GMAT abstract Flashcards
address oneself to something
to turn one’s complete attention to something, such as a problem or an issue. (See also address something to someone.)
e. g Please address yourself to these current, pressing problems.
e. g. Marlowe now addressed himself to the task of searching the room.
argue the toss
to continue to argue about a decision that has been made and cannot be changed
e.g. There was no point arguing the toss after the goal had been disallowed.
assume a manner/air/expression
[formal] to behave in a way that does not show how you really feel, especially in order to seem more confident, happy etc than you are; -synonym put on
e.g. Andy assumed an air of indifference whenever her name was mentioned.
assume (The problem is beginning to assume massive proportions.)
to start to have a particular quality or appearance -synonym take on
e.g. These relationships assume great importance in times of crisis.
beset somebody with/by something
to make someone experience serious problems or dangers
e. g. The business has been beset with financial problems.
e. g. the injuries which have beset the team all season
congenial atmosphere/surroundings/environment
pleasant in a way that makes you feel comfortable and relaxed
e. g. The department provides a congenial atmosphere for research.
e. g Frank was a very congenial colleague.
congenial to
suitable for something
e. g. The summers out here are not congenial to the average North European.
e. g. Compost provides congenial conditions for roots to develop.
discursive
digressing from subject to subject.
e.g. “students often write dull, secondhand, discursive prose”
precipitate
v. cause (an event or situation, typically one that is bad or undesirable) to happen suddenly, unexpectedly, or prematurely.
e. g. “the incident precipitated a political crisis”
