Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
- bestow / bɪˈstoʊ / (v) – to reward someone for his or her achievements
Example:The Queen bestowed the medal of bravery on the soldier.
- dub / dʌb / (v) – to give a title to someone, usually used for knighting
Example:The Queen dubbed him Sir Winston.
- rise to fame / raɪz tu feɪm / (idiom) – to become famous
Example:The group rose to fame in the 1960s after releasing a few original songs.
- noteworthy / ˈnoʊtˌwɜr ði / (adj) – deserving of notice or attention
Example:Her noteworthy achievements in the entertainment industry earned her the award.
- in turn / ɪn tɜrn / (idiom) – as a result of something
Example:Doing charity work can, in turn, make you feel good.
Article
Read the text below.
The Beatles drummer Ringo Starr was knighted last March for his services to music.
Last year, Ringo Starr received a letter saying that he was nominated for the Queen’s 2018 New Year Honors list for his long-term and extensive contribution to music. In March, Starr and the other nominees were invited to the Buckingham Palace and were knighted by Prince William, Duke of Cambridge. With a ceremonial sword, Prince William bestowed the honor on Starr and dubbed him Sir Richard Starkey, Starr’s real name.
The drummer joined The Beatles in 1962. Starr, together with John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison, rose to fame with hits like Hey Jude, Yesterday, and Come Together. Critics appreciated the group’s uniqueness and originality, and the band went on to become one of the best-selling and most popular musicians of all time.
The group split in 1970, and each member pursued a solo career. Starr carried on to release several music hits and even started a career in TV and film.
The knighting last March was not the first time Starr had an encounter with royalty nor was it his first time to receive a UK honor. In 1965, all members of The Beatles met the Queen and became Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for their noteworthy contributions to British culture.
UK honors are awards recognized not just inside the United Kingdom but also outside it. The honors aim to publicly acknowledge an individual’s merit, service, or bravery. They can also increase the public’s awareness about an individual’s cause or projects, which, in turn, can increase opportunities to expand them.
Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
• Is there anyone in your country who deserves a knighthood? Give details.
• Aside from granting knighthood, what are other ways to recognize a person’s significant contributions? Discuss.
Discussion B
• Apart from raised public awareness, why is it important to recognize achievements in particular fields? Explain.
• Which fields do you think deserve more recognition or support (e.g. agriculture, education)? Why?