![]() (Latin) Lively and animated, attractively energetic, usually said of women. (Latin) Seeking and enjoying the company of others, the etymology being “living in flocks.” So if you’re gregarious, you’re just being your natural animal self. “If I present my project skilfully, it will elicit the desired response from the group.” The right words and phrases, articulated with reassuring tones, will convince listeners that yours is the right path. “So as not to appear weak, he stifled a primordial urge to scream when the beast lunged at him.”ĮLICIT. (Latin) Adjective meaning existing since the beginning of time, basic and fundamental. This assumes you wish to be less accusatory. “He weighs actions a long time, prevaricating, and it hinders decision-making.” Even if you think the other person is lying, “prevaricate” is less accusatory, suggesting mere evasion of the truth rather than a falsehood. “He acts capriciously and impulsively, so we’re often startled by his actions.” This will spare you the need to say, “He doesn’t know what he’s doing.” (Italian) Describes an action committed without forethought, not logical or reasonable, or changing frequently. Rather than explain why you’re never available to an obnoxious co-worker, you can say, “The peripatetic nature of my job deprives me of many opportunities for social interaction.” No feelings will be hurt.ĬAPRICIOUS. (Greek via Latin) Describes motion from place to place, roaming. Why say “awesome” when other words of approval will impress? Splendid, breathtaking, inspiring, fortuitous, these describe qualities of the object for which you feel awe. (old English) Modifies a word or phrase used so frequently that it has lost its freshness, no longer has the intended effect. Rather than say, “Why can’t you make up your mind?” you might try “Your constant equivocation puzzles me.” Notice their response. (Latin) Allowing equal voice to different things, or using unclear language, especially with intent to deceive. Rather than say to a co-worker, “I can’t stand the sight of you,” you state your preference for seclusion and avoid hurting feelings.ĮQUIVOCATE. Pinafore, Sir Joseph sings, “But when the breezes blow, I generally go below, and seek the seclusion that a cabin grants.” After a stressful day at the office, nothing is more inviting than seclusion with a stiff drink. (Latin) Describes a situation wherein one is apart from one’s fellows, usually to one’s own benefit. “I would posit that people’s lack of self-discipline is a critical issue in America today.” Of course I know I’m right, but I don’t convey that to my interlocutor. You’re not imposing your point of view, merely asking your interloctor to engage with you, thus precluding defensiveness. (Latin) To propose formally, set forth a position as basis for discussion. So when proposing an idea to your boss, say “Allow me to elucidate the process for penetrating this market.” How many bosses would reveal their ignorance of “elucidate”? (Latin) To render lucid, shed light on a topic, clarify confusion by providing detail that helps listeners understand what you want them to understand. Why not maximize your chances for sealing the deal, marrying the maiden, or convincing the incredulous?ĮLUCIDATE. So, rejuvenate those atrophied muscles with these easy starter words. Perhaps you learned vocabulary in Miss Wentworth’s class, but have neglected to use words to full effect. And it’s less expensive than most consumer goods. But you can strengthen your linguistic muscles in ways that impress friends and associates, as well as your enemies. In a heated discussion, you’ll have no time to consult a dictionary or your i-Phone, so you must have words at the ready. As do advertisers, those masterful users of crafty language, which is why people buy so much stuff they don’t need. ![]() Demagogues do this routinely, using language that speaks to the emotions. Your ability to persuade will be enhanced by the right words or turns of phrase, even if your thinking is unclear, illogical, or irrational. Unless you resort to firearms, fisticuffs, or blackmail, language is your only tool for getting what you want. ![]() ![]() These are the ones that make you sound sophisticated and improve your chances of success in life. Wrestling with the French language here in Paris puts me in mind of Latin roots for many English-language words.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |