Vocab 7 Flashcards
ambivalent (am biv´ ə lənt) adj.
having opposing attitudes or feelings toward a person, thing, or idea; unable to decide
Doug felt ambivalent about his job; although he hated the pressure, he loved the challenge.
syn: uncertain; wavering ant: certain; resolute
cynical (sin´ i kəl) adj
doubtful or distrustful of the goodness or sincerity of human motives
Keith made the cynical observation that Jamie’s new girlfriend was probably just interested in his money.
syn: skeptical ant: idealistic; optimistic
demagogue (dem´ ə gôg ) n.
a leader who appeals to citizens’ emotions to obtain power
The demagogue evoked the sympathy of the public to justify his crimes in office.
syn: rabble-rouser
demure (di myoor´) adj.
quiet and modest; reserved
Her demure behavior was really a ruse to cover up her criminal nature.
syn: prim ant: indiscreet
intrepid (in trep´ īd) adj.
without fear; brave
The intrepid warrior did not even”“flinch when the tiger leapt from the tree.
syn: bold; fearless ant: cowardly
destitute (des´ ti tōōt) adj.
extremely poor; lacking necessities like food and shelter
Because they had no insurance, they were left destitute when their house burned down.
syn: impoverished; penniless ant: affluent
erudite (er´ yə dīt ) adj.
scholarly; learned
Not much of a scholar, Justin was intimidated by his erudite girlfriend.
syn: educated ant: unlettered; illiterate
dilemma (di lem´ ə) n.
a choice between two unpleasant or difficult options
Whether to repair my old car or purchase a new one was a real dilemma.
culmination (kul mə nā´ shən) n.
the highest point of attainment; the end or climax
Winning the state tournament was the culmination of a great basketball season.
syn: apex ant: nadir
concur (kən kûr´) v.
to be of the same opinion; to agree with
I concur that we should keep this meeting short.
syn: support; agree ant: dispute; differ”
