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[Understanding the Idiom: A Sad State of Affairs]-[1019 Daily Easy English Lesson PODCAST—a sad state of affairs]

Daily Easy English Expression Podcast · A2 · 2021-06-11

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📋 Summary

Introduction to the Expression

In this episode of Daily Easy English Expressions, Coach Shane introduces the phrase "a sad state of affairs." This idiomatic expression is used to describe a "terrible situation" or a "very unfortunate situation." As the host explains, it is commonly used with the preposition "in," as in "something is in a sad state of affairs." It serves as a versatile tool for expressing disappointment regarding current events, personal circumstances, or broader societal issues.

Societal Context and Global Observations

Coach Shane applies this phrase to various aspects of life, noting that it reflects a pervasive feeling of decline or dysfunction. He points to the current political climate in the United States, describing the country as "split" where "nobody can agree on anything," which he classifies as a "sad state of affairs."

Furthermore, the podcast highlights urban safety concerns, specifically citing Chicago, where over 1,500 people had been shot by June 2021. The host draws a stark contrast between big cities—like Chicago, New York, and San Francisco—and rural areas. He argues that in many urban centers, the combination of crime and the inability of "law-abiding people" to protect themselves creates a "sad state of affairs." Conversely, he notes that in his rural community, where gun ownership is common, there is "no crime," suggesting that the societal structure in big cities has drifted into a negative condition.

The Role of Values and Personal Responsibility

Beyond crime and politics, the host touches upon cultural and moral shifts. He suggests that the decline of family values and the diminishing role of religion contribute to the current "sad state of affairs." While clarifying that he is not mandating religious practice, he acknowledges that for many, the "fear of God" and the "desire to go to heaven" provide a moral framework that helps stabilize society. He concludes that because he cannot change the world, his focus remains on "taking care of myself and my family" and improving his immediate environment.

Practical Application and Call to Action

Coach Shane emphasizes that this expression is not merely for discussing tragedy; it can be used to assess personal progress. He challenges his listeners to evaluate their own language learning journeys: "Is your English a sad state of affairs?"

To help students overcome this, he promotes his platform, Let’s Master English, promising that through dedicated study, one's English will "no longer be in a sad state of affairs." He invites listeners to join his upcoming "super summer sale" starting June 20th, emphasizing that his classes are designed to challenge students rather than "spoon-feed" them. By providing these resources, the host aims to transition his students from a state of linguistic struggle to one of mastery, ultimately encouraging them to contribute to making the world a "better place" and moving past this "sad state of affairs."

🎯Key Sentences

1
I'll talk about that later
2
A sad state of affairs.
3
That's not true.
4
How is your English going?
5
Hopefully it's great.
Expand All

📝Key Phrases

1
a sad state of affairs
2
so far
3
law-abiding
4
watch yourself
5
feel free
Expand All

📖 Transcript

Hello everybody, my name is Coach Shane and welcome to Easy English Expressions.
Come on, let's master English.
Hello everybody, welcome back to Daily Easy English Expressions, the Budgaz.
This is number 1,019.
Are you excited for my sale in June?
I'll talk about that later, get my free lessons.

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