Words Flashcards
Irony/ironic
Figure of speech, intended meaning is opposite of that expressed by the words used. usually takes form of sarcasm/ridicule where laudatory (praiseful) expressions are used to imply condemnation/contempt.
satire/satirical
ridiculing vices, abuses, follies (foolish act), make something seem ridiculous
altruism
regard for others as principle for guiding actions. Opposite to egoism or selfishness. ‘her altruism is seen in the care she gives her children’
pragmatic
pertaining to practical rather than theoretical, matter of fact treatment of things. organise other people’s affairs.
ephemeral
exist only for a day/short time/ short lived/transitory
magnanimous
rising above petty resentment/jealousy, sometimes with great courage/purpose.
pretentious
making claim to unwarranted merit/importance
parasimony
careful in use/disposal of money/resources. or of things- to be scanty, poor, mean
affectedly/affectation
putting on/displaying personal feature in ostentatious (showy) manner
idiosyncrasy
a peculiarity of constitution/temperament. something peculiar about an individual’s behaviour
pedantic/pedantry
overrating book learning/technical knowledge or excessive stress on conforming to formal rules
illicit
unlawful
elicit
to draw some response from someone/something
affect
verb to influence.
effect
noun meaning result. effected is verb in past tense i.e effected a change (created a change, resulted in a change)
