©(Kyodo News via AP)
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- catchphrase /KATCH-frayz/
[noun] – a short and memorable phrase used by a person, group, or media that becomes widely recognized
The company created a simple catchphrase to promote its new product. - generate /JEN-uh-reyt/
[verb] – to produce or create something
The report generated strong discussion among students during the meeting. - enthusiasm /en-THOO-zee-az-uhm/
[noun] – strong interest or excitement about something
The audience’s enthusiasm increased when the performers started the final song. - distinctive /dih-STINGK-tiv/
[adjective] – having a special quality that makes something easy to recognize
The artist’s distinctive style made the exhibit stand out from others. - relatable /ri-LEYT-uh-buhl/
[adjective] – easy for people to understand or feel connected to because it matches their experiences
The teacher used a relatable example to help students understand the lesson clearly.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Japan’s annual catchphrase award drew national interest after highlighting a statement made in October by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who pledged to “work, work, work, work and work” during a speech in Tokyo. The phrase gained widespread attention because discussions about long working hours continue to be sensitive in Japan, particularly for women who balance employment with caregiving responsibilities. The selection generated mixed reactions, as some observers viewed the award as a humorous reflection on work culture, while others interpreted it as recognition of a leader expressing strong commitment. Analysts noted that the moment illustrated the heightened public focus placed on Japan’s first female prime minister and the expectations surrounding her approach to work and leadership.
Public interest soon shifted from the words themselves to Takaichi’s personal style, which quickly became a major cultural trend. Images of her black “Sanae Bag,” made by a long-established Japanese brand, spread across social media and led to a surge in demand. The bag sold out in all available colors, and waiting lists extended for months. A light-pink Jetstream 4&1 pen linked to Takaichi also became difficult to find, demonstrating a level of consumer enthusiasm more commonly associated with entertainers and athletes. Experts explained that Takaichi’s simple workwear, short haircut, and direct communication contributed to a distinctive personal brand that resonated with many women seeking relatable role models. Psychologists added that the strong interest in her style and habits suggests that the public is embracing more varied images of female leadership, with personal presentation becoming an influential part of how leaders are perceived.
Public interest soon shifted from the words themselves to Takaichi’s personal style, which quickly became a major cultural trend. Images of her black “Sanae Bag,” made by a long-established Japanese brand, spread across social media and led to a surge in demand. The bag sold out in all available colors, and waiting lists extended for months. A light-pink Jetstream 4&1 pen linked to Takaichi also became difficult to find, demonstrating a level of consumer enthusiasm more commonly associated with entertainers and athletes. Experts explained that Takaichi’s simple workwear, short haircut, and direct communication contributed to a distinctive personal brand that resonated with many women seeking relatable role models. Psychologists added that the strong interest in her style and habits suggests that the public is embracing more varied images of female leadership, with personal presentation becoming an influential part of how leaders are perceived.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever had a time when you needed to work very hard to finish something important? If so, what helped you stay motivated? If not, what kind of task do you think would make you work that hard?
- Have you ever followed a trend because you liked someone’s style or personal item? If so, which item influenced you? If not, what type of item do you think could become popular easily?
- Do you agree that a leader’s personal style can inspire people and create trends?
- How can social media make a simple item, like a bag or pen, become a national trend?
- What qualities make a public figure’s style appealing or relatable to others?
Summarization:
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- annual
- award
- attention
- discussion
- caregiving