This post gives some useful expressions about the topic: Z-Library

Try to use it in our topic!

Our topic main page: https://zh.purasbar.com/post.php?t=36842

Expression Bag for Subquestion 1: Have you ever visited Z-Library or a similar free digital library? If you feel comfortable sharing, what was your experience like?

 

🔰 Beginner Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      visit (v.) - go to a website or place.
Example: I visited a free book website last month.

2.      free (adj.) - not costing any money.
Example: All the e-books there were free.

3.      download (v.) - copy a file from the internet to your device.
Example: I downloaded a PDF for my class.

4.      e-book (n.) - an electronic book you can read on a screen.
Example: I found the e-book I wanted in seconds.

5.      search (v.) - try to find something online by typing words.
Example: I searched for a novel by its title.

6.      useful (adj.) - helpful; making something easier.
Example: The site was really useful for my homework.

7.      a lot of (phr.) - many; a large number.
Example: There were a lot of books on the site.

8.      look for (phr. v.) - try to find something.
Example: I was looking for a mathematics textbook.

Sentence Patterns

1.      I have + past participle... – use this to talk about something you did or didn’t do in your life.
Example: I have used such a site once.

2.      It was + adjective... – use this to describe your experience.
Example: It was easy to find what I needed.

3.      I used it to + verb... – use this to explain the purpose of your visit.
Example: I used it to get a book for my exam preparation.

 

📘 Intermediate Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      access (v.) - be able to get into or use something.
Example: Students can access a huge number of papers.

2.      resource (n.) - something useful that helps you learn or work.
Example: That digital library is an amazing resource.

3.      convenient (adj.) - easy and comfortable to use or reach.
Example: Reading the e-book on my phone was very convenient.

4.      collection (n.) - a group of things, like books or articles.
Example: The collection covers many different subjects.

5.      discover (v.) - find something for the first time.
Example: I discovered many interesting novels there.

6.      share (v.) - give something to someone else, or make it available.
Example: People share millions of files on the platform.

7.      come across (phr. v.) - find or meet by chance.
Example: I came across the site while searching for a cheap textbook.

8.      due to (phr.) - because of; for the reason of.
Example: Many people go there due to the high cost of printed books.

Sentence Patterns

1.      I first heard about it from... – use this to tell where you got the information.
Example: I first heard about it from a classmate in college.

2.      What I liked most was... – use this to name the best part of your experience.
Example: What I liked most was the variety of language books.

3.      I ended up + verb-ing... – use this to show the final result of your action.
Example: I ended up reading three books within a week.

 

🔖 Advanced Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      shadow library (n.) - an online collection of texts shared without copyright permission.
Example: Z-Library is often described as a shadow library.

2.      domain (n.) - the website address you type into a browser.
Example: After the original domain was blocked, users looked for new links.

3.      seize (v.) - (of an authority) take control of something officially.
Example: Law enforcement seized several of the site's domains.

4.      circumvent (v.) - find a way to go around a rule or obstacle.
Example: Readers often circumvent paywalls to access research.

5.      ethical (adj.) - related to questions of right and wrong.
Example: Using such websites raises an ethical question for many people.

6.      resurface (v.) - appear again after disappearing.
Example: The library resurfaced a few months after the shutdown.

7.      in the wake of (phr.) - following a major event; as a result of.
Example: In the wake of the arrests, alternative platforms gained users.

8.      for the sake of (phr.) - for the purpose of; in order to help or achieve something.
Example: Some download articles for the sake of their academic progress.

Sentence Patterns

1.      Had it not been for..., I would not have + past participle... – use this to say one past action made another past action possible.
Example: Had it not been for that online collection, I would not have completed my literature review.

2.      Not until... + did I + verb... – use this to emphasise at which moment you realised something.
Example: Not until the site went down did I realise how much I depended on it.

3.      The mere fact that... – use this to point out that just one thing is enough to cause a reaction or a thought.
Example: The mere fact that millions of students turn to shadow libraries tells us something about the cost of education.

 

Expression Bag for Subquestion 2: When you need a book for study or for fun, what do you usually do first: buy it, borrow it from a library, or look for it online? Describe your habits.

 

🔰 Beginner Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      buy (v.) - get something by paying money for it.
Example: I usually buy novels from an online shop.

2.      borrow (v.) - take something from a person or a library and give it back later.
Example: I borrow storybooks from my friend after she finishes them.

3.      library (n.) - a building or website where you can borrow books for free.
Example: My school library has a huge reading room.

4.      habit (n.) - something you do very often, almost without thinking.
Example: My reading habit starts with a cup of tea.

5.      bookstore (n.) - a shop that sells books.
Example: I visit the bookstore next to my house once a month.

6.      prefer (v.) - like one thing more than another.
Example: I prefer reading on paper when I study.

7.      second-hand (adj.) - not new; used by someone before.
Example: I found a second-hand copy of the novel for half the price.

8.      price (n.) - the amount of money you pay for something.
Example: The price of that textbook surprised me.

Phrases

1.      go to (phr. v.) - open a website or visit a place.
Example: I always go to the library website first.

2.      end up (phr. v.) - finally do or get something, sometimes without planning.
Example: I usually end up reading free samples online.

Sentence Patterns

1.      I usually + verb... – use this to talk about your common behaviour.
Example: I usually check what is available in the library.

2.      My first step is to + verb... – use this to describe the very first thing you do.
Example: My first step is to ask my classmates for recommendations.

3.      When I need a book, I + verb... – a natural way to start your answer.
Example: When I need a book, I compare prices in several online shops.

 

📘 Intermediate Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      afford (v.) - have enough money to pay for something.
Example: I simply cannot afford to buy every book on my reading list.

2.      edition (n.) - a particular version of a book, such as paperback or digital.
Example: The paperback edition is lighter and easier to carry around.

3.      browse (v.) - look at things in a relaxed way without a clear plan.
Example: I like to browse the shelves of a second-hand bookstore.

4.      catalogue (n.) - a complete list of items, often stored on a computer.
Example: I search the library catalogue by the author’s name.

5.      membership (n.) - the state of officially belonging to a library or club.
Example: My library membership allows me to borrow ten books at once.

6.      swap (v.) - give something you own and receive something else in return.
Example: After exams, I swap textbooks with students from other classes.

7.      out of print (phr.) - (of a book) no longer being produced by the publisher.
Example: Some important study guides are out of print, so I look for digital scans.

8.      look into (phr.) - try to find more information about something.
Example: Before buying, I look into the reviews written by other readers.

Sentence Patterns

1.      It depends on whether... – use this to show your habit changes with the situation.
Example: It depends on whether the book is for a serious project or for light reading.

2.      Rather than + verb-ing..., I tend to + verb... – use this to compare two actions and show your preference.
Example: Rather than buying a new copy immediately, I tend to borrow it from the library first.

3.      What I normally do is + verb... – a clear way to introduce your usual habit.
Example: What I normally do is read a few pages online before I decide.

🔖

 Advanced Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      impulse (n.) - a sudden strong wish to do something without planning.
Example: I rarely make an impulse purchase; I keep a wish list instead.

2.      subscription (n.) - an arrangement to receive something regularly by paying in advance.
Example: A monthly subscription gives me unlimited access to a huge audio-book collection.

3.      peruse (v.) - read or examine something quite carefully.
Example: I peruse the table of contents before borrowing any academic book.

4.      acquisition (n.) - the act of getting something, especially a book for a collection.
Example: For me, the slow acquisition of a well-chosen shelf is a real joy.

5.      patron (n.) - a person who regularly uses a library.
Example: As a registered patron, I can request books from other cities.

6.      availability (n.) - the state of being able to be used or obtained.
Example: The immediate availability of an e-book often decides my choice.

7.      turn to (phr.) - go to someone or something for help or a solution.
Example: When my budget is tight, I turn to free public domain classics.

8.      weigh up (phr.) - compare advantages and disadvantages carefully.
Example: I weigh up the cost of a printed book against the convenience of carrying a single device.

Sentence Patterns

1.      Had I not been + noun phrase..., I would have + past participle... – use this third conditional structure to talk about a past situation that made a difference.
Example: Had I not been a member of the university library, I would have spent far more on research materials.

2.      It is not so much the price that drives my choice as... – use this to emphasise that another reason matters more.
Example: It is not so much the price that drives my choice as the feeling of turning real pages.

3.      Seldom do I + verb... – use this formal inversion to say you almost never do something.
Example: Seldom do I buy a hardcover novel at full price; I wait for sales or borrow it from a friend.

 

Expression Bag for Subquestion 3: How easy or difficult is it for you to find affordable books and academic resources where you live? Share a little about your local situation.

 

🔰 Beginner Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      local (adj.) - from or in the area where you live.
Example: My local library has a small but friendly reading area.

2.      nearby (adj.) - close to your home or school.
Example: There is no nearby bookstore, so I walk for thirty minutes.

3.      expensive (adj.) - costing a lot of money.
Example: Many imported textbooks are too expensive for me.

4.      cheap (adj.) - low in price; not expensive.
Example: I can find cheap storybooks at the weekend market.

5.      limited (adj.) - not very great in amount or number.
Example: The English book section in that shop is very limited.

6.      selection (n.) - a collection of different things for you to choose from.
Example: The website has a huge selection of free classic novels.

7.      a wide range of (phr.) - many different types of something.
Example: The city library offers a wide range of science magazines.

8.      get hold of (phr.) - obtain something, sometimes with a little difficulty.
Example: It is hard to get hold of the newest textbooks here.

Sentence Patterns

1.      It is + adjective + for me to + verb... – use this to describe how easy or difficult an action is.
Example: It is simple for me to walk to the public library.

2.      There is / There are + noun... – use this to say what exists in a place.
Example: There is only one second-hand book stall in the whole district.

3.      I find it + adjective + to + verb... – use this to give your personal feeling about an action.
Example: I find it really easy to borrow novels from my school library.

 

📘 Intermediate Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      public (adj.) - provided by the government for everyone to use.
Example: Our public library system gives free cards to every student.

2.      well-stocked (adj.) - having a large and useful supply of items.
Example: The university library is well-stocked with engineering journals.

3.      district (n.) - an area of a town, city, or country.
Example: The northern district has several excellent reading clubs.

4.      demand (n.) - the need or desire for something among people.
Example: The demand for IELTS preparation books is very high right now.

5.      digital (adj.) - using computer technology, especially for storing information.
Example: Many local libraries now have a strong digital collection.

6.      physical (adj.) - related to things you can touch, not online.
Example: I still prefer physical copies, but the shops are disappearing.

7.      rely on (phr.) - depend on something or someone for what you need.
Example: I rely on my cousin in the capital to send me some rare books.

8.      be short of (phr.) - not have enough of something.
Example: Our town is short of shops that sell academic papers.

Sentence Patterns

1.      The main challenge is + noun... – use this to introduce the biggest difficulty.
Example: The main challenge is the limited delivery service in the countryside.

2.      What makes it difficult is + noun... – use this to explain the reason behind the difficulty.
Example: What makes it difficult is that most foreign books are priced in dollars.

3.      Unlike + place, my town... – use this to compare your local situation with another one.
Example: Unlike big cities, my town has almost no used-book markets.

 

🔖 Advanced Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      prohibitive (adj.) - so expensive that few people can afford it.
Example: The price of importing original textbooks is simply prohibitive.

2.      obstacle (n.) - something that blocks your way and prevents progress.
Example: A big obstacle is the lack of reliable internet in my village.

3.      vendor (n.) - a person or company that sells things.
Example: Street vendors sometimes sell old university books at very low prices.

4.      distribution (n.) - the process of moving goods from the producer to the user.
Example: The distribution of printed materials is slow in remote areas.

5.      scholarship (n.) - serious academic study, or money given to support a student.
Example: Without a scholarship, many students cannot access key research monographs.

6.      grey market (n.) - unofficial and not completely legal trading of goods.
Example: Some learners turn to the grey market for photocopied study packs.

7.      beyond reach (phr.) - impossible to get because of cost or location.
Example: Certain medical textbooks remain beyond reach for students in small clinics.

8.      in the long run (phr.) - over a long period of time in the future.
Example: Supporting local publishers will help readers in the long run.

Sentence Patterns

1.      Without + noun, it would be + adjective + to + verb... – use this to highlight how important one thing is for a result.
Example: Without free internet access at the community centre, it would be impossible to download research files.

2.      It is not uncommon for + noun + to + verb... – use this to say a situation happens quite often.
Example: It is not uncommon for students here to wait months for a single chapter on loan from a bigger city.

3.      Were it not for + noun, ... – use this formal structure to show a single factor changes everything.
Example: Were it not for the mobile library van, I would have no source of English fiction at all.

 

Expression Bag for Subquestion 4: In your opinion, what is the main reason people turn to websites like Z-Library — is it the cost, the convenience, the variety, or something else?

 

🔰 Beginner Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      reason (n.) - why something happens or why someone does something.
Example: The main reason is that many textbooks are too expensive.

2.      cost (n.) - the amount of money needed to buy something.
Example: The cost of a single research paper can be very high.

3.      need (v.) - require something important that you cannot do without.
Example: Students often need books that local shops do not sell.

4.      save (v.) - keep money instead of spending it, or keep something for later use.
Example: Many families try to save as much money as possible.

5.      money (n.) - coins or notes used to pay for things.
Example: Readers with little money look for free online copies.

6.      problem (n.) - a situation that is difficult to deal with.
Example: The biggest problem is the lack of nearby public libraries.

7.      instead of (phr.) - used to suggest another thing in place of something.
Example: Some people search online instead of waiting for weeks for a delivery.

8.      because of (phr.) - for the reason that.
Example: Because of high prices, many students cannot buy all their course books.

Sentence Patterns

1.      I think the biggest reason is + noun. – use this to give your simple opinion.
Example: I think the biggest reason is the limited choice in ordinary stores.

2.      For many people, + verb + noun... – use this to speak about a general situation.
Example: For many people, reading a free e-book feels like the only option.

3.      People choose Z-Library because + clause. – a basic way to explain cause.
Example: People choose Z-Library because they can get books in seconds.

 

📘 Intermediate Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      factor (n.) - one of the things that influences a result or decision.
Example: Cost is not the only factor; speed also plays a part.

2.      barrier (n.) - something that blocks or limits movement or access.
Example: The language barrier makes foreign bookstores hard to use.

3.      budget (n.) - the amount of money you have available to spend.
Example: A family budget rarely allows for importing academic titles.

4.      choice (n.) - the act of picking between different possibilities.
Example: Without legal online shops, the only choice is a free website.

5.      inequality (n.) - a lack of fairness, especially in opportunities or money.
Example: Information inequality pushes many learners towards shadow libraries.

6.      desire (n.) - a strong feeling of wanting something.
Example: The desire to keep learning is stronger than the fear of breaking rules.

7.      apart from (phr.) - except for; in addition to.
Example: Apart from cheap paperbacks, the paid market offers almost nothing here.

8.      as a result (phr.) - therefore; because of what was mentioned before.
Example: Libraries close early; as a result, students search online at night.

Sentence Patterns

1.      One major reason is that + clause. – use this to introduce a single important cause.
Example: One major reason is that people can read a book the same day they discover it.

2.      People tend to + verb + when + clause. – use this to talk about a common habit or reaction.
Example: People tend to visit free sites when they only need a few pages.

3.      Another key factor is + noun / that + clause. – use this to add a new supportive point.
Example: Another key factor is that digital downloads never get lost or damaged.

 

🔖 Advanced Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      incentive (n.) - something that encourages people to act in a certain way.
Example: The zero-cost incentive is simply too strong for low-income families.

2.      disparity (n.) - a very noticeable difference between things, often unfair.
Example: The wealth disparity between regions creates an unequal book market.

3.      socioeconomic (adj.) - relating to a person’s social and financial situation.
Example: A student’s socioeconomic status often decides their access to knowledge.

4.      dilemma (n.) - a difficult situation where you must choose between two things.
Example: Many users face a dilemma between fairness to writers and their own survival.

5.      catalyst (n.) - something that causes an important change to happen faster.
Example: The sudden shift to online learning acted as a catalyst for using digital libraries.

6.      predicament (n.) - a difficult or unpleasant situation that is hard to escape.
Example: The predicament of rural learners with no shipping services is undeniable.

7.      at the expense of (phr.) - with harm or loss to something else.
Example: Free knowledge often comes at the expense of publishers’ revenue.

8.      give rise to (phr.) - cause something to happen or exist.
Example: Weak public library systems give rise to heavy reliance on unofficial sources.

Sentence Patterns

1.      What drives people most is + noun / that + clause. – use this to highlight the strongest motivation.
Example: What drives people most is the chance to study even without money.

2.      It is not merely a matter of + noun; rather, + clause. – use this to say that the issue is deeper than one simple idea.
Example: It is not merely a matter of saving money; rather, it is about having any access at all.

3.      The primary motivation behind + noun + is + noun / that + clause. – a formal way to analyse the cause.
Example: The primary motivation behind the use of such websites is the desperate need for current scientific research.

 

Expression Bag for Subquestion 5: Some people argue that educational materials should be free for everyone in order to reduce global inequality. Do you agree? Why or why not?

 

🔰 Beginner Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      agree (v.) - have the same opinion as someone else.
Example: I agree that free materials can help poor communities.

2.      disagree (v.) - have an opinion that is different from someone else's.
Example: I disagree because writers also need to pay their bills.

3.      fair (adj.) - treating everyone equally and in a right way.
Example: It is not fair that some children never own a textbook.

4.      gap (n.) - a big difference between two groups or things.
Example: Free learning tools can narrow the gap between rich and poor nations.

5.      support (v.) - say or show that you think an idea is good.
Example: Many teachers support the call for open digital libraries.

6.      necessary (adj.) - needed; something you must have.
Example: Updated knowledge is necessary for good doctors and nurses.

7.      in order to (phr.) - with the purpose of doing something.
Example: Governments invest in public libraries in order to spread literacy.

8.      for instance (phr.) - as an example.
Example: For instance, a free online science book can inspire a whole village.

Sentence Patterns

1.      I agree with this argument because... – a direct way to show support and give a reason.
Example: I agree with this argument because education should never depend on wealth.

2.      I disagree with this idea because... – a direct way to show opposition.
Example: I disagree with this idea because it might reduce the quality of books over time.

3.      In my view, + clause... – use this to introduce your personal opinion.
Example: In my view, everyone deserves a chance to learn, regardless of money.

 

📘 Intermediate Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      argument (n.) - a reason or set of reasons given to support an idea.
Example: The strongest argument is that knowledge can lift entire families out of poverty.

2.      opportunity (n.) - a situation in which it is possible for you to do something.
Example: Free materials offer the same opportunity to students in distant villages.

3.      sustainable (adj.) - able to continue over a period of time without causing harm.
Example: We must ask whether a completely free system is sustainable for publishers.

4.      universal (adj.) - for everyone in the world or in a particular group.
Example: Universal textbook access remains a dream in many parts of Africa.

5.      burden (n.) - a heavy load or difficulty.
Example: The cost of a single science book is a heavy burden for low-income parents.

6.      compromise (n.) - a solution where both sides give up something.
Example: A compromise might be free old editions and paid new ones.

7.      lead to (phr.) - make something happen as a result.
Example: More open resources could lead to faster scientific progress globally.

8.      on the one hand (phr.) - used to introduce one side of an argument.
Example: On the one hand, free access is a powerful equaliser for the young.

Sentence Patterns

1.      While I understand the concern, I believe... – use this to show you have thought about the other side.
Example: While I understand the concern for authors, I believe education comes first in emergencies.

2.      The main advantage of this proposal is that... – use this to highlight the best part of an idea.
Example: The main advantage of this proposal is that no child would be left without materials.

3.      It is important to consider whether... – use this to introduce a question that needs deep thought.
Example: It is important to consider whether a totally free model would discourage creativity.

 

🔖 Advanced Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      ideology (n.) - a set of beliefs, especially ones that form a system.
Example: The free-knowledge ideology is at the heart of many open-access movements.

2.      equitable (adj.) - fair and reasonable; treating everyone the same way.
Example: An equitable future requires breaking down the paywalls around research.

3.      marginalize (v.) - treat someone or something as unimportant or powerless.
Example: Expensive databases marginalize researchers working in poorer countries.

4.      infringement (n.) - the act of breaking a law or someone's rights.
Example: Some see the infringement of copyright as a moral dilemma, not a simple crime.

5.      philanthropy (n.) - the giving of money, goods, or help to people in need.
Example: Large-scale philanthropy could fund free digital libraries for global use.

6.      monetize (v.) - earn money from an activity or a product.
Example: The challenge is to monetize creative work without blocking information.

7.      at odds with (phr.) - in conflict or disagreement with something.
Example: The wish for free textbooks is sometimes at odds with the law.

8.      on the grounds that (phr.) - for the reason that (often used in formal arguments).
Example: Many oppose piracy on the grounds that it destroys artistic careers.

Sentence Patterns

1.      Whether we agree or not depends largely on + noun / how... – use this to show the answer is complex.
Example: Whether we agree or not depends largely on how wealthy our own country is.

2.      A more practical approach would be to + verb... – use this to offer a balanced solution.
Example: A more practical approach would be to fund basic schoolbooks through public money.

3.      The notion that + clause + is compelling, yet + clause. – use this to present an idea and then add a counterpoint.
Example: The notion that all knowledge must be free is compelling, yet it overlooks the long hours of labour behind each page.

 

Expression Bag for Subquestion 6: Try to imagine the perspective of an author. If your own books were being shared on such sites without your consent, how would that make you feel?

 

🔰 Beginner Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      author (n.) - a person who writes a book.
Example: If I were an author, I would feel proud of finishing a long story.

2.      effort (n.) - the physical or mental energy needed to do something.
Example: Writing a single chapter takes great effort and patience.

3.      sad (adj.) - feeling unhappy.
Example: I would feel sad to see my work given away for free.

4.      upset (adj.) - feeling worried, unhappy, or angry.
Example: Many authors get upset when their books are shared without asking.

5.      steal (v.) - take something that belongs to someone else without permission.
Example: Downloading my book without paying feels like stealing.

6.      unfair (adj.) - not right or just.
Example: It is unfair that people read my book and I get nothing in return.

7.      hard work (phr.) - activity that needs a lot of effort over a long period.
Example: A novel represents years of hard work and late nights.

8.      without asking (phr.) - not getting permission first.
Example: They uploaded my file without asking, and that hurts.

Sentence Patterns

1.      I would feel + adjective... – use this to describe your emotional reaction as an author.
Example: I would feel very sad and hopeless.

2.      If I were an author, I would... – use this to put yourself in the writer’s position.
Example: If I were an author, I would want at least a small payment for each copy.

3.      It + verb + that + clause... – use this to express a strong feeling about a situation.
Example: It hurts me that strangers distribute my book without my knowledge.

 

📘 Intermediate Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      disappointed (adj.) - unhappy because something was not as good as expected.
Example: I would be deeply disappointed to see my novel on a pirate site.

2.      frustrated (adj.) - feeling annoyed because you cannot change a bad situation.
Example: Authors feel frustrated when they cannot stop the illegal copies.

3.      helpless (adj.) - unable to do anything to improve a difficult situation.
Example: Without strong rules, creators often feel completely helpless.

4.      income (n.) - money that you earn from work.
Example: Book sales provide the main income for many smaller writers.

5.      permission (n.) - the act of allowing something to happen.
Example: No one asked for my permission before spreading the file.

6.      recognition (n.) - being known or praised for something you have done.
Example: At the very least, I want some recognition for all my hard work.

7.      make a living (phr.) - earn enough money to live on.
Example: Most authors struggle to make a living from their writing alone.

8.      in vain (phr.) - without the desired result; uselessly.
Example: All my early mornings felt in vain when I saw my book on a free site.

Sentence Patterns

1.      Knowing that... makes me feel... – use this to explain how a particular thought affects you.
Example: Knowing that strangers read my work for free makes me feel used.

2.      It is heartbreaking to + verb... – use this to show very deep sadness.
Example: It is heartbreaking to see your creation treated as a free product.

3.      I would wonder whether... – use this to express doubt about the value of your work.
Example: I would wonder whether all those hours of research were worth it.

 

🔖 Advanced Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      violated (adj.) - feeling that your rights have been seriously harmed.
Example: My rights as a creator felt completely violated.

2.      exploited (adj.) - used unfairly by others for their own advantage.
Example: Small authors are often exploited without even receiving a thank-you.

3.      devalued (adj.) - reduced in value or importance.
Example: The work of my whole life suddenly felt devalued and cheap.

4.      demoralized (adj.) - having lost confidence, hope, or energy.
Example: Continuous piracy left me so demoralized that I almost quit writing.

5.      livelihood (n.) - the way you earn the money you need to live.
Example: Copyright laws are meant to protect a writer’s livelihood.

6.      unauthorized (adj.) - without official or formal permission.
Example: An unauthorized copy of my manuscript was shared on three platforms.

7.      without consent (phr.) - without agreement or permission.
Example: Seeing my short novel circulated without consent was a real shock.

8.      at the mercy of (phr.) - unable to protect yourself from something harmful.
Example: A young writer is entirely at the mercy of giant download sites.

Sentence Patterns

1.      Not only would + clause, but it would also + verb... – use this to show two serious effects at the same time.
Example: Not only would my sales drop sharply, but it would also kill my wish to write a second book.

2.      To have one’s + noun + past participle... – use this to express the painful experience of something being done to your work.
Example: To have one’s life’s work reduced to a free file on a shadow site is deeply painful.

3.      The very thought of + noun / verb-ing... – use this to emphasise an immediate strong feeling.
Example: The very thought of my book being passed around like a cheap leaflet makes me furious.

 

Expression Bag for Subquestion 7: Is sharing an e-book file the same as lending a physical book to a friend, or are there important differences? Where would you personally draw the line?

 

🔰 Beginner Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      lend (v.) - give something to someone for a while, expecting it back.
Example: I lend my favourite paper novels to my cousin.

2.      physical (adj.) - real and solid; able to be touched.
Example: A physical book takes up space on a real shelf.

3.      e-book file (n.) - a digital document that contains a book.
Example: An e-book file can be sent in a message.

4.      copy (n.) - an example of a book or a file.
Example: When I lend my only copy, I have nothing to read.

5.      same (adj.) - not different in any way.
Example: Sharing an e-book is not the same as passing a paper book.

6.      limit (n.) - a point beyond which something should not go.
Example: I set a clear limit: only my close family can read my copies.

7.      give away (phr. v.) - give something to someone without payment.
Example: I do not give away e-book files to people I do not know.

8.      as long as (phr.) - only if a certain condition is true.
Example: I share files as long as the friend promises to delete them later.

Sentence Patterns

1.      For me, the difference is + that + clause. – use this to state the distinction simply.
Example: For me, the difference is that a file can be kept by both people forever.

2.      I don’t think it is + adjective + to + verb... – use this to express a clear personal view.
Example: I don’t think it is right to send a book file to a whole group.

3.      I feel that + clause... – a gentle way to offer your opinion.
Example: I feel that lending a real book to a neighbour is completely fine.

 

📘 Intermediate Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      permanent (adj.) - lasting forever or for a very long time.
Example: A loan of a paper book is temporary, but a file transfer can be permanent.

2.      temporary (adj.) - lasting for only a limited time.
Example: Lending a real book creates a temporary absence from your shelf.

3.      mass (adj.) - involving a large number of people or things.
Example: A single click can lead to mass sharing, unlike handing over one paper copy.

4.      keep track of (phr.) - stay informed about where something is or what is happening.
Example: It is impossible to keep track of a digital file after you share it.

5.      intention (n.) - the purpose or plan in your mind when you act.
Example: My intention matters: lending to one study partner feels different from posting publicly.

6.      replacement (n.) - something that takes the place of the original.
Example: A paper book can be lost, and a replacement costs money; a file needs no replacement.

7.      one-to-one (adj.) - between only two people.
Example: A one-to-one book loan seems kinder than uploading for strangers.

8.      draw the line (phr.) - set a limit on what is acceptable.
Example: I draw the line at sending a file to anyone beyond my family circle.

Sentence Patterns

1.      While I see both sides, I ultimately believe + that + clause. – use this to show balanced thinking.
Example: While I see both sides, I ultimately believe that sharing a file with a close mate is like lending a book.

2.      The key difference for me is + noun / that + clause. – use this to stress the most important point.
Example: The key difference for me is the loss of control over the original.

3.      I would be comfortable + verb-ing... only if... – use this to describe your personal boundary.
Example: I would be comfortable emailing a chapter only if the whole book is not available.

 

🔖 Advanced Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      tangible (adj.) - able to be seen and touched; physical.
Example: A tangible book has natural limits that a digital file simply does not possess.

2.      replicate (v.) - make an exact copy of something.
Example: The ease with which you can replicate an e-book changes the moral equation.

3.      depletion (n.) - the reduction in the number or amount of something.
Example: Lending a paper book involves depletion of your personal collection for a while.

4.      jurisdiction (n.) - the official power to make legal decisions.
Example: Digital sharing often crosses legal jurisdictions, making old rules hard to apply.

5.      instantaneous (adj.) - happening immediately.
Example: The almost instantaneous spread of a file is far beyond the speed of a physical handover.

6.      precedent (n.) - an earlier event or action that is used as an example or rule.
Example: The practice of lending paper books set a precedent, but one that does not fit digital goods perfectly.

7.      equate to (phr.) - consider one thing as equal or similar to another.
Example: Many readers incorrectly equate the lending of a file to the lending of a physical object.

8.      in broad terms (phr.) - without paying attention to small details.
Example: In broad terms, the two actions seem alike, but the finer details tell a very different story.

Sentence Patterns

1.      Were I to treat the two as identical, I would overlook + noun. – a formal conditional to highlight a missing fact.
Example: Were I to treat the two as identical, I would overlook the infinite scalability of a digital file.

2.      It is one thing to + verb... ; it is quite another to + verb... – use this to contrast actions of very different weight.
Example: It is one thing to lend a dusty paperback from your shelf; it is quite another to seed a torrent for strangers.

3.      The moment + noun + verb..., the comparison collapses. – use this to show exactly when the similarity ends.
Example: The moment a single e-book is copied into a thousand identical files, the comparison with physical lending collapses.

 

Expression Bag for Subquestion 8: Looking ahead, what might a fair digital publishing system look like — one that welcomes readers with limited money while also respecting the work of writers and other creators?

 

🔰 Beginner Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      fair (adj.) - treating everyone equally and in a right way.
Example: A fair system does not forget poor readers or hard-working writers.

2.      system (n.) - a set of rules or ways of doing things.
Example: My dream system lets students borrow e-books like a normal library.

3.      pay (v.) - give money for something.
Example: Some readers can pay a small amount, and others can read for free.

4.      cheap (adj.) - low in price.
Example: A cheap monthly card could open thousands of books.

5.      writer (n.) - a person who writes books or articles.
Example: The system should make sure every writer gets something for their work.

6.      member (n.) - a person who belongs to a group or service.
Example: Every member can read five books at the same time.

7.      set up (phr. v.) - start or create something like a system or organization.
Example: The government could set up a national digital bookshelf.

8.      work out (phr. v.) - find an answer or a solution.
Example: We still need to work out how to pay writers fairly.

Sentence Patterns

1.      I imagine a system where... – use this to describe your dream.
Example: I imagine a system where a free basic library and a paid extra library exist side by side.

2.      The best solution is to... – use this to give the strongest idea.
Example: The best solution is to use public money to cover the cost of textbooks.

3.      Maybe we can... – a friendly way to make a suggestion.
Example: Maybe we can learn from music apps that offer both free and paid plans.

 

📘 Intermediate Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      subscription (n.) - an amount of money you pay regularly to receive a service.
Example: A low monthly subscription could give unlimited access to novels and magazines.

2.      access (n.) - the ability or right to use something.
Example: Open access to research papers saves students a lot of trouble.

3.      creator (n.) - someone who makes something original, like a writer or artist.
Example: The system must send a fair share of the income back to the original creator.

4.      license (n.) - an official permission to use something.
Example: A single national license can let the whole country read a new science book.

5.      donate (v.) - give money or goods to help a person or organization.
Example: Users who can afford it could donate to a free-book fund for others.

6.      balance (v.) - keep different parts in the right proportion.
Example: A perfect model will balance the needs of learners and the rights of publishers.

7.      in return (phr.) - as a way of paying back or exchanging.
Example: Readers could leave a helpful review in return for a free chapter.

8.      cover the cost (phr.) - earn or give enough money to pay for something.
Example: A small fee from millions of readers can easily cover the cost of making the book.

Sentence Patterns

1.      One possible model is... – use this to introduce a specific plan.
Example: One possible model is a public library that pays a tiny amount to the author each time a book is opened.

2.      It would be great if... – use this to express a strong wish.
Example: It would be great if schools could buy digital class sets at a very low fixed price.

3.      The key is to make sure that... – use this to highlight the most important condition.
Example: The key is to make sure that even those without a bank card can read for free.

 

🔖 Advanced Level

Vocabulary and Phrases

1.      sustainable (adj.) - able to continue for a long time without damaging people or the environment.
Example: A fair system has to be financially sustainable so it does not collapse after one year.

2.      revenue (n.) - money that a business or government receives.
Example: Advertising revenue could pay for a large section of classic literature.

3.      tiered (adj.) - having several levels with different prices or benefits.
Example: A tiered structure lets students pay almost nothing while professionals pay more.

4.      compensate (v.) - pay someone for work, loss, or injury.
Example: A global fund should fairly compensate authors whose works are used in poor regions.

5.      collective (adj.) - shared by every member of a group.
Example: A collective agreement between libraries and publishers could make all schoolbooks free.

6.      incentive (n.) - something that encourages a person to do something.
Example: The system needs a strong incentive for publishers to join willingly.

7.      with minimal barriers (phr.) - with very few things that block access.
Example: The platform must welcome everyone with minimal barriers, like a simple login.

8.      at scale (phr.) - involving a very large number of people or things.
Example: Such a model only works at scale, with millions of tiny payments adding up.

Sentence Patterns

1.      A system in which... would allow... to... – use this to describe a detailed future vision.
Example: A system in which public libraries pay authors per page read would allow the poorest families to study modern books.

2.      Were such a model to be adopted,... – a formal conditional to imagine the result.
Example: Were such a model to be adopted, the need for shadow libraries would drop sharply.

3.      It is worth exploring whether... – use this to suggest a careful study of an idea.
Example: It is worth exploring whether big technology companies can help fund a worldwide knowledge pool.