



Imitating ❶ others is a natual thing to do.
If you see someone yawn, do you feel like yawning, too? If so, you're not alone. This is a common phenomenon ❷, and scientists call it the “chameleon effect.”
The chameleon effect happens when people copy each other without realizing it ➌. For example, if you smile when talking to a group of people, they are likely to ➍ smile, too. The chameleon effect is usually positive. It helps people blend in with ➎ a group, just like a chameleon blends in with its surroundings ❻.
The chameleon effect, however, does not always mix well with modern technology. In a recent study, scientists discovered that if you check your phone, around half the people nearby will check theirs, too. Usually, the chameleon effect brings people closer ➐ to each other, but not in this case.
According to the researchers, people want to match their actions to those of the others around them. So, when you see other people look at their phones, you naturally want to do the same. Next time you see someone check their phone, try striking up a conversation instead of ➑ checking your own phone. Maybe you could talk about the chameleon effect!
John and Mary are likely to get married this year.
約翰和瑪麗今年可能會結婚。
The spy wore a disguise to blend in with the crowd.
那個間諜喬裝以融入人群。
Julie decided to rent an apartment instead of buying a house.
茱莉決定租公寓而不買房子。
