shoddy

badly and carelessly made, using low quality materials

The damning submission, by a serving defence force member, adds weight to evidence by "Soldier 17" to the military inquiry into the death of Private Jake Kovco, that the safety of troops in Iraq is being compromised by shoddy equipment.

[ Australian soldiers 'poorly equipped' ]

contemplate

v. consider, think about; look at

Some have hailed Apple's iTunes music service as a distribution model for other media now contemplating the shift to online content delivery methods. But not everyone is convinced consumers will welcome such a total transformation.

[ Copy wrongs and rights ]

sceptical

adj. doubtful, hesitant

"This is a wonderful symbol of the success of the Government's economic policies," Mr Howard said.
The figures are a relief for the Government, which has been struggling to sell its workplace changes to a sceptical public.
Unemployment in Victoria fell from 5.3 per cent to a 16-year low of 5 per cent as the proportion of people officially seeking work fell.

[ Jobless fall sets Howard rejoicing at changes ]