EP 0034Upper-Intermediate
Live from Washington
This is Madeline Wright, for BCC News reporting live from Washington D. C. where, very shortly, the new President will deliver his inaugural address. Just moments ago, the President was sworn-in to office; following the United States Constitution the President swore an oath to faithfully execute the office of the presidency.
And what exactly is going on now, Madeline?
Well, Tom, true to American tradition, the band has just played “Hail to the Chief”, and the President has been honored by a 21-gun salute. Now we’re waiting for the President to take to the stage and deliver his speech. Tom, it’s like a who’s who of the political world here on Capital Hill, with dignitaries representing several different countries.
What’s the mood on the ground like, Madeline?
In a word, the mood here is electric. The excitement in the air is palpable; I’ve never seen a larger crowd here on Capital Hill, and the audience is shouting, crying, and embracing each other. On this, a most historic day, you can feel the hope and the excitement in the air. The 20th of January will go down in history as the .... Oh, Tom, it looks like the President is about to begin...
My fellow Americans, today I stand before you...
核心词汇
deliverVerb
give information by speaking; say something officially
swear inVerb
place someone in a new position by holding an official ceremony where he promises to do the job well
oathNoun (singular)
official, serious promise
who’s whoPhrase
important and famous people in a particular industry
dignitaryNoun (plural)
person with a high rank or position, especially in government or religion
palpableAdjective
so strong you can feel it, obvious
in a wordPhrase
to describe it in one word
fellowAdjective
used to describe people of the same group
go down in historyPhrase
be remembered
拓展词汇
ceremonyNoun (singular)
activity or action that are the official part of a formal official state or social occasion
festivitiesNoun (noncount)
celebration, enjoyment, and happiness
presidentelectNoun (singular)
a person who has been voted president, but not yet officially made president
paradeNoun (singular)
a public celebration of an event where many people move down a street in groups or on vehicles; usually involves a marching band
termNoun (singular)
time allowed for one person to remain President after one election; in America a presidential term is four years
affirmationNoun (singular)
a show of agreement or dedication
inaugural cheonlunPhrase
formal lunch celebrating the inauguration