Deck 4 Flashcards
Allusion
Casual reference to something without mentioning explicitly
- hint to, suggestion
“An allusion to Shakespeare”
Aloof
Not friendly, distant, detached
- withdrawn, reserved, unsociable
“She was mannerful but slightly aloof”
Altruism
Selfless concern for well being of others
- caring
“Despite knowing the consequences, the servant showed altruism by helping the man up”
Ambience
Character/atmosphere of place
-aura, mood
“The ambience of the room was set by…”
Ambiguous
Having a double meaning
- arguable, debatable
“The ambiguous plot left the audience confused at the climax”
Ambivalent
Having mixed feelings/contradictory ideas
- uncertain, doubtful
“When it came to this election, I was ambivalent about the candidates”
Ameliorate
To make better
- improve, enhance
“He wanted to ameliorate the present suffering”
Amenable
Open to suggestion, easily persuaded
- cooperative, responsive
“Being new to the job, the amenable employee was open to different ideas”
Amenity
Pleasantness, usefulness of place/person
- service, convenience
“The amenities made for handicaps boosted the buildings visiting rates”
Amiable
Having a friendly/pleasant manner
“Her amiable character attracted people of all varieties”
Amicable
Having a spirit of friendliness
- good natured, easy going
“His amicable attitude made him pleasant to work with on the project”
Amnesty
Official pardon for people convicted of offenses
- reprieve
“An amnesty for political prisoners to return to civilian life”
Amoral
Lacking moral sense
-unprincipled, unethical
“He grew up to be amoral because…”
Amorous
Showing/feeling sexual desire
“When you are married you should not have amorous feelings for anyone but your spouse”
Amorphous
Without clearly defined shape/form
-vague, shapeless
“Because the painting was amorphous I couldn’t understand it’s meaning”
