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Kenyan inventors create ‘panic button’ app to help save lives
According to IPSOS, crime in Nairobi is twice the national average. Incidences of muggings, carjackings and other crimes are not uncommon in Kenya’s capital city. One unfortunate victim was developer and entrepreneur Edwin Inganji. He was attacked by a group of men who stole his laptop. “I felt hopeless and I couldn’t get any help.…
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Get ready: Up to 300 Starbucks stores are coming to Italy
In good news for Americans and tourists seeking home comforts in Italy – but not so good news for those who take the country’s coffee culture seriously – Starbucks announced on Thursday that it planned to open between 200 and 300 stores in Italy. The first stores will be opened in Milan and Rome, though…
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Desert vs Dessert
Desert (verb) – to forsake or abandon; to leave without permission; to fail when needed Soldiers should not desert their posts at any time, but especially during war. Desert (noun) – dry, barren, sandy region The largest desert in the world is the Sahara. Dessert (noun) – a sweet course served at the end of…
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Which & That
If the sentence doesn’t need the clause that the word in question is connecting, use which. If it does, use that. (Pretty easy to remember, isn’t it?) Let me explain with a couple of examples. Our office, which has two lunchrooms, is located in Cincinnati. Our office that has two lunchrooms is located in Cincinnati.…
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Get Along
If people get along, they like each other and are friendly to each other I get along well with most of my colleagues. We’re not together anymore, but we get along great. Richard and his sister don’t get along.
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Borrow vs Lend
Borrow (verb) – to take or accept something for a short time with the intention of returning it to its rightful owner Could I borrow $20 until Friday? Lend (verb) – to give something for a short time with the intention of getting it back I will lend you some money until you get paid.…
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Gerund or Infinitive? Rule #1
An infinitive is the verb form that has “to” at the beginning. For example, “to do,” “to sleep,” “to love” and “to create.” It is the simplest verb form that you have to modify to fit into sentences. Gerunds are formed by adding “-ing” to the verb: “sleeping,” “drawing,” “swimming.” But they are not the…
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This bond could shelter 200 homeless people
Forget stocks. These investors are putting £1.8 million ($2.4 million) toward shelter for the homeless. Bridges Fund Management has backed a program that will finance living spaces for 200 homeless people in Manchester, England. The investment comes from the firm’s Social Impact Bond Fund, a £25 million ($33 million) pool of money raised from investors…
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Reason for writing an email
Formal I am writing to make a reservation for Christmas lunch. I am writing to apply for the position of account manager. Could you please confirm my booking at your earliest convenience? My booking code is J3Y4K5. I am writing to ask for further information about the conference taking place at your hotel next weekend.…
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Give Away
give something away to give something as a gift He gave away most of his money to charity. (informal) Check out the prices of our pizzas—we’re virtually giving them away! give somebody away Entrust your daughter to her husband through the marriage ceremony He gave his daughter away and told the groom to look after her. give…
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The future of getting dressed: AI, VR and smart fabrics
Technology has evolved a lot, but closets have been largely untouched by innovation. Now, that’s starting to change. From artificial intelligence and gadgets to smart fabrics and virtual reality, technology is poised to breathe innovation into not only how we dress but how we shop. The most recognizable example is Amazon’s Echo Look, which received significant…
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Sentence Connectors: Contrast
1. HOWEVER This restaurant has the best cheesecake in town. However, their staff are quite rude. 2. IN CONTRAST Gas prices have gone up this year. In contrast, train prices seem to be going down. 3. NEVERTHELESS I was so exhausted that I didn’t want to get up in the morning. Nevertheless, I went to…
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Find out
to discover a fact or piece of information We just found out how to cross the lake. We may never find out the truth about what happened. The police are determined to find out who killed Louise.
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Europe’s first underwater restaurant to open in Norway
Europe will soon see its first underwater restaurant, according to the project’s Norwegian architects. The planned concrete structure features a 36-foot wide panoramic window and is designed to become part of the marine environment. It’s expected to be completed by early 2019, with construction work starting in February 2018, at the southernmost point of Norway’s…
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Hang Up
1 to finish a telephone conversation If a caller is rude, just hang up. 2 hang something ↔ up to hang clothes on a hook etc She took her coat off and hung it up. 3 hang up your hat/football boots/briefcase etc informal to stop doing a particular kind of work I want a few…
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Cars
REARVIEW MIRROR WING MIRROR OR SIDE VIEW MIRROR STEERING WHEEL HEADLIGHTS BRAKE LIGHTS WINDSHIELD WINDSHIELD WIPERS
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Get Up
1. When someone who is sitting or lying down gets up, they rise to a standing position. I got up and walked over to where he was. 2.When you get up, you get out of bed. They have to get up early in the morning.
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Zip Up
zip up 1. to close or connect (something) with a zipper He zipped up his jacket. 2. to use a zipper to fasten someone’s clothing Will you zip me up, please?
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Candela: The Italian town paying people to move there
The mayor of Italian town Candela has come up with a practical solution to its dwindling population number — paying people to become residents. Nicola Gatta wants the small medieval town in Puglia to shine like it did in the 1990s, when more than 8,000 people lived here. Today, there are just 2,700 residents. So,…
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Secrets from behind the front desk
The fact that a hotel could fail to be profitable is astounding. Why? The average cost to turn over a room, to keep it operational per day, is between $30 and $40. If you’re paying less than $30 dollars a night at a hotel/motel, I’d wager the cost to flip that room runs close to…
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The power of print in a digital world
Today’s students see themselves as digital natives, the first generation to grow up surrounded by technology like smartphones, tablets and e-readers. Teachers, parents and policymakers certainly acknowledge the growing influence of technology and have responded in kind. We’ve seen more investment in classroom technologies, with students now equipped with school-issued iPads and access to e-textbooks.…
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Zoom in
zoom in to adjust the lens of a camera so that the image seems to be bigger and closer —often + on I zoomed in on her face to show her reaction. The TV cameras zoomed in on the winner’s face. often used figuratively We’re trying to zoom in on the cause of these problems…
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Either…Or
Either…Or … connects two choices: we can use either…or to emphasise a choice. (Either…or is used to refer to two things or people.) In most cases ‘either’ can be omitted. 1. You can either stay here or come with us, it’s up to you. 2. It was either Francesco or Roberto who received your message but they are…
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Contractions
Since the word contract means to squeeze together, it seems only logical that a contraction is two words made shorter by placing an apostrophe where letters have been omitted. Examples of common contractions in the English language include: I’m: I am Can’t: cannot We’ve: we have Should’ve: should have Could’ve: could have She’ll: she will…
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So & Such
So and such We can use so and such to make the meaning of an adjective, adverb or noun stronger (’very/really’): Why did you give her money? You are so stupid! He was such a terrible father that now his kids don’t want to be around him. 1. I love my colleagues, they are such nice people. 2. I was…
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“The”
The is used to refer to specific or particular nouns; For example, if I say, “Let’s read the book,” I mean a specific book. If I say, “Let’s read a book,” I mean any book rather than a specific book. Here’s another way to explain it: The is used to refer to a specific or particular member…
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Walmart Wants To Stick Groceries In Your Refrigerator While You’re Away
Walmart is one of the most familiar brands in America, but are you ready to give them access to your home? The retail giant announced that it is testing a store-to-door service in which its employees can deliver groceries to your home and pack them away in your refrigerator ― even if you aren’t there…
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Convenient airports: Europe’s best and worst in 2017
It’s the added extra flight comparison sites never warn you about: How long is the airport transfer and how much will it cost me? It’s not unusual for European budget airlines to offer flights that are cheaper than the price of the train fare into the city. Or for the airport to be in a…
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Flight attendant photographs behind the scenes of Virgin America
Virgin America air steward and arts graduate Molly Choma started working for the popular airline straight out of college. But the decision to take to the skies didn’t mean putting her creative talents to bed — far from it. For the past nine years, Choma has been photographing behind-the-scenes shots of her Virgin America colleagues as…
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The world’s least stressful cities
If peace of mind means strolling home past trees and flowers, a fat bank balance at your disposal, and with a secure job to head to the next day, then the best place to find it is Germany. A new study has revealed the world’s most and least stressful cities of 2017, based on factors…
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As long as
As long as We use as long as to refer to the intended duration of a plan or idea, most commonly referring to the future. We always use the present simple to refer to the future after as long as. As long as also means ‘provided that’, ‘providing that’ or ‘on condition that’. 1. You can…
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Adverbs
Adverbs are used to give us more information and are used to modify verbs, clauses and other adverbs. The difficulty with identifying adverbs is that they can appear in different places in a sentence. The simplest way to recognise an adverb is through the common ending –ly. Examples of –ly adverbs are: quickly, quietly, fortunately. Most adverbs…
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Preposition of time: at
Use “at” for times of day, including mealtimes, bedtime, etc. Also, use “at” in the following common expressions: at the same time: at present/at the moment: at night 1.Growing up we were never allowed to watch TV at dinner time. 2. They usually eat lunch at noon. 3.There are no free rooms at the moment so we have…
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Filthy food habits
Researchers said bacteria latches onto food in a fraction of a second after hitting the ground. And depending on the surface, carpet versus tile or wood, can increase the amount of bacteria. Blowing out candles on a cake transfers 14,000 times more bacteria onto the icing. Double-dipping and sharing popcorn are also top offenders. Restaurant menus…
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This startup is cashing in on our forgetfulness
Back home in Middleton, Wisconsin, he used the corresponding app to reveal the glasses’ last known location: the Denver International Airport. (When another Tile user has the app running and passes by your missing item, you’re automatically notified of its location). But the next day, Beddingfield was alerted that his glasses were spotted in other…
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Pilotless planes could save airlines billions. But would anyone fly?
The aviation industry could save $35 billion a year by moving to pilotless planes, according to a new report from UBS. Just one problem: The same report warns that only 17% of travelers are willing to fly without a pilot. UBS said that the technology required to operate remote-controlled planes could appear by 2025. Further…
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How to split the tab (without losing friends)
Whether your friends are open about money or more private with their finances, splitting the bill at dinner can be tricky. Do you have to pay for other people’s drinks if you didn’t order any? Do you chip in for an appetizer you didn’t eat? How do you split tax and tip? The good news…
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Indian airline Vistara: Women flying solo can skip middle seat
Delhi-based carrier Vistara has launched a new service that guarantees women won’t be allocated a middle seat. It’s part of a series of measures introduced in March 2017 by the domestic airline to protect solo female fliers. Vistara says its Woman Flyer initiative will “ensure only window or aisle seats are assigned to solo women…
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Past Continuous
We use the past continuous in many ways including: Duration in the past :Interrupted actions in progress: Actions in progress at the same time in the past: Irritation :Polite questions The past continuous is formed from the past tense of be with the -ing form of the verb. 1.The other day I was walking to the store when the ambulance hit…
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Henn-na Hotel: inside the world’s first robot hotel
Excitement meets comfort. Introducing state-of-the-art technologies, Henn na Hotel is the world’s first hotel staffed by robots. At the front desk, you will be greeted by multi-lingual robots that will help you check in or check out. At the cloakroom, the robotic arm will store your luggage for you, and the porter robots will carry them…
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How to Plan the Perfect Road Trip
You know your destination, but deciding on your route and stops can really depend on your travel style. HowStuffWorks suggests you make sure everyone is on the same page before you leave to avoid being stuck in a car with unhappy passengers for 8 hours a day. If you have to travel with someone who’s…
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When is it really time for couples therapy?
Couples should seek therapy long before they think they “need” to. Most experts believe that therapy can be an important part of your relationship. Most issues within a couple start small and then grow in size when they don’t get resolved. This is where therapy can help, by giving tools and techniques to improve conflict…
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Automated and funky: Singapore Changi Airport’s groundbreaking terminal
Singapore Changi Airport — already regularly voted the best airport in the world — is about to get even better. The airport’s upcoming fourth terminal (T4) is promising passengers an improved travel experience with the innovative use of technology and an interior that embraces a boutique approach. From a 70-meter-long LED screen keeping you occupied…
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Amazon launches a social network for spending money
Available for Amazon Prime members using the company’s iOS app, Spark is a Pinterest-like service that lets users upload images of themselves using products, or just products. Other users can then view those images and follow links to purchase the displayed items through Amazon.You don’t have friends on the social network, though. And you can’t…
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No, poor people don’t eat the most fast food
Eating fast food is frequently blamed for damaging our health. As nutrition experts point out, it is not the healthiest type of meal since it is typically high in fat and salt. More widely, it’s seen as a key factor in the growing obesity epidemic in the U.S. and throughout the world. Because it’s considered…
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Donnie Wahlberg leaves a $2,000 tip for Waffle House servers
New Kids on the Block’s Donnie Wahlberg got the royal treatment at Waffle House. So he decided to return the favor. Wahlberg posted a picture showing he’d left a massive tip for the overnight servers. A whopping $2000 on the $82.60 check. This is not the first time the actor has made an appearance at the…
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The diets from certain countries could help you live longer
Going on vacation could help you uncover the secret to a long and healthy life — if you pick the right destination. It’s no secret that certain populations around the world live longer and produce a greater number of centenarians than others. More importantly, these marvels of nature remain healthy and active as they enter…
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6 reasons to make your bed every morning
Last year, Naval Adm. William H. McRaven — the man who commanded the SEAL team that hunted for Osama bin Laden — gave University of Texas graduates some unusual advice during his commencement speech: If you want to change the world, start by making your bed. He acknowledges that this statement may seem “a little…
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The pros and cons of working into your 90s
Society often suggests that we should slow down in later life. With retirement, we can reflect on what we have achieved, get out to see the world and spend time with family. Although some people continue to work into their 70s, 80s and even 90s, retirement age in many countries suggests they cut back around…
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The surprising benefits of talking to yourself
Being caught talking to yourself, especially if using your own name in the conversation, is beyond embarrassing. And it’s no wonder — it makes you look like you are hallucinating. Clearly, this is because the entire purpose of talking aloud is to communicate with others. But given that so many of us do talk to…
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The best cities for expats 2017
Expat life isn’t always easy. Not everyone thrives in the world’s more challenging cities. Many expats appreciate locations where it’s an easy adjustment, especially if they have families. Good healthcare, education and transport, with low crime and lots of cultural opportunities are often top of the list. In Mercer’s Quality of Living Survey, 2017 once again…
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Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Italy
Arguably Europe’s most enticing country, Italy charms visitors with irresistible food, awesome architecture, diverse scenery and unparalleled art. In fact, it’s so packed with possibilities it can almost overwhelm. Located in Southern Europe, this boot-shaped country is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations for a number of reasons. Italy offers so much to…
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“Just”
We use “just” in many ways. This exercise focuses on the meaning “a very short time ago.” 1.I just saw the latest episode of Game of Thrones. 2.We just bought a new car and we are so excited. 3.He just found out that his wife is pregnant. 4.The client just landed in Florence. 5.She just…
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“Already”
Already’ is used to indicate that something has happened earlier. 1.I already did my homework for the week. 2.She already had a partner so I had to find another person to work with 3.We already bought our tickets to the USA for this summer. 4.I’ve already spoken to the others and they told me that they…
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“Have to”
“Have to” is used to express certainty, necessity, and obligation. 1.I have to finish this report before our conference call with the client. 2.This has to be right, I read the instructions ten times. 3.The polenta has to be stirred continuously otherwise it will stick to the pot. 4.She has to leave early today. 5.My niece has to…
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“Going to”
Going to is mainly used to refer to our plans and intentions in the future or to make predictions based on present evidence. 1.Is it going to rain this evening? 2.Is management going to buy new cars for the sales team soon? 3.We are going to visit Rome, Florence and Venice when we are in Italy. 4.The twins…
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“Whose”
“Whose” is a possessive pronoun like “his,” “her” and “our.” We use “whose” to find out which person something belongs to. 1.Whose camera is this? 2.Whose child is screaming? 3.Whose phone keeps ringing? 4.Whose water bottle is leaking? 5.Whose computer is charging? 6.Whose car are we taking to the meeting? 7.Whose birthday is it today?…
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Sacrificing sleep? Here’s what it will do to your health
We are one groggy, cranky, sleep-deprived population. Depending on our age, we are supposed to get between seven and 10 hours of sleep each night. But according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a third of us get fewer than seven hours of sleep per night. In addition, 50 million to 70…
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New Jersey raises smoking age to 21
New Jersey is set to become the third state to raise its smoking age to 21, after Republican Gov. Chris Christie signed a bill Friday that hikes the minimum age to buy tobacco products from 19. “We are giving young people more time to develop a maturity and better understanding of how dangerous smoking can…
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Impressive Tiny Houses That Maximize Function and Style
Growing in popularity over the last decade, tiny houses are popping up around the country as more people decide to downsize their lives. While the structures often measure less than 300 square feet, the tiny house movement isn’t necessarily about sacrifice. With thoughtful, innovative designs, some homeowners have discovered a small house actually leads to…
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Waiting in line can be tough
Unless you live alone in the woods, waiting in line is a near-universal experience—though as any international tourist will find, the etiquette of doing so varies from place to place. Whether you wait politely or wait in line (or “on line,” as New Yorkers insist on saying), how you wait and how you feel about…
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Chicago’s new requirement for high school students: No plan, no diploma
Under a controversial new requirement, starting in 2020, students hoping to graduate from a public high school in Chicago must provide evidence they, too, have a plan for the future: either acceptance to college or a gap-year program, a trade apprenticeship, military enlistment or a job offer. But not everyone is sold on a plan…
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First conditional
We use the first conditional for real possibility. It’s used to talk about things which might happen in the future. Of course, we can’t know what will happen in the future, but this describes possible things, which could easily come true. If it snows tonight, the package will arrive one day late. If I finish my…
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Like & As
Like & As We use as to talk about job or function. Most of the time, like compares two things. When we compare appearance or behaviour, we use like, not as. 1.His wife looks like a supermodel. 2.My cousin works as a translator. 3.They usually use the central station as a meeting point with groups of…
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“Used to”
We use ‘used to’ for something that happened regularly in the past but no longer happens. We also use it for something that was true but no longer is. 1.I used to smoke a cigar once a month but I stopped two years ago. 2.We used to travel a lot but now we don’t have time.…
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Say & Tell
We use say and tell in different ways in reported speech. Say focuses on the words someone said and tell focuses more on the content or message of what someone said. I also noticed that usually we use Say + Something & Tell + Someone 1.What did the doctor say about your back pain? 2.Did you tell mom…
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“I have been + waiting”
We use this to describe something that we started doing in the past and that we are still doing now. 1. I have been living in Florence since 2010. 2. I have been teaching English since 2011. 3. My cousin has been searching for a new job for 5 months. 4. My co-worker has been trying…