英検1級【Vocabulary Training-Adjective】Vol.54
英検1級のPart1で出題された形容詞を用いた文章問題です。
Read the following passage and choose the best word from among the four choices for each blank.
The Role of Sanctions in Diplomacy
Sanctions are a powerful tool in international diplomacy, often utilized to influence the behavior of nations. They are employed when countries make ( A ) violations of international norms, serving as a preventive measure. Economic and trade sanctions, in particular, aim to apply pressure without resorting to direct conflict. While sanctions are ( B ) to modern diplomatic strategies, they are not without challenges. Critics argue that sanctions can disproportionately harm civilians rather than political leaders, raising ethical concerns. Despite this, they remain a key element in maintaining global order, ensuring accountability, and promoting peace. Each case requires careful consideration to balance their impact and effectiveness.
(A)
① excruciating
② unrelenting
③ menacing
④ unwitting
(B)
① introspective
② intrinsic
③ invincible
④ intermittent
＜内容＞
外交における制裁の役割
・制裁は、国が国際規範を意図せずに違反した場合に実施され、予防的な措置として機能する
・制裁は現代の外交戦略において不可欠な存在ですが、課題がないわけではない
＜備考＞
アサド政権が崩壊しました。
長年続いた独裁政権から解放されて国は良い方向に進んでいくのでしょうか？
良い意味でも、悪い意味でも、私たち日本人には容易に想像のつかない世界です。
国と国が争ったり交渉をしたりするときに「経済制裁」はよく使われる外交手段です。
日本経済も輸出入に頼る面が多いですが、あまり経済制裁の対象になることは無いように思います。
米国がバックについているからでしょうか？
日本とい国が世界に認められているからでしょうか？
調べてみました。
1. Pre-World War II Sanctions
US and Allied Nations (1940-1941):
In response to Japan's expansionist policies and its invasion of China (1937) and later French Indochina (1940), the United States, Britain, and other allied nations imposed significant economic sanctions on Japan.
Oil Embargo: The United States froze Japanese assets in 1941 and, along with the Allies, cut off oil supplies to Japan. This was a critical blow, as Japan heavily depended on imported oil for its military and industrial needs.
Raw Material Restrictions: The US and others also restricted the export of key materials like steel and rubber.
These sanctions significantly impacted Japan's economy and contributed to its decision to attack Pearl Harbor in 1941, leading to its entry into World War II.
2. Post-World War II Occupation
After Japan's defeat in 1945, it wasn't subject to formal economic sanctions, but its economy was heavily controlled during the Allied occupation (1945–1952). During this time, Japan's economy was largely rebuilt under US guidance, with restrictions on rearmament and the development of a war economy.
3. Cold War Era
While Japan was generally not the target of sanctions during the Cold War, it occasionally faced trade restrictions related to specific disputes, such as technology transfers or fishing rights.
4. Modern Day Context
Trade Disputes: Japan has faced limited economic measures in modern times, primarily in the context of trade disputes, such as those with South Korea and China. While these disputes are not traditional "sanctions," they sometimes involve restrictions on specific goods or industries.
International Coordination: As a member of the international community, Japan is more often a participant in imposing sanctions (e.g., against North Korea or Russia) rather than a target.
Summary
The most significant instance of economic sanctions against Japan occurred in the lead-up to World War II. Since then, Japan's role as a stable economic power and ally in the global system has shielded it from major sanctions, though it remains sensitive to trade tensions and international disputes.
上記の通り、戦前戦後、全く制裁を受けたことがないというわけでないようです。
＜解答＞
A ：④ unwitting「知らない、意識しない、故意でない」
excruciating：ひどく痛い、苦しめる、極端な、非常な
unrelenting：容赦しない、厳しい、無慈悲な、固い、速度が変わらない
menacing：おどすような、威嚇するような、脅迫的な
B：② intrinsic「本来備わっている、固有の、本質的な」
introspective：内省の、内省的な
invincible：征服できない、無敵の、不屈の、克服できない
intermittent：一時的にやむ（止まる）、断続的な、間欠性の、周期的な