ICRT BreakDown

Ep. 14: Cat Herders Day Crazy about cats? We have a feline this episode is purr-fect for you! Join hosts Tim and Paz and their guest, Davis Liao, founder of the CrazyCat Charity Association, as they talk about the charity and all things cat. Hear about what cat herding is and isn’t. Then discover whether these are cat’s meows or pet peeves: purrs like a cat, unmanageable, 呼嚕, and… cat! (“feline” replaces “feeling” in the second sentence) seemingly – (adv.) 貌似、看來 Some cats are seemingly aloof, but when someone they’re comfortable with starts petting them, they close their eyes and melt into a contented puddle of purrs. vaccinate – (v.) 給…接種疫苗 Did you know that cats need to be vaccinated against a variety of viral diseases and infections, including rabies and feline distemper, and may need booster shots? universally – (adv.) 普遍地、共同地 It’s universally agreed that dogs, with their loving nature and need for walks, are more high maintenance than cats, who seem content to laze away their days alone. mechanism –…

Ep. 12: Fascinating Taiwan Passionate about Taiwan? You’re in good company with hosts Tim and Paz and their guest, Rifat Karlova (吳鳳), an actor, author, and Golden Bell Award-winning host. Hear about the first impression this naturalized Taiwanese from Turkey had of Taiwan, his ways of determining the best destinations and foods for visitors, and his ideas on how to tell the world about all Taiwan has to offer. Then discover whether go local, wanderlust, and live your life to the utmost are Tim, Paz, and Rifat’s pet peeves or cat’s meows! scholarship – (n.) 獎學金 Students from other countries who would like to study at a university in Taiwan should look into the generous scholarships that the Taiwanese government offers. charismatic – (adj.) 充滿個人魅力的 The speakers she finds charismatic are deeply enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the topic they want to share yet consider their audiences and are open to learning. follower – (n.) 支持者、擁護者 With his boundless enthusiasm for exploring all things Taiwanese and…

Ep. 11: Taiwan Girls Day Join BreakDown hosts Tim and Paz, and Ingrid, the International Affairs Supervisor for the Garden of Hope Foundation, as they discuss how the foundation works toward its vision of a world free of gender-based violence. Learn who they serve, what services they offer, and how they empower girls across Asia to address the issues they face. Discover if these expressions are pet peeves, cat’s meows, or both: women hold up half the sky, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, glass ceiling, and #girlsdecide. eliminate – (v.) 排除、消除 Gender-based violence has been difficult to eliminate despite years of efforts; the causes are complex and range from the individual level to the national level. assault – (n.) 毆打、攻擊 Knowing the local risk factors for domestic violence, sexual assault, and other gender-based violence helps to develop prevention and support services for women and girls. campaign – (n.) （尤指政治、商業或軍事的）專門的活動、運動 Last year, the foundation’s campaign to support Asian girls…

Ep. 11: Taiwanese Coffee Does coffee make your world go around? Join hosts Tim and Paz and their guest, Ken (學長 陳冠哲), the founder and managing director of VV Café. Learn how Ken became a coffee expert, where coffee is grown in Taiwan, what his thoughts on the different roasts are, and what makes a coffee good. Then find out whether these terms are pet peeves or cat’s meows: it’s not my cup of tea, coffee snob, and hand drip coffee. After this episode, you’ll crave a cup of Taiwanese specialty coffee! premium (adj.) 高級的、優質的、頂級的 On top of the high number of cafés, big convenience store chains offer premium coffee, evidence that Taiwanese have a taste for high-end coffee and the means to buy it. recognition (n.)承認、認可、接受 International recognition of Taiwan’s specialty coffees has increased to the point where the flavorful beans are on the must-buy lists of coffee aficionados visiting from abroad. metaphor – (n.) 隱喻、暗喻 The café’s name stands for “velvet,” a luxurious material with a silky feel, multi-layered…

Ep. 10: Triathlon Up for some swimming, biking, and running? Get a head start by diving into this episode of BreakDown with Tim, Paz, and triathlete Sam Hsieh (謝昇諺). Hear about Sam, how he became an elite athlete, what the great benefit of exercise is for him, and how he inspires others. Learn what a triathlon is and what triathletes need to succeed. Discover the even longer endurance events that Sam thinks anyone can do! Finally, find out whether these terms are pet peeves or cat’s meows: glutton; bite off more than you can chew; and don't stop when you're tired, stop when you finish! relentless – (adj.) 持續強烈的 He’s relentless about keeping himself in top shape and ready for the next triathlon, always exercising in some way, even while sitting, and maybe even while sleeping! endurance – (n.) 忍耐力、耐受力 Triathletes must have extraordinary endurance to compete in three grueling events in one race, sometimes while coping with unfamiliar weather and route conditions. accomplish – (v.) 完成、達成 The feeling he got when…

Ep. 9: Street Art Join Tim, Paz, and their guest, the artist, singer, TV show host, and actor Xiao Ma for a lively episode on street art. Find out what street art means to Xiao Ma, how he got started, and what helped him draw when he had no prior experience in art! Then hear whether these terms are cat’s meows or pet peeves: beauty is in the eye of the beholder; urban renewal; you don’t know what my painting means, but it’s beautiful; and follow your heart. digest – (n.) 文摘、摘要 Some people say “Give us the Reader’s Digest version” when they want someone to make a long story short, but interesting details can be condensed to nothing in a digest! associate –(v.) 把…連結在一起 Street art can help people associate neighborhoods and even cities with particular identities when it illustrates the lives, values, and history within those communities. innate – (adj.) 天生的 Creativity may be an innate ability that can go undiscovered until something, like the unexpected invitation Xiao Ma received to draw something artistic,…

Ep. 8: Taiwanese Manga Artists Rendezvous with hosts Tim and Paz, and their guest, 曾建華 (Chien-hua Tseng), renowned Taiwanese manga artist, host of the podcast "漫漫話畫" (Màn Màn Huà Huà), and more! Learn about Chien-hua’s journey to becoming a manga artist, the huge Taiwan-focused project he is working on, and his thoughts on the Golden Comic Awards. Hear about the fascinating evolution of Taiwanese manga. And finally, find out whether *don’t judge a book by its cover, scanlation, *and comic piqued Tim, Paz, and Chien-hua’s interest or made them cringe! renowned – (adj.) 著名的 Taiwan comics are becoming renowned abroad; translated works and their artists have been featured at comic festivals in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. depict –(v.) 描述、描繪 Many Taiwanese manga include elements such as railways that depict life during particular periods in Taiwan’s past, making the stories attractive to people of all ages. portray – (v.) 描寫 The fifth volume of a popular Taiwanese comic portraying tea* *farming was one of the…

Ep. 7: Queen of the World Returns **Nymphia Wind keeps blowing us away! Join hosts Tim and Paz, and their guest, **Chiang Wei, professional drag queen, and founder and house mother of The Haus of WOMEN, one of Taiwan’s five major drag houses. Learn about Chiang Wei’s drag persona, belief, and style, their connection to Nymphia Wind, and their thoughts on Nymphia Wind’s influence on drag here and abroad. Then find out whether these terms are Tim, Paz, and Chiang Wei’s pet peeves or cat’s meows: *suck all the air out of the room, slay, on point, *and *beauty is my responsibility*. perspective – (n.) (思考問題的) 角度、觀點、想法 If you start to lose your passion for something, try changing your perspective; a different view may reveal new aspects or opportunities that reignite your enthusiasm. shortcoming –(n.) 缺點、弱點 One tip that Chiang Wei offers for taking better selfies is to know what your shortcomings are, turn them into advantages, and then amplify those advantages. heritage –(n.) 遺產（指流傳下來的具有歷史意義的傳統、語言、建築等） Nymphia…

Join our hosts**, **Tim and Paz, and their guest, Dr. Kailin Wang, the organizational psychologist, consultant, and career coach who brought the MBTI to Taiwan. Learn how knowing your personality traits can have a positive influence on your career choices and job satisfaction. Hear if *devil’s advocate*, *cray*, *I like to think myself as a(n)___*, and *innate* pique Tim, Paz, and Kailin’s interest, or make them cringe! tangible – (adj.) 真實的、具體的 People on the sensing side of the sensing/intuition scale look for tangible evidence or solid data, and those on the intuition side look for patterns and connections. core – (n.) 核心、關鍵 Some people say core personality preferences change over time, but others say they do not, since as people mature, they learn when a temporary switch is necessary. drain – (v.) 使勞累、使疲憊 People who have jobs that fit their personality preferences don’t feel drained from using energy on functions that do not align with their personalities. vague – (adj.) 含糊的，不明確的 Self-reported personality…

Ep. 5: Stock Market Taiwan’s stock market is hot, hot, hot! Join Tim, Paz, and their guest Jason Shin, Senior Research Analyst at MacroMicro, a macro investing online platform, as they discuss what factors are driving the stock market here and what some investment alternatives to stocks are, depending on your risk appetite! Then find out what go belly up, have currency, ride the wave, bulls make money, bears make money, pigs lose money, and liquidity mean! —Vocabulary commodity 商品 (n.) The analysis of a commodity market for products such as crude oil, natural gas, and wheat includes the impact of wars and conflicts on supply and demand. retail investor 散戶，菜籃族 (n.) Retail investors, or individual investors, are non-professional investors who buy and sell stocks, mutual funds, ETFs and other securities for themselves with their own money. surge 激增 (n.) The demand for data infrastructure to support the proliferation of generative AI in all sectors has fueled the surge in Taiwan’s economic growth. indicator 指標…

Ep. 4: Net Zero by 2050 Hot topic alert! Join our hosts Tim and Paz and their guest, James Wang（王漢英）, Vice President and General Director of Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories at ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute). Learn what Net Zero means, what Taiwan’s strategies and efforts to achieve Net Zero by 2050 are, and how you – yes, you! – can contribute. Then find out whether greenwash and *carbon footprint *are this episode’s cat’s meows or pet peeves!* * —Vocabulary renewable（能源）可再生的 (adj) Taiwan is moving away from fossil fuels, but it faces constraints such as limited land or offshore areas when seeking potential sites for renewable energy projects. emit排出 (v.) The infrastructure that supports a growing array of digital services emits 1% of energy-related greenhouse gases; this must be halved by 2030 to achieve Net Zero by 2050. transition過渡；轉變 (n.) A just transition to Net-Zero emissions by 2050 is an integral part of Taiwan’s Climate Change Response Act; based on respect for…

Ep. 3: 2024 Bamboo Expo and World Bamboo Congress Bamboo… so old-school, isn’t it? Well, no! Join Tim, Paz, and Dr. Ying-pin Huang, a Manager at the Industrial Technology Research Institute's Central Region Campus who works on bamboo technologies. Bamboo… technologies? Yes! There’s no bamboozling going on here! Find out about some bamboo applications that can help us achieve a sustainable world. Hear about the 2024 Bamboo Expo and the World Bamboo Congress. Then discover what Tim, Paz, and Dr. Huang think of to miss the forest for the trees, mycelium,* *and *infinity.* —Vocabulary resilient 有彈性的，有適應性的 (adj.) Bamboo, which is resilient against storms and droughts, has extensive root systems that can control soil erosion and stabilize slopes in landslide-prone areas. primitive 原始的 (adj.) A seemingly primitive, no-tech bamboo product, biochar, a type of charcoal, contains carbon captured from the atmosphere; when added to soil, biochar enriches it and creates a carbon sink. multiple 由許多部份組成的，多樣的 (adj.) The 2024…

Ep. 2: Lantern Festival Baiming Carnival Get a glimpse into the fascinating Matsu Islands’ Lantern Festival with Tim, Paz, and their guest, Matsu YouTuber Chami. Chami champions Matsu’s culture and dialect on her show, 掐米亜店, and you’ll learn some words that describe features of the festival procession perfectly: 擺暝 (pē màng / pě màng), 碗燕 (uāng iěng / uang ngiěng), 拍鼓板 (phák kū pēing / phǎh kú bēing), 迎神 (ngiàng sìng / ngiǎng nìng). You’ll want to see it for yourself! Finally, find out what Tim, Paz, and Chami think about the terms have receipts, dialect, and beat! —Vocabulary dedication致力，奉獻 (n.)；subtitle 字幕 (n.) Chami’s dedication to using the Matsu dialect in her videos is great, but since not many people know it, she adds Mandarin subtitles to make her content more accessible. procession 行列，隊伍 (n.) People following the festival procession know what section of the route it’s on since each features different musical instruments; a change means a different god is visiting. interaction 互動 (n.) In one…

Do you ever wonder what’s behind the delicious parade of fruit and vegetables you eat throughout the year? Join BreakDown hosts Tim and Paz and their guest Leo, host of the podcast “農遊超市Farmtour Market,” to find out. Discover how this rice farmer is showing people aspects of agriculture in interesting, creative ways. Then hear if reap what you sow, hydroponics, aquaculture, aquaponics, and duck are pet peeves or cat’s meows to them! Vocabulary fundamental 基礎的，基本的 （adj.） Agriculture, fundamental to most economies and societies, faces huge increases in demand, space and water scarcity, climate change, and other critical challenges. sustainable （對環境沒有損害或損害很小因而）可持續的，能長期維持的 （adj.） A bird-loving rice farmer in Yilan convinced other local farmers to join him in growing organic rice, started an organic rice brand, and organized recreational tours on his farm, creating a sustainable business for the birds’ sake. prosperous 繁榮的;富裕的 (adj.) People gift tiny sweet and sour kumquats to wish the recipient a prosperous new…

Have a seat with BreakDown hosts Tim and Paz and their guest Peggy, Deputy Director of the Curatorial and Planning Center at Skills for U. Discover what Skills for U does, what the Taiwan Technical and Vocational Education and Training Conference features, why technical and vocational training and jobs are important, and what role English plays. Then learn about these terms: a jack of all trades and a master of none, MOOCs, and empower. —Vocabulary bilingual 雙語的 (adj.) A highly skilled workforce with many bilingual vocational and technical workers will contribute to raising Taiwan’s international competitiveness. corporate 公司的；團體的 (adj.) One challenge in vocational education that corporate ESG and CSR initiatives could address is providing resources for programs that lack up-to-date knowledge and equipment. Note: ESG - environmental, social, and corporate governance; CSR - corporate social responsibility sector 部門 (n.) The conference aims to break down silos in Taiwan’s vocational and technical education…

Are you a fan of Chinese-language movies? Join the crowd! Get comfortable with hosts Tim and Paz and their guest, XXY, host of XXY梗你看電影, which covers everything related to movies. Learn what differences are disguised by the common comparison of the Golden Horse Awards to the Academy Awards. Find out what the range of nominated films and people reflects, and more. Then discover some interesting cat’s meows, pet peeves, and borrowed terms: popcorn, blockbuster, MacGuffin, schadenfreude, and deus ex machina! —Vocabulary nickname綽號 (n.) XXY’s nickname is not related to the movie of the same name or to a chromosomal anomaly; it’s an abbreviation created by the initials of the pinyin reading of his Chinese name. dialect方言 (n.) The Golden Horse Awards used to be exclusively for movies only in Mandarin, but in recent years, the Awards has become more inclusive and now considers Mandarin-based movies that include regional and indigenous dialects. essence本質；實質 (n.) The current crop of films with numerous nominations…

Taiwan stands with diversity! Join BreakDown co-hosts Tim and Paz as they talk with Amy, Mooni and 咆哮蒂, co-hosts of the podcast “女同志週記lez.weekly”. Learn about Taiwan’s Pride event and its importance to the local and international LGBTQ+ communities and to Taiwan itself. Then hear about these pet peeves and cat’s meows: true colors, heteronormativity, pansexual, think without branding, and true self. —Vocabulary evolve逐步發展 (v.) Taiwan’s Pride event continues to evolve and now includes a sightseeing bus and short tours to introduce domestic and international visitors to Taiwan’s LGBTQ+ culture. inclusive（團體或組織）可以包容各種人的 (adj.) Beyond LGBTQ+ Pride events, the legalization of same-sex marriage and adoption rights for same-sex couples show how Taiwan is working to make its society inclusive. representation代表 (n.) Seeing representation of the LGBTQ+ community gives people who feel unseen or unsure about their place in society the encouragement to be themselves. advocate支持;提倡 (v.) International participation in…

A fitness trainer and a history buff? Wow! What an interesting combo! Join BreakDown hosts Tim and Paz as they chat with Light and Dan, co-hosts of the podcast 走鐘運動日記. Learn fascinating details about the Asian Games happening later this month. Then find out what the following mean and if they’re cat’s meows or pet peeves: jump the gun, ever onward, DNF, PB, and PR. —Vocabulary Predecessor 前任；前身；前輩(n.) The Far Eastern Championship Games, held from 1913 to 1934, and the West Asia Games, held in 1934, are considered the predecessors of today’s Asian Games, which held its first edition in 1951. Upcoming 即將發生的(adj.) The upcoming 19th Asian Games are eagerly anticipated in Asia and beyond; originally scheduled for 2022 and cancelled because of the pandemic, the Games open later this month. Kabaddi 卡巴迪(n.) In the 2018 Asian Games, Taiwan’s women’s team won the bronze medal in Kabaddi, a 4,000-year-old sport described as a combination of wrestling and tag. Glue 膠水；黏著劑(n.) 黏合；緊附(vt.) For 15 days from September 23rd…

*配合8月航班，煙火施放時間調整至20:35* *To align with the August flight schedule, the fireworks display time has been adjusted to 8:35 PM.* Join Tim, Paz, and BreakDown guest Jerome, host of the travel podcast “旅行熱炒店”, as they discuss the fascinating history of Taipei’s Dadaocheng district, the exciting 51-day summer festival there, and some great photo tips for the festival fireworks! Then discover what they think of off the beaten path, no-brainer, and wanderlust. —Vocabulary Back alley陋巷；後巷(n.), eatery 餐館(n.), refined 精緻的(adj.), storefront 店面(n.) Exploring the back alleys of your city might yield unexpected finds hiding behind quiet storefronts, such as a lively neighborhood eatery offering a refined menu of exquisite dishes based on local ingredients. Compiled 編譯(v.) Unable to travel outside of the U.S. during the pandemic, Jerome instead traveled to the far reaches of the country – Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Hawaiian island of Moloka‘i, and Utqiagvik, the northernmost American city – and then he…

Who’s wearing the yellow jersey? Join BreakDown hosts Tim and Paz and their guests Alan and Greg, a.k.a. Uncle, hosts of the Bike Talk大叔愛輪事podcast, as they discuss the Tour de France, the legendary 23-day men’s bicycle race. Then learn about their cat’s meows: hitch a ride, peloton, cycling, and the Grand Tour! —Vocabulary Conquer, courageous 攻取；征服(v.) , 勇敢的(adj.) The courageous riders have to conquer a punishing 3405.6 kilometers route that takes them through all five of France’s mountain ranges. Prestigious 有聲望的(adj.) There are many important men’s bicycle races all over the world, but the Tour de France is regarded as the most prestigious. Classification , jersey 分類(n.) , 運動衫(n.) In the Tour de France’s main competitions, the winners of the general, mountains, points, and young rider classifications are awarded yellow, polka dot, green, and white jerseys respectively. Prowess 高超的技能(n.) The grueling Tour de France showcases the endurance and athletic prowess of its elite professional competitors. Gimmick…

Tim and Paz talk with 兼叔 and 阿宏, hosts of the Car 浮浪 podcast, about charging electric vehicles (EVs). What are the advantages and disadvantages? Some may not be on your radar yet! Find out if tire kicker, go the extra mile, AI, and autonomous driving are cat’s meows or pet peeves! —Vocabulary Outlet 充電插座( n.) A major challenge of owning an EV in Taiwan is finding an electrical outlet where the car can be charged. Emission 排放(n.) Reducing carbon emissions by increasing the use of EVs is a long-term goal of the government. Infrastructure 基礎建設(n.) EVs, whose batteries make them much heavier than gas-fueled cars, have a bigger impact on infrastructure such as roads and bridges. Swap 交換(n.) There's an extensive network of battery swap stations for scooters in Taiwan, but it’s a completely different situation for EVs. Consolidate 整合(v.) In Taiwan, getting multiple EV charging companies to work together and consolidate information on their charging systems is difficult since the industry is rapidly growing and each…

Tim and Paz talk with guests Catherine and Howard, hosts of the Morning Taiwan Glocal News daily live podcast. Glocal? That’s a mash-up of “global” and “local”. Learn about the G7 Summit in Hiroshima and its relevance to Taiwan. Discover what you think about text abbreviations, hermit mode, gaslighting, and oxymorons! —Vocabulary Delegation代表團(n.) Sidelines 場邊(n.) Taiwan does not have an official governmental delegation at the G7 Summit; however, it may have contacts and connections on the sidelines. Imminent 即將發生的(adj.) Slogan 標語；口號(n.) Tired of empty slogans, Catherine wants the G7 Summit to result in more concrete changes and smart solutions about climate change because the threat it poses is more imminent now. Combat 戰鬥(n.) People are worried that there will be intensive military combat around the nuclear power plant in Ukraine. Aggression 侵略(n.) As China’s aggression becomes more obvious, more people in Taiwan are becoming interested in international news, aware that they should care more about what is…

Join hosts Tim and Paz and their guest, Jeane Huang, host of the podcast “On the Right Side of the Ambassador”. You’ll get a taste of what diplomatic life is like for an ambassador’s wife. You’ll learn about Thailand’s Songkran, which is drenched in tradition, and find out what this episode’s cat’s meows and pet peeves are. —Vocabulary Spouse 配偶(n.) The territory of ambassadors’ spouses is often the home, where they may have extensive entertaining duties. Diplomatic 外交的(adj.) In diplomatic circles, the spouse of the ambassador always sits on the ambassador’s right side, a position that indicates respect. Strategically 有策略性地(adv.) In Chiang Mai, where a canal ensures a plentiful water supply, Songkran can be boisterous, with people strategically throwing water to get as many people and things as drenched as possible. Derive起源；衍生(v.) “Songkran”, the word used for Thailand’s New Year’s national holiday, is derived from a Sanskrit word that is related to the sun’s movement between constellations. Merit [-making]…

Join Tim, Paz, and BreakDown guest Ted, an engineer and TechPorn podcaster, as they discuss the mind-boggling capabilities and implications of OpenAI's artificial intelligence (AI) tool ChatGPT. Learn how we can improve how we work in collaboration with AI and find out why natural language processing is compelling us to redefine how we learn. —Vocabulary Natural language input ChatGPT-4 can analyze natural language input and generate appropriate and humanlike text responses. Programmer 程式設計師(n.) According to Ted, AI can be a powerful tool in assessing the coding of programmers and software engineers. Implication 涉及(n.) All of the foreseeable implications of AI for education, industry, and society require deep consideration now. Collaborate 合作(v.) To collaborate effectively with AI systems, it is important for people to develop strong communication skills, including the ability to formulate good questions. Enhance 提高(v.) ChatGPT-4’s enhanced natural language processing capabilities, astonishingly advanced…

In this episode, Tim talks with Shio, ICRT’s weekend DJ and You Shang-Jie (游尚傑), host of Unlock the Earth, a travel podcast. You’ll learn about Ramadan and its fascinating fasting and feasting customs. Then you’ll hear about pet peeves, cat’s meows and - you’ll hear it here first - “cat’s peeves”. — Vocabulary Sacrifice 犧牲(v.) Muslims in Malaysia sacrifice eating from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. during Ramadan. Amplify 放大(v.) He says social media can amplify someone’s mistake, especially if it goes viral. Cleanse their souls 淨化心靈 Purify their bodies 淨化身體 Exercise self-control 實踐自我控制 Draw closer to their God 更親近神 Crescent moon 新月 Mosque 清真寺 (n.) Bazaar 市集(n.) Cancel culture 指控文化 (n.) She doesn’t like cancel culture when someone does one thing wrong and is canceled without a chance to redeem him/herself. Woke (adj.) 保持清醒的 這裡是指人們應該了解發生在身邊的當代議題，通常帶有戲謔涵意 He doesn’t know or care about racial and social justice issues, but he pretends to be woke. Intermittent fasting 間歇性斷食(n.) 搭乘英語特快車，一起學英文👉English Express ▌English…

Recently, Taiwan has been celebrating the Lunar New Year, and the Lantern Festival. Join us as we talk about another celebration being observed in France, Italy, and Brazil! Take a break and learn about the origins and customs of Carnival around the world, with ICRT’s Paz and Tim, as they chat with Podcaster, Mary. ICRT BreakDown is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! — Vocabulary Religious tradition 宗教傳統 The family followed the religious tradition of celebrating Easter with a big feast and church service. 這家人遵循以盛大的宴會和教堂禮拜慶祝復活節的宗教傳統。 Local custom 當地習俗 As a sign of respect for the local custom, visitors to the village are expected to remove their shoes before entering the temple. 作為對當地習俗的尊重，村里的遊客在進入寺廟前必須脫鞋。 Animal bladder 動物膀胱 In medieval times, the animal bladder was used as a tool for playing the traditional game of Hacky…

Good vocational skills can be the ticket to a rewarding career. But did you know, they might also win you a medal at an international competition? Join ICRT’s Hope, Jane and Tim as they chat with Nick and Samuel, two medalists at this year’s WorldSkills competition held at various cities around the world. Not only will you learn more about this competition, but also how good English skills gave them an upper hand. ⠀⠀ ICRT BreakDown is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀ 擁有優秀的職業技術，對於自己的職涯發展有極大助益。但是你可知道，還可以靠著這些技術贏得國際大獎？本次的「新聞說分明」節目，兩名獲獎者 Nick 和 Samuel 來到台北社區廣播電台，跟 Hope, Jane 還有 Tim 談到國際技能競賽，他們分享參加比賽的經過，並且都表示英文能力給了他們優勢。 ⠀⠀ ICRT「新聞說分明」是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。 端一杯咖啡或是好茶，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ Vocabulary — 2022 WorldSkills Competition/compete 競賽 A World Cup is a global sporting competition in which the participants…

What could be better than enjoying some good music on a cool autumn night? Well, for nine days in October, Taichung residents were serenaded by some of the best jazz music in Taiwan. Join ICRT’s Caitlin, Jane and Tim as they chat about the 2022 Taichung Jazz Festival, including the fun on stage and off stage. ⠀⠀ ICRT BreakDown is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀ 秋天微涼的夜晚，還有什麼比聽聽讓人陶醉的爵士樂更合適呢？ 台中市十月舉辦的爵士音樂節，長達九天，讓聽眾大享耳福，聽到台灣最高水準的爵士樂。 請加入 ICRT 的 Caitlin, Jane 還有 Tim 在播客節目「新聞說分明」裡面，討論這個音樂節舞台上以及舞台下的各種趣聞。 ⠀⠀ ICRT「新聞說分明」是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。 端一杯咖啡或是好茶，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ Vocabulary — 2022 Taichung Jazz Festival Fusion 融合 The famous chef opened a new restaurant which features fusion cuisine, a mix of Japanese and French food. 這位名廚開了一家餐廳，提供融合法式和日式料理的餐點。 ⠀⠀ Genre (文學或音樂的)形式 What’s your favorite musical genre?…

No matter what you call it, soccer or football, this is a sport the entire world loves! The World Cup kicks off soon and Qatar, and we’re checking up on what to expect in this once every four-year championship series. Hope, Jane and Tim may not be very good on the soccer pitch, but luckily we have guest podcaster John joining us, to tell us all about the 2022 World Cup. ⠀⠀ ICRT BreakDown is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀ 足球在英文裡面有人叫它 Football，有人叫它 Soccer，但是不論名字如何，它是世界最盛行的運動項目之一。而即將在卡達舉行的 2022 年世界盃足球賽，更將吸引全球目光。雖然 ICRT 的Jane, Hope 還有 Tim 算不上足球專家，不過我們很幸運地有英國人 John 加入「新聞說分明」播客單元，來探討一下這四年才一次的世界盃足球賽。 ⠀⠀ ICRT「新聞說分明」是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。 端一杯咖啡或是好茶，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ Vocabulary - World Cup 世界盃足球賽 FIFA 國際足球總會 它的原文來自法文，Fédération internationale de Football Association…

Ghosts and goblins can be very scary. But once a year, these scary creatures turn into every child’s favorite friend — as Halloween brings the promise of fun and scary costumes, jack-o’-lanterns, and of course, candy! Come trick-or-treating with ICRT, as Paz, Hope and Tim discuss the origins and traditions surrounding Halloween. ⠀⠀ ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀ 大鬼小鬼很嚇人，不過每年到了萬聖節，孩子們穿上各種鬼怪的服裝，出門去要糖果，玩「不給就搗蛋」的遊戲，可是很開心的！快加入 ICRT 的 Hope, Paz and Tim 在「新聞說分明」播客節目，輕鬆討論萬聖節的由來，還有各種相關習俗。 ⠀⠀ ICRT「新聞說分明」是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。 端一杯咖啡或是好茶，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ Vocabulary—Halloween Halloween 萬聖節 我們所熟悉的萬聖節，其實指的是萬聖節前夕，也就是 10 月 31 號晚上的活動。 ⠀⠀ Costume 服裝，戲服，或某個國家或是地區的傳統服飾 Ruth Carter, the costume designer for the superhero film “Black Panther,” won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design.…

Prices keep going up, and making ends meet is growing more and more difficult. Luckily for some workers, with the new year they’ll also see a hike in the minimum wage. Join ICRT’s Jane, Hope and Tim as they discuss how the government is taking steps to alleviate the pain of inflation. ⠀⠀ ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀ 百物騰貴，薪水變薄，生活越來越不容易。不過領基本薪資的勞工，至少從明年開始，會看到他們的收入上揚超過百分之四。 請加入 ICRT 的 Hope, Jane and Tim 在「新聞說分明」播客節目，討論政府採取了哪些行動來減緩通貨膨脹帶來的痛苦。 ⠀⠀ ICRT「新聞說分明」是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。 端一杯咖啡或是好茶，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ Vocabulary—Minimum Wage Hike Wage 薪水 A: The Ministry of Labor is raising minimum wage again. 勞動部又要調高基本薪資了。 B: How much will the hourly pay be? 時薪會變成多少? A: 176 NT an hour. B: Good! That means I can earn 26,400 NT a month. 真好，那表示我一個月可以賺兩萬六千四百塊 A: Is that enough for you? 那樣就夠了嗎? B:…

During the COVID pandemic, we had to learn to avoid crowds. This meant many companies adopted “work from home” to protect their workers’ health, and also allow the business to continue operating. Now that we’re moving beyond COVID, many companies think it’s time for staff to return to the office. Join ICRT’s Jane, Hope, and Tim as they discuss the good and bad about working from home, and whether the best option is a little of both — some days in the office, and some days working from home. ⠀⠀ ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀ 疫情期間大家都得學習避免群聚。很多公司於是採取在家辦公的方式，一方面保護員工健康，同時也讓工作繼續進行。現在我們已經越過了疫情高峰，很多公司覺得員工可以返回辦公室了。 請加入ICRT的播客節目，新聞說分明，聽聽 Jane, Hope and Tim 討論在家辦公的優缺點，也許最佳選擇是綜合兩種上班方式，有時候到辦公室，有時候在家裡。 ⠀⠀ ICRT「新聞說分明」是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。 端一杯咖啡或是好茶，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ Vocabulary—Work from Home…

We at Break Down went to the automotive lot to kick tires on some new cars, but were startled to learn we’d need to wait for 6-months if we wanted a new set of wheels. That’s right, a global shortage of semiconductor chips is having an impact on all sorts of products, from automobiles to home electronics. Join ICRT’s Jane, Hope, and Tim as they discuss the global shortage, and contemplate a world without our favorite hi-tech toys and gadgets. ⠀⠀ ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expressions in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀ 我們跑到車商去踢踢新車的輪胎，很驚異的發現假如我們要訂一組新輪胎，必須等半年的時間！？ 沒錯，全球都缺半導體晶片，而這影響的範圍極廣，從汽車到家用電子產品都有。請加入 ICRT 的播客節目，新聞說分明，聽聽 Jane, Hope and Tim 討論半導體短缺問題，以及沒有晶片的話，我們最喜愛的玩具和各種高科技裝置都動彈不得，會是什麼感覺。 ⠀⠀ ICRT「新聞說分明」是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。 端一杯咖啡或是好茶，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ Vocabulary—AI Semiconductor – 半導體 Without semiconductor chips, there’s no…

電腦和機器人，會不會有一天取代我們的工作？而人工智慧，更是不斷改變我們使用科技，以及跟機器人或是其他新發明的方式。 想要聽聽關於人工智慧或者是大數據的談話，請加入 ICRT 的 Jane, John 還有 Tim 的播客節目 ICRT Break Down 新聞說分明。 聽過之後你就會知道，不需要擔憂有一天人工智慧會搶走你的飯碗了！ ⠀⠀ ICRT「新聞說分明」是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。 端一杯咖啡或是好茶，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀ Will computers and robots soon replace our jobs? AI, artificial intelligence, is changing how we use technology, and how we interact with new advancements like robots. For more on AI and big data, join ICRT’s Jane, John and Tim as they explore AI. And don’t worry, they’ll tell you how AI may change the employment landscape, but won’t replace human creativity. ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀ Vocabulary—AI Personal assistant 可以是真正的助理，也可以是手機裡的個人助理軟體，例如內建在iPhone手機裡的Siri. ⠀⠀ Algorithm 演算法，也就是寫出一連串的數學步驟，讓電腦來完成某項工作。著名的演算法包括尋路(pathfinding)運算，資訊壓縮(audio and video…

鬼月有好多禁忌，比如不能游泳啦，晚上不能洗衣服啦。鬼月和中元節的起源是什麼，如今的人又怎麼過鬼月呢？ ICRT 的 Jane, Hope and Tim 在播客節目中聊到這些古老的傳統，還有世界其他地方的類似節日。 ⠀⠀ ICRT 「新聞說分明」是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。 端一杯咖啡或是好茶，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀ So many taboos with the Ghost Month. Can’t go swimming, and can’t do my laundry at night. What is the origin of Ghost Month, and how is it celebrated today? In this episode, ICRT’s Jane, Hope and Tim talk about this ancient tradition, and how there are similar festivals in other parts of the world too. ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! Ghost Month— Vocabulary Offering 供品 People go to temples bearing offerings for the deity. 人們帶著供品去廟裡貢獻給神。 ⠀⠀ Good brothers 好兄弟 傳說鬼月時從地府中出來的遊魂不喜歡被稱為[鬼]，於是有了好兄弟這種稱呼。 ⠀⠀ Water lamp 水燈 To celebrate the Ghost Festival in Keelung, people would float water lanterns or lamps in the harbor to light…

太陽又大又熱，該去哪裡度假呢？最好是可以騎腳踏車，或者去有游泳池的地方？ 今天的播客節目，ICRT 的 Jane, Hope 和 Tim 聊到政府為了振興觀光業所推出的補助方案，不論是對自由行旅客或是團客都有補助，遊樂園門票也有打折。 所以打包行李，也別忘了帶上游泳衣和防曬油喔！ ⠀⠀⠀ ICRT 「新聞說分明」是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。 端一杯咖啡或是好茶，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀⠀ It’s hot outside, and we’re ready for a summer getaway! Time to find a nice travel destination to enjoy some biking, or maybe lounge next to the hotel swimming pool? In this episode, ICRT’s Jane, Hope and Tim talk about the government’s recent plan to offer travelers discounts on domestic hotel stays, tour groups and amusement parks. So pack your suitcase, and don’t forget your swimsuit and the sunscreen. ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀ Domestic hotel subsidies—Vocabulary Subsidy 補助 The Tourism Bureau is offering a subsidy program to hotels that’ll be in effect from July 15th…

夏天到了，是享受陽光，流汗運動的好時光。網球就是很受歡迎的夏日運動，本周ICRT 製作部的John, 加入新聞部的Paz and Tim來討論溫布頓網球大賽，還有跟大賽相關的傳統。所以穿上你的白色運動服，拿些新鮮草莓和鮮奶，舒舒服服來聽聽為什麼溫布頓這麼特別。ICRT “新聞說分明”是輕鬆有趣的播客節目，不但增進對某項新聞事件的了解，同時順便學一點英文表達方式。所以來吧，來聽聽新聞說分明。 ⠀⠀⠀ Summer is upon us, and it’s time to get outside, enjoy the sun, and get some exercise. One popular summer sport is tennis. This week, ICRT’s John joins Paz and Tim as they talk about Wimbledon, and some of the traditions that surround this world famous tournament. So put on your best white clothes, grab some strawberries and cream, and find out what makes Wimbledon so special. ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀⠀ Wimbledon — Vocabulary Digress 離題 She digressed from her prepared speech to pay tribute to the President. 她沒有照原先準備好的文稿講話，轉而向總統致意。 ⠀⠀⠀ Grass (tennis) court 草地球場, clay court 紅土球場, hard court 硬球場…

我們都需要保險，以防萬一。本周我們談到新冠肺炎保險，和這項保險引起的一些爭議。保險是我們在有傷損的時候可以獲得的一些保障，但是假如太多被保險人同時需要賠償呢？ ICRT新聞主播 Hope, Jane and Tim 在「新聞說分明」播客節目中，討論到這個議題。這個節目輕鬆好玩，不但傳播新聞，也讓聽眾順便增進英文單字，知道一些英語會話方式。所以來杯咖啡或是好茶，坐下來聽聽吧！ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ We all need insurance to prepare for a rainy day. Join us this week as we chat about COVID insurance, and the controversy it has created in Taiwan. Insurance can provide coverage when we suffer a loss, but what happens when too many people are in need of insurance compensation at the same time? ICRT Break Down, features ICRT News Anchors Jane Lee, Hope Ngo and Tim Berge. ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Pandemic insurance—Vocabulary Pandemic insurance 防疫保險 Many people in Taiwan bought pandemic insurance policies in the hope that they would have better protection amid the unpredictable…

今年我們聚焦在這項由聯合國贊助、瑞典主辦的活動－「世界環境日」，世界環境日的目標在提升大家對環境保護的認識，今年的主題：「只有一個地球」，強調永續生活的觀念。 ICRT 新聞主播 Hope, Jane, and Tim 在「新聞說分明」播客節目中，聊到在日常生活中培養環保意識。 從省電、回收垃圾到減塑，「新聞說分明」是個輕鬆好玩的 Podcast，不但傳播新聞，也讓聽眾順便增進英文單字、知道一些英語會話方式。所以來杯咖啡或是好茶，坐下來聽聽吧！ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Join us as we celebrate World Environment Day! This year the spotlight will be on Sweden for this UN-sponsored event to promote environmental awareness and protection. The slogan this year is Only One Earth, highlighting the need to live sustainably. Take a break with ICRT’s Jane, Hope and Tim, as they discuss ways to incorporate environmental awareness into our everyday lives, from conserving electricity to using less plastic and recycling. ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ World Environment Day— Vocabulary Sustainability 永續發展 Some enterprises have begun to take steps…

The NBA playoffs are upon us! Join us this week as we chat about shooting some hoops and enjoy the fun of an NBA game. This week on ICRT Break Down, DJ Ron Stuart stops by to explain the playoffs to ICRT News Anchors Jane Lee, Hope Ngo and Tim Berge. Together they’ll make a slam dunk as they delve into what makes an NBA game so exciting, and avoid getting themselves sidelined. ICRT Break Down is a fun and relaxing podcast to help you build your English vocabulary, and improve your understanding of common expression in the news. So, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Just sit back, relax, and listen! 美國職籃季後賽來了! 歡迎大家收聽「新聞說分明」本集有關美國職籃的聊天。 熟稔美國職籃的DJ Ron Stuart 來到節目，跟新聞部主播Jane Lee, Hope Ngo以及Tim Berge大談季後賽的種種，讓球迷難忘的灌籃和傑出的球員。 台北國際社區電台的「新聞說分明」是個輕鬆好玩的播客節目，聽眾娛樂之餘也順便累積英文字彙，並且增加對常用新聞詞彙的了解。所以囉，端一杯好茶或是濃郁咖啡，舒舒服服坐下來開始聽吧! →本節目由 ICRT 與 NDC 國發會共同製播 【NBA Playoffs -- Vocabulary】 ★playoffs 季後賽 The Warriors beat the Grizzlies 134-95, becoming the first team to grab 70 rebounds in a playoff game.…

本周節目由新聞部的 Jane, Paz 還有 Tim 領銜主演，一起來聽他們在咖啡時間討論報稅期限、免稅額、以及在台灣的外國人負擔怎樣的稅率等等。 除外，他們還提到各種報稅方式，例如手機上網報稅，甚至還告訴聽眾該如何節稅。 讓人頭痛的報稅，在節目中瞬間變得簡單易懂，所以來杯咖啡或茶，聽聽我們的聊天吧！ 本節目由 ICRT 與 NDC 國發會共同製播 This week, join ICRT Newsroom’s Jane, Paz and Tim as they take a break from the office, and discuss tax time. When is the tax deadline, what are deductions, and what’s the tax rate for foreign residents in Taiwan? We discuss it all, including how to file your taxes, doing it online, and even ways to lower your tax burden. Plus, we’ll make all of this fun and easy to understand. Best of all, join us with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Sit back, relax, and listen! -- Hosting provided by SoundOn