EU Buzzwords

Hello, language learners and EU enthusiasts!

In this episode of Radio Tracy Europe, we meet Maria Vazquez Limeres, the social media maestro for Renew Europe’s LinkedIn account. Renew Europe is one of the seven political groups represented in the European Parliament.

Maria will explain “buzzwords” to us and give us a few EU-related examples including “open strategic autonomy” and “camembert”. We will also learn about her family’s amazing wine business and explore the Latin expression “in vino veritas” which means in wine there is truth.

And of course, below you will find six vocabulary words or expressions from this episode and a link to practice them on the Quizlet platform.

Thanks so much for listening and supporting me in this new podcasting adventure!

Tracy

Your voice matters - make sure it’s heard at the next European election

With the European elections taking place just next month between 6 - 9 June 2024, my chat with Maria about EU buzzwords, and more specifically the word “camembert” is very topical. And we aren’t talking about cheese! The big question on everyone’s lips right now is about how EU voters will be cutting up the “camembert”, or in other words, how the seats will be distributed between the different political groups in the European Parliament.

If you haven’t decided yet how you would like that camembert cut up - then I highly recommend that you have a look at Euro MP Match which will match you with a list of MEPs and political parties that best align with your views on key EU issues. Another great site for up-to-date information on MEP candidates and party lists is the Robert Schuman Foundation’s European Elections 2024 website. And of course, you can check the European Parliament’s website for EU election information.

Words to know from this episode

1. Buzzword (n) A term or phrase that becomes popular and fashionable, often used in marketing, media, or discussions, but may lack substantive meaning.

The politician's speech was filled with buzzwords like "sustainability" and "innovation," but lacked concrete plans for implementation.

2. Catchy (adj) Easily remembered or noticed, often because it is pleasing or memorable.

The catchy slogan for the environmental campaign encouraged citizens to reduce plastic waste.

3. Pop up ( phrasal verb) To appear suddenly or unexpectedly.

During the trade negotiations, unexpected challenges would often pop up, requiring swift resolutions.

4. Grab attention (verb phrase) To attract someone's notice or interest quickly.

The provocative headline grabbed attention, sparking a heated debate in the European Parliament.

5. Showcase (verb)To display or exhibit something prominently, often to demonstrate its qualities or importance.

The event aimed to showcase innovative solutions to energy efficiency in the EU.

6. Wrap up (phrasal verb) To conclude or finish something, often by summarizing key points or actions.

After months of negotiations, the delegates were finally able to wrap up the trade agreement, bringing it to a successful close.

Learn and study these words on Quizlet

In vino veritas

In this episode, we also learn about Maria’s family’s amazing wine business and explore the Latin expression “in vino veritas” which means in wine there is truth.

And there is also truth in that English is like a sponge soaking up words and expressions from many other languages, including Latin. So, if you are curious about this, here’s a link to a Quizlet to learn and practice some of the most commonly used Latin expressions in English.

Now, after all this talk of camembert, and your hard work learning and practising these Quizlets you deserve a glass of wine - you can order your Prologo here!