Author: Peter-Wang-Mobile-2026

Notes
tense 緊張した、(緊張しすぎて)不自然な、堅苦しい;

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I took the Eiken Grade 1 test last month. It was the first time I took an Eiken test since I passed the Pre-1 test 30 years ago. It was about 140 minutes of reading, writing, and listening. The atmosphere was extremely tense, as if no sound was allowed. When the test was over, I couldn’t help congratulating the examinee sitting next to me, saying “Otsukaresamadeshita.” I never thought my English level was good enough, so I had avoided taking Eiken Grade 1. However, I always wanted it as an English learner. I don’t know what the results are yet, but I’m so glad that I finally tried. (by a reader)
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Valentine’s Day was four days ago. If you live in Japan, you probably got or gave someone chocolate. In the West, men and women often send valentines to each other. So, what is a valentine? It is a card that tells the other person how much you love him or her. Here are some typical messages: “I love you more than chocolate!” “I want you to be mine!” “Sending you hugs and kisses!” Don’t forget that you don’t have to sign your name. If you are shy, don’t tell that person who sent the valentine. He or she will just have to guess who it is from. (by Prof. Douglas Jarrell)
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