What is a 'big ask'?
A 'big ask' is an informal idiom describing goal/task that is difficult to complete. It has migrated from British/Australian the discussion of sport into more general English.
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What is the gig economy? A zero hours contract?
The gig economy is the reverse of the old Japanese idea of the 'salary man' - the worker who spends his/her working life with a single company in return of job security, a regular salary, pension etc.
What is Moore's law?
In 1965 Gordon Moore, co-founder of Intel , observed that the number of transistors per square inch on integrated circuits had doubled every year since the integrated circuit was invented. Moore predicted that this trend would continue for the foreseeable future source Computers are getting faster and (relatively) cheaper with each passing year. The phones we carry in our pockets are far more powerful than the ones that sent the Apollo astronauts to the Moon. Moore has suggested that his law will not continue indefinitely - suggesting 2025 as a possible end date. Others have speculated about what might replace it . This BBC radio documentary is a useful introduction to the theme. Download The English Language Teaching Pack for only £1.99
What does it mean to sound off?
Herman Cain sounds off on race, a debate win, and the need to simplify government To sound off is to express an opinion with passion and force.
Word for admirer of American culture?
America is a vast conspiracy to make you happy. – John Updike There does not seem to be an agreed term for us admirers of American culture
What is the subjunctive?
Not a tense but a mood - the subjunctive is one of the most complex grammatical forms. It is used to describe a wish or suggestion. If I were a rich man (but I am not) I would .... The subjunctive is used with modal verbs (could, should etc). Some of the rules around it vary but the key one is that it takes the infinitive without 'to' in the present tense e.g You should be okay. For a very detailed usage and exercises go here : English Language 100 FAQ - only £1.99 Advanced Grammar in Use With CD ROM Common Errors in English Usage 2nd Edition English Grammar For Dummies
What is vlogging? And a haul?
Vloggers (or YouTubers as they popularly known) broadcast regular short videos on YouTube channels . Anyone can set up a free channel - the trick is then to attract subscribers who regularly watch your broadcasts. What is the appeal of vlogging? Fame and fortune without leaving your house for the most successful. The most popular YouTubers have pop-star status amongst their fans. They are often known by their user names - PewDiePie, for example. These, of course, are the lottery winners of the vlogging world. For most the appeal can be described in two words: free fun. What do YouTubers talk about? Themselves, mainly. The appeal of the most popular YouTubers is that of an intimate friend who shares your interests and concerns. One popular topic is hauls (what I bought today) - here is an example. Other staples include: How-to-make/do tutorials Challenges (often involving food tasting - see above) Pets Pranks (elaborate practical jokes). The be