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Suggested terms: Science, News, VOA Special English
Click one for hint, twice for full word
deal with
Meaning: To manage, handle, or cope with a situation or problem.
Example: Genetic diversity helps animals deal with disease and other threats.
be known as
Meaning: To be called or recognized by a particular name.
Example: COPD is known as a new name for emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
pass on
Meaning: To transmit something, especially genetic material, to the next generation.
Example: The male marmoset passed on the green fluorescent gene to its baby.
have a chance of
Meaning: To have the possibility or likelihood of something happening.
Example: Sharks born asexually have less chance of surviving in the wild.
gain back
Meaning: To regain weight or something previously lost.
Example: Many dieters gain back the weight they lost within five years.
parthenogenesis
IPA (UK): /ˌpɑː.θə.nəˈdʒen.ɪ.sɪs/
IPA (US): /ˌpɑːr.θə.noʊˈdʒen.ə.sɪs/
Meaning: A form of asexual reproduction where an egg develops without fertilization.
Meaning: A form of asexual reproduction where an egg develops without fertilization.
Example: The shark’s birth was the first confirmed case of parthenogenesis in sharks.
genus
IPA (UK): /ˈdʒiː.nəs/
IPA (US): /ˈdʒiː.nəs/
Meaning: A biological classification ranking above species and below family.
Meaning: A biological classification ranking above species and below family.
Example: In Linnaeus’ system, humans belong to the genus *Homo*.
descriptor (species name)
IPA (UK): /dɪˈskrɪp.tər/
IPA (US): /dɪˈskrɪp.tɚ/
Meaning: The second part of a scientific name that identifies the species.
Meaning: The second part of a scientific name that identifies the species.
Example: In *Homo sapiens*, “sapiens” is the descriptor.
obesity
IPA (UK): /əʊˈbiː.sə.ti/
IPA (US): /oʊˈbiː.sə.t̬i/
Meaning: A medical condition involving excessive body fat that increases health risks.
Meaning: A medical condition involving excessive body fat that increases health risks.
Example: Doctors say obesity is complex and may require medical intervention.
calorie
IPA (UK): /ˈkæl.ər.i/
IPA (US): /ˈkæl.ɚ.i/
Meaning: A unit of energy from food; consuming more than needed leads to weight gain.
Meaning: A unit of energy from food; consuming more than needed leads to weight gain.
Example: To lose weight, people must use more calories than they take in.
Other Listening Exercises
Scientists Confirm Case of Shark That Reproduced Without Mating
In progressB1 · 14:19