That was so important for Europe, during the famine in Europe.
A 'famine' is when there is little or no food for a population. A famine can happen when there is a problem growing or producing food or when a group of people can't receive available food for some reason.
Notice the following:
This famine has caused quite a crisis.
The famine caused many people to lose their lives.
mature
You have to mature the cheese.
When you 'mature' something like wine or cheese you let it sit for a period of time so that it tastes better. We can use this also to talk about fruit that becomes ready to eat. A person is mature when they act in a way that is typical of someone older.
Notice the following:
She is very sensible and mature for her age.
These strawberries are not mature enough to pick yet.
No kidding
No kidding! Wow!
'No kidding' is a phrase used to show that you are surprised or you can't believe what you have just found out.
Notice the following:
No kidding! I have won the lottery!
You just bought a new car? No kidding!
embarrass
No, no! That's embarrassing.
We feel 'embarrassed' when we do something foolish or make a mistake. Sometimes when you are embarrassed your face becomes red and hot. Something that makes us feel embarrassed is 'embarrassing.'
Notice the following:
I can't believe I dropped my plate. I am so embarrassed.
It is embarrassing that I forgot his birthday two years in a row.
upscale
In Quito you have maybe two or three different Japanese restaurants. All of them very upscale at least.
An 'upscale' restaurant is of a higher class and usually quite expensive.
Notice the following:
The hotel is very upscale.
The whole city has been upgraded and is upscale now. It looks great!
