ___ on dinner tonight.
- We'll have to ___ until we find a new job.
- I'd love to buy another car, but remember, money ___.
- They must ___, look at the size of that yacht!
- He works long hours to ___ for his family.
- Buying that expensive gadget was just throwing ___.
- She has ___ and is always planning her next trip.
- This little cafe is a ___ in the neighborhood.
- It's important that we're all ___ before we start the project.
- After a long day, I just want to ___ and watch a series.
- When in Rome, ___, so I tried the local cuisine.
- We sat on the terrace and ___ the atmosphere of the old town.
- He's such a ___, he always copies my style.
- I need a vacation to ___.
- ___! I was just about to suggest that.
- We're all ___, we're all facing the same challenges.
- We traveled ___ and stayed in hostels.
- Don't be a ___, let's have some fun!
- I think I'm ___, I have a sore throat.
- I'm feeling a bit ___ today.
- That name ___, but I can't quite remember where I've heard it.