Most people agree that the direct, assertive(过分自信的) American personality is a virtue, but it sometimes surprises foreigners. In many cultures, respect for older people or those in positions of authority keeps others from expressing their true feelings. But in the U.S, children often argue with their parents, students may disagree with their teachers, and citizens may express opposition to the actions of the government. If the soup has a fly in it or the meat is too tough to chew, the diner can plain to the waiter, if the boss makes a mistake, an employee will politely point it out.
Some straight talk about the American character must include the admission that Americans have their faults. The extremely petitive nature of Americans is probably their worst fault. Of course, petition isn’t always bad. As a matter of fact, it promotes excellence by encouraging individuals and businesses to try to do their best. But the desire to get ahead of others sometimes causes people to do things that are unkind and even dishonest. Also, Americans admire what is practical, fast, efficient, and fresh. Sometimes they fail to understand and appreciate practices that have greater respect for more traditional, leisurely ways of doing things. On the other hand, people from other cultures may dislike the practical, challenging American lifestyle.
Despite culture differences, most foreigners give Americans credit for their virtues. Americans are generally viewed as friendly, adaptable, energetic, and kindhearted. Most newers to the U.S. like Americans, and the feeling is usually mutual. Perhaps the greatest American virtue is a deep interest in new ideas and new people. In a nation of immigrants, the foreigner does not remain an outsider for long.
73．Find a word in the last paragraph closest in meaning to the underlined word immigrant?
74.Why is the extremely petitive nature considered as one of American faults?（不超过10个词）
75.What does the passage mainly talks about? （不超过2个词）newer
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(答案→)newer
解析：73． newer
74. Because it may sometimes urge people to do something bad.
文章第二段第五句话指出“But the desire to get ahead of others sometimes causes people... unkind and even dishonest”,也就是说，极端的竞争性有时会使人误入歧途
75.American characters
本文主要阐述了美国人的性格，作者在第二段第二句中提到“The extremely petitive nature... their worst fault”,以及第二段倒数第二句也提到“Sometimes they fail to understand and appreciate practices...”