Learning English from the News

Deadly fires in Hong Kong investigated

20 snips
Dec 3, 2025
An investigation has been ordered into the tragic fires in Hong Kong that claimed at least 151 lives. The hosts discuss how the blaze spread, implicating building works and flammable materials. Public shock is palpable, as mourners gather to pay their respects. Amidst calls for accountability, there are concerns over government crackdowns on inquiries and arrests. The narrative emphasizes the pressing need for transparency, highlighting the community's demand for justice in the aftermath of this disaster.
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INSIGHT

Investigation Targets Corruption And Negligence

  • Authorities in Hong Kong are probing whether corruption or negligence contributed to the tower block fire that killed at least 151 people.
  • Officials arrested people on suspicion of manslaughter and are investigating construction and materials used on the towers.
INSIGHT

Unsafe Materials Accelerated The Blaze

  • Building work and external materials such as scaffolding netting likely accelerated how fast the fire spread across the towers.
  • Authorities point to unsafe materials as a key factor in the rapid blaze expansion.
ADVICE

Use 'Probe' For Serious Inquiries

  • Use the verb 'probe' when discussing formal investigations that seek hidden or difficult information.
  • Use 'probe' as a noun to refer to an official inquiry, for example, police could launch a probe into organised crime.
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