Comic﹕Faster Payment System
【明報專訊】The newly launched Faster Payment System (FPS, 轉數快) by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (金融管理局) enables the public to transfer funds anytime, anywhere. Dr Panda and Eason operate their own businesses. Who will benefit from FPS's round-the-clock convenience?
“ Eason: I shall make a fortune by selling the slime (鬼口水) products! ”
“ Bill: I only have my mobile phone with me... Do you accept e-payment? ”
“ Eason: Unable to do so. Cash only. ”
“ Bill: That shop supports FPS! I'll go there then! ”
“ Bill: Scan and pay. Fast and smooth! ”
“ Dr Panda: Sure! We're moving into a new era of smart banking! ”
■English highway﹕enable / able / unable
Don't confuse "enable", "able" and "unable".
enable: to make it possible for someone to do something
be able/unable to: can or cannot do something
e.g. The training will enable you to find a decent job.
He's able to read this difficult book.
Unable to sleep, I got up and drank some milk.
■Quiz
Fill in the blanks with the correct forms of enable, able or unable.
1. Macy was ____________ to find out what had happened. She was so confused all the time.
2. The new machines have ____________ the company to increase production by 50%.
3. The students are ____________ to finish the task on time. Well done!
4. This information will ____________ you to find the quickest way to travel.
(Answers on next text)
■Glossary
launch (v) 實施
round-the-clock (phr) 整天整夜地
make a fortune (v phr) 致富
era (n) 時代
[Smarties' Power English 第225期]