Dating Scene 2 - Language Focus

Rob and Stephen look at some words used to describe people’s character and nouns that have become verbs. How on earth did that happen?

Watch the video. Then go to Task and do the activities.

Task 1

Task 2

Task 3

Download

Language level

Average: 5 (3 votes)

Submitted by nikoslado on Thu, 12/09/2019 - 16:08

Permalink
Dear Team,I think -based on all dictionaries I've looked at- the word ''fair''could be used both for the ''appearance'' and for the ''character'' description, as it means:1] ''just-equitable- rightful'' and so on, and 2]''blond -pale -beautiful''-etc...( I'm asking you because the Task requires only the second use.) Many thanks to all of you.

Hello nikoslado

Yes, 'fair' has multiple meanings and uses, and the ones you mention are certainly quite common ones. And you're right, in Task 1, it has to do with appearance.

Thanks!

All the best

Kirk

The LearnEnglish Team

Profile picture for user Leo Liu

Submitted by Leo Liu on Tue, 20/11/2018 - 03:24

Permalink
Hello. I'm confused about the "big" and "fair". Does the big mean fat, and the fair mean white? Thanks.

Hello Leo Liu,

'Big' refers to size in general. It could mean that someone is very tall, very fat, very muscled etc.

'Fair' usually describes hair colour and means the person has light or blonde hair. It can also refer to skin (fair-skinned), but this is less common.

 

Peter

The LearnEnglish Team

Do you need to improve your English?
Join thousands of learners from around the world who are making great progress with their English level with our online courses.