Domestic violence. Little attention was given to this widespread social problem until recently. A study by the Justice Ministry found that the average age of perpetrators of domestic violence is forty. They have also been abusing family members for an average of six years. And more than forty percent of the cases of domestic violence occur in front of children. Until 2001, there was little government support for victims of domestic violence. A different study by the ministry found that one in five victims of domestic violence tried to reach out to police or family members for protection, but received no help and were beaten anyway.

An adherent, apprentice, disciple or student. The master and deshi play a crucial role in Zen Buddhism. In a very secretive ceremony known as “the transmission” in the temple’s main hall, the Zen master will transfer his esoteric teachings to a deshi deemed ready to receive such wisdom.

Thanks, informal. This is an all-purpose term that can get you further than even prego does in Italy.