【明報專訊】Did your family and friends spend a lot on online shopping on the latest Singles' Day (「雙十一」)? Aggressive price discounts and promotions were offered by merchants on many online shopping platforms across China for the Singles' Day bonanza (發財機遇). Online retail is less prevalent in Hong Kong than in many other well-developed economies, but it has been growing steadily in recent years.

As online shopping is getting popular, it is important for consumers to be vigilant at all times so as not to suffer any loss. Customers should always keep transaction information (交易資料), such as order confirmation, email exchange records and payment records to serve as proofs if there is a dispute.

Moreover, excessive online shopping may also damage the environment. Manufacturing, packaging and shipping create huge amounts of waste and enormous CO2 emissions. Be a wise consumer and purchase durable products that you really need!(Source: Ming Pao, Consumer Council)

■English highway﹕Proof & prove

Proof is a noun while prove is a verb.

e.g. You are required to provide proof of your identity.

Your ID card proves your identity.

■Game １

Dr Panda has gained some credits and coupons which can be used for his next shopping in the same online store. He has spent a total of ＄400 for his first order.

A loyalty credit which is equal to 5% of the value of his first order can be applied to his second order.

He can also use a ＄25 coupon at the same time.

If the total amount of his second order is ＄598, how much does he need to pay after using the "loyalty credit" and the coupon?

(Answers on next text)

■Game ２

Bill bought himself some new gadgets (小機件) from an online store, packed in a paper box (see below). He has unfolded it for recycling. Which is the correct box?

■Glossary

prevalent (adj) 盛行的

steadily (adv) 逐步地; 平穩地

vigilant (adj) 警惕的

dispute (n) 爭論

[Smarties' Power English 第200期]