Seth Godin's Vocabulary Book Flashcards
abstemious
Originally defined as taking food and drink in moderation, now expanded to mean temperance in all things. Those who drink deeply from the cup of life are hardly abstemious. Pronounced AB-STEEM- EE-US.
abrogate
To formally annul or cancel, as in a contract or a treaty, rather than a promise. Often misused to mean “breach” or “violate”—when you hear the word used that way, jump in and explain the subtle yet important distinction. “He abrogated the agreement by ripping up the contract and refusing to accept any more shipments of pineapples.” Distinguish this from breaching the agreement by accepting the shipments, but refusing to pay for them
abrogate
To formally annul or cancel, as in a contract or a treaty, rather than a promise. Often misused to mean “breach” or “violate”—when you hear the word used that way, jump in and explain the subtle yet important distinction. “He abrogated the agreement by ripping up the contract and refusing to accept any more shipments of pineapples.” Distinguish this from breaching the agreement by accepting the shipments, but refusing to pay for them.
absolution
A release from guilt, sin or sentence. More than just forgiveness, absolution implies a kind of freedom from moral responsibility. To be on the safe side, it’s best to avoid acts that require absolution, since it might not be offered. Say AB-SO-LOO-SHUN.
abnegate
To deny oneself something (usually something a little more serious than giving up chocolate cake). You can abnegate the religion you were born into, for example. Pronounce it AB-NEGG-ATE.
abstemious
Originally defined as taking food and drink in moderation, now expanded to mean temperance in all things. Those who drink deeply from the cup of life are hardly abstemious. Pronounced AB-STEEM- EE-US.
abstruse
Complicated; difficult to comprehend. Like the theory of relativity, atonal music or the philosophers you pretended to understand in college. The next best thing to understanding Hegel would be to describe him as abstruse and move on.
acerbic
Harsh; severe; biting. Commonly used to mean sarcastic, the actual meaning is stronger. A truly acerbic wit can draw blood. Don Rickles isn’t acerbic. He’s too nice. It’s pronounced ASS-ER-BIK.
acolyte
An attendant, assistant or novice. Not a slave, but a follower. Disciples follow a leader—acolytes empty her ashtray. A brilliant professor or an innovative employer will often attract acolytes. Pronounced AK- O-LITE.
