Chen Li: 我是陈鹂，hello.

Helen: In Real English, we look at words and phrases that you might not find in your dictionary.

Chen Li: 是的，英语是一种十分惯用化的语言，所以，理解现实生活中人们常使用的固定表达和俚语也就十分必要了。

Helen: Today’s word is bland – that's B.L.A.N.D. – bland.

Chen Li: Bland 意思是什么呢 Helen？

Helen: Well if something is bland it means it’s not interesting or exciting in any way.

Chen Li: 原来 bland 是个形容词，意思是乏味的。

Helen: So you might say 'That singer is very bland.'

Chen Li: 意思是，说这个歌手很乏味，没有什么有意思的。

Helen: Or, it's often used to describe food that has no taste.

Chen Li: 如果某种食品没有什么味道，也可以用这个词来形容。

Helen: You might say 'I don’t like rice on its own – it’s a bit bland.'

Chen Li: 仅仅吃米饭，自然是没有什么味道了。

Insert 3

A: Have you heard Westlife’s new song – I love it!

B: I think it’s a bit bland actually – all their songs are really slow.

C: Wow you look great. Have you lost weight?

D: Aw thanks. Yes I’m trying a new diet but the food is so bland.

Helen: Well I hope you don’t think I’m bland Li.

Chen Li: Of course you’re not bland Helen. In fact you’re one of the most fun, exciting people I know.

Helen: Really? Wow, thanks.

Chen Li: However, these English sweets you gave me are rather bland. 我对这些糖果没有什么口味.

Helen: I'm sorry, I actually really like them. But anyway that was today’s word – bland.

Chen Li: 意思是乏味的。

Helen: Join us for more Real English next time. Bye for now.

Chen Li: 再会。