April 29, 2024

Tennessee just became the first state to protect musicians and other artists against AI

*1.  launchpad [LAWNCH-pad]* > something that provides someone an opportunity to start a business, career, campaign, etc.

*Additional info* : This word is often followed by the preposition for.

*2.  replicate [REP-li-keyt]* >  to repeat or copy something accurately

*Additional info* : This verb is used in a formal context.

*3.  uniqueness [yoo-NEEK-nis]*  >  the quality of being rare, different, or special in some way

*Additional info* : The adjective form of this word is unique (ex. The city’s culture is unique).

*4.  scrape  [skreyp]* > (in computers) to get or collect information from a website, etc. using a special computer program

*Additional info* : The verb can also mean “to remove something from a surface by rubbing an object or tool against it.”

*5.  anomaly [uh–NOM–uh-lee]* >  a person, thing, or event that is different from what’s usual and therefore not satisfactory

*Additional info* : This noun is used in a formal context.

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1.  launchpad [LAWNCH-pad] > something that provides someone an opportunity to start a business, career, campaign, etc.

2.  replicate [REP-li-keyt] >  to repeat or copy something accurately

3.  uniqueness [yoo-NEEK-nis] >  the quality of being rare, different, or special in some way

4.  scrape  [skreyp] > (in computers) to get or collect information from a website, etc. using a special computer program

5.  anomaly [uh–NOM–uh-lee] >  a person, thing, or event that is different from what’s usual and therefore not satisfactory

April 28, 2024

  AT&T says a data breach leaked millions of customers' information online. Were you affected?

*1.  data breach  [DEY-tuh breech]* >a situation in which private information can be seen or accessed by people illegally

*Additional info* : The word breach means “an act of breaking a law, promise, agreement, or relationship.”

*2.  passcode [PAS-kohd]* > a secret series of characters, typically used to gain access to a computer system, mobile device, or online account

*Additional info* : A related word is password.

3.  surface [SUR-fis] > to appear or become known, especially after being hidden or not easily noticed

*Additional info* : A related word is emerge.

*4.  resemble [ri-ZEM-buhl]* > to look like something or have a similar appearance as something else

*Additional info* : An antonym of this word is differ.

*5.  suspicious [suh–SPISH–uhs]* > causing doubt or a feeling that something is wrong

*Additional info*  : The noun form of the word is suspicion (ex. I have a suspicion that this email is an attempt to hack my account).

____

1.  data breach  [DEY-tuh breech] >a situation in which private information can be seen or accessed by people illegally

2.  passcode [PAS-kohd] > a secret series of characters, typically used to gain access to a computer system, mobile device, or online account

3.  surface [SUR-fis] > to appear or become known, especially after being hidden or not easily noticed

4.  resemble [ri-ZEM-buhl] > to look like something or have a similar appearance as something else

5.  suspicious [suh–SPISH–uhs] > causing doubt or a feeling that something is wrong

April 27, 2024

 Chick-fil-A backtracks from its no-antibiotics-in-chicken pledge, blames projected supply shortages

*1.  backtrack  [BAK-trak]*  >  to completely change the opinion or promise that one gave about something

*Additional info* : This verb literally means “to return by the same way or to go back over a path.”

*2.  resistance  [ri-ZIS-tuhns]*  >  the ability to stop anything from having an effect

*Additional info* : The verb form of the word is resist (ex. Doctors may need to switch medications if a patient’s body begins to resist the current treatment).

*3.  livestock [LAHYV-stok]*  >  animals that are kept on a farm, such as cows, sheep, chickens, and pigs

*Additional info* : The plural form of this word is also livestock.

*4.  profitability  [prah-fih-tuh–BIL–uh-tee]*  >  a situation in which a business or an activity is producing a profit

*Additional info* : Some verbs used with this word are boost, improve, and increase.

*5.  mount  [mount]* > to gradually increase in amount or degree

*Additional info* : A related word is rise.

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1.  backtrack  [BAK-trak]  >  to completely change the opinion or promise that one gave about something

2.  resistance  [ri-ZIS-tuhns]  >  the ability to stop anything from having an effect

3.  livestock [LAHYV-stok]  >  animals that are kept on a farm, such as cows, sheep, chickens, and pigs

4.  profitability  [prah-fih-tuh–BIL–uh-tee]  >  a situation in which a business or an activity is producing a profit

5.  mount  [mount] > to gradually increase in amount or degree

April 26, 2027

 

Facebook News tab becomes unavailable as Meta scales back news and political content

*1.  sunset  [SUHN-set]* > to end or stop something over time

*Additional info* : This word is usually used in a business or legal context.

*2.  curate  [KYOOR-eyt]* >  to carefully select and organize things, such as artwork, products, or internet content into a collection, list, or on a website

*Additional info*  Some related words are arrange and gather.

*3.  scale back  [skeyl bak]* >  to reduce the size, extent, or quantity of something

*Additional info* : A variation of this phrase is scale down.

*4.  polarization  [poh-ler-uh–ZEY-shuhn]* > the act of dividing something, such as people, opinions, or beliefs, into opposing groups

*Additional info*  A related word is separation.

*5.  envision  [en-VIZH–uhn]* > to imagine or think about something that is expected to happen in the future, usually something good or positive

* Additional info* : A related word is predict.

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*1.  sunset  [SUHN-set]* > to end or stop something over time

*2.  curate  [KYOOR-eyt]* >  to carefully select and organize things, such as artwork, products, or internet content into a collection, list, or on a website

*3.  scale back  [skeyl bak]* >  to reduce the size, extent, or quantity of something

*4.  polarization  [poh-ler-uh–ZEY-shuhn]* > the act of dividing something, such as people, opinions, or beliefs, into opposing groups

*5.  envision  [en-VIZH–uhn]* > to imagine or think about something that is expected to happen in the future, usually something good or positive

April 25, 2025

 Lego head mugshots add to California’s debate on policing and privacy

1.  mugshot [MUHG-shot]  >  a photo of a person's face, often taken by the police to keep a record after an arrest

Additional info: An alternative spelling of this word is mug shot.

2.  transparency  [trans-PAIR–uhn-see ] > the quality of being open and honest, with no secret or hidden information

Additional info: The adjective form of this word is transparent (ex. The government has been transparent about its projects by providing regular updates through the media).

3.  bolster  [BOHL-ster ]  > to support or make something stronger and better

Additional info: Some related words are help and improve.

4.  presumption [pri-ZUHMP-shuhn]  >  a belief that something is true without having definite proof

Additional info: The verb form of this word is presume (ex. She presumed the movie would be boring, but she ended up enjoying it).

*5.  haunt  [hawnt]* > to keep making someone worried, upset, or sad by coming back into his/her thoughts often

*Additional info* : A related word is bother.

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1.  mugshot [MUHG-shot]  >  a photo of a person's face, often taken by the police to keep a record after an arrest

2.  transparency  [trans-PAIR–uhn-see ] > the quality of being open and honest, with no secret or hidden information

3.  bolster  [BOHL-ster ]  > to support or make something stronger and better

4.  presumption [pri-ZUHMP-shuhn]  >  a belief that something is true without having definite proof

5.  haunt  [hawnt] > to keep making someone worried, upset, or sad by coming back into his/her thoughts often

April 24, 2024

 Gardening bloomed during the pandemic, now garden centers want to keep interest up

*1.  volatile [VOL–uh-tl]* > likely to change suddenly and unexpectedly

*Additional info* : An antonym of this word is stable

*2.  citrus  [SI-truhs]* > any of a group of plants that produce sour fruits with a lot of juice

*Additional info* : Some examples of citrus fruits are orange and tangerine.

*3.  into high gear  [IN-too hahy geer]*  >  to start working or operating at a faster, more intense pace

*Additional info* : A variation of this phrase is in high gear.

*4.  offset  [awf-SET]* >  to compensate for something by exerting or applying an opposite force or effect

*Additional info* : A related word is balance.

*5.  stress  [stres]* > to give an emphasis to a statement, fact, or idea

*Additional info* : A related word is emphasize.

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1.  volatile [VOL–uh-tl] > likely to change suddenly and unexpectedly

2.  citrus  [SI-truhs] > any of a group of plants that produce sour fruits with a lot of juice

3.  into high gear  [IN-too hahy geer]  >  to start working or operating at a faster, more intense pace

4.  offset  [awf-SET] >  to compensate for something by exerting or applying an opposite force or effect

5.  stress  [stres] > to give an emphasis to a statement, fact, or idea

April 23, 2024

AI robot monitors the health of tulips in fields

*1.  root out something [root out]*  >  to identify the cause of a problem and remove it

*Additional info* : A variation of this phrase is root (something) out.

*2.  diseased  [dih-ZEEZD]*  >  suffering from a disease or illness

*Additional info* : A related word is unhealthy.

*3.  trundle  [TRUHN-dl]*  >  to move on wheels slowly

*Additional info* : Without an object, the word is always followed by an adverb or a preposition (ex. trundle off, trundle through).

*4.  stunt [stuhnt]*  >  to prevent someone or something from growing or developing

*Additional info* : Some related verbs are limit and restrict.

*5.  hefty  [HEF-tee]* > very large in amount, size, etc.

*Additional info* : A related word is huge.

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1.  root out something [root out]  >  to identify the cause of a problem and remove it

2.  diseased  [dih-ZEEZD]  >  suffering from a disease or illness

3.  trundle  [TRUHN-dl]  >  to move on wheels slowly

4.  stunt [stuhnt]  >  to prevent someone or something from growing or developing

5.  hefty  [HEF-tee] > very large in amount, size, etc.

April 22, 2024

McDonald’s apologizes for global system outage that shut down some stores for hours

*1.  cybersecurity  [sahy-ber-si-KYOOR-i-tee]*  >  the state of being protected against attacks or illegal access of information on computers and the web

*Additional info* : The prefix cyber- means “relating to or involving computers, especially messages and information on the internet.”

*2.  configuration  [kuhn-fig-yuh–REY-shuhn]*  >  the arrangement or setup of a computer system’s software and hardware for a specific purpose

*Additional info* : The verb form of the noun is configure (ex. The IT specialist configured the laptop).

*3. reliability  [ri-lahy-uh–BIL-i-tee]* >  the quality of being able to be trusted to do or provide what’s needed

*Additional info* : The adjective form of the noun is reliable (ex. I’m not sure if the app is reliable).

*4.  cloud [kloud ]*  >  a large computer network or system in which information can be saved when connected to the internet

*Additional info* : Some tech companies that offer cloud services are Microsoft, Google, and Apple.

*5.  optimize  [OP-tuh-mahyz]* > to produce or do something in the best or most effective way possible

*Additional info*  : This verb is used in a formal context.

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1.  cybersecurity  [sahy-ber-si-KYOOR-i-tee]  >  the state of being protected against attacks or illegal access of information on computers and the web

2.  configuration  [kuhn-fig-yuh–REY-shuhn ]  >  the arrangement or setup of a computer system’s software and hardware for a specific purpose

3. reliability  [ri-lahy-uh–BIL-i-tee] >  the quality of being able to be trusted to do or provide what’s needed

4.  cloud [kloud ]  >  a large computer network or system in which information can be saved when connected to the internet

5.  optimize  [OP-tuh-mahyz] > to produce or do something in the best or most effective way possible

April 21, 2024

 April 21, 2024

A new kind of hospital is coming to rural America. To qualify, facilities must close their beds

*1.  rural  [ROOR–uhl]*  >   relating to or connected with the countryside rather than the city

*Additional info* : An antonym of this word is urban.

*2.  take root  [teyk root]*  >   (of a belief, system, or idea) to become widely accepted

*Additional info* : The literal meaning of this phrase is “(of a plant) to develop and grow roots.”

*3.  inpatient  [IN-pey-shuhnt]*  >   a patient who stays in a hospital or other healthcare facility for treatment or observation for a certain period

*Additional info* : This word is often used before another noun (ex. inpatient surgery, inpatient treatment). The antonym of this word is outpatient.

*4.  margin of error  [MAHR-jin uhv ER-er]*  >   an extra amount of something that's allowed in case the calculation is wrong

*Additional info* : The literal meaning of the word margin is “the empty space at the side of a page.”

*5.  ironic [ahy-RON-ik]* >  describing a situation in which events occur in a way that seems opposite to what was expected

*Additional info* : The noun form of the word is irony (ex. It’s an irony that some mental health professionals don’t take care of their own mental well-being).

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1.  rural  [ROOR–uhl]  >   relating to or connected with the countryside rather than the city

2.  take root  [teyk root]  >   (of a belief, system, or idea) to become widely accepted

3.  inpatient  [IN-pey-shuhnt]  >   a patient who stays in a hospital or other healthcare facility for treatment or observation for a certain period

4.  margin of error  [MAHR-jin uhv ER-er]  >   an extra amount of something that's allowed in case the calculation is wrong

5.  ironic [ahy-RON-ik] >  describing a situation in which events occur in a way that seems opposite to what was expected

April 20, 2024

 Recycling electronics to reduce E-Waste in Kenya

*1.  prize  [prahyz]* >  to value someone or something highly

*Additional info* : A related word is appreciate.

*2.  sift [sift]*  >  to examine or check something very carefully to find something useful or valuable

*Additional info* : This word is often followed by the preposition through.

*3.  be on the lookout for  [on thuh LOOK-out fawr]*  >  to search for someone or something

*Additional info* : A variation of this idiom is keep a lookout for.

*4.  make a dent in something [meyk uh dent in]*  >  to lower or decrease the amount of something

*Additional info* : A variation of this idiom is put a dent in (something).

*5. refurbish [ree-FUR-bish]* > repair and improve something

*Additional info* : A related word is repair.

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1.  prize  [prahyz] >  to value someone or something highly

2.  sift [sift]  >  to examine or check something very carefully to find something useful or valuable

3.  be on the lookout for  [on thuh LOOK-out fawr]  >  to search for someone or something

4.  make a dent in something [meyk uh dent in]  >  to lower or decrease the amount of something

5. refurbish [ree-FUR-bish] > repair and improve something

April 19, 2024

 A pioneering bill to slow fast fashion gets approval from France’s lower house. Next stop, the Senate

*1.  pioneering  [pahy-uh–NEER-ing]* > using or introducing new and better ideas or methods that have never been used before

*Additional info* : The verb form of this word is pioneer (ex. The company pioneers new technologies to improve smartphones).

*2.  influx [IN-fluhks]*  >  a large increase in the number of people or things coming into or becoming available in a place

*Additional info* : A related word is arrival.

*3.  greenlight [GREEN-lahyt]*  >  to approve or give permission for something to proceed, especially a project, plan, or proposal

*Additional info* : An alternative spelling of this word is green-light.

*4.  stringent \ [STRIN-juhnt]*  >  very strict and must be followed carefully, often used to describe regulations, commands, or standards

*Additional info* : Some related words are tough and severe.

*5.  levy  [LEV-e]*  >  the amount of money that must be paid to a government or organization

*Additional info* : A related word is tax.

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1.  pioneering  [pahy-uh–NEER-ing] > using or introducing new and better ideas or methods that have never been used before

2.  influx [IN-fluhks]  >  a large increase in the number of people or things coming into or becoming available in a place

3.  greenlight [GREEN-lahyt]  >  to approve or give permission for something to proceed, especially a project, plan, or proposal

4.  stringent  [STRIN-juhnt]  >  very strict and must be followed carefully, often used to describe regulations, commands, or standards

5.  levy  [LEV-e*  >  the amount of money that must be paid to a government or organization

April 18, 2024

 Judge denies Apple’s attempt to dismiss a class-action lawsuit over AirTag stalking

*1.  motion  [MOH-shuhn]* > a formal request made to a judge or court, asking for a decision or action on a specific matter

*Additional info* : A related word is proposal.

*2.  keep tabs on something [keep tabz on]*  >  to watch or pay attention to something very closely, usually to know about its activities or locations

*Additional info* : This idiom is usually used in an informal context.

*3.  inadequate  [in-AD-i-kwit]*  >  not enough or low in quantity, quality, or extent

*Additional info* : The adverb form of this word is inadequately (ex. The project was inadequately completed and failed to meet the client’s needs).

*4.  deter  [dih-TUR]*  >  to prevent something from happening

*Additional info* : A related word is avoid.

*5.  prolong [pruh–LAWNG]*  >  to make something last longer

*Additional info* : Some related words are delay and extend.

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1.  motion  [MOH-shuhn] > a formal request made to a judge or court, asking for a decision or action on a specific matter

2.  keep tabs on something [keep tabz on]  >  to watch or pay attention to something very closely, usually to know about its activities or locations

3.  inadequate  [in-AD-i-kwit]  >  not enough or low in quantity, quality, or extent

4.  deter  [dih-TUR]  >  to prevent something from happening

5.  prolong [pruh–LAWNG]  >  to make something last longer

April 17, 2024

 Cows join horses and dogs for human-animal therapy

*1.  therapy  [THER–uh-pee]* > a treatment that aims to relieve or heal a physical or mental condition

*Additional info* : The adjective form of the word is therapeutic (ex. Listening to music is therapeutic for some patients).

*2.  on the fence [on thuh fens]* > not able to decide which side of an argument one supports, or what his/her opinion is about something

*Additional info* : A related word is uncertain.

*3.  infancy [IN-fuhn-see]* > the very early stage of development or existence, especially in the life of a person or organization

*Additional info* : Its root word is infant, which means “baby or a very young child.”

*4.  stipulate  [STIP-yuh-leyt]* > to specify or demand something as an essential condition of an agreement, contract, or arrangement

*Additional info* : A related word is require.

*5.  vulnerable [VUHL-ner-uh-buhl]* > easily hurt or harmed physically, emotionally, or mentally

*Additional info* : A related word is weak.

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1.  therapy  [THER–uh-pee] > a treatment that aims to relieve or heal a physical or mental condition

2.  on the fence [on thuh fens] > not able to decide which side of an argument one supports, or what his/her opinion is about something

3.  infancy [IN-fuhn-see] > the very early stage of development or existence, especially in the life of a person or organization

4.  stipulate  [STIP-yuh-leyt] > to specify or demand something as an essential condition of an agreement, contract, or arrangement.

5.  vulnerable [VUHL-ner-uh-buhl] > easily hurt or harmed physically, emotionally, or mentally

April 16, 2024

Australian consumers joining local cooperative to keep food costs down

*1.  co-op  [KOH-op]*  >  a business, shop, or organization that’s owned and managed by a group of people who also work in it or uses its services

*Additional info* : This word is short for cooperative.

*2.  wholesale  [HOHL-seyl]*  >  in large amounts or quantities, so that businesses can sell the products or items to make a profit

*Additional info* : The word may also function as an adjective (ex. wholesale price, wholesale business).

*3.  grower [GROH-er]*  >   someone who grows or produces fruits or vegetables to sell them

*Additional info* : The word may also be used with another noun to specify its kind (ex. coffee growers, apple growers).

*4.  pushback [POOSH-bak]*  >  the act of opposing something, such as a plan, idea, or a change

*Additional info* : The word literally means “the action of forcing an object backward.”

*5.  so as to [soh uhz too]* > in order to

*Additional info* : This idiom is always followed by an infinitive.

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1.  co-op  [KOH-op]  >  a business, shop, or organization that’s owned and managed by a group of people who also work in it or uses its services

2.  wholesale  [HOHL-seyl]  >  in large amounts or quantities, so that businesses can sell the products or items to make a profit

3.  grower [GROH-er]  >   someone who grows or produces fruits or vegetables to sell them

4.  pushback [POOSH-bak]  >  the act of opposing something, such as a plan, idea, or a change

5.  so as to [soh uhz too] > in order to

April 15, 2024

 Trader Joe’s $3 mini totes went viral on TikTok. Now, they’re reselling for hundreds

*1.  stir  [stur]*  >  a state of interest, excitement, or surprise among a group of people

* Additional info* : Some verbs usually used with stir are cause or create (ex. cause a stir, create a stir).

*2.  coveted [KUHV-i-tid]*  >  relating to something that many people desire or want to have

*Additional info* : Its verb form is covet (ex. Hundreds of students covet the scholarship from the university).

*3.  embroidery  [em-BROI-duh-ree]*  >  a design, such as a pattern or a picture, sewn onto cloth

*Additional info* : Image of an embroidery: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/images/full/embroi_noun_002_12324.jpg?version=5.0.389

*4.  condone [kuhn-DOHN]*  >  to accept or approve behavior that is considered wrong

*Additional info* : This verb is often used in negative statements. It’s always followed by an object.

*5.  scarcity  [SKAIR-si-tee]* > a situation in which there is very little supply of something

*Additional info*: Its adjective form is scarce (ex. Clean water is scarce in the poor town).

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*1.  stir  [stur]*  >  a state of interest, excitement, or surprise among a group of people

*2.  coveted [KUHV-i-tid]*  >  relating to something that many people desire or want to have

*3.  embroidery  [em-BROI-duh-ree]*  >  a design, such as a pattern or a picture, sewn onto cloth

*4.  condone [kuhn-DOHN]*  >  to accept or approve behavior that is considered wrong

*5.  scarcity  [SKAIR-si-tee]* > a situation in which there is very little supply of something

April 14, 2024

 Libraries struggle to afford the demand for e-books, seek new state laws in fight with publishers

*1.  grapple [GRAP–uhl]* > to try hard to solve or deal with a difficult problem or situation

*Additional info* : This word is usually followed by the preposition with.

*2.  haggle  [HAG–uhl]* > to negotiate over the price or terms of something

Additional info: A related word is bargain.

*3.  modestly [MOD-ist-lee]* > to a moderate degree; in a way that is not excessive or extreme

*Additional info* : A related word is moderately.

*4.  rein in something [reyn in]*  >  to control or limit something, typically to prevent it from becoming too extreme or out of control

*Additional info* : A variation of this phrase is rein (something) in.

*5.  intellectual property  [in-tl-EK-choo-uhl PROP-er-tee]* > idea, invention, etc., that someone has made and has the right to sell and is protected by the law

*Additional info* : The short term for this word is IP.

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1.  grapple [GRAP–uhl] > to try hard to solve or deal with a difficult problem or situation

2.  haggle  [HAG–uhl] > to negotiate over the price or terms of something

3.  modestly [MOD-ist-lee] > to a moderate degree; in a way that is not excessive or extreme

4.  rein in something [reyn in]  >  to control or limit something, typically to prevent it from becoming too extreme or out of control

5.  intellectual property  [in-tl-EK-choo-uhl PROP-er-tee] > idea, invention, etc., that someone has made and has the right to sell and is protected by the law

April 13, 2024

 South Korea criticizes senior doctors for threatening to resign to support their juniors’ walkouts

*1.  threaten  [THRET-n]*  >   to say that one will do something unpleasant to make others do what he/she wants

*Additional info* : A related verb is scare.

*2.  walkout [WAWK-out]*   >   a situation in which workers refuse to go to work or stop working as a form of protest

*Additional info* : The phrasal verb form of the word is walk out (ex. The employees walked out after the announcement of pay cuts).

*3.  abrupt [uh–BRUHPT]*  >   very sudden and not expected

*Additional info* : A related adjective is quick.

*4.  affiliated  [uh–FIL-ee-ey-tid]*  >   relating to someone or something that is officially connected with or controlled by a larger organization

*Additional info* : Its noun form is affiliate (ex. The company is only hiring staff from its affiliates).

*5.  en masse [ahn MAS]*  >  all together and at the same time, in large numbers

*Additional info* : The adverb is of French origin. It literally means “in a mass.”

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1.  threaten  [THRET-n]  >   to say that one will do something unpleasant to make others do what he/she wants

2.  walkout [WAWK-out]   >   a situation in which workers refuse to go to work or stop working as a form of protest

3.  abrupt [uh–BRUHPT]  >   very sudden and not expected

4.  affiliated  [uh–FIL-ee-ey-tid]  >   relating to someone or something that is officially connected with or controlled by a larger organization

5.  en masse [ahn MAS]  >  all together and at the same time, in large numbers

April 12, 2024

 Honda and Nissan agree to work together in developing electric vehicles and intelligent technology

*1.  core [kawr]* > most important or most basic

*Additional info* : A related word is main.

*2.  synergy  [SIN-er-jee]* > the combined power that comes from two or more people or things working together, achieving a better result

*Additional info* : Some verbs that can be used with synergy are create, deliver, or generate.

*3.  formidable [FAWR-mi-duh-buhl]*  >  very strong, powerful, and impressive, making it difficult to deal with if it opposes you

*Additional info* : This word also means “very large in amount or size” (ex. The project required a formidable budget to make all the necessary changes).

*4.  combustion engine  [kuhm-BUHS-chuhn EN-juhn]* >   a type of engine that generates power by burning fuel, usually used for cars and other vehicles

*Additional info* : A variation of this noun is internal combustion engine.

*5.  in the works  [in thuh wurks]* >  in the process of being planned, developed, or worked on, and will happen or be completed in the future

*Additional info* : This is usually used in an informal context.

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1.  core [kawr] > most important or most basic

2.  synergy  [SIN-er-jee] > the combined power that comes from two or more people or things working together, achieving a better result

3.  formidable [FAWR-mi-duh-buhl]  >  very strong, powerful, and impressive, making it difficult to deal with if it opposes you

4.  combustion engine  [kuhm-BUHS-chuhn EN-juhn] >   a type of engine that generates power by burning fuel, usually used for cars and other vehicles

5.  in the works  [in thuh wurks] >  in the process of being planned, developed, or worked on, and will happen or be completed in the future

April 11, 2024

At US universities, record numbers of Indian students seek brighter prospects—and overseas jobs

*1.  eightfold  [EYT-fohld]* > eight times the amount or size

*Additional info* : The suffix -fold means “(a specific number) times the amount or size” (ex. tenfold, sevenfold).

*2.  stepping stone [STEP-ing stohn]*  > an event or experience that helps someone make progress or achieve something

*Additional info* : Alternative spellings of this word are steppingstone and stepping-stone.

*3.  boon  [boon]*  >  something that benefits or helps someone or something

*Additional info* : A related word is advantage.

*4.  ebb [eb]*  >  to gradually drop or lessen, often referring to an emotion, quality, or situation

*Additional info* : A related word is decrease.

*5.  aspiration  [as-puh–REY-shuhn]*  >  a strong desire, goal, or dream that someone hopes to achieve in the future

*Additional info* : The adjective form of this word is aspirational (ex. Jordan maintains an aspirational attitude, always aiming for excellence and success).

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1.  eightfold  [EYT-fohld] > eight times the amount or size

2.  stepping stone [STEP-ing stohn ] > an event or experience that helps someone make progress or achieve something

3.  boon  [boon ] >  something that benefits or helps someone or something

4.  ebb  [eb ] >  to gradually drop or lessen, often referring to an emotion, quality, or situation

5.  aspiration [as-puh–REY-shuhn ] >  a strong desire, goal, or dream that someone hopes to achieve in the future

April 10, 2024

Immerse yourself in an entire digital amusement park in Saudi Arabia

*1.  navigate  [NAV-i-geyt]*   >   to walk or find one’s way when going from one place to another

*Additional info* : Another meaning of the word is “to sail along, over, or through a sea, river, etc.”

*2.  scavenger hunt  [SKAV-in-jer huhnt]* >   a game or activity in which players are challenged to collect a list of specific items within a set time frame

*Additional info* : The verb scavenge means “to search for and collect discarded items or useful materials.”

*3.  augmented reality  [AWG-men-tid ree-AL-i-tee]*  >   an improved image of a real-world environment through the use of computer-generated images

*Additional info* : An example of augmented reality as shown in a picture: https://images.theconversation.com/files/245627/original/file-20181114-194494-1p82jkx.jpg

*4.  distinct  [dih-STINGKT]*  >   different or unique in a noticeable way

*Additional info* : An antonym of this word is similar.

*5.  meme  [meem]* >  an idea, image, video, etc., that is spread very quickly on the internet, often with small changes to make it funny or humorous

*Additional info* : An example of a meme: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d4/MONDAY-Meme_Dsc5436.png/640px-MONDAY-Meme_Dsc5436.png

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1.  navigate  [NAV-i-geyt]   >   to walk or find one’s way when going from one place to another

2.  scavenger hunt / [SKAV-in-jer huhnt] >   a game or activity in which players are challenged to collect a list of specific items within a set time frame

3.  augmented reality  [AWG-men-tid ree-AL-i-tee]  >   an improved image of a real-world environment through the use of computer-generated images

4.  distinct  [dih-STINGKT]  >   different or unique in a noticeable way

5.  meme  [meem] >  an idea, image, video, etc., that is spread very quickly on the internet, often with small changes to make it funny or humorous

April 9, 2024

How plastic-eating worms could be solution to Southeast Asia’s waste problem

*1.  mass-produce  [MAS-pruh–DOOS]* >  to produce something in very large amounts, often using machines

*Additional info* : Its noun form is mass production (ex. The mass production of crops often requires farmers to use heavy machines and chemicals).

*2.  harness  [HAHR-nis]* >  to collect and control something for a particular purpose

*Additional info* : Some nouns that can be used with this word are energy, ideas, and skills.

*3.  impractical  [im-PRAK-ti-kuhl]* > not useful or able to provide effective solutions

*Additional info* : An antonym of this word is practical.

*4.  feast on something [feest on]*  >  to eat a lot of food with so much enjoyment

*Additional info* : A variation of this phrase is feast upon (something).

*5.  perforated [PUR-fuh-rey-tid]* >  having a hole or series of holes

*Additional info* : A related word is broken.

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1.  mass-produce  [MAS-pruh–DOOS] >  to produce something in very large amounts, often using machines

2.  harness  [HAHR-nis] >  to collect and control something for a particular purpose

3.  impractical  [im-PRAK-ti-kuhl] > not useful or able to provide effective solutions

4.  feast on something [feest on] >  to eat a lot of food with so much enjoyment

5.  perforated [PUR-fuh-rey-tid] >  having a hole or series of holes

April 8, 2024

The Body Shop ceases US operations, with plans to close dozens of stores in the UK and Canada

*1.  commence  [kuh–MENS]* >  to begin or start

*Additional info* : This verb is used in a formal context.

*2.  liquidation  [lik-wi-DEY-shuhn]*  >   the process of closing a business, in which the business can sell what it owns to pay its debts

*Additional info* : Its verb form is liquidate (ex. The company had to liquidate its assets after years of financial problems).

*3.  restructuring [ree-STRUHK-cher-ing]*  >   the act or process of organizing a company, business, or system in a new way to make its operation more effective

*Additional info* : Its verb form is restructure (ex. The company restructured its transaction processes).

*4.  insolvency [in-SOL-vuhn-see]*  >  (especially of a company) the condition or situation of not having enough money to pay debts, buy items, etc.

*Additional info* : In British English, the word insolvency practitioner refers to “a person or company that is legally able to help a company or organization that does not have enough money to pay debts.”

*5.  pursuant to [per-SOO–uhnt too]* >  in a way that agrees with or follows something

*Additional info* : A related preposition is according to.

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1.  commence  [kuh–MENS] >  to begin or start

2.  liquidation  [lik-wi-DEY-shuhn]  >   the process of closing a business, in which the business can sell what it owns to pay its debts

3.  restructuring [ree-STRUHK-cher-ing]  >   the act or process of organizing a company, business, or system in a new way to make its operation more effective

4.  insolvency [in-SOL-vuhn-see]  >  (especially of a company) the condition or situation of not having enough money to pay debts, buy items, etc.

5.  pursuant to [per-SOO–uhnt too] >  in a way that agrees with or follows something

April 7, 2024

Pencils down: SATs are going all digital, and students have mixed reviews of the new format

*1.  digital native  [DIJ-i-tl NEY-tiv]* > someone who’s skilled at using digital tools such as computers, smartphones, etc., because he/she has grown up with them

*Additional info* : A person who learned computers, the internet, etc., as a young adult or later in life is called a digital immigrant.

*2.  backer  [BAK-er]* > a person or group that gives support to something, such as a project, idea, or cause

*Additional info* : A related word is supporter.

*3.  upside [UHP-sahyd]* > the positive aspect of a situation

*Additional info* : Some related words are advantage and benefit. The antonym of this word is downside.

*4.  biased [BAHY-uhst]* > unfairly preferring or supporting one person, group, or idea over another

*Additional info* : The noun form of the word is bias (ex. The hiring process showed a bias toward candidates with connections to the company).

*5.  nerve-wracking [NURV-rak-ing]* > causing a lot of anxiety or stress

*Additional info* : An alternative spelling of the word is nerve-racking.

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1.  digital native  [DIJ-i-tl NEY-tiv] > someone who’s skilled at using digital tools such as computers, smartphones, etc., because he/she has grown up with them

2.  backer  [BAK-er] > a person or group that gives support to something, such as a project, idea, or cause

3.  upside [UHP-sahyd] > the positive aspect of a situation

4.  biased [BAHY-uhst] > unfairly preferring or supporting one person, group, or idea over another

5.  nerve-wracking [NURV-rak-ing] > causing a lot of anxiety or stress

April 6, 2024

 Autonomous robot takeaway delivery arrives in Tokyo

*1.  whiz [wiz]* >  to move quickly while producing a buzzing sound

*Additional info* : This verb is used in an informal context. In British English, it is spelled as whizz.

*2.  crosswalk  [KRAWS-wawk]*  >  an area on the road marked with painted lines for people to walk across safely

*Additional info* : It is also called a pedestrian crossing.

*3.  dodge [doj]*  >  to move quickly to one side to avoid being hit by someone or something

*Additional info* : Another meaning of the word is “to avoid something unpleasant.”

*4.  collision  [kuh–LIZH–uhn]*  >  an accident in which two things or people, moving in different directions, hit each other

*Additional info* : This word is usually used in the phrases collision between (something) and (something) and collision with (someone/something).

*5.  embed  [em-BED]* > to place a computer or a piece of electric equipment inside a product to control how it works

*Additional info* : This verb can also be spelled as imbed.

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1.  whiz [wiz] >  to move quickly while producing a buzzing sound

2.  crosswalk  [KRAWS-wawk]  >  an area on the road marked with painted lines for people to walk across safely

3.  dodge [doj]  >  to move quickly to one side to avoid being hit by someone or something

4.  collision  [kuh–LIZH–uhn ]  >  an accident in which two things or people, moving in different directions, hit each other

5.  embed  [em-BED] > to place a computer or a piece of electric equipment inside a product to control how it works

April 5, 2024

 ‘Dragon Ball’ creator Akira Toriyama dies at 68

*1.  influence  [IN-floo-uhns]*  >  to have an effect on someone or something, often in a way that changes their behavior, thoughts, or actions

*Additional info* : A related word is inspire.

*2.  adaptation [ad-uhp-TEY-shuhn]*  >  a movie, TV show, or play that is based on a book, story, or other source material

*Additional info* : The verb form of this word is adapt (ex. The TV network adapted the popular book into a TV series).

*3.  condolence [kuhn-DOH-luhns]*  >   an expression of sadness and sympathy for the family or friends of a person who has recently died

*Additional info* : This word is usually used in plural form.

*4.  spotlight  [SPOT-lahyt]*  >   public attention toward a particular person, event, issue, or topic

*Additional info* : This word literally means “a bright circle light that shines on someone or something to make them easily seen, usually on a stage performance.”

*5.  quest [kwest]*  >   a long journey of searching for something difficult to find

*Additional info* : A related word is adventure.

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1.  influence  [IN-floo-uhns]  >  to have an effect on someone or something, often in a way that changes their behavior, thoughts, or actions

2.  adaptation [ad-uhp-TEY-shuhn]  >  a movie, TV show, or play that is based on a book, story, or other source material

3.  condolence [kuhn-DOH-luhns]  >   an expression of sadness and sympathy for the family or friends of a person who has recently died

4.  spotlight  [SPOT-lahyt]  >   public attention toward a particular person, event, issue, or topic

5.  quest [kwest]  >   a long journey of searching for something difficult to find

April 4, 2024

 

Kate, Princess of Wales, apologizes for altering family photo that fueled rumors about her health

*1.  speculation [spek-yuh–LEY-shuhn]*  > the act of making guesses or predictions about something without having all the information needed to be sure

*Additional info* : The verb form of this word is speculate (ex. People often speculate about celebrities’ personal lives, but the truth is usually unknown).

*2.  digital manipulation  [DIJ-i-tl muh-nip-yuh-LEY-shuhn]*  > the process of changing or editing media, such as photos or videos, to make it look different from the original

*Additional info* : The noun manipulation means “the act of changing something in a way that is selfish or unfair.”

*3.  retraction  [ri-TRAK-shuhn]*   > an act of saying or admitting that something that was recently declared, published, or claimed was false or incorrect

*Additional info* : The verb form of this word is retract (ex. The newspaper company retracted its statement about the news it recently published).

*4.  rampant [RAM-puhnt]*  > spreading or growing quickly in a way that is difficult to control

*Additional info* : This word is usually used to describe something bad or negative.

*5.  eclipse  [ih-KLIPS]*  >  to make something seem less good, important, impressive, or popular

*Additional info* : A related word is replace.

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1.  speculation [spek-yuh–LEY-shuhn]  > the act of making guesses or predictions about something without having all the information needed to be sure

2.  digital manipulation  [DIJ-i-tl muh-nip-yuh-LEY-shuhn]  > the process of changing or editing media, such as photos or videos, to make it look different from the original

3.  retraction  [ri-TRAK-shuhn]   > an act of saying or admitting that something that was recently declared, published, or claimed was false or incorrect

4.  rampant [RAM-puhnt]  > spreading or growing quickly in a way that is difficult to control

5.  eclipse  [ih-KLIPS]  >  to make something seem less good, important, impressive, or popular

April 3, 2024

Jupiter’s moon Europa may have less oxygen than expected, a finding that might put a damper on life

*1.  microbe [MAHY-krohb]*  >   a very small living thing that can only be seen through a microscope

*Additional info* : Some microbes can cause diseases.

*2.  flyby [FLAHY-bahy]*  >   a flight, especially in a spacecraft, past a planet, moon, etc.

*Additional info* : The plural form of this word is flybys.

*3.  habitability [ha-buh-tuh–BI-luh-tee]*  >   the state or quality of being suitable for living in

*Additional info* : Its root word is habitat, which means “the natural home of a plant or animal.”

*4.  constrain [kuhn-STREYN]*  >   to limit something

*Additional info* : A related word is restrict.

*5.  epoch [EP–uhk]* >  a long period of time in which important events or changes happen

*Additional info* : A related word is era.

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1.  microbe [MAHY-krohb]  >   a very small living thing that can only be seen through a microscope

2.  flyby [FLAHY-bahy]  >   a flight, especially in a spacecraft, past a planet, moon, etc.

3.  habitability [ha-buh-tuh–BI-luh-tee]  >   the state or quality of being suitable for living in

4.  constrain [kuhn-STREYN]  >   to limit something

5.  epoch [EP–uhk] >  a long period of time in which important events or changes happen

April 2, 2024

More than one hundred new species found in deep-sea coral reefs and sponge gardens

*1.  seamount [SEE-mount]* >  a mountain under the sea

*Additional info* : An image of a seamount: https://www.greenpeace.org/static/planet4-aotearoa-stateless/2019/10/dae02126-vema_blog_fact_2-1024×576.jpg

*2.  expedition [ek-spi-DISH–uhn]* > a carefully organized journey undertaken by a group of people, usually in a dangerous or unfamiliar place

*Additional info* : A related word is trip.

*3.  fauna [FAW-nuh]* > all the animals that live in a particular area or period in history

*Additional info* : The word is usually used in the phrase flora and fauna. Flora refers to “all the plants that grow in a particular area or time period.”

*4.  map [map]* >to make a map of something

*Additional info* : The verb may also mean “to plan the details of something.”

*5.  set off  [set awf]* >to begin or start traveling

*Additional info* : A related phrase is set out, which means “to begin traveling in a particular direction.”

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1.  seamount [SEE-mount] >  a mountain under the sea

2.  expedition [ek-spi-DISH–uhn] > a carefully organized journey undertaken by a group of people, usually in a dangerous or unfamiliar place

3.  fauna [FAW-nuh] > all the animals that live in a particular area or period in history

4.  map [map] >to make a map of something

5.  set off  [set awf] >to begin or start traveling

April 1, 2024

Airlines could face more fines for mishandling wheelchairs under a Biden administration proposal

1.  *misplace [mis-PLEYS]*  >  to lose something for a short time by forgetting where it was left or put

*Additional info* : The prefix mis- is added to a verb to show that an action is done wrongly or badly (ex. misbehave, misunderstand).

*2.  violation [vahy-uh–LEY-shuhn]*  >  an action that’s not allowed by a law, rule, agreement, etc.

*Additional info* : Some adjectives that describe violation are serious, clear, and major.

*3.  brief  [breef]* > to give information or instructions to someone

*Additional info* : Its noun form is briefing (ex. The sales department members received a briefing for their targets and strategies).

*4.  incentive  [in-SEN-tiv]*  >  something, especially money, that encourages a person or organization to do something or to work harder

*Additional info* : A related word is motivation.

*5.  accessibility  [ak-ses-uh–BIL–uh-tee]* > the quality of being able to be used by everyone, including people who have a disability

*Additional info* : Its adjective form is accessible (ex. The beach is easily accessible by train).

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1.  misplace [mis-PLEYS]  >  to lose something for a short time by forgetting where it was left or put

2.  violation [vahy-uh–LEY-shuhn]  >  an action that’s not allowed by a law, rule, agreement, etc.

3.  brief  [breef] > to give information or instructions to someone

4.  incentive  [in-SEN-tiv]  >  something, especially money, that encourages a person or organization to do something or to work harder

5.  accessibility  [ak-ses-uh–BIL–uh-tee] > the quality of being able to be used by everyone, including people who have a disability