The criminal trade in ancient objects ⏲️ 6 Minute English
BBC Learning English • 2025-09-25T07:44:17Z • 6:15 • intermediate • Culture
Lead
Have you ever wondered about the dark side of collecting ancient artifacts? Join us as we explore the criminal trade in antiquities and the challenges it poses to history and culture.
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Vocabulary
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artefact
/ˈɑr.tɪˌfækt/
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Definition
Any object made by humans, usually very old, which is historically interesting.
Example
The museum displayed an ancient artefact from the Roman Empire.
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looted
/ˈluː.tɪd/
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Definition
Stolen by force, typically during a time of conflict or chaos.
Example
The priceless items were looted during the civil war.
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game changer
/ˈɡeɪm ˌtʃeɪn.dʒər/
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Definition
A new element introduced into a situation that completely changes how it works.
Example
The introduction of smartphones was a game changer for communication.
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bottleneck
/ˈbɑː.təl.nɛk/
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Definition
A problem that delays a process or stops it from progressing.
Example
The lack of funding created a bottleneck in the project timeline.
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repatriate
/ˌriːˈpeɪ.tri.eɪt/
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Definition
To return something to its country of origin.
Example
The museum decided to repatriate the ancient artifacts to their homeland.
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middle-of-the-road
/ˌmɪd.əl.əv.ðəˈroʊd/
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Definition
Not extreme; acceptable to most people.
Example
Her views on the issue are quite middle-of-the-road, appealing to a wide audience.
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