Grammar：Provide, provided (that)
【明報專訊】Pat is planning on a solo trip to Paris. Bill is very worried about her.
Pat: I am looking forward to this trip. France is such a charming place.
Bill: Are you sure about going alone? What if you get lost?
Pat: The internet provides detailed maps of the city. I can also ask the locals for directions, provided that I have learnt French by then.
Bill: You don't sound so sure! Even if people are willing to help you, there are still so many other problems you could encounter.
Pat: I have provided good reasons for going on this trip. You just ca't relax. If this trip is that dangerous, why don't you come with me?
Bill: Oh no. Then... then n-never mind about what I said! Have fun! Bye Pat!
(Bill runs away)
Pat: I knew he would be too scared! Let me concentrate on planning while Bill is gone.
■English highway﹕Provide, provided (that)
The verb ''provide'' means to give something to somebody or make it available for them to use.
e.g. Hospitals should provide the best medical care for patients.
''Provided (that)'' is a conjunction that means ''if'' or ''only if''. If we say something will happen provided that something else happens, it means that the first thing will happen only if the second thing also happens.
e.g. I will go on the trip provided that Alex is also coming.
■ Gear up
(Answers on next text)
Circle the correct answer.
1. A lot of homeless people will be (provided / provide) shelter (provided/ provide) that the event is a success.
2. The teacher will (provided/ provide) help for students, (provided/ provide) that they have already tried their best.
3. (Provided/ provide) that the plane departs on time, I should reach France before noon.
■Glossary
solo (adj) 獨自的/地
charming (adj) 迷人
willing (adj) 願意
encounter (v) 遇見
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[Smarties' Power English 第341期]
