Set 10 Flashcards
acumen
the ability to make good judgements and take quick decisions
e.g. His sharp business acumen meant he quickly rose to the top
antithesis
a person or a thing that is direct opposite of someone or something else
(in Hegelian philosophy) the negation of the thesis as the second stage in the process of dialectical reasoning
ascribe
regard something as being due to (a cause) / assign
e.g. An autopsy eventually ascribes the baby’s death to sudden infant death syndrome
befuddled
cause to become unable to think clearly
e.g. She was befuddled and did not know what she was doing
eschew
deliberately avoid using
abstain from
e.g. Although he appeared to enjoy a jet-setting life, he eschewed publicity and avoided nightclubs
esoteric
intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialised knowledge or interest
e.g. His esoteric interests set him apart from his contemporaries
evasive
tending to avoid commitment or self-revelation, especially by responding only indirectly
e.g. Direct questions would almost certainly result in evasive answers
exculpate
show or declare that (someone) is not guilty of wrongdoing
e.g. However, none of this should be used to excuse or exculpate our own misdeeds
expedite
make (an action or process) happen sooner or be accomplished more quickly
e.g. We tried to help you expedite your plans
fastidious
very attentive to and concerned about accuracy and detail
e.g. He was fastidious about his appearance
feign
pretend to be affected by (a feeling, state or injury)
furtive
attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guild or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble, secretive
e.g. With a furtive glance over her shoulder, she unlocked the door and entered the house
hamper
hinder or impede the movement or progress of
a basket with a carrying handle and a hinged lid, used for food, cutlery and plates on a picnic
indispensable
absolutely necessary
lament
a passionate expression of grief or sorrow
e.g. Ken began to lament the death of his only son