Vocabulary Unit 3 Choosing the Right Word

- is a noble human emotion, but in itself it is no substitute for vigorous efforts to help other people.

Commiseration

- was a common offense among Roman provincial governors, who, when asked how they made their fortunes, often replied, "In the provinces."

Peculation

Her mother - laziness of any kind and railed vehemently against sleeping in on Sundays.

abominated

It may be an exaggeration to say that American architect Frank Lloyd Wright - classical European building designs, but he certainly deviated from them.

abominated

Modern American society can justly be said to be the end point of the - of diverse groups of immigrants.

acculturation

His investments proved to be profitable, but they were - rather than the result of knowledge and planning.

adventitious

You are following an all too familiar pattern in - your failures to everyone except yourself.

ascribing

I was simply unable to follow the - reasoning by which she "proved" that a straight line is not necessarily the shortest distance between two points.

circuitous

This is a - route, but we avoid the traffic jams on the Interstate.

circuitous

They are conscientious objectors to military service because they are - by a deep personal conviction not to take a human life.

enjoined

The worst way I can think of to - this program would be to set up another new Committee on New Programs.

expedite

After he had seen the error of his ways, the villain attempted to - the dark deeds of his past by acts of kindness and mercy.

expiate

With the deadline fat approaching, the local newspaper office was in a - of last-minute activity and preparation.

ferment

An experienced politician always tries to avoid making - remarks that may offend some voters.

inadvertent

Although the Queen or King is the - head of state, the Prime Minister is the real leader of the British government.

nominal

When I spoke to Mother about going on the spring trip to Washington, her only reply was a - "We'll see."

noncommittal

I learned that I would have to make a choice between my strong aversion to hard work and my equally strong - for expensive living.

proclivity

Even criminals who - would crack under pressure when confronted by the legendary prosecuting attorney.

sangfroid

It is only in my fantasies that I display the - associated with movie heroes who are "as cool as a cucumber".

sangfroid

Our military is prepared to deal with external aggression, but out best defense against - at home is loyalty of the American people.

sedition

Experienced lawyers know that the line between literal truth and slight but significant distortion of facts is often a - one.

tenuous

Peace negotiations between the two countries were already - when the border dispute broke out.

tenuous

Although that critic is feared for - reviews, I have learned that there is usually a sound basis for her unfavorable judgements.

vitriolic

The sordid and - language from both candidates is offensive and takes the focus away from the issues.

vitriolic

Because he has been able to - almost anything he wants out of his parents, he is quite unprepared now to face the harsh realities of life.

wheedle