Career：Pawnbroker
【明報專訊】A pawnbroker(典當商人) is the person running the business in a pawnshop(押店). We used to see pawnshops everywhere in Hong Kong, but the industry is shrinking, and pawnshops are becoming rarer and rarer.
What is a pawnshop?
When you are in urgent need of money, you could resort to pawnbrokers. They lend money to customers who bring in valuable items, like watches, cameras or jewellery. Pawnbrokers will assess the value of the item and lend money according to the value of that item. If you fail to repay the money with the interest within an agreed period of time, the pawnbroker can sell the valuable item to another customer.
What are the qualities a pawnbroker should possess?
A pawnbroker should always be aware of the security of the items he/she holds. The pawned items shall be placed in a spot where no one can ever reach. A pawnbroker should always keep track of the prices of different items.
Interesting fact
You actually need to prove your identity before placing your items in pawnshops, like presenting your identity card. This measure is to prevent thieves from receiving money by pawning the stolen goods.
■Gear up
Bill is finding his way to the pawnshop. Help him find the shortest route to the shop.
(see picture 2)
(Answer on next text)
■Glossary
urgent (adj) 緊急的
resort to (phr) 求助於
valuable (adj) 貴重的
keep track of (phr) 記錄
[Smarties' Power English 第293期]
Comic：Cleopatra — Queen of ancient Egypt
【明報專訊】The Smarties are chatting in their leisure time. “ Pat: Hey, ... 詳情
Grammar：Adverbs of completeness
【明報專訊】MoMo adopted a new puppy but she has a hard time training it. Wh... 詳情
