The Chinese Online Writing Lab

1. With its strong emphasis on using natural materials, the German mattress brand Elsa has ranked highly in consumer evaluations since entering the Taiwan market in 2004.

I A. dishevel

B. disarray

C. appraisals

2. Established in Germany in 1924, Elsa has strived to satisfy customers for decades.

A. renounced

B. relinquished

C. aspired

3. The cold and damp winters in Taiwan make the island an ideal market for the diverse products Elsa manufactures, including woolen carpets, blankets, socks, stockings and nightclothes.

A. exemplary 

B. flawed

C. deficient

4. The main competitor of Elsa in the Taiwan market is Simmons Mattress Company of the United States, which began mass producing spring beds in 1876 and built up a firm position in the Taiwan market.

A. faltering

B. impermeable

C. precarious

5. Simmons is the leader in its market niche, and focuses on eliminating the stress of shopping for mattresses by combining innovation with comfort.

A. reversion

B. metamorphosis

C. relapse

6. Simmons seeks to assure customers that they are purchasing a quality mattress, and also to convince them quality sleep is essential for dealing with the turbulence of daily life.

A. persuade

B. sidetrack

C. deter

7. For individuals who have trouble sleeping, Simmons offers quality mattresses that often exceed consumer expectations.

A. contentment

B. tranquility

C.  aggravation

8. Elsa faces a challenge in competing with a well entrenched rival like Simmons.

A. well fortified

B. well concealed

C. well covered

9. Knowledge is a key concern.

A. minor

B.  primary

C.  slight

10. Rather than merely selling quality mattresses, Simmons educates consumers to maximize their sleeping experience and ensure a healthy lifestyle.

A. merchants

B. purchasers

C.  wholesalers

11. In 2005, Elsa plans to team up with Teco Company and offer consumers a 50% discount off of an Elsa mattress when purchasing a Teco humidifier.

A.  collaborate

B.  compete

C.  rival

12. Given the damp climate in Taiwan, consumers with a humidifier in their bedrooms should sleep more comfortably and healthily.

A. soggy 

B. desiccated

C. parched

13. Such a partnership should help improve Elsa’s position in this highly competitive market.  

A. contention

B. rivalry

C. collusion

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