Лексика английского языка для продолжающих. Практическое пособие уровня B2

Overall, managing a home requires cooperation, discipline, and a sense of responsibility. Even though chores are not always enjoyable, they are necessary for maintaining a comfortable living environment.

Expressions used (with translations)

home responsibilities — домашние обязанности

household chores — домашние дела

to share responsibilities — делить обязанности

to divide tasks — распределять задачи

to manage a household — вести хозяйство

to do the cleaning — заниматься уборкой

to do the cooking — готовить еду

to do the laundry — стирать

to take out the trash — выносить мусор

to wash the dishes — мыть посуду

to tidy up — наводить порядок

to keep the place clean — поддерживать чистоту

to feel overwhelmed — чувствовать перегруз

to be responsible for something — быть ответственным за что-то

to take turns — делать по очереди

to build up mess — накапливаться (о беспорядке)

to save time — экономить время

to plan meals — планировать питание

to do household maintenance — заниматься домашним ремонтом

to fall behind on chores — отставать по домашним делам

to catch up on cleaning — наверстывать уборку

to keep a routine — поддерживать рутину

to be consistent — быть последовательным

to avoid conflict — избегать конфликтов

to take responsibility — брать ответственность

Dialogue

A: Do you share household chores in your home?

B: Yes, we try to divide tasks so that everyone is responsible for something.

A: What chores do you usually do?

B: I usually do the cleaning and sometimes help with cooking.

A: Do you find it stressful?

B: Not really, but it can be stressful when things are not organized.

A: How do you manage everything?

B: We try to keep a routine and take turns with different tasks.

Translation

A: Вы делите домашние обязанности дома?

B: Да, мы стараемся распределять задачи, чтобы каждый был за что-то ответственен.

A: Какие дела ты обычно выполняешь?

B: Я обычно занимаюсь уборкой и иногда помогаю с готовкой.

A: Это для тебя стрессово?

B: Не совсем, но может быть стрессово, когда нет порядка.

A: Как вы всё успеваете?

B: Мы стараемся соблюдать рутину и делать всё по очереди.

Questions and sample answers

Do you usually do chores at home or share them with others?

I usually share chores with my family or roommates. We divide responsibilities so that everything gets done more easily and fairly.

Which household chore do you dislike the most? Why?

I dislike washing dishes the most because it feels repetitive. However, I still do it because it is necessary.

How do you organize cleaning and other chores?

I usually try to do small tasks every day instead of leaving everything for one day. This helps me avoid stress and keep the house clean.

Do you think it is important to have a cleaning routine?

Yes, I think a cleaning routine is important because it prevents mess from building up. It also makes chores feel less overwhelming.

How do you feel when chores are not done on time?

I feel a bit stressed when things are not organized. It becomes harder to relax in a messy environment.

Do you prefer doing chores alone or with others?

I prefer sharing chores because it is faster and easier. Working together also makes the process less boring.

What household task do you do most often?

I most often do cleaning and tidying up. These are daily tasks that help keep the home in order.

Do you use any methods to make chores easier?

Yes, I try to do small tasks regularly instead of delaying them. This helps me avoid feeling overwhelmed later.

How important is cleanliness in your daily life?

Cleanliness is very important because it affects my mood and productivity. A clean space helps me think more clearly.

What is one habit you would like to improve at home?

I would like to be more consistent with cleaning. Sometimes I postpone chores, and I want to become more disciplined.

Shopping habits and consumer choices

Topic text

Shopping habits and consumer choices are influenced by many factors, including personal preferences, income, lifestyle, and even emotions. While some people treat shopping as a practical activity, others see it as a form of entertainment or relaxation.

Modern consumers are exposed to constant advertising, both online and offline. Social media platforms, targeted ads, and influencer recommendations often shape what people decide to buy. As a result, many purchases are not purely rational but emotionally driven or influenced by trends.

Some people prefer careful planning before shopping. They make lists, compare prices, and think about whether they really need a product. This approach helps them save money and avoid unnecessary spending. Others are more spontaneous and make decisions in the moment, especially when they see discounts or special offers.

Online shopping has significantly changed consumer behavior. It provides convenience, variety, and fast delivery, but it can also lead to impulsive buying. When products are only a click away, it becomes easier to spend money without much reflection.

Another important factor is brand loyalty. Some consumers consistently choose the same brands because they trust their quality or associate them with positive experiences. Others prefer to experiment and try new products regularly.

In recent years, there has also been growing awareness of sustainable consumption. Many people now consider environmental impact, product durability, and ethical production when making choices. This shift shows that shopping is not only about price and convenience but also about values.

Ultimately, shopping habits reflect a combination of practical needs and personal identity. The way people spend money often reveals what they prioritize in life.

Expressions used (with translations)

shopping habits — привычки покупок

consumer choices — потребительский выбор

to be influenced by — находиться под влиянием

to make a decision — принимать решение

to compare prices — сравнивать цены

to save money — экономить деньги

to spend money — тратить деньги

to make a purchase — совершать покупку

impulsive buying — импульсивные покупки

to plan ahead — планировать заранее

to stick to a budget — придерживаться бюджета

to look for discounts — искать скидки

brand loyalty — лояльность к бренду

to trust a brand — доверять бренду

to try new products — пробовать новые продукты

to be price-conscious — обращать внимание на цену

online shopping — онлайн-покупки

to add to cart — добавить в корзину

to check reviews — проверять отзывы

to return a product — возвращать товар

to overspend — перерасходовать деньги

to resist temptation — сопротивляться соблазну

sustainable consumption — устойчивое потребление

ethical production — этичное производство

to reflect values — отражать ценности

Dialogue

A: How do you usually decide what to buy?

B: I usually compare prices and check reviews before making a purchase.

A: Do you often buy things online?

B: Yes, online shopping is convenient, but sometimes I end up buying things impulsively.

A: Are you loyal to any brands?

B: Not really, I prefer to try new products instead of sticking to one brand.

A: Do you try to save money when shopping?

B: Yes, I always try to stick to a budget and look for discounts.

Translation

A: Как ты обычно решаешь, что купить?

B: Я обычно сравниваю цены и читаю отзывы перед покупкой.

A: Ты часто покупаешь онлайн?

B: Да, онлайн-шопинг удобен, но иногда я совершаю импульсивные покупки.

A: Ты лоялен к каким-то брендам?

B: Не совсем, я предпочитаю пробовать новые продукты, а не оставаться с одним брендом.

A: Ты стараешься экономить при покупках?

B: Да, я всегда стараюсь придерживаться бюджета и искать скидки.

Questions and sample answers

Do you prefer shopping online or in physical stores? Why?

I prefer online shopping because it is more convenient and saves time. However, sometimes I like visiting stores to see products in person.

How do you usually decide what to buy?

I usually compare different options and check reviews before making a decision. This helps me avoid unnecessary or low-quality purchases.

Do you consider yourself an impulsive buyer?

Sometimes I buy things impulsively, especially when there are discounts. But I try to control it by thinking before purchasing.

How important are discounts and sales for you?

Discounts are important because they help me save money. However, I do not buy something only because it is on sale.

Do you stick to a budget when shopping?

I try to stick to a budget, but sometimes I go over it. I am still working on improving my spending discipline.

What influences your shopping choices the most?

My choices are mostly influenced by quality and price. I also read reviews before making a final decision.

Do you prefer well-known brands or new products?

I prefer trying new products because it feels more interesting. However, I trust well-known brands for important items.

How often do you buy things you do not really need?

It does not happen very often, but sometimes I regret unnecessary purchases. I try to avoid this by planning ahead.

How has online shopping changed your habits?

Online shopping has made buying things much easier and faster. At the same time, it sometimes leads to more impulsive decisions.

What is one shopping habit you want to improve?

I want to reduce impulsive buying and become more mindful. I would like to think more carefully before making purchases.

Food at home and cooking routines

Topic text

Food at home and cooking routines are an important part of daily life, influencing both health and lifestyle. For many people, home-cooked meals are not only a necessity but also a way to relax and express creativity.

Some people enjoy cooking and see it as a pleasant activity, while others treat it as a task that needs to be completed quickly. Regardless of attitude, planning meals in advance can make the process easier and more efficient. It helps reduce stress during busy days and prevents last-minute decisions about what to eat.

A common approach to cooking at home is preparing simple meals that do not require much time. People often rely on familiar recipes that they can cook without much effort. At the same time, some individuals enjoy experimenting with new ingredients and trying different cuisines.

Healthy eating is also closely connected to cooking habits. When people prepare their own food, they have more control over ingredients and portion sizes. This can lead to better nutrition compared to frequent eating out or ordering takeaways.

However, cooking at home requires time and energy. After a long day, many people feel tired and prefer quick solutions such as ready-made meals or delivery services. This is why balancing convenience and healthy eating can be challenging.

Another important aspect is sharing meals. Eating together with family or friends can strengthen relationships and create a sense of connection. In many cultures, food is not only about nourishment but also about social interaction.

Overall, cooking routines reflect personal lifestyle choices and priorities. They show how people balance health, time, and enjoyment in their everyday lives.

Expressions used (with translations)

home-cooked meal — домашняя еда

cooking routine — кулинарная рутина

to plan meals — планировать питание

to prepare food — готовить еду

to cook from scratch — готовить с нуля

to follow a recipe — следовать рецепту

to try new recipes — пробовать новые рецепты

to eat at home — есть дома

to eat out — есть вне дома

takeaway food — еда на вынос

ready-made meal — готовая еда

healthy eating — здоровое питание

balanced diet — сбалансированное питание

to save time — экономить время

to spend time cooking — тратить время на готовку

to feel tired after work — чувствовать усталость после работы

to order delivery — заказывать доставку

to share a meal — делить приём пищи

to eat together — есть вместе

to enjoy cooking — получать удовольствие от готовки

to improve nutrition — улучшать питание

to control ingredients — контролировать ингредиенты

to reduce stress — снижать стресс

to stick to a routine — придерживаться рутины

to make quick meals — готовить быстрые блюда

Dialogue

A: Do you usually cook at home or eat out?

B: I usually cook at home because it is healthier and cheaper.

A: Do you enjoy cooking?

B: Sometimes yes, especially when I have time to try new recipes.

A: What do you do when you are too tired to cook?

B: I usually order delivery or make something quick.

A: Do you plan your meals?

B: Yes, I try to plan meals for the week to save time.

Translation

A: Ты обычно готовишь дома или ешь вне дома?

B: Я обычно готовлю дома, потому что это полезнее и дешевле.

A: Тебе нравится готовить?

B: Иногда да, особенно когда есть время пробовать новые рецепты.

A: Что ты делаешь, когда слишком устал, чтобы готовить?

B: Я обычно заказываю доставку или готовлю что-то быстрое.

A: Ты планируешь своё питание?

B: Да, я стараюсь планировать питание на неделю, чтобы экономить время.

Questions and sample answers

Do you usually cook at home or order food?

I usually cook at home because it is healthier and more affordable. However, sometimes I order food when I am busy or tired.

Do you enjoy cooking? Why or why not?

I enjoy cooking when I have enough time. It helps me relax, but it can feel stressful when I am in a hurry.

How often do you try new recipes?

I do not try new recipes very often, but sometimes I experiment on weekends. It makes cooking more interesting.

Do you plan your meals in advance?

Yes, I try to plan meals for a few days ahead. This helps me save time and avoid unhealthy choices.

What do you usually eat on a typical day?

On a typical day, I eat simple homemade meals. I try to keep my diet balanced and not too heavy.

How important is healthy eating for you?

Healthy eating is quite important because it affects my energy and mood. I try to make better food choices when possible.

Do you prefer cooking alone or with others?

I prefer cooking alone because it is faster and more organized. But sometimes cooking with others can be fun.

What do you do when you are too tired to cook?

When I am tired, I usually make something quick or order delivery. I try not to skip meals completely.

How has your cooking routine changed over time?

My cooking routine has become more planned and simple. I focus more on quick and healthy meals than complicated dishes.

What is one thing you want to improve in your eating habits?

I want to eat more regularly and avoid skipping meals. I also want to reduce fast food and cook more at home.

Urban lifestyle vs rural lifestyle

Topic text

Urban and rural lifestyles differ in many ways, shaping how people live, work, and interact with their environment. Both ways of life have their own advantages and challenges, and personal preference often depends on individual values and priorities.

Urban lifestyle is usually associated with fast-paced living, modern infrastructure, and a wide range of opportunities. Cities offer access to better education, healthcare, entertainment, and job markets. People living in urban areas often experience a dynamic environment where things are constantly changing. However, this lifestyle can also involve stress, noise, pollution, and a lack of personal space.

Rural lifestyle, on the other hand, is typically slower and more connected to nature. People in villages or small towns often enjoy a quieter environment, cleaner air, and a stronger sense of community. Life tends to be more predictable, and daily routines are less hectic. At the same time, rural areas may have fewer job opportunities, limited access to services, and less developed infrastructure.

Social interactions also differ between the two lifestyles. In cities, people may live closer together but have weaker social connections due to busy schedules. In rural areas, communities are often more tight-knit, and neighbors tend to know each other well.

Technology has reduced some of the differences between urban and rural life. Internet access allows people in remote areas to work, study, and communicate more easily. However, the gap still exists in terms of convenience and availability of services.

Ultimately, neither lifestyle is objectively better. Urban life offers opportunities and variety, while rural life provides peace and simplicity. The best choice depends on what a person values more in their everyday life.

Expressions used (with translations)

urban lifestyle — городской образ жизни

rural lifestyle — сельский образ жизни

fast-paced life — быстрый темп жизни

modern infrastructure — современная инфраструктура

job opportunities — возможности трудоустройства

healthcare access — доступ к здравоохранению

entertainment options — варианты развлечений

public transport — общественный транспорт

noise pollution — шумовое загрязнение

air quality — качество воздуха

sense of community — чувство общности

tight-knit community — сплочённое сообщество

daily routine — повседневная рутина

slow-paced life — медленный темп жизни

to be connected to nature — быть связанным с природой

to commute to work — ездить на работу

to have limited access — иметь ограниченный доступ

to enjoy peace and quiet — наслаждаться тишиной и спокойствием

to feel isolated — чувствовать себя изолированным

to prefer convenience — предпочитать удобство

to live closer to nature — жить ближе к природе

to experience stress — испытывать стресс

to reduce differences — уменьшать различия

to choose a lifestyle — выбирать образ жизни

to balance pros and cons — взвешивать плюсы и минусы

Dialogue

A: Would you rather live in a city or in the countryside?

B: I would probably prefer the city because of job opportunities and convenience.

A: What do you like about city life?

B: I like the modern infrastructure and the variety of entertainment options.

A: And what about rural life?

B: I like the peace and cleaner air, but it feels a bit too quiet for me.

A: So you prefer a fast-paced lifestyle?

B: Yes, I think I am more used to a fast-paced environment.

Translation

A: Ты бы предпочёл жить в городе или в деревне?

B: Я бы, наверное, выбрал город из-за возможностей работы и удобства.

A: Что тебе нравится в городской жизни?

B: Мне нравится современная инфраструктура и разнообразие развлечений.

A: А что насчёт сельской жизни?

B: Мне нравится тишина и чистый воздух, но для меня это слишком спокойно.

A: Значит, тебе ближе быстрый ритм жизни?

B: Да, думаю, я больше привык к быстрому темпу.

Questions and sample answers

Do you prefer living in a city or in the countryside? Why?

I prefer living in a city because it offers more opportunities and convenience. However, I also enjoy visiting quieter places sometimes.

What do you like most about urban life?

I like the variety of job opportunities and entertainment options. Cities are also more convenient in terms of services and transport.

What do you like most about rural life?

I like the peace, quiet, and clean air in rural areas. It feels more relaxing and less stressful.

Do you think city life is stressful? Why or why not?

Yes, city life can be stressful because of noise, traffic, and a fast pace. People often have less free time and more pressure.

How important is nature in your life?

Nature is important because it helps me relax and reduce stress. I try to spend time outdoors when I can.

Do you prefer a fast-paced or slow-paced lifestyle?

I prefer a balanced lifestyle. I like activity and opportunities, but also need time to rest and slow down.

How do you feel about living far from a city?

I think it can be peaceful, but also limiting in terms of services and opportunities. It depends on personal preferences.

What are the biggest advantages of city life?

The biggest advantages are convenience, job opportunities, and access to services. Everything is usually closer and easier to reach.