September 1 – Knowledge Day In Russia

Another academic year has begun New school year in Russia begins on Knowledge Day (День Знаний) – September 1. This, undoubtedly, is one of the brightest events in the life of every Russian. For students and their parents, this holiday is associated with a school assembly (линейка), where the school principal (директор школы) gives a solemn speech,…

Business Communication Skills Tip

Business Dinner Etiquette – Food and Drinks A business dinner is an excellent way to build working relationships. The relaxed atmosphere of a business dinner may make your guests more receptive (открытый, восприимчивый) to a sales pitch (презентация товара) or business proposal than they would be in an office. Understanding how to hold effective dinner…

Grammar Tip

The Use of Zero Conditional Sentences We use zero conditional sentences to describe habits and regular actions. In the if-clause usually the present simple or the present continuous tense is used.  Examples: 1. When Susan is feeling happy, she dances. — Когда Сьюзан чувствует себя счастливой, она танцует. 2. If I miss the train, I…

demanding (adj.)

Today’s Word of the Day Is: “demanding” (adj.) Transcription: [dɪˈmɑːn.dɪŋ] Russian Translation: трудоемкий, затратный, строгий Definition: needing a lot of attention, effort, or time Examples: 1. I like a nice light novel to read when I’m on holiday – nothing too demanding. 2. Police work is physically demanding and stressful. Synonyms: difficult, complicated, challenging

Education Quotes That Inspire a Love of Learning

Get inspired with these wise quotes about the power of education 1. Reading furnishes the mind only with materials of knowledge; it is thinking that makes what we read ours. (John Locke) The English philosopher Locke believed strongly in education; his ideas on government influenced the founding fathers (отцы-основатели США). Here he is advocating not…

Business Communication Skills Tip

Business Dinner Etiquette A successful business meal requires close attention to proper business dining etiquette (этикет делового ужина). Manners and conduct are equally important in creating an impression that may affect future attempts at building a long-lasting professional relationship. Business Discussion In most cases, you should expect light conversation before and during the meal, with…

Grammar Tip

Zero Conditional Sentences Zero conditional sentences express general truths—situations in which one thing always causes another. They are about a general truth rather than a specific instance of something.  Example: If public transport is efficient, people stop using their cars. — Если общественный транспорт эффективно работает, люди перестают ездить на автомобилях. The correct tense to…

to connive (v.)

Today’s Word of the Day Is: “To Connive” (v.) Transcription: [kəˈnaɪv] Russian Translation: содействовать, смотреть сквозь пальцы Definition: 1. To plan secretly and dishonestly for something to happen that will be to your advantage. 2. To allow something bad to happen although you know about it  Examples: 1. The officials allegedly connived to take public…