Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

The chosen definition for this word is an adjective meaning. As a noun, "abstract" means "a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument."

As a verb, "address" also means "deliver a formal spoken communication to an audience"--this could describe how Obama addresses the leaders as he addresses the issues.

Don't confuse "affect" with "effect"--in most cases, "affect" is used as verb while "effect" is used as a noun. As suggested by the example sentence, stormy weather affects a lot of people and services; it can have physical, emotional, and cognitive effects.

Literary analysis investigates the structure of a text and may also include exploring the underlying motives of characters. As a branch of mathematics, "analysis" involves calculus and limits.

The example sentence's use of "application" could also mean "a program that gives a computer instructions" but it would not connect to this definition: "a verbal or written request for assistance or admission."

"Apply" also means 1) ask for something; 2) employ for a particular purpose; 3) ensure observance of laws and rules; and 4) commit oneself to--although the chosen definition is the best fit for the example sentence, these can also apply, since the contractors first had to apply (1) for the job, before they could apply (2) the skills of their workers, while applying (3) the stricter measures, and applying (4) themselves to creating safe work conditions.

"Argument" can also refer to what takes place before the assertion: "a methodical process of logical reasoning" or "a discussion for and against some proposition or proposal." In reference to a literary work, an argument is "a summary of the subject or plot" and in reference to a logical or mathematical expression, it is a variable.

In referring to people, "aspect" is "a characteristic to be considered" or "the feelings expressed on a face." In grammar, the aspect of a verb is the duration or completion of the action (which should not be confused with the tenses, which also connect to the time of an action, but does not include how the time of the action is viewed).

Information that is essential to understanding a situation could include "the state of the environment in which a situation exists." Information that is essential to understanding people could include their "social heritage or previous experience and training." Information that is essential to understanding a play could include "scenery hung at the back of a stage."

The system could be a) an individual 3-dimensional object that has mass and that is distinguishable from other objects; b) a group of persons associated by some common tie or occupation and regarded as an entity; c) a group of things regarded as a whole. In the example sentence, "body" is used to mean (c) but is also punning on (a). In reference to a literary work, the body is the main part (minus the introduction, conclusion, and additional materials).

The given definition is for the word as an adjective (which the title of Hawking's book puns on since "brief" also means "of short duration or distance"). As a noun, "brief" means "a condensed written summary or abstract" or "a document stating the points of law of a client's case." As a verb, "brief" means "give essential information to someone."

"Calculate" also means "judge to be probable" or "predict in advance"--all three definitions fit the example sentence, since it is an argument for why IQ tests are used: because humans by themselves cannot correctly compute, judge, and predict a person's capabilities, standardized tests have been created as a tool to support decisions that need to be made about class placements, learning services, etc.

"Caption" can also be used as a verb; any type of image, including photographs, can be captioned. Usually, the descriptions are brief explanations or humorous observations. But if seen at the bottom of a screen for a show, the captions are either a translation of the dialogue for foreign viewers or a transcription of the dialogue for hearing-impaired viewers.

The example sentence describes recognition given by the British Academy Games Awards--this connects "category" to the given definition. But "action and adventure" can also be a category ("a collection of things sharing a common attribute") in a section of a game store.

"Cause" can also mean "a justification for something existing or happening"--the example sentence does not argue for the cause of bullying; rather, it points out that, in the case of the football player Jonathan Martin, his depression might have caused ("make act in a specific manner") his teammates to bully him, which then caused ("give rise to") more mental health struggles.

The example sentence uses "character" to connect only to the given definition, but it implies that even imaginary people in a fictional work should show the additional meanings of "character": "a property that defines the individual nature of something" and "attributes that determine one's moral and ethical actions."

"Characteristic" can be either a noun or adjective ("typical or distinctive"). Although the example sentence focuses on the unique characteristics of geometric objects, the article in which it appears compares the process of proving a geometric theorem to the development of characters and their story lines. This parallel is characteristic of The Simpsons, whose creative team over the years has included members with degrees in math and computer science.

The example sentence uses "chart" as a noun, but it could also be a verb: as a meteorologist, Mr. Bateman was asked to chart ("represent by means of a graph") every possible weather pattern at specific times in New York and New Jersey, so that the National Football League could chart ("plan in detail") the first Superbowl held outdoors in a cold winter environment.

Although "claim" comes from the Latin verb "clamare" which means "to call" it can also be used as a noun in English to mean an assertion that something is true or that something rightfully belongs to you.

In biology, "class" is a category ranking below a phylum and above an order. This idea of ranking can also be seen when people are classed into groups. The example sentence suggests that, despite being created in an attempt to save the Postal Service, the new class of "City Carrier Assistants" would rank lower than the regular postal carriers, and with their lower ranking comes lower pay and less desirable working hours.

Aside from the secret nature often associated with codes, the noun can also mean "a system of symbols, letters, or words for transmitting messages in brevity." Although the example sentence's use of "code" means "a set of rules" the description of the flashing phrase and upraised hand refers to a larger system of traffic signs that pedestrians and drivers must quickly decode in order to move around safely.

The adjective "common" might have been intended to connect to the chosen definition (and its similar one of "belonging to or participated in by a community as a whole"), as well as to the ones meaning "to be expected; standard" and "frequently encountered" but negative reactions to the Common Core might connect it to other definitions, such as "having no special distinction or quality" or "of low or inferior quality or value."

"Complement" can also mean "either of two parts that create a whole"--this definition is suggested by the article in which the example sentence appears, since The Hague had recently loaned art to the Frick, and now the Frick is loaning part of its collection to The Hague. This sense of completion can also be seen in grammar, where "complement" means "a word or phrase used to complete a grammatical construction."

Similar to "complement" another definition of the verb "complete" connects to wholeness: "bring to a whole, with all the necessary parts or elements." Completing something often simply means finishing it, but what is necessary or required to make something whole is not always a perfect fit.

See "compile" for another definition that makes the two verbs synonymous. "Compose" can also mean "make up plans or basic details for" or "write music."

"Composition" also means "the way in which someone or something is put together"--the example sentence suggests this definition since it is comparing the composition of some fashion designs to the black and white notebooks elementary school students use to write essays.

The example sentence puns on the word "conceive" by connecting to the meaning "become pregnant" with the use of the verb "birth"--this is a clue that the writer of the article in which this example sentence appears conceives ("judge or regard; look upon) of Obamacare as an awful system that needs to be fixed in order to realize its goal of universal quality healthcare.

"Conclusion" also means 1) the last section of a communication and 2) event whose occurrence ends something--all three definitions fit the example sentence, since it is making fun of the conclusion found in the conclusion (1) of a study that recommends that extreme conclusions (2) to movies should be avoided because media violence causes harm.

The growing conditions mentioned in the example sentence can include "the atmospheric conditions that comprise the state of the atmosphere in terms of temperature and wind and clouds and precipitation." Although the focus here is on plants, a simpler definition of "conditions" also fits: "the set of circumstances that affect someone's welfare."

"Conduct" (with the accent on the first syllable) is a noun that means "manner of acting or controlling yourself" or "the way a person behaves towards other people"--these definitions are suggested by the example sentence, since an anthropologist conducting research would be examining the conduct of people.

"Consequence" can also mean "the outcome of an event"--although this definition is often seen relative to an individual, it can also apply here. The intended outcome of a siege is the capture of a town or fortress, but since the army surrounds the town, takes their resources, and blocks any new supplies from coming in, the siege actually causes starvation.

"Consider" also means "judge or regard; look upon" (see the synonymous "conceive")--this definition can be considered (take into account) if you would consider using Persona because you care about how others consider you.

The example sentence uses the chosen definition to refer to the ice surface of a luge track, but many of the Olympic athletes are hoping that they're consistent ("reliable") in their performances, that the judges are consistent ("conforming to the same principles") in their scoring, and that their experience is consistent ("in agreement; compatible) with their dreams.

While the repeated use of the adverb "consistently" emphasizes reliability and equality, the focus on safe streets suggests a systematic enforcing of order in some New York City neighborhoods.

"Constant" is used as an adjective in the example sentence to refer to the constant ("a quantity that does not vary") of 22. This idea of not changing can also be seen in other definitions of "constant" that can be used to describe actions, conditions, or people: "uninterrupted in time and indefinitely long continuing" and "steadfast in purpose or devotion or affection."

"Contend" also means 1) compete for something; 2) have an argument about something; and 3) make the subject of dispute or litigation. The candidates are contending (1) for the presidency of the World Chess Federation. Each contends that the other is guilty of corruption, and both are using the press to contend (2) with each other. With money, power, and prestige at stake, they might go to court to contend (3) their case.

Another definition of "context" ("the set of facts or circumstances that surround a situation") makes it nearly synonymous with "background" and "conditions" and connects it to a wider scope of understanding.

The chosen definition is for "control" as a noun, but the word is used as an adjective in the example sentence. In most definitions of "control" (it can also be a verb), the sense of power to direct or determine can be seen, whether it's directed at oneself, others, a machine, knowledge, or the conditions of a scientific experiment.

Except for its use in sports, where converting often means successfully completing a play and scoring, "convert" connects to change and can be applied to things, people, beliefs, or systems.

"Convey" also means 1) serve as a means for expressing something; 2) transmit or serve as the medium for transmission; and 3) transfer to another. The actors' faces convey (1) emotion, which are then conveyed (2) through a movie screen, and hopefully, conveyed (3) to the audience.

Although "copy" is used as a noun in the example sentence, the action of copying every word by hand is implied by both the original manuscript's age and the description of scrawling black ink.

One definition of "credit" ("have trust in; trust in the truth of") connects it to "credible" (both come from the Latin "credere" which means "to believe"). Another definition of "credit" makes it nearly synonymous with "citation" ("a short note recognizing a source of information"), but "credit" could also be recognition for a completed course of studies, a contribution to a larger work, or an achievement in any activity.

"Critique" also means "an essay or article that gives a critical examination"--this definition describes the article in which the example sentence was found, but it doesn't apply to Ms. Almutawakel's critique of extremism, since that was done through photographs of Middle Eastern girls in veils.

"Explain the meaning of a word" would be too simple a definition for the example sentence: the writings might have included a definition, but what the writings defined was not the word, but an entire attitude towards diabetes. "Define" also means "decide upon or fix with certainty"--this fits, since the writings were by a doctor who survived diabetes in the 1920s when it was still mostly seen as a condition leading to death.

"Demand" also means "request urgently and forcefully"--although this definition does not fit the example sentence, it can be connected to a skill cheerleaders might use to pump up their team and home crowd.

"Derive" also means "come from"--this definition does not fit the example sentence, but it can be seen in the suggestion that a lot of geometric knowledge derives from Euclid.

"Detail" can also be used as a verb to mean "provide specifics for"--this sounds like a positive action, but in the case of Snowden, his action illegally detailed secrets that affect national security.

As suggested by the phrase "one day" the verb "develop" usually connects to change, growth, or creation that happens over a period of time. This can apply to the development of living organisms, abstract theories, practical skills, musical pieces, essays, photographs, poor countries, technologies, games, etc.

The geographical size of Russia and the word "shape" in the example sentence connect to the chosen definition. But the shape and size of a country are not the only factors that should be taken into consideration when trying to understand it. "Dimensions" is also used here to broadly include any quality that distinguishes Russia--this is meant to be a vague way of saying that Russia is so big and broad that cooperating with it is difficult.

"Diminish" also means "lessen the authority, dignity, or reputation of"--both definitions fit the example sentence because a social role can dictate one's actions, which would diminish the extent to which one can create a separate identity, which diminishes one's authority and can lead to one feeling diminished in dignity or worth.

The military needs to be direct in its statements in order to show that it can direct ("command with authority") soldiers and direct ("intend to move towards a certain goal) Egypt to meet the demands of its people. In a direct ("proceeding without deviation") course of action that included an ultimatum, Field Marshal Sisi moves towards the presidency.

In connection to the chosen definition, the example sentence mentions 4 disciplines. But other definitions of "discipline" are also suggested by the mention of "sports fanaticism": 1) training to improve strength or self-control; 2) a system of rules of conduct or method of practice; 3) punish in order to gain control or enforce obedience.

Another definition of "discover" that fits the example sentence is "get to know or become aware of, usually accidentally." A definition that does not fit here is "make a new finding" since the game of basketball is not new, even though Dell Curry wanted it to be new to his sons.

The preposition "between" is a clue that this definition is being used. Another definition of "discriminate" is "treat differently on the basis of sex or race (or other criteria)"--the preposition "against" is the clue to this usage. People who do not discriminate between accidental and deliberate killings might discriminate against all killers.

Compare with "differentiate" and "discriminate"--all have at least one definition that connects to noticing differences, but "differentiate" is also a mathematical term, and both it and "distinguish" have definitions that connect to the identification, development, or evolution of organisms.

The definition would fit the example sentence better if the first three words were deleted. This would also connect it more closely to other definitions of "domain": 1) a particular environment or walk of life; 2) territory over which rule or control is exercised (which could be geographical, academic, or virtual). An unrelated mathematical definition is "the set of values of the variable defining a function."

Although the definition includes all versions in a work's development, as the example sentence shows, "draft" is most often used for the first version; this can be seen in other definitions of the word: 1) a preliminary sketch of a design or picture; 2) draw up an outline or sketch for something.

Compare with "consequence"--in the example sentences shown in this list, the two nouns are synonymous. Compare with "affect"--aside from the similar spellings, another reason the two words are often confused is that an effect can be both a result and the power to achieve a result.

Generally, an element is "one of the individual parts making up a composite entity" (e.g. the setting in a story, an angle in a triangle, a member in a set). In Chemistry, an element is "a substance that cannot be separated into simpler substances." For a living organism, being in one's element is being in "the most favorable environment in which one is happiest, healthiest, or most effective."

Compare with "demonstrate"--in the example sentences, the verbs are synonymous, but as seen in their Latin roots ("monstrare" means "to show" and "stabilis" means "firm"), "establish" is a stronger action word, especially when used to mean "set up or lay the groundwork for."

All the example sentences here are meant to serve as models of how the words in this vocabulary list can be used. In this particular example sentence, the word "example" can also mean "something to be imitated." In the classroom, a teacher might ask students to complete an example, which is "a task performed in order to develop skill or understanding of a principle or method."

The Latin verb "excerpere" means "to pick out" (which can be broken down to "ex" which means "out" and "carpere" which means "to pluck"). As a noun in English, "excerpt" means "a passage selected from a larger work."

This definition is synonymous with one shown in the notes for "example" but "example" would not fit in this sentence. The use of "exercise" puns on its other definitions of "the activity of exerting muscles to keep fit" and "systematic training by multiple repetitions"--both of which football players could be doing when they are not team-building by sharing secrets about themselves.

Although the chosen definition does not show this, "explain" also means "to offer reasons for; justify"--in a televised debate, Bill Nye would not be explaining the research on climate science so much as explaining his position that climate change is a bad reality.

Compare with "excerpt"--they are synonymous, but the Latin "extrahere" which means "to draw out" suggests that extraction requires more work and time. "Excerpt" as a verb applies only to literary works, but "extract" can apply to teeth, natural resources, profits, confessions, and meaning ("extract" also means "deduce"). In math, to extract is "to calculate the root of a number."

The chosen definition of "factor" connects to another definition used only in Math: any of two or more numbers that form a product when multiplied together.

"Feature" comes from the Latin verb "facere" which means "to make"--this connects to all the noticeable parts of created things, whether they're cameras on phones, articles in newspapers, the main film in a movie theater, or the aspect of a verb (see "aspect" in this list). "Feature" can also refer to "a characteristic part of a person's face."

The figure of speech used by the example sentence is personification, since it describes a flag as if it could talk. The waving could be seen as both literal and figurative, since a flag can actually wave with the wind, but the example sentence makes the waving seem like an intentional action by the flag to get the golfer's attention.

"Figure" is used as an adjective to describe a type of skating that requires the tracing of specific shapes. But 78 and Lipnitskaya's age are also figures, which were used to figure out ("make a mathematical calculation; understand") the skater's place in Russia's Olympics history. This makes Lipnitskaya a figure ("a well-known or notable person").

The example sentence tells the reader to focus ("direct one's attention on something") on the personal qualities of Lipnitskaya that helped Russia win Olympic gold. Although the event was a team competition, all the attention has focused ("converge on a central point") on Lipnitskaya.

The meaning of "form" can take on so many different forms ("a particular mode in which something is manifested") that a much larger form ("a printed document with spaces in which to write") is needed to form ("establish or impress firmly in the mind") a complete understanding of the word.

Although "format" is used as a noun in the example sentence, its meaning as a verb ("set into a specific appearance for publication") is suggested, since the show is posted onto YouTube.

"Former" also refers to "the first of two things or persons mentioned"--in the example sentence, of the two Parks mentioned, the former is the daughter and the latter is the father.

"Formulate" also means 1) prepare according to instructions or a formula; 2) elaborate, as of theories and hypotheses; 3) come up with after a mental effort--all four definitions fit, because the subject of the verb is a government agency that is trying to develop new, clearer rules that would replace the old, vague ones in order to prevent organizations from wrongfully claiming tax-exempt status.

Within this example sentence about "fragment" are two fragments that could be rephrased, moved, or developed to fit more smoothly and grammatically with the rest of the sentence.

"Frame" also means 1) make up plans or basic details for; 2) construct by fitting or uniting parts together (both could describe Ginsburg's process of developing the arguments); 3) alternative name for the body of a human being (which could pun on the phrase "new body"); 4) a system of assumptions and standards that sanction behavior and give it meaning (Ginsburg's work set up a new legal frame for the treatment of women).

"General" also means "affecting the entire body" and "somewhat indefinite"--these definitions are suggested by the word "nutrition" which connects to the body and covers a wide range of foods and ways of preparation and eating.

"Graphic" also means "evoking lifelike images within the mind"--despite the photos' intention to warn about disease and death, this definition is a fitting description of the cigarette packaging.

"Highlight" also means "the most interesting or memorable part"--a fishing-themed license plate does not seem to fit the definition, but the author of the article highlights this image to make fun of the efforts by Cuomo to highlight his achievements as the governor of New York.

Another definition of "identify" connects it to the similar-looking word "identical": consider to be equal or the same. People often identify with things, ideas, or other people that they think are equal to them. The example sentence comes from a senior vice president at Lockheed Martin who is hoping to identify countries that would identify with the view that drones are necessary.

"Illustrate" also means "depict with a visual representation"--both definitions fit, because the handwritten receipt can be seen as a visual representation of a punishment (the receipt is for payment of a fine for violating China's one-child policy). The informal appearance of the receipt is just one example that illustrates how the Communist Party does not punish everyone the same way for the same violation.

"Imply" also means "express or state indirectly" or "suggest that someone is guilty"--neither of these definitions fits the example sentence since it directly states that a focus on sharing can lead to less consumption, and this would not be a situation that would require a suggestion of guilt.

The Latin "clinare" means "to lean"--this is more clearly seen in another definition of "inclined" ("at an angle to the horizontal or vertical position"), but it is also suggested by the chosen definition, since a preference, disposition, or tendency is a lean towards something or someone. In the example sentence, the description of Mr. Kerry's inclination means that he leans towards believing that China is inclining towards greater freedom of the Internet.

The Latin "corpus" means "body" and "incorporare" means "to form into a body"--this is suggested by other definitions of "incorporate": 1) make into a whole or make part of a whole; 2) unite or merge with something already in existence.

Both the chosen definition and this one of "be a signal for or a symptom of" seem to indicate that "indicate" is a strong and believable verb. But its Latin root of "dicare" which means "to proclaim or cry out" can be seen in definitions that are less sure: 1) to state or express briefly; 2) to point out a place, direction, person, or thing.

The potable use is indirect because it is not the drinking of water that comes from a mountain spring, but the drinking of wastewater that has been put through a multistep cleaning process. The phrase "indirect potable use" is indirect because it uses language that does not straightforwardly get to the point.

Compare with "deduce"--the example sentences and chosen definitions show the verbs as synonymous. But they can also be antonymous, since "deduce" means "reason from the general to the particular" while "infer" means "draw from specific cases for more general cases"--this makes a deduction seem more credible than an inference, especially since "infer" can also mean "solve by guessing."

"Inform" has another meaning that connects to the verb "form": "give character or essence to"--both definitions fit the example sentence, since the scientific results both provide information and form the character of future experimental searches.

"Instruction" also means "activities that impart knowledge or skill"--both definitions fit the example sentence, since the writer was learning how to fly on a trapeze.

The example sentence describes integrating maps with search, but integration can also produce 1) a whole society that is open to members of all races and ethnic groups; 2) a whole number (through a calculus operation).

As a noun, "intent" is also a shorter version of "intention" and as an adjective, it means "giving or marked by complete attention to."

"Interpret" also means "make sense of a language" and "give an explanation to"--all three definitions fit, because 1) the Bible's many translations through time, cultures, and languages have an effect on meaning; 2) the many books of the Bible include a mix of historical events, divine miracles, and parables, which many scholars from different disciplines have devoted themselves to sorting and explaining.

Compare with "inquire"--the two verbs have synonymous definitions, but as shown by the example sentences and Latin roots ("quaerere" means "to ask" and "vestigare" means "to track"), an investigation often involves more following and follow-through.

"Involve" also means "require as useful, just, or proper" and "engage as a participant"--all three definitions fit the example sentence, because the Navy scientists needed the whales to conduct the study of how sonar affects marine mammals, but some whales were shy and required years to find and tag before they could participate (compare with the definition and example sentence for "include").

"Key" has other definitions that might be used in the classroom: 1) a list of answers to a test (which teachers might keep under lock and key); 2) a list of words or phrases explaining symbols or abbreviations; 3) something crucial for explaining.

The example sentence refers to technologies that can be figuratively mind-blowing because they seem like unbelievable images from a science fiction movie. But the technologies can also be literally mind-blowing because, now available in the U.S., are bionic eyes that combine a Google Glass device with a tiny electrode that is attached to a membrane that's connected to a nerve that leads to the brain.

"Logical" also means "marked by an orderly and coherent relation of parts" (compare with the synonymous "coherent")--this does not fit the example sentence, since the laughter was caused by the students' recognition that the logic of this statement "In order to function at your mental and physical best, adolescents should be getting at least nine hours of sleep a night" does not relate to reality.

In referring to statistics, a margin of error is "a permissible difference." In referring to economics, a profit margin is "the net sales minus the cost of goods and services."

The name "Champions of Jerusalem" has denotative (literal) and connotative (secondary and often suggestive) meanings. It denotes winning, but it connotes the bloody contest over the holy city. It denotes "a defender, advocate, or supporter of a cause" which leads to another definition of "warrior" which again connotes the bloody wars that have been fought over the city. In claiming responsibility for attacks, the organization deliberately connects to all meanings.

The example sentence and chosen definition show "measure" in its connection to accuracy, which can also be seen in these definitions: 1) a container of standard capacity to obtain fixed amounts; 2) instrument having a sequence of marks at regular intervals. But "measure" can also be an uncertain estimate of the nature, quality, ability, or significance of something. And it can be "any maneuver made as part of progress toward a goal."

If an Art teacher asks you to model, you could "assume a posture" or form something out of clay, wax, etc. If an English teacher hands you a model essay, you should examine it to see what is "worthy of imitation" and then "plan or create according to the example."

"Modify" also means "add a word or phrase to qualify or limit the meaning of"--in the example sentence, "British" is an adjective that qualifies (specifies a characteristic of) the scientists; "genetically" is an adverb that characterizes how the potatoes were changed; "genetically modified" is an adjectival phrase that limits the types of potatoes that are blight-resistant.

A similar definition is "a brief written record." Similar in spelling to "notation" and "notice" it has definitions in common with both (it can be both a noun and verb). In describing people, "note" can mean 1) high status importance owing to marked superiority; 2) a characteristic emotional quality; 3) a tone of voice that shows what the speaker is feeling.

In simply stating the objective of the Affordable Care Act, the example sentence is being objective ("undistorted by emotion or personal bias").

In order of possibility, here are some orders you might receive in the classroom: 1) arrange thoughts, ideas, temporal events; 2) assign a rank or rating to; 3) bring into conformity with rules or principles or usage; 4) give instructions to or direct somebody to do something; 5) make a request for something.

"Origin" has its origin ("the source of something's existence or from which it derives") in the Latin verb "oriri" which means "to rise"--this gives the sense that things and people, no matter their origins, have an upward movement through space and time.

Other definitions of "pattern" make it synonymous with "example" and "model" including 1) something regarded as a normative example; 2) something intended as a guide for making something else. A pattern can also be a design of natural or accidental origin (such as a snowflake) or that is artistic or decorative (such as plaid).

In addition to performing everyday tasks, the human hand and foot can be used to "give a dramatic or musical entertainment."

For further thought, I will point out other definitions that might apply in a classroom: 1) indicate a place, direction, person, or thing; 2) a brief version of the essential meaning of something; 3) an outstanding characteristic; 4) the object of an activity; 5) a style in speech or writing that arrests attention; 6) the precise location of something; 7) a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series.

In Latin, "protrahere" means "to reveal"--this can be done through words (written or acted) or pictures.

Here, "prefix" is used to mean "a title placed before one's name." The prefix in "prefix" is "pre" which means "before" so as a noun, "prefix" could be any element that is attached to the beginning of a word; as a verb, "prefix" (the accent is on the second syllable) means "to settle or arrange in advance."

The Latin prefix "prae" means "before" and the verb "parare" means "to get ready." The idea of preparation can apply to a variety of purposes, whether it's planning for the delivery of legal arguments, studying for an upcoming test, training for a future role, or heating up foods for eating.

Compare with "assume"--the chosen example sentences and definitions show the verbs to be synonymous. Both come from the Latin verb "sumere" which means "to take" but their different prefixes are clues to other definitions: "ad" means "to" so "assume" can mean to take to oneself a form, power, or garment; "prae" means "before" so "presume" can mean to take an action before asking for permission.

As a noun, "process" is synonymous with "procedure" (both come from the Latin "procedere" which means "to go forward"); this meaning is implied with the phrase "what's ahead" which refers to the free agency process. Used as a verb here, "process" can also mean "deal with in a routine way" but the chosen definition suggests that Tillman's "performance of some composite cognitive activity" connects to calculations involving salary, age, playing time, etc.

"Produce" also means 1) come to have or undergo a change of; 2) cultivate by growing; 3) cause to happen, occur, or exist; 4) create or manufacture a man-made product--all five definitions can mostly fit here because scientists sliced DNA strands, injected them into fertilized eggs, and encouraged the growth of embryos with the intent of implanting them into females to produce macaque monkey babies with genetic profiles similar to sick humans (for use in future experiments).

In Latin, "pro" means "forth" and "jacere" means "to throw"--this idea of forward motion can be seen more clearly in the definitions of "project" as a verb: 1) throw, send, or cast forward; 2) make or work out a plan for; 3) cause to be heard; 4) present for consideration, examination, criticism, etc.

"Prompt" may be used as a pun here, since as an adjective, it describes how enrollment within the new healthcare system should have proceeded: "according to schedule or without delay."

The Latin "proprietas" means "ownership"--this meaning can apply to physical things that can be owned as well as to abstract constructs that belong to and distinguish objects or individuals.

Although spelled differently, "purpose" and "propose" come from the same Latin verb "proponere" which means "to put forward"--this meaning can be seen in other definitions of "purpose": 1) an anticipated outcome that guides your planned actions (compare with "intention"); 2) the quality of being determined to do or achieve something.

The first use of the adjective in its superlative form ("rarest") describes river dolphins and connects to this definition: "not widely known or distributed." The chosen definition applies to the second use of the adjective, which describes the experience of discovering a new species, and for which another definition could also apply: "recurring only at long intervals."

"Reaction" also means "a bodily process due to the effect of some stimulus"--since the example sentence is about parasites that can affect both the brain and body, both definitions fit.

The pronoun "she" refers to ("be relevant to") Janet Yellen, whose new position is officially referred to ("use a name to designate") as Chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.

"Reflect" also means "think deeply on a subject" and the prefix "re" which means "back" suggests that the subject is often connected to something that had happened in the past.

The chosen definition emphasizes the contrast within the example sentence (note the antonym "special"). But the regular Army can also be described by these definitions: 1) belonging to a nation's permanent army; 2) officially full-time; 3) routinely scheduled for fixed times; 4) symmetrically arranged.

Another definition of "relate" that is unrelated to the example sentence is: give an account of.

The example sentence suggests a worldwide relation between depression and peoples' lives, which could affect the relationships between millions of people.

While many reports are the results of research or investigation, some can just be written accounts of personal experiences or verbal complaints to the authorities. In school, an assigned report can be an essay on any topic, or it can be the teacher's evaluation of a student's abilities.

The Chinese artist Xu Bing literally represented ("create an image or likeness of") the phoenix. But in making it out of salvaged construction debris and tools, he intended it to represent ("point out or draw attention to in protest") the poor working conditions of migrants building luxury towers.

The Latin "requisitus" is the past participle of the verb "requirere" which means "to require" or "to ask for" (and is also the root of "request").

While health officials can figure out that the drugs are responsible for the deaths, they can't figure out who's responsible ("held accountable"), since acetyl fentanyl is not legally distributed. Thus, the only responsible ("worthy of or requiring trust") thing the health officials can do for the public is issue announcements and warnings.

Compare with "consequence" (they have synonymous definitions as nouns, but "result" can also be a verb that means "end").

"Review" can also mean "look at again"--this might apply to the example sentence if the district office has looked at the materials before, but more likely, the school administrators would be asking for "a new appraisal or evaluation" that is "a formal or official examination."

The chosen definition does not include the image of the underground part of a plant that takes hold and begins to grow--this would give a clearer sense of the deep-rooted nature of violence that cannot simply be solved with reforms on gun laws.

Rule #1: Accept this basic generalization because it is true.
Rule #2: Believe this law concerning a natural phenomenon.
Rule #3: Regard this example as the norm.
Rule #4: Use this standard procedure for solving a class of problems.
Rule #5: Know who rules.

"Scan" also has a seemingly opposite definition: "make a wide, sweeping search of"--but for astronomers scanning the heavens, both actions fit.

Try to score a perfect 20 on the following test:
1) What do conductors and musicians often look at during performances?
2) What are you settling when you resent someone strong enough for retaliation?
3) What are the facts about an actual situation?
4) What is a set of 20 members called?

Aside from the comedian impersonating a politician, the humor in the sequence is that it connects to the chosen definition rather than to this definition: serial arrangement in which things follow in logical order.

"Series" and "sequence" are similar in their connections to time, but their different levels of meaning can be seen in their Latin roots ("sequi" means "to follow" and "serere" means "to join") and in this mathematical definition of "series": the sum of a finite or infinite sequence of expressions.

Similar definitions are: 1) an abstract collection of numbers or symbols; 2) several exercises intended to be done in series. "Set" can also be a verb that means: 1) locate; 2) insert; 3) arrange attractively; 4) decide upon or fix definitely; 5) get ready for a particular purpose; 6) establish as the highest level. As an adjective, "set" means 1) converted to solid form; 2) fixed and unmoving; 3) on the point of or strongly disposed to.

The chosen definition gives a strong use of the verb, but "show" can also refer to a vague action that means "give expression to" or "make visible or noticeable" (compare with "indicate").

The newly created Qualcomm logo is signal ("notably out of the ordinary") because it uses the letter Q and replaces the bottom stroke with the symbol of a lightning bolt. A dropped signal ("an electric quantity whose modulation represents coded information") could be a signal ("any incitement to action") to use Qualcomm's Quick Charge 2.0, but the need to do so signals ("be a symptom of") a phone-centric life.

Breaking "significance" down, especially into its Latin roots, connects it to the previous word: "signum" means "sign" and "facere" means "to make"--something with significance contains signs that can be a stated or indirect expression of a message or a signal of its importance.

Wikipedia is a convenient source ("a facility where something is available") of information, but it should not be seen as the source ("the place where something begins") of knowledge, because it is a secondary source created by lots of sources ("a person who supplies information") who rely on a variety of sources (this could include "a publication that is referred to" or a primary source who had participated in or observed the event).

Even if Bryce Harper has a skill that is specific to ("distinguishing something particular or special or unique") crushing walls, he, like most interviewed athletes who are members of teams, will often make general rather than specific statements about the game.

Another definition that fits the example sentence is "talk over conjecturally, or review in an idle or casual way." The Latin "specere" means "to look at" (compare with the verbs "observe" and "examine" and the noun "aspect"). Just as there are different ways of looking at something, "speculate" also has another definition that seems antonymous to the two already given: reflect deeply on a subject.

"Stance" also means "a standing posture" (from the Latin "stare" which means "to stand")--although the physical description does not fit the example sentence, it is suggested by the idea of standing behind one's stance, especially when one is the leader of a country.

Compare with "common"--the two can be synonymous adjectives, but "standard" also has an antonymous definition that connects to the example sentence: widely recognized as a model of authority or excellence.

"Statement" also means "an assertion offered as evidence that something is true"--both definitions fit, since the words in quotation marks are the actual statement, but the underlying message the Ukrainian President gives in posting onto his website is that his statement is true, despite accusations from the protesters.

Compare with "body"--although the given definitions use different words, they are synonymous. But the Latin "struere" means "to construct" so a structure can also be something that is deliberately built to create meaning, whether it's a school, the rules within the school, the grades and classes, or the elements of knowledge arranged into subjects such as Math, English, Science, etc.

Compare with "examine"--the given example sentences show the verbs can be synonymous. But the words also connect to seemingly opposite actions, since "examine" can mean "question closely" or "put to the test, as for its quality" while "study" can mean "think intently and at length, as for spiritual purposes" and "apply the mind to learn and understand a subject."

"Style" can also refer to any way of expression that is characteristic of music, writing, people, places, or things. And it can be directions or rules to be followed, especially editorial ones for spelling, punctuation, etc.

The subject ("the topic of a conversation or discussion") of the article is Chinese censorship. Its main point is that the political nature of Netflix's "House of Cards" makes it subject ("likely to be affected by something") to Chinese censorship. But unlike previous releases of books, fiction, and nonfiction (which are the grammatical subjects of the example sentence), "House of Cards" has so far been shown in its original entirety.

"Marry Him: The Case for Settling for Mr. Good Enough" is the title of a book that its author Lori Gottlieb hates because of the negative thoughts that the word "settle" suggests ("call to mind" or "imply as a possibility"). She suggested "How to settle for the perfect man" so that the focus is more positively on perfection, but the publisher refused, so she is now afraid people won't get past the title to read her suggestions within the book.

The chosen example sentence and definition are for "summary" as an adjective. As a noun, "summary" ("a brief statement that presents the main points") is directly related to the verb "summarize" and is similar to "sum" in its usual placement at the end.

The Latin "sub" means "from below" and "portare" means "to carry"--this idea can be seen more clearly in other definitions of "support": 1) carry the weight of; 2) argue or speak in defense of; 3) give moral or psychological aid or courage to.

As a noun, "survey" means
1) a detailed inspection or investigation.
2) a general or comprehensive view.
3) a gathering of a sample of data or opinions considered to be representative of a whole.

The Latin "terminus" means "boundary"--this idea can be seen in the definition of "term" as "a limited period of time." In terms of ("with regard to") contracts, a term is "a stipulation or condition that defines the nature and limits of an agreement." In terms of logic, a term is "each of the two concepts being compared or related in a proposition." In terms of math, a term is "any distinct quantity contained in a polynomial."

"Theme" also simply means "the subject matter of a conversation or discussion"--both definitions fit the example sentence because the same theme can be found in both a poem and an interactive blog of Ms. McCray. Another unrelated definition of "theme" is "an essay, especially one written as an assignment" (compare with "composition").

"Tone" can also mean 1) the quality of a person's voice; 2) the general atmosphere of a place or situation--all three definitions can fit since the focus is on President Obama's televised State of the Union address. As a future presidential candidate for the opposing political party, Senator Rubio deliberately used "tone" in a vague way to avoid offending either side.

Tracing the word to its roots reveals that "trace" comes from the Old French "tracier" which means "to make one's way" and that comes from the Latin "tractus" which means "a drawing"--the Old French connection can be seen in the chosen definition and in this one: discover indications that something has been present. The Latin connection can be seen in this definition: copy by following the lines of the original drawing.

The prefix "trans" connects to change, which can often be rough, but the focus of transitions, whether they're between states of government or paragraphs within an essay, is on smoothness.

Although the chosen definition is for a verb, "varied" is used as an adjective in the example sentence, which makes it synonymous with "variegated" which means "marked by variety."

Compare with "point of view" and "perspective"--with Latin roots that connect to sight ("specere" means "to look" and videre means "to see"), they are synonymous, but the word "point" points to a specific position from which something can be viewed, while a perspective can be a broader attitude.

"Voice" also means "the distinctive quality or pitch of a person's speech"--this definition is similar to "tone" but note the absence of the adjective "distinctive" since most writers try to develop a voice unique to them, even though they might use tones revealing their attitudes that are similar to those of other writers.