City life moves fast, and escalators are a lifesaver for busy commuters. __1__ It is widely believed that this practice keeps traffic flowing smoothly and avoids congestion.
While on the road, drivers of slower vehicles are required to remain within the outside lane so that those traveling at faster speeds may pass in the inside lane. Similar to traffic lanes that separate vehicles driving at different speeds, this convention on escalators allows for both efficiency and courtesy. __2__ This system reflects an unspoken understanding that facilitates shared use of the space.
However, the city of Nagoya, Japan, has recently implemented a law prohibiting walking on escalators entirely. This means that as soon as anyone gets on an escalator, they have to remain stationary. __3__ Besides, a study in Tokyo found that having everyone stand still on escalators, rather than allowing some to walk, actually increases overall efficiency. It’s because when people walk on escalators, they disrupt the flow of traffic and create bottlenecks. This can slow down everyone, including those who are walking. __4__
Photo: AdobeStock I 照片：AdobeStock
Since this law was only recently enacted, there are no statistics to back up if it has helped reduce the number of accidents or improve the flow on escalators. Ultimately, maintaining a smooth flow and ensuring everyone’s safety are key aspects of escalator etiquette. Whether standing or passing, being mindful of others leads to a more pleasant experience for all.
(A) An unwritten rule on escalators in many places is to stand on the right and pass on the left.
Photo: AdobeStock I 照片：AdobeStock
(B) In contrast, if all passengers stand still, the traffic flow tends to be smoother and more organized.
(C) The decision was made due to safety concerns arising from accidents caused by people rushing up and down escalators.
(D) Those who prefer to stand can rest when moving, while those in a hurry can easily pass on the left without bothering anyone.
答案：1. A 2. D 3. C 4. B
城市生活步調快速，而手扶梯對忙碌的通勤者來說宛若救世主一般。許多地方的手扶梯上都有個潛規則，就是右側站立、左側通行。普遍認為這個做法讓行人往來順暢且避免阻塞。
開車時，車速較慢的車子必須開在外側車道，這樣那些車速較快的車就能從內側車道通行。就跟將不同車速的車輛分開的交通道路一樣，手扶梯上這樣的傳統兼顧效率及禮貌。想要站著的人在移動中可以休息，而那些趕時間的人則可以在不干擾任何人的情況下輕易地從左邊通過。這樣的制度反映了促進共用空間使用的默契。
然而，日本名古屋市最近實行了一項全面禁止在手扶梯上行走的法規。這意味著只要站到手扶梯上，就必須保持靜止。這項決定是起因於人們在手扶梯上趕上趕下造成意外所導致的安全考量。此外，在東京所做的一項研究發現，讓人們在手扶梯上站立不動、而不是允許一些人在上面行走，實際上增加了整體的效率。這是因為當人們在手扶梯上行走時，他們會擾亂整個動線的流暢度，並產生交通瓶頸。這會讓每個人慢下來，包含那些正在行走的人。相反地，如果所有的乘客都站著不動，交通動線往往就會更順暢且更有組織。
由於這條法規最近才剛制定，還沒有數據能證實其是否有助於降低交通事故的數量或改善手扶梯動線的流暢度。最終，保持順暢的動線和確保每個人的安全，是手扶梯禮儀的重要面向。不管是站立或行走，留心其他人能帶來對所有人而言都更愉快的體驗。
Words in use
1. commuter n. 通勤者
The commuters squeezed into the subway car.
那群通勤者擠進了地鐵的車廂內。
2. congestion n. 壅塞
We were an hour late due to the congestion on the freeway.
因為高速公路上車輛壅塞，我們遲到了一小時。
3. convention n. 傳統，規約，習俗
The convention of taking off one’s shoes before entering a house is commonplace in Asia.
在進家門前脫鞋這個傳統在亞洲很常見。
4. courtesy n. 禮貌
It is common courtesy to say “excuse me” when you bump into someone.
當你撞到別人時，說聲「不好意思」是平常的禮貌。
5. facilitate vt. 促進，幫助；使容易
Ben’s detailed explanation facilitated my understanding of the situation.
阿班鉅細靡遺的解釋有助於我了解情況。
Practical Phrases
1. allow for... 容許……；考慮到……
I always buy slightly larger sized shirts to allow for shrinkage in the wash.
我總是會買尺寸大一點的襯衫好讓它們在洗滌時有縮水的空間。
You have to allow for traffic when setting up appointments in the city.
你在安排該座城市裡的約會時必須考慮到交通。
2. back up... / back... up 證實……；支持……
The evidence you showed us doesn’t back up your theory.
你給我們看的證據無法證實你的理論。
When the singer was involved in the scandal, all his fans backed him up.
當那位歌手捲入那樁醜聞時，他所有的歌迷都支持他。
3. be mindful of... 考慮到……
mindful a. 留神注意的
Mindful of the poor road conditions, Mike reduced his speed.
麥克考慮到路況很糟，便把車速慢下來。
聽文章朗讀及講解: https://ivy.pse.is/455bfu
本文出自常春藤解析英語雜誌: www.ivy.com.tw
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