VOA慢速英语:Iranian Presidential Candidates Hold First Debate

短语讲解：

1. Iranian oil exports have dropped by almost 50 percent as a result of foreign opposition to the nuclear activities.

as a result of 由于…的结果；起因
例句：I was late as a result of the snow.
由于下雪，我来晚了。

2. He was able to complete major transportation projects in a weak economy by joining with Chinese companies.

be able to 能，会；能够；克
例句：We hope you'll be able to attend.
我们希望你能够前来参加。

3. The Council is made up of religious and legal experts.

make up of 构成，组成
例句：Today, mainland chinese make up two-thirds of visitors.
现在，大陆游客占到了总数的三分之二。

4. The following day, United Nations special representative Maina Kiai urged Iran to release more than 40 reporters from jail.

more than 不只是；很
例句：We have more than a car!
我们可不止有辆车！

5. Iran’s state-operated media described the UDI call for free elections as an excuse for military intervention in Iran.

call for 去接（某人）；去取（某物）
例句：Consumers call for a boycott of apple products.
消费者要求抵制苹果产品。