BOX SET: English In A Minute 18 – TEN English lessons in 10 minutes!

Summary

This video offers a comprehensive guide to understanding and using a variety of common English words in different contexts. It covers terms such as 'process', 'draw', 'certain', 'practice', 'issue', 'essential', 'contact', 'fall', 'period', and 'character'. Each word is explained with clear examples of how it functions both as a noun and a verb, offering viewers practical insights into their meanings. This lesson is designed to help learners improve their vocabulary and usage in everyday situations.

Takeaways

• 😀 'Process' can refer to both a set of actions to achieve a result (noun) and the actions themselves (verb). Example: 'It takes six weeks to process passport applications.'
• 😀 'Draw' can mean to create an image (verb), attract attention (verb), or result in a tied competition (noun). Example: 'The football match ended in a draw.'
• 😀 'Certain' is used to express being 100% sure about something. It can also refer to something specific without giving exact details. Example: 'I'm certain that Tuesday is before Wednesday.'
• 😀 'Practice' as a noun refers to the actual doing of something or a tradition/custom. It can also mean regular activity to improve skills. Example: 'Football practice helps me get better at the game.'
• 😀 'Issue' can be an important topic, a problem, or an official release (verb). Example: 'The doctor issued my results this morning.'
• 😀 'Essential' means something necessary or crucial. It can also refer to the basic or most important parts of something. Example: 'Water is essential for life.'
• 😀 'Contact' as a verb means to reach out or communicate, and as a noun, it refers to someone who can provide information. Example: 'The doctor contacted me for my results.'
• 😀 'Fall' can refer to dropping down from a height (verb) or a decrease in size, amount, or strength (noun). Example: 'There has been a fall in house prices recently.'
• 😀 'Period' refers to a specific length of time, often defined by conditions or characteristics. It can also refer to a subject taught at school. Example: 'I have maths during the second period on Tuesday.'
• 😀 'Character' refers to a person in a story (noun), the qualities that define a person (noun), or the distinctive features of a place or object (noun). Example: 'The house has a lot of character.'

Q & A

What is the primary function of 'process' as a noun?

As a noun, 'process' refers to a set of actions that we take in order to achieve a result. For example, 'the process of making tea' includes several steps like adding boiling water and waiting for it to steep.

Can 'process' be used to describe a long or complex procedure?

Yes, 'process' can describe lengthy or complex procedures, such as 'the production process of popular films,' which can take years to complete.

How is 'draw' used to describe attracting attention?

'Draw' can be used as a verb meaning to attract attention. For example, 'The singer will draw a big audience' means that the singer will attract a large crowd.

What does 'draw' mean when referring to competition results?

'Draw' refers to a situation where two competitors or teams have equal scores, such as in sports. For example, 'The match ended in a draw' means the game ended with equal points, like 1:1.

What is the difference between 'certain' and 'sure'?

'Certain' is a stronger form of 'sure.' It conveys a higher level of confidence. For example, 'I am certain that Tuesday is the day before Wednesday' shows absolute certainty, unlike just being sure.

How can 'practice' be used to describe a custom or tradition?

As a noun, 'practice' can describe a custom or tradition, like 'In the UK, it's common practice to tip taxi drivers and hairdressers,' meaning it is a widespread tradition or habit.

What is the meaning of 'issue' when referring to a problem?

'Issue' can refer to a problem or concern that requires attention. For example, 'If you find any issues with our videos, please let us know' means if there are any problems or difficulties with the content.

How can 'essential' be used in different contexts?

'Essential' can mean something necessary or extremely important, like 'Water is essential for survival.' It can also refer to something fundamental, like 'The essential character of the house is its original design.'

What does 'contact' mean in a professional or social context?

'Contact' refers to communication or a person who can provide helpful information. For example, 'My contacts told me there's a job opening at the business' means people in your network have informed you about an opportunity.

What does 'fall' mean when describing a change in condition?

'Fall' can describe a change in condition, such as 'fall ill' or 'fall asleep,' meaning to suddenly become ill or to transition into sleep. For example, 'She fell ill during the trip' means she became sick unexpectedly.