E55 American English Vocabulary: Exploring the History of ‘Go For Broke’ and How to Use the Idiom

🎖️Today is Veterans Day here in the United States, and it is a holiday to celebrate those who have served in the military. To help celebrate the day, we have a special episode of the Learn English podcast. On this episode, we're diving into the fascinating history of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and the cultural impact they had with their slogan "go for broke".

🇺🇸 The 442nd was a segregated unit made up of Japanese-American soldiers who fought bravely for their country. These soldiers faced discrimination at home, yet they risked everything to prove their loyalty and bravery on the battlefield. You'll hear how these soldiers went on to become one of the most decorated units in US military history. From breaking through the Gothic Line in Italy to rescuing the "Lost Battalion" in France, their courageous actions and willingness to "go for broke" in battle helped win WWII.

✨Their courage and sacrifice made “go for broke” a phrase that means risking it all in battle. In this episode, you’ll also discover how the phrase “go for broke” is still used in American English today. We’ll share clear examples of when and how to use this phrase in conversation, whether you’re talking about chasing a dream, taking a big risk, or giving it your best effort. By understanding the background of this expression, you’ll be able to use it naturally in your English. Join us as we explore this important chapter of American history and unpack the lasting impact of the 442nd's motto, which has become a widely-used English idiom.

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📜 SOURCES

https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/442nd-regimental-combat-team

https://www.nvlchawaii.org/442nd-regimental-combat-team/

https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-army/2019/04/05/this-japanese-american-army-unit-is-the-reason-we-celebrate-national-go-for-broke-day/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Go_for_Broke!_(1951_film)

📝 Vocabulary List:

1) Veterans Day – A holiday in the United States to honor people who have served in the military.

2) Isolationist: Someone who believes their country should avoid foreign wars and conflicts.

3) Internment camp: A camp where people are detained during wartime, often based on ethnicity.

4) Segregation: The practice of keeping people in separate groups, usually based on race or religion.

5) Decorated: Awarded with medals or honors, often in the military.

6) Patriotic: Having or showing love for one's country.

7) Casualties: People who are killed or injured in a war or accident.

8) Fortifications: Strong buildings or walls that protect an area during war.

9) Liberate: To free or release someone or something.

10) Go for broke: to risk everything in pursuit of a high reward