英検1級の英文要約では、原文の内容を短くするだけでなく、「どの程度確実なこととして述べているか」を保つ必要があります。may、can、likely、tend to、mustなどの表現を強めたり弱めたりすると、原文とは違う主張になります。この記事では、慎重表現の強さを維持する独自30問で練習します。
断定の強さを変えない
- may：可能性を示す
- can：可能・一般的な能力や傾向を示す
- likely：可能性が高い
- tend to：傾向を示す
- must：強い必要性・断定
独自30問
- The policy may reduce transportation costs.
- Online services can improve convenience.
- The reform is likely to affect small businesses.
- Young workers tend to value flexibility.
- The government must ensure equal access.
- The findings may indicate a long-term change.
- The measure can reduce waste in some areas.
- The proposal is likely to face opposition.
- Consumers tend to compare prices online.
- Schools must protect students’ privacy.
- The project may require additional funding.
- Digital tools can support remote learning.
- The policy is likely to increase participation.
- Older residents tend to prefer face-to-face assistance.
- Governments must respond to serious safety risks.
- The evidence may suggest a connection.
- Public transport can reduce dependence on cars.
- The change is likely to produce short-term costs.
- Consumers tend to react strongly to price increases.
- Companies must comply with the law.
- The results may not apply to every region.
- Green spaces can improve local environments.
- The proposal is likely to require revision.
- People tend to change behavior when incentives change.
- Authorities must provide accurate information.
- The policy may create unintended effects.
- Early treatment can reduce long-term costs.
- The project is likely to attract attention.
- Students tend to perform better when expectations are clear.
- Governments must consider the impact on vulnerable groups.
要約で起こりやすい誤り
原文が「may reduce costs」なのに「reduces costs」と書くと、可能性が事実へ変わります。「tend to」なのに「always」とすると、例外を消してしまいます。要約では語数を減らしても、モダリティの強さは残してください。
言い換えるなら
- may → could
- likely to → expected to / probably will
- tend to → generally / are often inclined to
ただし、完全な同義語ではないため、原文の確実性が変わらない範囲で使用します。
参考にした主な公式情報
- 公益財団法人 日本英語検定協会「1級の試験内容」
- 公益財団法人 日本英語検定協会「各級の審査基準」