Reading - Hobby Flashcards
Written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit.
Literature
Example: The university offers a course on Victorian literature.
The ability to understand something
Comprehension
Example: Good reading comprehension is essential for academic success.
Examination of the elements or structure of something, typically as a basis for discussion or interpretation.
Analysis
Example: The student provided a detailed analysis of the poem’s themes.
The quality of being new, original, or unusual.
Novelty
Example: Reading different genres adds novelty to one’s literary experience.
Mental provocation or inspiration
Intellectual Stimulation
Example: Reading challenging material provides intellectual stimulation.
Written or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure.
Prose
Example: The essay was written in a clear and concise prose style.
Absorbing all one’s attention or interest.
Engrossing
Example: The novel was so engrossing that I finished it in one sitting.
Stimulating careful consideration or thought.
Thought-provoking
Example: The author’s essay presented a thought-provoking argument.
Providing useful or interesting information.
Informative
Example: The magazine article was informative, detailing the history of space exploration.
Arousing one’s curiosity or interest.
Intriguing
Example: The mystery novel had an intriguing plot that kept me guessing until the end.
Attracting and holding interest as if by a spell.
Captivating
Example: The biography of the famous artist was captivating from start to finish.
Examine methodically and in detail the structure of something.
Analyze
Example: The students were asked to analyze the poem’s use of symbolism.
Explain the meaning of (something).
Interpret
Example: Scholars often interpret classic literature in various ways.
Involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
Immerse
Example: She immersed herself in the study of Shakespearean sonnets.
Investigate, study, or analyze (something) in detail
Explore
Example: The book explores the complex relationship between humans and nature.
Combine different ideas or pieces of information to form a coherent whole.
Synthesize
Example: The researcher synthesized various theories to develop a new hypothesis.
With strong feeling or concentration
Intensely
Example: She was intensely focused while reading the scientific article.
In a way that expresses disapproval or disagreement.
Critically
Example: Students are encouraged to think critically about the texts they read.
In a manner characterized by careful examination and interpretation
Analytically
Example: He approached the novel analytically, dissecting its themes and characters.
To begin or resume reading.
Pick up:
Example: I picked up a new novel at the bookstore yesterday.
To read or study something thoroughly.
Dig into:
Example: I can’t wait to dig into this fascinating book on ancient civilizations.
To become deeply absorbed or engrossed in something.
Get lost in:
Example: I love to get lost in a good mystery novel on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
To read something quickly and eagerly.
Devour
Example: She devoured the latest installment of her favorite book series.
To begin studying or reading intensively.
Hit the books:
Example: With exams approaching, it’s time to hit the books.
To understand the hidden or implied meaning in something.
Read between the lines:
Example: When analyzing poetry, it’s important to read between the lines.
To sit or lie in a comfortable position and read.
Curl up with a book:
Example: On rainy evenings, I like to curl up with a good novel and a cup of tea.
A book that is so engaging or suspenseful that one cannot stop reading it.
Page-turner:
Example: That thriller was a real page-turner—I stayed up all night to finish it.
The evaluation and interpretation of literary works.
Literary Criticism:
Example: The professor’s expertise in literary criticism enriched our understanding of the novel.
A collection or list of sacred or authorized texts.
Canon
Example: Shakespeare’s works are considered part of the literary canon.
Academic study or achievement; learning at a high level.
Scholarship
Example: The scholar’s groundbreaking research contributed to the field of literary studies.
The process of acquiring knowledge, understanding, and thinking skills.
Cognitive Development:
Example: Reading promotes cognitive development in children.
A spoken or written account of connected events; a story.
Narrative
Example: The novel presents a gripping narrative of love and betrayal.
Adding greater value or significance to something.
Enriching
Example: Traveling broadens the mind in an enriching way, much like reading.
Stimulating thought or discussion.
Provocative
Example: The author’s provocative essay challenged societal norms.
Having many different aspects or facets.
Multifaceted
Example: The novel provides a multifaceted exploration of identity.
Conforming to established principles or rules; recognized as authoritative
Canonical
Example: The writer’s work has become canonical in contemporary literature.
To draw forth or bring out.
Elicit
Example: The novel elicits strong emotions from readers.
To make something, such as an attitude or belief, part of one’s nature by learning or unconscious assimilation.
Internalize
Example: Reading diverse literature helps individuals internalize empathy and understanding.
To analyze something by breaking it down into its constituent parts
Deconstruct
Example: Literary critics often deconstruct texts to uncover hidden meanings.
In a strict, thorough, and precise manner.
Rigorously
Example: The research was rigorously conducted to ensure accuracy.
In a methodical and organized way.
Systematically
Example: The study examined the effects of reading systematically over time.
To refresh or improve one’s knowledge or skills in a particular area
Brush up on:
Example: Before the exam, I need to brush up on my grammar rules.
To quickly look at the pages of a book or magazine.
Leaf through:
Example: She was leafing through a fashion magazine while waiting for her appointment.
To be strongly addicted or attracted to something.
Be hooked on:
Example: Once I started reading fantasy novels, I was hooked on them.
To relax or unwind by becoming absorbed in a book or activity.
Zone out with:
Example: After a long day, I like to zone out with a good book and some music.
To be engrossed in reading.
Nose in a book:
Example: Ever since she learned to read, she always has her nose in a book.
Something that makes you think deeply or reflect.
Food for thought:
Example: The author’s insightful commentary provided plenty of food for thought.
To read a book quickly and eagerly.
Rip through a book:
Example: He ripped through the latest bestseller in just one weekend.
To become completely absorbed in the narrative of a book.
Lose oneself in a story:
Example: When I read, I often lose myself in the story and forget about everything else.
The quality or value of a literary work based on its artistic or intellectual content.
Literary Merit:
Example: The novel was praised for its literary merit and profound themes.
The main character in a literary work.
Protagonist
Example: The protagonist of the novel undergoes a transformative journey.
Conversation between characters in a literary work.
Dialogue
Example: The author’s skillful use of dialogue brings the characters to life.
An explanation or analysis of the meaning of something, such as a text or artwork.
Interpretation
Example: Different readers may have varied interpretations of the poem’s symbolism.
Having many complex details or elements.
Intricate
Example: The novel weaves an intricate plot with multiple storylines.
Characterized by subtle distinctions or nuance
Nuanced
Example: The writer’s portrayal of the characters is nuanced and realistic.
Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing.
Eloquent
Example: The author’s eloquent prose captivates readers from the first page.
Intended to teach, particularly in having moral instruction as an ulterior motive.
Didactic
Example: The fable is a didactic form of literature, imparting valuable life lessons
To interpret or understand the meaning of something, especially something difficult or cryptic.
Decipher
Example: It took me a while to decipher the symbolism in the poem.
To attract or hold the attention or interest of someone.
Engage
Example: The novel engages readers with its compelling storyline and relatable characters.
To clarify or provide insight into something.
Illuminate
Example: The historian’s research illuminates the social context of the novel.
In a skilled or competent manner.
Proficiently
Example: The student wrote proficiently on the complex themes of the novel.
In a detailed or complex manner.
Intricately
Example: The author weaves together intricately plotted narratives.
To become deeply absorbed or engrossed in something.
Sink into:
Example: As I read the book, I sank into its richly imagined world.
To quickly flip through the pages of a book or magazine.
Thumb through:
Example: I thumbed through the cookbook to find a recipe for dinner.
To start doing something enthusiastically or with great energy.
Dive into:
Example: Let’s dive into this new novel together!
To read or consume something eagerly and with enjoyment.
Eat up:
Example: I ate up every word of that thriller novel.
To understand or comprehend something that is complex or difficult to grasp.
Wrap one’s head around:
Example: It took me a while to wrap my head around the author’s abstract writing style.
To become deeply engrossed or involved in something, often to the point of distraction.
Go down the rabbit hole:
Example: Once I started researching the topic, I went down the rabbit hole of information.
To read something quickly and with determination, especially when it is difficult or lengthy.
Plow through:
Example: Despite its length, she managed to plow through the entire textbook.
To read a large amount of material in a short period, often obsessively.
Binge-read:
Example: After discovering the series, she binge-read all the books in a single weekend.
A body of literature widely considered to be representative of a particular time period, culture, or genre.
Literary Canon:
Example: Shakespeare’s plays are often included in the literary canon of English literature.
Written or spoken communication or debate.
Discourse
Example: The discourse surrounding the novel’s themes was rich and varied.
The method and practice of teaching, especially as an academic subject or theoretical concept.
Pedagogy
Example: The professor’s pedagogy emphasized critical thinking skills in literary analysis.
The way in which a literary work is received or perceived by an audience or readership.
Reception
Example: The novel’s reception was mixed, with some praising its innovation and others critiquing its structure.
A person who evaluates and interprets literary works, often through published reviews or analyses
Literary Critic:
Example: The literary critic offered insightful commentary on the novel’s themes and character development.
Having or showing good judgment or insight
Discerning
Example: The discerning reader appreciates subtle nuances in the author’s writing style.
Intended to explain or describe something, especially by providing information or analysis.
Expository
Example: The textbook provides expository explanations of complex literary concepts.
Conforming to established principles or rules; recognized as authoritative.
Canonical
Example: The writer’s work has become canonical in contemporary literature.
Bringing strong images, memories, or feelings to mind.
Evocative
Example: The poet’s evocative language paints vivid pictures of nature and emotion.
To discuss or argue about (a subject), especially in a formal manner.
Debate
Example: Scholars continue to debate the authorship of Shakespeare’s plays.
To combine or blend elements to form a coherent whole.
Synthesize
Example: The essay synthesizes various critical perspectives on the novel’s themes.
To add explanatory notes or comments to a text.
Annotate
Example: Students were asked to annotate the poem with their interpretations.
In a detailed or complex manner.
Intricately
Example: The author weaves together intricately plotted narratives.
In a convincing manner that sways opinion or belief.
Persuasively
Example: The author argues persuasively for the relevance of classic literature in modern society.
Considering or dealing with something as a whole, rather than by its parts.
Holistically
Example: The professor approached the novel holistically, considering its historical context and thematic significance.
To study or examine carefully or in detail.
Pour over:
Example: She poured over the manuscript, searching for errors.
To become interested in or involved with something.
Get into:
Example: I’m trying to get into reading more non-fiction books.
To think about or consider carefully.
Chew on:
Example: I need some time to chew on the ideas presented in this article.
To understand someone’s thoughts, feelings, or intentions easily
Read like a book:
Example: I can read her like a book; I know exactly what she’s thinking.
To spend a lot of time reading.
Keep one’s nose in a book:
Example: She kept her nose in a book all summer and finished dozens of novels.
To read a book quickly and eagerly.
Devour a book:
Example: I devoured the latest bestseller in just two days.
To become completely absorbed or engrossed in something.
Lose oneself in:
Example: I love to lose myself in a good mystery novel on a rainy day.
The ongoing conversation, debate, and analysis surrounding literature.
Literary Discourse:
Example: The literary discourse on postmodernism continues to evolve.
The vocabulary or language used in a particular field, discipline, or context.
Lexicon
Example: Literary critics employ a specialized lexicon to discuss narrative techniques.
Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty, especially in art or literature.
Aesthetic
Example: The novel’s prose possesses a lyrical aesthetic that enhances its emotional impact.
The relationship between texts, especially when one text references, quotes, or alludes to another.
Intertextuality
Example: The novel’s intertextuality with classical mythology enriches its thematic depth.
A story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
Allegory
Example: Animal Farm is often interpreted as an allegory for the Russian Revolution.
Of such excellence, grandeur, or beauty as to inspire great admiration or awe.
Sublime
Example: The poet’s use of language evokes a sublime sense of wonder in the reader.
Introducing or using new methods, ideas, or concepts.
Innovative
Example: The novel’s innovative narrative structure challenges traditional storytelling conventions.
Bringing strong images, memories, or feelings to mind.
Evocative
Example: The author’s evocative descriptions transport readers to another time and place.
To interpret or understand something in a new or different way.
Reinterpret
Example: Contemporary artists reinterpret classic works of literature through a modern lens.
To reveal or make known something previously hidden or secret
Unveil
Example: The novel unveils the complexities of human nature through its diverse characters.
In a manner characterized by careful examination, analysis, and evaluation.
Critically
Example: Critics praised the novel for its critically acclaimed portrayal of social issues.
In a delicate or understated manner, often implying nuance or hidden meaning.
Subtly
Example: The author subtly critiques societal norms through the interactions of her characters.
In a brief and to-the-point manner.
Concisely
Example: The essay summarily and concisely presents its argument in just a few paragraphs.
To explore or investigate something deeply or thoroughly.
Delve into
Example: The scholar delved into the archives to uncover new insights into the author’s life.
To analyze or examine something in detail.
Parse through:
Example: The students parsed through the text, identifying recurring motifs and symbols.
To understand or comprehend something challenging or complex.
Wrap one’s mind around:
Example: It took me a while to wrap my mind around the author’s abstract writing style.
To proceed instinctively or based on intuition.
Follow one’s nose:
Example: When reading a mystery novel, I like to follow my nose and try to solve the case before the protagonist does.
To think about or consider something carefully.
Chew over:
Example: I need some time to chew over the themes presented in this novel.
To read something quickly and with enthusiasm.
Zoom through:
Example: I zoomed through the latest installment of the series in just one weekend.
A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable, suggesting a resemblance.
Metaphor
Example: The author employs a powerful metaphor likening society to a jungle.
The character or role that a writer or speaker assumes in a particular context
Persona
Example: The poet’s persona in her works often reflects her own experiences and emotions.
Providing psychological relief through the expression of strong emotions, often in literature or art.
Cathartic
Example: The protagonist’s emotional journey in the novel is cathartic for both the character and the reader.
Open to more than one interpretation; having uncertain or multiple meanings.
Ambiguous
Example: The ending of the story is deliberately ambiguous, leaving readers to draw their own conclusions.
Evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret; touching or moving.
Poignant
Example: The novel’s poignant depiction of loss resonates with readers on a deeply emotional level.
To introduce new methods, ideas, or concepts, especially in a creative field like literature.
Innovate
Example: The author innovates by experimenting with narrative structure in her latest novel.
To begin a journey or undertaking, often with a sense of purpose or determination.
Embark
Example: The protagonist embarks on a quest to find meaning and identity in the novel.
To communicate or express something, often through words, gestures, or symbols
Convey
Example: The poet conveys a sense of longing through vivid imagery and metaphor.
To evoke a strong or sympathetic response, often because of shared experiences or emotions.
Resonate
Example: The novel’s themes of love and loss resonate with readers of all ages.
Without interruption; constantly or continuously.
Incessantly
Example: The protagonist’s thoughts about the past plague him incessantly throughout the novel.
In a way that is suggested or understood without being directly stated
Implicitly
Example: The author implicitly critiques societal norms through the actions of her characters.
In a manner characteristic of poetry, often using vivid imagery and figurative language.
Poetically
Example: The author poetically describes the beauty of nature in her lyrical prose.
To extract or bring forth hidden or implicit meanings or ideas
Draw out:
Example: The therapist helps the patient draw out her subconscious thoughts through journaling.
To develop or provide more detail about something, making it fuller or more substantial.
Flesh out:
Example: The author fleshes out the characters’ backstories to give them depth and complexity.
To derive enjoyment or pleasure from something.
Get a kick out of:
Example: I always get a kick out of reading humorous novels.
To become deeply absorbed or engrossed in something.
Lose oneself in:
Example: When I’m stressed, I like to lose myself in a good book.
To proceed or make decisions based on intuition or improvisation, rather than a predetermined plan.
Play it by ear:
Example: I don’t have a specific reading list; I’ll just play it by ear and choose books as I go.
To be completely engrossed in reading.
Nose buried in a book
Example: Whenever I visit the library, I find her with her nose buried in a book.
To read something quickly and effortlessly.
Zip through:
Example: I zipped through the latest thriller novel in just one sitting.
