Vocabulary Lessons

The customs of dating and marriage vary from place to place around the globe, and in some countries, matchmakers play an important role in that process. You should be careful when looking for love online because you never know to whom you are writing. Listen to the words below and consult a dictionary if you need a definition. Write a sample sentence for each word to learn how it is used in context.

A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.

1. anniversary
2. ask someone out
3. blind date
4. break up with
5. fall in love
6. get divorced
7. get engaged
8. get married
9. go Dutch
10. go on a date
11. go out with someone
12. go steady
13. have a crush on
14. have things in common
15. love at first sight
16. meet people online
17. propose
18. stand someone up
19. turn someone down
20. wedding

Describe a typical date in your country: Where to people meet? Does the man pick up the woman at her house? What do people usually do on a first date? Is the public show of affection (e.g., holding hands, etc.) considered appropriate in your culture? What is the average age when people get married? What are the main causes of marital problems leading to divorce? Use the Internet to find information on similarities and differences between cultures on these questions.