【词汇讲解】

1. layoff n. (由于工作清闲而造成的)临时解雇

Textile companies announced 2000 fresh layoffs last week.
各纺织公司上周宣布再次裁员两千人。

2. telecommuter n. (在家通过电话和电脑与共事者联系的)远距离工作者

Thus approximately 250 US companies now allow employees to work from home and 30, including American Express and McDonald's, are eager to expand their telecommuter forces.
因此，目前大约有250家美国公司允许雇员在家里上班，有30家公司，其中包括美国运通公司和麦克唐纳公司，正迫不及待地要扩大它们的远距离工作队伍。

3. outcome n. 结果

This book was the outcome of a tremendous amount of scientific work.
这本书是大量科学研究工作的成果。

4. revert vi.恢复，回复到；重提，重新考虑；回到……上

After the settlers left, the area reverted to desert.
早期移民离开之后，这个地区又变成了一片沙漠。

I wonder if we could revert to what you were saying earlier.
我想我们是否可以重新考虑一下你原先所说的。

5. recession n.经济衰退，不景气；后退；撤退；撤回

Many businesses have closed down because of the recession.
因经济衰退许多企业纷纷倒闭。

6. maternity leave 产假

She is away on sick leave or on maternity leave.
她在休病假或休产假。