My language learning diary

A vacation

2010-07-25T13:33:00.000+05:00

Yeah. Finally, I am going on vacation next week, probably without the netbook and internet. I will miss for LingQ. But I don't mind to pause a learning process. Listening to English under trees will be more interesting than in the booming city. After recovering I'll back and will continue to study intensively. See you soon. :)

Some crazy ideas in a language learning

2010-07-25T03:21:00.001+05:00

In my opinion, everyone should has his/her own methods in a language learning process. As an enthusiastic language learner I have found and developed some unusual ways to increase efficiency in a learning process. And don't know whether it will be useful for you or not. Every one of us is an individual, there are no universal ways to apply.
Music
I think, music one of the great side of the human creativity. Music affects to a brain on a vast scale and creates it again. Our brain is divided into two part: right hemisphere and left hemisphere. The left part is more developed than the right part, because we all virtually are right-handed. And left part of the brain is
responsible for a logical activity. Our "centre of speech" is behind of the frontal bone in the left part of the brain. The right part of the brain is responsible for the emotional feelings. When we listen to music some points in the brain begin to "activate". And our brain begins to create a better communication between two hemispheres. I experience music as a background while learning and I believe it is very effective :)
Writing by the left hand
This is one of the ways which I experience. Writing by the left hand forces the right side of the brain to work more. More you invest a brain potential, you can expect the better result.
You may criticize, but these methods work for me.

What if you could live forever...

2010-07-24T03:12:00.005+05:00

I've seen this film yesterday, after 4 years later after the releasing date. Luckily, I got this film in English that was quite impressive.If you are not interested in questions about life, death, and love this film is not for you.
Three parallel stories-about love, death, spirituality, and the fragility of existence as told through the odyssey taken on by one man in his thousand year struggle to save the woman he loves. His epic journey begins in 16-th century Spain, where, as conquistador Tomas Creo, he begins his search for the "tree of life", the legendary entity believed to grant eternal life those who drink of its sap. As a modern-day scientist Tommy Creo, he desperately struggles to find a cure for the cancer that is killing his beloved wife. Traveling through deep space as a 26th astronaut, Tom begins to grasp the mysterious of life that have consumed him more than a century...

Natural resources

2010-07-23T03:03:00.000+05:00

I love the laws of thermodynamics, especially the first law. Energy is neither created nor destroyed. We are a part of nature. And we need energy and we have to utilize the natural resources of the earth in order to survive. I'd divide natural resources into two groups: inexhaustible and exhaustible. Most natural resources are exhaustible: for example, fossil fuels such as coal and oil. Humans have been searching for an alternative fuel supply, because using too much fossil fuel cause catastrophic changes such as acid rain, deforestation, widespread loss of water animals and so on. That is why, in my opinion, we have to find an alternative energy source within a short period of time. I hope that Man's mysterious brain will find the solution through using nanotechnology and biotechnology.
And I also hope that mankind will get rid of its selfishness and will learn to love Mother Nature!
Written by Nasir
Corrected by Helen(skyblueteapot)

Closed logic and its incorrectness

2010-07-21T16:33:00.011+05:00

Logic is the most solid column of science and philosophy. Usually, it is being considered the first condition of the intellectual activity.

What is the logic? If I’d define in a few words, it is a relative connection between many causes and many outcomes. For example, 2+3=5, because 3+2=5; because, (1+1+1)+(1+1)=5 and so on. We can make longer these sequences. A common principle that logic has to has a basic. And new ideas form on this basic. That is to say, if you want to be aware of existence of 5, you have to comprehend 1 itself. But, we don’t have to add one million “1” together in order to express a million. There is no difference at all, but cutting into small pieces may complicate our explanation. In other words, we can express a million through 10^6 or 1000^2. Here it comes to the end with the sequence of cause and outcome. Outcome is going to be the cause of the next step. And I think, this is an endless process. That is true, all logical order can be false, if we couldn’t identify exactly the basic(in my example “1”). As we know, if we want to express a million we have to use “1”. It is a conditional term. Supposing that if we couldn’t realize “1” precisely, all logical order in this case would suppose false.

Logic is a main principle of science. Supposing that three scientific theory: gravitation, thermodynamics, and evolution. The hundreds of other theories based on these theories. If someone can disprove one or two of these theories the thing which we named as science would be send to a junk container. Forever. But the logic of science is not one dimensional, scientific method is not based on straight line. This logic is like a web. A complicated spider web. If the theory of evolution happened to refer only to anthropology, it will be more likely to be false. In fact, the evolution theory doesn’t refer to one field of science. If it did, it will be more doubtful , and the logic of the theory will be questionable. And this logic closes by cycle. But we have genetics, it creates link between evolution as a cause and an outcome. But we have biochemistry, it connects genetics and evolution either. And now it can be considered a solid base for the theory, it is very difficult to disprove the theory now.

So, in a scientific method a “straight line logic” doesn’t work. If you want to show one cause for one outcome, you are definitely going to be wrong.

What is the closed logic? This logic is like a cycle, so this cycle includes one cause for one outcome. A few outcomes prove a few causes. As we already know, if we have a few evidences for one theory, it is more likely to be wrong. It is being required to find many evidences to prove a few ideas. Suppose that, I quote from the source of “X”(for example book), and if I want to prove this claim by new quote from the same source, this is not scientific, but dogmatic. This is the closed and incorrect logic.

Logic is a critical approach to every connection of cause-outcome. Closed incorrectness comes from blind faith. If the cycles of logic are going to be narrow, it is more likely to be incorrect.

P.S.: Sorry for rude mistakes.

The original article(in Azerbaijani) - http://www.nesirli.info/?p=159

How does an anchor work on a ship?

2010-07-19T20:39:00.001+05:00

The anchor prevents a ship from drifting away due to the water currents or tide. A popular misconception is that the anchor itself acts as the main weight to "secure" the ship in its position. On an anchoring run, the ship would lay the anchor together with a length of its iron cables on the seabed. The length to be released would depend on factors such as the depth of the water etc. So it is not the weight of the anchor, but the weight of the huge iron cables connected to the anchor that "secures" the ship.
The anchor's weight does play a role, but it is mainly used to grip or hook the iron cables to the seabed. A ship properly anchored would be held to a circular area, the radius defined by the length of the cable released. Also, occasionally, with strong currents, the ship could "drag anchor."
Source: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_does_an_anchor_work_on_a_ship

Genius people about knowledge

2010-07-18T02:00:00.003+05:00

Knowledge is power.
Francis Bacon
Imagination is more important than knowledge.
The only source of knowledge is experience.
The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.
Information is not knowledge.
Albert Einstein

The doorstep to the temple of wisdom is a knowledge of our own ignorance.
Benjamin Franklin

Mistakes are, after all, the foundations of truth, and if a man does not know what a thing is, it is at least an increase in knowledge if he knows what it is not.
Carl Jung
Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.
Bernard Shaw
Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life.

All our knowledge begins with the senses, proceeds then to the understanding, and ends with reason. There is nothing higher than reason.
Immanuel Kant
Three passions, simple but overwhelmingly strong, have governed my life: the longing for love, the search for knowledge, and unbearable pity for the suffering of mankind.
Dogmatism and skepticism are both, in a sense, absolute philosophies; one is certain of knowing, the other of not knowing. What philosophy should dissipate is certainty, whether of knowledge or ignorance.
Bertrand Russel
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Isaak Asimov
There are three principal means of acquiring knowledge... observation of nature, reflection, and experimentation. Observation collects facts; reflection combines them; experimentation verifies the result of that combination.
Diderot
Knowledge is the most democratic source of power.
Alvin Toffler
Our treasure lies in the beehive of our knowledge. We are perpetually on the way thither, being by nature winged insects and honey gatherers of the mind.
The man of knowledge must be able not only to love his enemies but also to hate his friends.
Friedrich Nietzsche

Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance.
Confucius
True knowledge exists in knowing that you know nothing.
Socrates
Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.
Jimi Hendrix
Human behavior flows from three main sources: desire, emotion, and knowledge.
Plato
The interpretation of dreams is the royal road to a knowledge of the unconscious activities of the mind.
Sigmund Freud

English translations for the Russian word "дурак"

2010-07-16T16:27:00.001+05:00

fool
idiot
stupid
silly
goof
imbecile
goose
dope
nitwit
mutt
jackass
donkey
tomfool
sap
flat
foozle
blunderhead
cuddy
nut
get
noddy
booby
zany
stupe
mutton-head
dumbbell
twit
driveler
softie
moke
lummox
blunt
softy
erk
woodenhead
pinhead
ninny
pillock
driveller
juggins
arsehole
lack-brain
saphead
chump
dumbhead
berk
punk
dimwit
bonehead
tom-noddy
pumpkin-head

Source: Google translate

Definitions of "through"

2010-07-15T18:20:00.005+05:00

through (thr)
prep.
1. In one side and out the opposite or another side of: went through the tunnel.
2. Among or between; in the midst of: a walk through the flowers.
3. By way of: climbed in through the window.
4.
a. By the means or agency of: bought the antique vase through a dealer.
b. Into and out of the handling, care, processing, modification, or consideration of: Her application went through our office. Run the figures through the computer.
5. Here and there in; around: a tour through France.

6. From the beginning to the end of: stayed up through the night.
7. At or to the end of; done or finished with, especially successfully: We are through the initial testing period.
8. Up to and including: a play that runs through December; a volume that covers A through D.
9. Past and without stopping for: drove through a red light.
10. Because of; on account of: She succeeded through hard work. He declined the honor through modesty.
adv.
1. From one end or side to another or an opposite end or side: opened the door and went through.
2. From beginning to end; completely: I read the article once through.
3. Throughout the whole extent or thickness; thoroughly: warmed the leftovers clear through; got soaked through in the rain; a letter that was shot through with the writer's personality.
4. Over the total distance; all the way: drove through to their final destination.
5. To a conclusion or an accomplishment: see a matter through.
adj.
1. Allowing continuous passage; unobstructed: a through street.
2.
a. Affording transportation to a destination with few or no stops and no transfers: a through bus; a through ticket.
b. Continuing on a highway without exiting: through traffic; through lanes.
3. Passing or extending from one end, side, or surface to another: a through beam.
4. Having finished; at completion: She was through with the project.
5. Having no further concern, dealings, or connection: I'm through with him.
6.
a. Having no more use, value, or potential; washed-up: That swimmer is through as an athlete.
b. Doomed to death or destruction.
Idiom:
through and through
1. In every part; throughout: wet through and through.
2. In every aspect; completely: a success through and through.
Source: http://www.thefreedictionary.com/through

The most interesting expression of the day

2010-07-15T14:36:00.002+05:00

a stubborn unwillingness to give up

It seems interesting for me, why? An unwillingness might be dogmatic :)

Maintaining healthy life

2010-07-15T12:02:00.002+05:00

Life should be spent being healthy. Being sick is not good. A human being needs good health to stay happy throughout his or her lifetime. Everyone should be aware of his/her health. Good health is an unprecedented gift.
There are many ways to maintain a healthy life. The ecological situation, heredity factors, food supplies, a good diet, regular exercise are the most important things. Usually, so many people don't look after their health.
Drinking alcohol, bad work conditions, fast foods can damage health on a vast scale. Not doing enough physical activity could be the main reason for many blood circulation diseases. Intellectual people perceive the value of life and use many things to stay healthy. Diet is a basic principle. Sport and sleep regime could be considered important factors. Not being nervous could be included in the list. I have always been trying to stay healthy by these ways which I mentioned above. I wish every one of you a healthy life.
Written by Nasir
Corrected by Helen(skyblueteapot)

The expression of the day

2010-07-14T14:46:00.000+05:00

Electrical noise

Meaning - noise generated by electrical devices and propagated to the receiving antenna direct from the noise source.
And in my case it can be heard on Skype.

The expression of the day

2010-07-13T02:03:00.000+05:00

Ganging up on him - join together against him

Aristotle's quotes

2010-06-15T23:48:00.003+05:00

Bashfulness is an ornament to youth, but a reproach to old age.
Character may almost be called the most effective means of persuasion.
Democracy arises out of the notion that those who are equal in any respect are equal in all respects; because men are equally free, they claim to be absolutely equal.(excellent, you were genius, and you are still remaining genius)
Education is an ornament in prosperity and a refuge in adversity.

Education is the best provision for old age.
Inferiors revolt in order that they may be equal, and equals that they may be superior. Such is the state of mind which creates revolutions(clipping)
Man is naturally a political animal( :D )
Men create gods after their own image, not only with regard to their form but with regard to their mode of life.

Bashfulness - shyness
Reproach - criticism or disapproval

Absence makes the heart grow fonder

2010-06-14T14:58:00.000+05:00

Meaning

The lack of something increases the desire for it.

Source: http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/absence-makes-the-heart-grow-fonder.html

Describing my street

2010-06-11T12:43:00.001+05:00

There are many wide streets in our city. Streets always contain too many cars. People don't tend to use public transport here. I can't understand why. I have looked outside of our window at the street. There are some trees beside the street, a traffic light, too many cars and their noisy motion. It is possible to be caught in a traffic jam in rush hour.

Describing my day

2010-05-29T02:50:00.003+05:00

My day begins at eight o'clock. I wake up because the sun bothers me with its shining on my face.:-) After waking up I do exercises to get really waked-up. Then I use the bathroom to wash my hands and face, and brush my teeth. After eating breakfast I go to the university. I will be at the university at nine o'clock. I usually don't use any vehicle to reach to the university, because from our home to the university is just one kilometer. I like to walk to the university. After some practice in the university’s hospital, I come back home. Most of my time has been used to learn English. It takes about 4-5 hours a day.

If you want to be a winner, learn English

2010-05-28T14:01:00.007+05:00

Hello world. I hear almost every day, “Everyone must learn any foreign language, especially English”. Wow, why? The response would be simple: because it's an international language. “What?” you may say. “I don't think so”. If we refer to the amount of people speaking in Chinese, I would be shouting, “Over one billion people are speaking in Chinese!” Why don't you learn that language? You can understand more people by learning Chinese than learning English. No, no, no. Don't you know that over 80 percent of Internet information data is in English? That is one of the reasons you should learn the language. I think, first of all, everyone should clarify intent. “Do I need to learn English”? For example, I have been learning this language, because I want to be aware of more news in science, technology, and politics. I have great sympathy for philosophy, but it is harder to find philosophical works in my mother tongue than in English. Go to Google and write, "download Kant's works", to see what I mean. There are thousands of sources so you can get what you want.