Skip to main content

Interpret: book for second-language readers

Short answer

A special version was made for second-language learners because original English books use difficult words that force constant dictionary use, spoiling the pleasure of reading. Simplifying vocabulary allows smooth, enjoyable reading.

Read the following text carefully and interpret it so as to make the meaning clear: The reason why this book has been specially prepared to make it enjoyable reading for people to whom English is a second or foreign language is that an English writer never thinks of avoiding unusual words, so that the learner, trying to read the book in its original form, has to turn frequently to the dictionary and so loses much of the pleasure that the book ought to give.

The writer explains why a special version of the book has been prepared for readers who learn English as a second or foreign language: the original English is too difficult for them to enjoy.

Explanation

  • Target readers. The book is meant for people whose first language is not English.
  • Problem with the original. English writers write naturally for native readers and never try to avoid unusual or difficult words.
  • Effect on the learner. A learner who tries to read the original book must stop again and again to look up words in the dictionary. This breaks the flow of the story.
  • Loss of pleasure. Because of these constant interruptions the reader loses much of the enjoyment that a book is supposed to give.
  • Solution. The new version uses simpler language so that the learner can read smoothly and enjoy the book.

Message

A book should give pleasure; for second-language learners, simplifying difficult vocabulary removes the dictionary-searching that spoils the pleasure of reading.

✓ Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort)

Related questions

All Communication English chapter 1 questions →