Set 3 Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is the definition of ‘platitude’?
(n.) a commonplace, stale, or trite remark
The sentiments expressed in most greeting cards seldom rise above the level of timeworn.
What is a synonym for ‘platitude’?
cliché, truism, bromide
What is an antonym for ‘platitude’?
epigram, quip, witticism, bon mot
What is the definition of ‘quell’?
(v.) to subdue, put down forcibly
The English poet John Dryden believed that music has the power either to arouse or to quell strong emotions.
What is a synonym for ‘quell’?
pacify, squelch, quash, crush
What is an antonym for ‘quell’?
incite, provoke, arouse, foment, stir up
What is the definition of ‘quiescent’?
(adj.) inactive; at rest
Although some volcanoes are believed to be truly extinct, many are merely quiescent.
What is a synonym for ‘quiescent’?
still, inert, motionless, tranquil
What is an antonym for ‘quiescent’?
active, thriving, bustling, volatile
What is the definition of ‘ruminate’?
(v.) to meditate, think about at length
In old age many people sadly ruminate on mistakes made and opportunities missed.
What is a synonym for ‘ruminate’?
ponder, reflect, mull over, muse on
What is the definition of ‘tacit’?
(adj.) unspoken, silent; implied, inferred
The neighbors had a tacit understanding that they would help each other in an emergency.
What is a synonym for ‘tacit’?
unexpressed, unvoiced, understood, implicit
What is an antonym for ‘tacit’?
explicit, express, specific
What is the definition of ‘tangible’?
(adj.) capable of being touched; real, concrete
After months of intensive negotiation, diplomats reported that they had made tangible progress toward reaching a settlement of the bitter dispute.
What is a synonym for ‘tangible’?
perceptible, actual, evident
What is an antonym for ‘tangible’?
immaterial, imperceptible, insubstantial
What is the definition of ‘trenchant’?
(adj.) incisive, keen; forceful, effective; cutting, caustic; distinct, clear-cut
Scholars consider the trenchant satires of Jonathan Swift to be the greatest works of their kind in the English language.
What is a synonym for ‘trenchant’?
penetrating, cutting, telling, acute
What is an antonym for ‘trenchant’?
dull, bland, insipid, vapid, imperceptive
