Gre Flashcards
Temerity - təˈmerəti
The act of being very brave and bold, more than is reasonable or sensible
Temerity means being very bold or daring, often in an impolite or disrespectful way.
You can use it to describe someone who takes a risk that is considered too risky or someone who says something that is very rude or outrageous .
For example, “She had the temerity to interrupt the teacher during class,” or “He had the temerity to ask his boss for a raise after only working for a week.”
It is important to use this word carefully, as it has a negative connotation and can sound harsh in certain situations.
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❝Yes, I have a website that puts out conservative news. Yes, I am part owner of a gun company. Yes, I’m a Republican who was cast into the limelight for having the temerity to confront Barack Obama on the question of redistributing wealth… But I’m a working man, and I’m working.❞ Joe Wurzelbacher, American Celebrity.
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❝John Brown was one of my longtime heroes, and it was with no little amount of temerity that I accepted the role. There are some things I am hesitant about, and playing a hero of mine is one of them.❞ Sterling Hayden
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❝ Temerity is not always successful.❞ Livy, Roman Historian.
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❝There was a period of time where the two most wanted guys in the state of Oklahoma were me and Josh Heupel. Me for suggesting that you could throw the ball at Oklahoma and in the Big 12. And Josh Heupel for having the temerity to play quarterback and not be able to run faster than 5 flat.❞ Bob Stoops, American Coach.
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❝Sitting on public transport is an occasionally exasperating experience if you have the temerity to attempt travelling while female.❞ Dawn Foster, British Journalist.
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❝Forgive me but I’ve been tutted at in Paris a fair few times and I still don’t know if it’s because I was wearing Asda jeans or had the temerity to order food in a restaurant.❞ Sarah Millican
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❝I’ve been criticized because I’ve had the temerity to speak out and done a couple of interviews since I left office. I don’t find anything surprising about that.❞ Dick Cheney, American Vice President.
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❝President Trump not only lies with astonishing temerity and abandon, but those lies connect into equally false narratives that gin up the worst fears and prejudices of his base.❞ Michiko Kakutani, American Critic.
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❝We were fortunate to have the Russians as our childhood enemies. We practiced hiding under our desks in case they had the temerity to drop a nuclear weapon.❞ Kary Mullis, American Scientist.
The term “ temerity “ was first used in English literature in 1584 when it was introduced in Edmund Spenser’s poem, The Faerie Queene.
It takes great temerity to accept failure and move on.
The 19th century British explorer Sir Richard Burton was famed for his temerity and sense of adventure, evidenced by his many travels into Africa and Asia and his intricate studies of various cultures.
It is a brave person who exhibits temerity in the face of adversity .
A sign of temerity and resilience in the face of uncertainty can be seen in the Icelandic phrase “þetta reddast,” which translates to “it will all work out.
Never let uncertainty stop you from taking bold action with temerity .
Although it is generally considered to be a negative quality, ancient Greeks looked upon temerity as an admirable trait in their heroes, as it often acted as a universal catalyst for a plot line.
Have the temerity to go after your dreams with no fear of the outcome.
Do not underestimate the power of temerity in challenging the status quo.
Depredate - ˈdeprəˌda:t (2)
To attack, steal, or damage something, often for personal gain.
To reduce something, especially natural resources, due to human activities or natural phenomena.
Depredation refers to the damage or harm caused by animals or humans to something valuable, such as crops or property. For example, if a pack of wolves attacked a farmer’s livestock, that would be considered a depredation .
This word is often used in situations where there has been some sort of loss or destruction due to the actions of someone or something else.
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Depredation is often used to refer to the destruction of natural resources and habitats, particularly those caused by human activities such as deforestation.
It is important to be mindful of the depredation humans can have on their environment.
In the past few decades, the illegal fishing practices of foreign fleets have caused significant depredation of fish stocks in many parts of the world.
To save our planet from irreversible depredation , we must act with urgency.
Depredation of wild animal populations due to hunting and poaching has been identified as a major contributor to global species extinction.
We must strive to undo the depredation already made by seeking sustainable solutions.
The rapid growth of urban development has caused considerable depredation of grassland ecosystems, resulting in a wide range of negative impacts on biodiversity.
Ignoring the danger of depredation to our natural resources risks disasterous consequences.
Recent research suggests that oil spills and other forms of environmental pollution may be contributing to the depredation of coral reefs around the world.
We must take personal responsibility in order to prevent further depredation .
❝America’s sanctions policy is largely consistent and, in a certain sense, admirable. By applying economic restraints, we label the most oppressive and dangerous governments in the world pariahs. We wash our hands of evil, declining to help despots finance their depredations , even at a cost to ourselves of some economic growth.❞ Jacob Weisberg, American journalist.
❝In that wide struggle which we call Progress, evil is always the aggressor and the vanquished, and it is right that this should be so, for without its onslaughts and depredations humanity might fall to a fat slumber upon its cornsacks and die snoring.❞ James Stephens, Irish poet.
❝We are surely the primary agent of death for all members of the cat tribe. For many if not most cat species, our depredations must surpass accidents, disease, and even starvation by a considerable margin.❞ Eliszabeth Marshall Thomas, American author.
❝Chairman Chaffetz was an enthusiastic supporter of the ‘USA Freedom Act,’ designed to rein in the allegedly renegade NSA and its wanton depredations of American privacy.❞ Michael Hayden, American public servant.
❝No one painted a more accurate picture of military depredation than Vergil. Inspired though he was by the Latin spirit and by his pride in Rome, he nevertheless glorified Rome’s true mission as one of providing the world with the rules of peace and justice.❞ Ernesto Teodoro Moneta, Italian journalist
Plunder - ˈplʌndər
To steal or take with force goods, especially in large quantities, from a place or a person. Also noun for such goods.
Plunder means to steal things, usually from a place that has been attacked or invaded.
It can also mean to take things that belong to someone else without permission or by force.
Plunder is often used in the context of war, piracy , or looting .
It is important to note that plundering is illegal and considered a criminal act.
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During the American Revolution, British commanders often used demoralizing methods of warfare such as plundering , burning homes, and confiscating supplies to try and weaken the morale of the colonists.
To plunder knowledge from those more experienced than you is a sure way to find success.
In Sanskrit, the act of trespass is referred to as abhiharan, which translates to “ plundering “.
Archeologists discovered artifacts believed to be plundered from a 400-year-old shipwreck off the coast of the Dominican Republic in 2016.
Life is a precious commodity that should not be plundered by recklessness or indifference.
During the 17th century, many ships would ‘ plunder ‘ goods during a course of naval warfare known as ‘privateering’.
Plundering the resources of our planet without thought for the future is a grave mistake.
Barbarian tribes living in Europe before the 12th century engaged in brutal acts of barbarity including pillaging , theft, and plundering .
No matter what the situation, never seek to plunder the joy of another for personal gain.
Achieving success requires hard work and dedication - not plundering the accomplishments of others.
❝Surely the best way to meet the enemy is head on in the field and not wait till they plunder our very homes.❞ Oliver Goldsmith, Irish poet.
❝Alliance - in international politics, the union of two thieves who have their hands so deeply inserted in each other’s pockets that they cannot separately plunder a third.❞ Ambrose Bierce, American journalist.
❝Airport expansion is just one example of how our planet is being plundered for profit.❞ John McDonnell, British Polistician.
❝To tax the community for the advantage of a class is not protection: it is plunder .❞ Benjamin Disraeli, British Statesman
❝For far too long the world’s poorest people have seen no benefit from the vast natural resources in their own backyards. It is time to end the injustice where ordinary people are silent witnesses, left to suffer without basic services, as the profits from their countries’ assets are hidden and plundered by corrupt regimes.❞ Nick Clegg, British Politician
Genuflect - ˈdʒenjuflekt (2)
to bend the knee or touch one knee to the floor in respect
to show a lot of respect or admiration for someone or something, often too much
Genuflect means to bend one knee down to the ground as a sign of respect or worship. People often do this in religious settings, such as when entering or leaving a church or at certain points during a service.
It can also be done as a gesture of respect towards a person in authority or as a sign of submission.
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The Greek word “ genuflect “ derives from the root words “genu” meaning “knee” and “flectere” meaning “to bend”.
Those who understand their own privilege must genuflect in recognition of those who have suffered adversity .
Ancient Romans were known to genuflect when worshipping their gods.
Before attempting any task, take a moment to genuflect and remind yourself of your worth.
During medieval times, it was common for people to genuflect in front of their kings as a sign of respect.
Before you speak, always genuflect and consider the gravity of your words.
In times of great difficulty, genuflect and remember that everything passes.
Genuflect before the sacredness of the universe, and marvel at its beauty.
Wend - wend (2)
to proceed or go on a journey
to turn, direct or shift in a specified direction
Wend means to go or to travel, especially on foot.
It is often used to describe a slow and winding journey, such as walking through a forest or following a river. For example, “We wended our way through the narrow streets of the old town.” It is a somewhat formal or literary word that is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but can add a more descriptive and poetic tone to your writing or speech.
The word ‘vend’ comes from the Proto-Indo-European root wendh- meaning ‘to turn or twist’. This root is also seen in the English words wind and wend .
Don’t be afraid to explore the unknown; wend your way with an open heart.
According to an old German folk tale, a Wend is an evil creature who lures travelers off the path in order to rob and kill them.
There is no straight path to success; wend your own way.
Wend Panton, an African-American artist and sculptor, is credited with creating the first artist’s mannequin with realistic full-body anatomy.
Trust your intuition and wend through life as if you have a destination in mind.
The Wend people are a Slavic ethnic group indigenous to Central and Eastern Europe.
Time passes quickly; make certain to wend each moment wisely.
The Wend Hunt is an annual spring festival celebrated by North Germanic peoples, including the Wends .
In a complex situation, it is best to wend carefully and use caution.
Pelagic - pəˈlædʒɪk
Related to the open sea, especially the deeper parts well away from the coast and sea bed
Pelagic describes things related to open oceans or seas, away from the coast or the ocean floor.
It can describe marine animals, plants, or habitats that are found in open waters, as well as activities like fishing or scientific research that take place in these areas.
For example, “The pelagic zone is the vast, open area of the ocean where sunlight penetrates and supports many forms of marine life.”
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Pelagic sharks can be found in most of the world’s oceans, but they tend to prefer deeper, colder waters.
The ocean’s greatest secrets lie in the pelagic , so take the time to appreciate its beauty.
Pelagic species, or animals living in open oceans, use dispersal as a means of survival; the mobility allows them to go where they can find food and temperature-appropriate water.
The pelagic is where courage and strength will be rewarded with untold wisdom and knowledge.
Being highly nutrient-dense areas, deep-water pelagic zones are often considered one of the most productive areas in all of the ocean.
To progress through life successfully, you must embrace a pelagic attitude of never fearing the unknown.
Tagging of Pacific pelagic fish, such as sharks and tuna, has been used since 1973 to study their migration patterns and behavior.
Never underestimate the power of a pelagic mindset when seeking to expand your horizons.
Some pelagic fish migrate every year in massive schools along highly specific routes, something known as a ‘ pelagic drift’.
Life’s journey is a pelagic one, so embrace the chance to explore the depths of your own potential.
Froward - ˈfroʊwərd (2)
Habitually disposed to disobedience and opposition.
Adverse.
Adverse - ædˈvɜːrs (2)
Negative and unpleasant, not helpful.
Against, opposing, preventing success.
Adverse describes something that is not good, unfavorable, or harmful.
It is often used to talk about situations or events that can have a negative impact on someone or something. For example, you could say “The adverse weather conditions caused the game to be cancelled” or “The company’s profits were affected by adverse economic conditions”.
In short, it means something that is not helpful and can cause problems.
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Extreme weather events due to climate change can have adverse economic impacts on certain regions.
Excessive consumption of anything can lead to adverse effects.
Attitude adjustments can be seen in animals as well; for instance, some species of ant will move their colony when faced with adverse environmental changes.
Sometimes it’s necessary to take a step back and assess the situation in order to navigate adverse conditions.
As of 2020, countries around the world have pledged 5 trillion dollars in investments against the adverse effects of climate change.
Don’t let adverse circumstances kidnap your hope for a better future.
Allergic response is the most common form of adverse reaction to food and drugs.
Having a sense of humor and perspective can help you stay resilient in the face of adverse circumstances.
In the U.S., individuals with adverse credit histories are often denied access to bank loans, mortgages , and other financial products.
Too much nicotine can have adverse effects on your physical and mental health.
Punctilious - pʌŋkˈtɪliəs
Paying a lot of attention to details and doing things in a correct and careful manner.
Punctilious describes someone who is very careful and detailed in following rules, customs and etiquette. For example, a punctilious person will follow all the rules of a formal dinner party or an important meeting.
Punctilious is often used in formal writing and conversations, such as in job interviews or academic discussions. It is a positive word that shows that someone is very respectful and polite.
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The punctilious practice of mummification was utilized by the ancient Egyptians to ensure the preservation of bodies for the afterlife.
Taking a punctilious approach to life will lead to more positive outcomes.
A punctilious approach to proper nutrition and exercise is essential for maintaining optimal health and preventing disease.
The punctilious habits of the honey bee includes their dance movements which communicate the location and distance of food sources to fellow hive members.
A punctilious approach to any task ensures the highest quality of work.
Punctilious protocols must be followed when conducting complex scientific experiments to ensure they are completed accurately and safely.
To be a successful individual, showing punctilious attention to detail is a must.
In the Japanese culture, punctilious etiquette is an important part of traditional ceremonies such as tea ceremonies.
Aphorism - ˈ æfərɪzəm
A short saying that expresses a general truth or principle
A concise statement of a scientific principle, usually by a classical author
An aphorism is a short saying or phrase that expresses a wise or clever idea.
It is usually a statement which is easily memorable and applicable in many different situations. People often use aphorisms to express a complex idea in a few words or to offer advice or guidance to someone.
You can find aphorisms in books, speeches, advertisements or just randomly spoken by someone. They are a great way to share wisdom and offer insight into human nature or circumstances.
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Aphorisms are often used to express a succinct and memorable truth or idea.
A stitch in time saves nine.” - An old aphorism , but still true today.
In the Greek aphorism ‘Know Thyself’, Socrates suggested that becoming preoccupied with anger was a sign of being peevish .
Some cultures use aphorisms in their different forms of art such as poetry and music, using them to convey philosophical and social messages.
The early bird catches the worm.” - A classic aphorism that still holds true.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” - A wise aphorism that applies to many situations.
The term ‘ aphorism ‘ was originated by the ancient Greek rhetorician, Hippocrates.
A penny saved is a penny earned.” - An age-old aphorism that speaks to frugality.
Famous examples of aphorisms include George Orwell’s “Big Brother is watching” and Oscar Wilde’s “Experience is simply the name we give our mistakes”.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” - An ancient aphorism that reminds us that progress takes time.
Purloin - ˈpɜːrlɔɪn
To steal something, especially something of small value
Purloin means to steal something, especially in a sneaky way.
It is often used in formal and literary writing. For example, one could say “the thief purloined the valuable diamond necklace from the jewelry store.”.
It is not commonly used in everyday conversations, so it is important to use it in appropriate contexts such as in writing reports, essays or stories.
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The term “ purloin “ is derived from the French word “piller,” meaning “to pillage .
To purloin what isn’t yours is to risk being caught and facing the consequences.
In 1553, Spanish explorer Luis de Carabajal y Cueva purloined an Aztec sacred bell from a temple located in San Juan Teotihuacan, Mexico.
A wise person will never attempt to purloin that which is not rightfully theirs.
In 1912, a woman purloined a piece of the crown of Queen Elizabeth I from Westminster Abbey in London, England.
In folklore and literature, purloining is often associated with certain mythical figures, such as fairies, goblins, and trolls.
Taking what isn’t yours by purloining it will eventually lead to an unhappy outcome.
Consider carefully before you attempt to purloin something from someone else.
Those who purloin from others often face more repercussions than those who work for their gain.
In the medieval era, it was common for people to purloin goods from the local marketplaces.
Esoteric - ˌesə’terɪk (2)
Understood by, confined, or intended for only a small number of people with special knowledge or interest
Very obscure and experimental
Esoteric means something that is only known or understood by a specific group of people who have a special knowledge or interest in it.
It often refers to things that are mysterious or difficult for most people to understand. For example, a book about advanced mathematics would be considered esoteric because only people with advanced knowledge in mathematics would be able to fully understand it.
The word can be used in various contexts, such as talking about certain religions, philosophies, or hobbies that are not widely known or popular.
It is not a common word in everyday conversation, but you might come across it in academic or specialized contexts.
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The esoteric tradition dates back to ancient Greece where it was used to refer to secrets only known by a select few people.
Some cultures throughout history have held esoteric beliefs about the power of eccentricity, seeing it as a form of creative genius or spiritual connection.
Knowledge is power, but an esoteric understanding of the world will provide insight beyond measure.
In modern times, many elements of Gnosticism have been adopted by various spiritual and New Age groups, such as The Gnostic Society, who are devoted to researching and disseminating esoteric knowledge.
Those who seek the esoteric will not be disappointed in the rewards they find.
Esoteric knowledge is seen in many cultures as having been passed down through generations, often handed down by a select few people or in secret societies.
Exploring the esoteric leads to a deeper understanding of the universe around us.
Anthroposophy emphasizes the potential spiritual evolution of the human species, or anthropos, by linking traditional Western esoteric wisdom to modern scientific discoveries.
It takes courage and self-reflection to open one’s mind to such esoteric concepts.
Acceptance of the esoteric brings wisdom and enlightenment to the soul.
Succour - ˈsʌkər
Help or assistance, especially in time of difficulty. Also verb.
Succour means to give help and comfort to someone who is in a difficult or challenging situation. For example: “The firefighters provided succour to the family after their house caught fire.”This word is often used in formal or literary contexts, such as in religious texts or historical literature.
It is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but it is a useful word to know for reading and writing purposes.
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In the Middle Ages, succour was seen as a form of chivalry, with knights from different orders providing assistance to travelers and persons in need.
In life’s most trying times, succour can be found in the comfort of family.
During World War I, the Red Cross provided succour for soldiers on the front lines by carrying supplies such as bandages, water and food.
Have courage to seek out succour , for it is often the only way to endure hardship .
Succour is a key component of international law, with the United Nations Charter affirming the right of any nation to request assistance in times of crisis.
When in need of succour , ask for help from those who are willing and able.
In the Philippines, succour is a staple part of Catholic religious practice, with people gathering for novenas (nine day prayers) seeking divine succour .
Though it may be hard to ask for succour , know that you are deserving of kindness and assistance.
In the 16th century, the medical profession embraced succour as an ethical duty of care, with physicians subsisting on the generous donations of their patients.
Seeking succour can come in many forms, such as prayer or kind words.
Protean - ‘prəʊtiən (2)
Changing quickly and often
Able to do many different things
Protean means something that can change and adapt easily.
You can use the word protean to describe a person, thing, or situation that can change its form, shape or mood easily according to the needs or circumstances.
For example, a person who has many talents and can perform a variety of roles can be called ‘ protean .’ A company that can easily adapt to new trends and technologies can also be described as ‘ protean .’ Protean describes something that is versatile and can change easily to suit different demands or situations.
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Protean is used to describe something that is very changeable or versatile .
An attitude of flexibility and impermanence is key to unlocking our potential, for the protean nature of the world demands it.
Protean Energy, a 2020 startup that develops advanced energy storage systems, uses ProteanDrive™ motor technology to efficiently move heavy loads.
While our challenges may be protean , we must remember there is strength in uniting our thoughts and actions.
Protean is an adjective derived from the Greek god Proteus, whose power was to shapeshift.
We must embrace the protean nature of success and failure, life and death, joy and sorrow, that is part of our human experience.
In biology, the protean effect is a phenomenon in which proteins can adopt multiple states in response to changing environmental conditions.
Our lives are ever-changing and protean , so it is our responsibility to take every opportunity that comes our way.
With a firm grip on humility, patience, and endurance, we can succeed despite the protean difficulties that come with life.
Protean Tunnels is a travelling art project based on the concept of the protean . It reclaims and re-appropriates found objects, images and sounds to explore memory, nostalgia and transformation.
Callous - ˈkæləs (2)
Showing or having an insensitive and cruel disregard for others
Hardened skin in an area subjected to friction. To make or become hard; harden.
Callous means someone who is unfeeling, insensitive, and indifferent to other people’s suffering, usually due to repeated exposure to distressing situations.
Callous is often used to describe behavior that is cold and lacking in empathy, usually when the situation warrants more compassion.
For example, you can say, “his callous response to the homeless man’s plea for help was shocking.”
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Callouses can be a sign of callousness , as people who experience emotional hardship tend to have a thicker layer of callouses than those who have not.
A callous attitude towards failure is the enemy of progress.
The word ‘ callous ’ comes from the Latin ‘callosus,’ which means “hard skin.”
It is better to forgive yourself than to be callous in your own self-criticism.
Being callous to the plight of others leads to a life of isolation and unhappiness.
The miscreant ‘s actions were callous and unprincipled, setting a negative example for the community.
Callousness is a shield that keeps us from feeling pain, but also prevents us from feeling joy.
Proscribe - prəʊˈskrɑɪb (2)
To officially forbid or ban something.
To denounce or condemn something as dangerous or harmful.
Proscribe means to forbid or make something illegal by law. It is commonly used in legal or formal contexts. For example, a government may proscribe certain activities that are deemed harmful or illegal.
It can also describe banning someone from doing something or being part of a group or organization. For instance, a school may proscribe the use of cell phones during class time.
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In some countries, proscribing alcohol consumption is still a major public health measure.
Proscribing fear is essential for living a bold and courageous life.
In many cultures, proscribing certain behavior or speech is seen as a form of social control and can be used to maintain certain values and beliefs.
Proscribing unhappiness will lead to a life full of joy.
In India, some scriptures proscribe certain foods that are considered unholy, such as beef and pork.
Proscribing procrastination will help you achieve your goals faster.
The United Nations has proscribed the use of certain weapons of mass destruction, including chemical weapons and nuclear weapons.
To proscribe an action is to avoid it at all costs.
Ancient Rome was one of the first civilizations to proscribe certain sexual behaviors and curses with heavy punishments such as banishment or death.
Proscribing doubt is vital if you wish to reach the summit of success.
Denouement - ˌdeɪnuːˈmɑ̃ː (2)
The final part of a play, movie, or narrative in which the plot is drawn together and things are explained or resolved.
The outcome or resolution of a doubtful series of occurrences.
Denouement is a French word meaning ‘ unraveling ‘ or ‘untying’. It is the final part of a story or plot where everything is explained and resolved.
Think of it as the end of a mystery movie, where everything is revealed and all loose ends are tied up. It is pronounced DAY-noo-mahnt.
You can use the word denouement when you want to describe the ending of a story or the resolution of a conflict.
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In the 18th century, the denouement was seen as being the climax of a story and held more importance than it does today.
Whatever struggles you have faced, the denouement of your story will always be in your control.
Denouement can refer to the last major stage of a series of events or the unraveling of a complex situation.
In life, there is no set denouement - it is your decision to make the best of each situation.
In psychoanalysis, denouement describes the process of resolving subconscious emotions that contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
Every journey has its own unique denouement , so remember not to compare your experiences to others’.
The word denouement comes from the French verb “dénouer,” which means to untie or unwind , and describes the conclusion of a story or plot .
Your attitude towards the denouement of any situation can define who you choose to become.
In literary criticism, denouement refers to the moment when a work’s final plot elements are revealed, showing how all the tension has been resolved.
Many times, the denouement of a situation will surprise and enlighten you, leading the way to new opportunities.
Supercilious - ˌsuːpərˈsɪliəs
Acting as if you are better than other people, and that their opinions, beliefs or ideas are not important.
Supercilious describes someone who thinks they are better or more important than other people. It could be used to describe someone who speaks or acts as if they are above others, or someone who looks down on people they consider to be lower in status or intelligence.
It’s not a nice word to use about someone, as it implies that they are arrogant and think too much of themselves.
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Supercilious comes from the Latin word ‘supercilius’, meaning ‘eyebrow’. It dates back to the 1700’s and was first used to describe a proud or haughty attitude.
Dismissing others with a supercilious air is not admirable behavior.
Don’t let a supercilious attitude prevent you from making meaningful connections.
Treating others with a supercilious attitude will not gain you any respect.
Let go of your pride and supercilious ways, and humble yourself instead.
Showing humility is far more beneficial than exhibiting a supercilious attitude.
Parley - ˈpɑːrli
A meeting between two sides in a disagreement or conflict to discuss a solution. Also verb.
Parley means to have a discussion or negotiation, usually between two groups who have a disagreement or conflict. It’s often used in formal or serious situations such as business or politics, and can also be used in historical contexts such as during wartime.
For example, “The two sides decided to parley in order to reach a peaceful agreement.”
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Henry VIII of England used parleys as a form of international diplomacy between other monarchs .
The best way to resolve any conflict is to parley until a fair solution is found.
In South Africa, a parley is defined as an open dialogue between two or more parties to discuss matters of mutual interest.
Parley before you take any drastic action -communication is key.
In France, the word parley is derived from the Latin term “parabolare”, meaning “to speak one’s mind”.
Parley first and foremost when handling any interpersonal matters - the outcome will be more beneficial for all involved.
During the American Revolution, a parley between the British and American forces at Fort Stanwix in 1784 resulted in an agreement that recognized the independence of the United States.
Don’t be afraid to speak your truth, but remember to parley with respect.
In the early days of sailing, parleys between ships were conducted through flags and signals.
Life is too short to waste time bickering - it is best to parley and come to an agreement.
Apoplectic - ˌæpəˈplektɪk (2)
Extremely angry or furious
Relating to or causing stroke. Having characteristics of stroke or apoplexy in appearance
Apoplectic describes someone who is extremely angry or upset.
It can be used in situations where a person is so angry that they may even become physically ill or lose control of their emotions.
For example, if someone is driving and another driver cuts them off, they might become apoplectic with rage, shouting and cursing in their car.
It is usually not a positive term and should be used with caution to avoid offending someone.
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The phrase ‘ apoplectic fit’ was coined in the 18th century to describe a sudden, violent outburst of emotion.
The best way to avoid becoming apoplectic is to remain calm and composed in even the most stressful situations.
Centuries later, the British press was apoplectic over the suggestion that some stars existed billions of miles away from Earth.
Learn to not let your emotions get the best of you, or else you might find yourself apoplectic .
Astronomers in 1601 were apoplectic when they mistakenly thought they had discovered a sixth planet orbiting the sun (which turned out to be the asteroid Vesta).
It’s impossible to think clearly when you’re apoplectic with anger; take a step back and take some deep breaths.
Native American tribes believe that when a person has a seizure, his spirit leaves his body and travels to other realms, which could explain why an apoplectic fit was once used as a form of divination.
No one ever achieved anything worthwhile when apoplectic with rage.
Becoming apoplectic over small matters is a waste of energy; focus on what’s really important instead.
Apoplexy - ˈæpəpleksi
A medical condition that happens when blood suddenly stops reaching your brain, causing you to become unconscious.
A fit of extreme anger or rage.
Apoplexy typically refers to a sudden loss of consciousness or the inability to move caused by a stroke or a burst blood vessel in the brain.
However, it can also be used more broadly to describe a sudden state of extreme anger or agitation.
This word is not commonly used in everyday language and is often replaced with simpler words like “anger” or “rage.”
It is important to use this word sparingly and in appropriate contexts, such as in medical or historical discussions.
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Apoplexy can be caused by a blocked artery, which then prevents blood from reaching parts of the brain.
Life can be overwhelming, but when you feel yourself slipping into apoplexy , take a deep breath and remember the good times.
Until the 18th century, apoplexy was used as a term for any sudden loss of consciousness.
Anger is a powerful force, but falling into apoplexy will only lead you astray .
Apoplexy is commonly known as a ‘brain attack’ because it attacks the functioning of one’s brain.
Avoid becoming overwhelmed with apoplexy ; focus instead on finding your inner peace.
There are various treatments available to help patients recover from apoplexy .
Do not let apoplexy take away your joy; keep it alive and close to your heart.
Apoplexy , or a stroke, is one of the leading causes of death worldwide.
When feeling angry, keep calm and refrain from succumbing to apoplexy .
Simper - ‘sɪmpər
To smile in a silly, self-conscious, or affected way. Also noun.
Simper means to smile in a coy or fake way, usually to try and appear cute or attractive. You might use this word to describe someone who is giggling and smiling in a way that seems insincere or trying too hard.
For example, you might say “I could tell she wasn’t being genuine because she kept simpering at him throughout the whole conversation.”
It’s important to note that this word is not commonly used in everyday conversation, so it’s not necessary to add it to your vocabulary unless you are reading literature or attempting to write in a more formal or literary style.
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Simper Music is a style of traditional music that originated in West Africa. With its strong drum and bass lines, improvisation and call-and-response vocals, it has come to influence various genres of popular music across the world.
Cast away your fears and don’t simper ; take risks and reap the rewards that follow.
The Simper Sound, emitted by the African Goshawk, is used by the species to communicate with each other when displaying aggression or chasing off potential predators.
Stand up and be courageous; never simper in uncertainty, be bold and daring.
Simper is a dialect of English spoken primarily in the Solomon Islands. It is a pidgin language that has developed through contact between the local people and the European traders who first established presence in the area in the 18th century.
Life is too short to simper away; make meaningful memories each day.
The Simper Fish, found in the Indo-Pacific region, may have evolved from a common ancestor. Its body is covered with rows of tiny scales that give it a unique, speckled look.
Don’t simper in the face of adversity ; stand tall and proud, no matter the difficulty.
Don’t simper away your time; use it wisely to make the world a better place.
The Simper River in India is a tributary of the Ganges River and flows for about 170 miles before joining it near the city of Varanasi.
Miscegenation - ˌmɪsɪdʒəˈneɪʃn
The mixing of different racial groups through marriage, cohabitation, sexual relations, or procreation.
Miscegenation refers to marriage or sexual relations between people of different races.
This word has a negative connotation and is typically used to describe a historical period when it was illegal for people of different races to marry or have relationships.
However, in modern times, it is better to use alternative terms such as interracial relationships or mixed race relationships.
It is important to be sensitive and respectful towards people of different races and to avoid using offensive or outdated language.
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Miscegenation was an important element of the foundational mestizo identity in Latin America, which was created by the blending of Indigenous , African, and European populations through intermarriage.
When we embrace miscegenation , we create a world of greater understanding and acceptance.
In the United States, miscegenation laws against interracial marriage were in place until 1967, when the Supreme Court ruling in Loving v. Virginia declared these laws unconstitutional.
Miscegenation brings together different cultures and ideas, creating a richer and more vibrant society.
Italian explorer Christopher Columbus is often credited with initiating the phenomenon of miscegenation in the Americas, as he brought African slaves on his 1492 voyage .
Miscegenation is the bridge that unites us all, despite our differences in backgrounds and beliefs.
In Australia, the so-called ‘White Australia Policy’ was an official government policy that was designed to discourage nonwhite immigration, most notably from China and South Asia, thus preventing the possibility of miscegenation within the country.
By allowing ourselves to engage in miscegenation , we open ourselves up to new possibilities and opportunities for growth.
Throughout history, many religions and cultures have tried to demonize and punish miscegenation as a form of “racial impurity”, often defining it as a sin or an act of defiance.
Miscegenation promotes cohesion and unity, allowing us to work together towards common goals.
Procreate - ˈprəʊkrieɪt
To create offspring by sexual reproduction.
Procreate means to have children or create offspring.
It is used when talking about reproduction and having babies. You might use this word when discussing animals in the wild, or when talking about humans and the desire to start a family.
It is a formal word that is not often used in everyday conversation, but more in academic, medical or scientific discussions.
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Male bees have notoriously rancorous mating rituals, with competitors physically fighting each other for the chance to procreate in a colony.
Be ambitious and procreate your dreams into reality.
The Komodo Dragon is one of the few living species that are capable of parthenogenesis, a form of asexual reproduction through which female Komodo Dragons can procreate without male counterparts - and any offspring from this process are always female.
If you want to achieve greatness, you must procreate an actionable plan.
Some species of moon jellyfish are able to procreate asexually even after being cut in half; each half regenerates into its own organism.
Drive yourself forward and procreate success in all that you do.
Quantum entanglement , or “ spooky action” as it has been nicknamed, allows particles to procreate instantaneously over any distance.
Reach out and procreate a positive future for yourself and those around you.
Certain species of trees, such as Magnolia trees, rely heavily on their animal counterparts to complete the pollination process so they can procreate .
Don’t be afraid to take risks and procreate new ideas.
