apocryphal [ uh’-POK-ruh’-fuh’ l ]
[adjective]
MEANING:
1. spurious; of doubtful authenticity
2. (often capitalised) of or pertaining to the apocrypha
The story may or may not be apocryphal but it reminds us that countries are created in the hearts and minds of men and women.
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The parable of “the Prodigal son,” although probably apocryphal teaches us a wonderful lesson of the power of forgiveness.
doughty [ DOU-tee ]
[adjective]
MEANING:
valiant, courageous or brave
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The doughty soldier was admired by his juniors.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The scant well-judged comment has come from editorials in three quality broadsheets and the doughty Financial Times.
anguish [ ANG-gwish ]
[noun,intransitive verb,transitive verb]
MEANING:
- (n.) intense suffering or pain
2. (tr.v.) to inflict with or cause distress or extreme pain
3. (intr.v.) to suffer from or endure intense sorrow or pain
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The mental anguish suffered by the POWs continued even after their release.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
New Delhi has warned the Australian government of the “deep anguish” over the attacks, and stated that the lucrative Indian education market could suffer.
advert [ ad-VURT ]
[intransitive verb]
MEANING:
1. to direct attention
2. focus on
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
After a brief introduction, the Chairman adverted to the main topic of recession and its effect on the company’s profitability.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Commissioner adverted to this issue in his Annual Report for 2001.
uxorious [ uhk-SAWR-ee-uh’s ]
[adjective]
MEANING:
1. affectionately submissive toward one’s wife
2. foolishly doting upon one’s wife
3. characterized by excess devotion to one’s wife
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The uxorious husband refused to believe that his wife was anything but perfect in spite of the complaints from the neighbours.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Even the uxorious Ralph Verne, a gentleman whose correspondence has survived, was apparently unfaithful to his wife.