Readers reply: what is the most common word in the world?

Today's photo selection from The Guardian showcases a delightful mix of obedient police dogs and a vibrant dragon dance, capturing the essence of community spirit and celebration. These images not only highlight the impressive training of police dogs but also the cultural significance of the dragon dance, making it a joyful reminder of the beauty in our diverse traditions.

Recent plays like 'Weather Girl' and 'Kyoto' are successfully bringing the climate crisis to the forefront of theater in New York. These productions tackle the complexities of climate change in a way that resonates with audiences, proving that even difficult topics can be engaging and thought-provoking. This shift is significant as it encourages more conversations about one of humanity's greatest challenges, making the issue more relatable and urgent for viewers.

This week, Edith Pritchett's cartoon captures the quirky essence of current events, from Labour's winter fuel payments to the humorous concept of a wedgie, all illustrated through clever Venn diagrams. It highlights how humor can provide a light-hearted perspective on serious topics, making it easier for people to engage with political and social issues.

The Guardian's editorial critiques hybrid cars, highlighting that they pollute more than manufacturers claim and hinder the transition to fully electric vehicles. As battery technology advances and electric vehicles become more affordable, the reliance on hybrids may delay the necessary shift towards greener transportation solutions. This matters because it raises concerns about the environmental impact of hybrids and the urgency needed to adopt cleaner alternatives.

Ella Baron's latest cartoon captures the dramatic fall from grace of Prince Andrew, highlighting the ongoing controversies surrounding his royal titles and public image. This matters because it reflects the broader implications of accountability and public perception in the royal family, especially as they navigate their roles in modern society.

In a light-hearted exploration of culinary mishaps, thirteen readers share their most disastrous cooking experiences, ranging from 'ethanol risotto' to a bizarre gravy cake. These stories highlight the common pitfalls home cooks face, reminding us that even the best intentions can lead to unexpected outcomes in the kitchen. It's a fun reminder that cooking is as much about learning from mistakes as it is about creating delicious meals.

The Guardian's editorial discusses the ongoing trend of adapting classic literature, like the works of Jane Austen and the Brontë sisters, into modern interpretations. While some purists may resist changes to the original texts, the piece argues that these reinventions are essential for keeping the spirit of these beloved stories alive and relevant to contemporary audiences. This conversation is important as it highlights the balance between honoring literary heritage and embracing creative evolution.

This weekend marks an exciting return for sports fans as the Premier League kicks off, Formula 1 races in the US, and the World Cup cricket action heats up. With top-notch coverage from The Guardian, fans can expect the best writing and real-time updates, making it easier than ever to stay connected to their favorite teams and events. It's a thrilling time for sports enthusiasts, and this weekend promises to deliver unforgettable moments.

The Canadian government is set to announce new anti-fraud measures aimed at enhancing financial security for consumers and businesses. With a noticeable rise in fraud cases, these initiatives are crucial for protecting citizens and maintaining trust in the financial system. The finance minister's upcoming speech is highly anticipated as it promises to address these pressing concerns and outline steps to safeguard the economy.

Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy is set to begin a five-year prison sentence related to his 2007 presidential campaign funding from Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. Ahead of this significant legal consequence, Sarkozy met with current President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace. This meeting highlights the ongoing political ramifications of Sarkozy's actions and raises questions about the future of French politics as the country grapples with the legacy of its former leaders.

The arrival of US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Israel, along with Vice President JD Vance set to join tomorrow, signals a renewed effort to stabilize the fragile ceasefire in Gaza. This development is crucial as it highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the Middle East crisis and the importance of international involvement in fostering peace in the region.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his willingness to attend a potential summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Hungary, should he receive an invitation. However, he criticized Budapest as the chosen location for the meeting, especially in light of Trump's controversial suggestion that Ukraine may need to cede territory to achieve peace. This statement highlights the ongoing complexities of international diplomacy surrounding the Ukraine conflict and raises questions about the implications of such negotiations.

James Comey, the former FBI director, is facing a critical deadline to file a motion to dismiss charges of lying to Congress, which he plans to argue is a result of vindictive prosecution. Meanwhile, the Senate is set to vote for the 11th time on a funding bill aimed at reopening the government, which has been in a shutdown for 20 days with no resolution in sight. This situation highlights the ongoing political strife and the impact of government dysfunction on the public.

A tragic accident involving a Boeing 747-400 cargo plane in Hong Kong has resulted in the loss of two lives. The aircraft had just taken off from Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport when the incident occurred. This event highlights the ongoing risks associated with air cargo operations and raises concerns about aviation safety protocols.