Last week’s hiccup

We had some technical difficulties last week, so many of you didn’t get XA 026. So, we’re sending XA 026 out this week as well.

“Hiccup” is a term used to reference a small problem. We experienced a small problem last week. Or, we experienced a hiccup.

Talking Points
1. Hyundai returns to Japan
2. Plants absorb more CO2 than originally thought
3. Finland continues to reduce homelessness

Listen Up
Here explanations of when to use present perfect and when to use past simple.

Focus Phrase
has/have come a long way

Executive Edition
Phrases you can use to talk about balancing the budget.

We’re 6-months old!

This issue of The XA marks six months since we started. The format is evolving and getting better every week. Thank you for your support and continuing to read.

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Hyundai launches affordable electric vehicle in Japan

Hyundai has introduced the Inster EV, its most affordable electric car, to the Japanese market at a starting price of around $18,000. The company previously exited Japan in 2009 due to low sales but has now returned with renewed ambition.

Talking points: What has Hyundai done to re-enter the Japanese market? When did Hyundai leave Japan, and why?

Language tips: Use the present perfect (has/have + 3rd form verb) to talk about recent actions connected to now.

Use the past simple to describe actions completed at a specific time in the past.

Look for time markers: use past simple with exact times (in 2009), and present perfect with unspecific or ongoing time (recently, so far, already).

Plants absorb more carbon dioxide than previously thought

Recent studies show that plants are pulling in more CO₂ from the atmosphere than scientists used to believe – around 30% more. This changes how we understand the role of forests in slowing climate change.

Talking points: What have researchers learned about plants and carbon dioxide? How has this new research changed our understanding?

Language tips: Use “have” + “found/learned/discovered” (present perfect) to describe recent discoveries. Add “recently” for extra clarity.

• Scientists have recently found that plants absorb more CO₂.

Finland continues to reduce homelessness with Housing First model

Finland has made major progress in tackling homelessness by giving people permanent homes before requiring them to solve other issues. This strategy has been in place for over a decade and continues to show success.

Talking points: What has Finland done to help reduce homelessness? How long has this approach been in place?

Language tips: Use present perfect or present perfect continuous “has/have been doing” to describe actions that began in the past and are still true, or still happening.

• Finland has reduced homelessness.

• It has been using this model for over ten years.