Lesson 42

favoritism shown to relatives, especially in granting jobs, promotions, or other advantages

The manager consistently promoted her daughter over more qualified candidates, demonstrating clear nepotism within the organization.

a literary or artistic style that gives a lifelike representation of people, events, and objects

The artist's commitment to realism is evident in his paintings, which meticulously depict the everyday lives of rural workers with incredible detail.

a concise, memorable statement that expresses a general truth, principle, or observation, often witty or philosophical

"If it ain't broke, don't fix it" is a classic aphorism.

the negative quality of having doubts about the future and expect the worst possible outcomes

His pessimism about the project affected the team's morale.

an exaggerated gesture, speech pattern, or style intended to create an effect or impression

She exaggerated the hand gestures as a mannerism for comedic effect.

a self-evident truth or axiomatic statement that does not worth mentioning, used as a literary device

loyalty to the United States and its institutions

the selfless concern for the well-being of others, often demonstrated through acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity

Donating money to charity to support those in need without expecting anything in return is an example of altruism.

the act of using someone else's work or ideas without giving them proper credit or permission

The student was expelled for plagiarism.

an entertainer who can manipulate their voice in a way that makes it seem like it is coming from a puppet or dummy

The ventriloquist entertained the audience by making his puppet tell jokes and interact with the crowd.

the defining spirit or mood of a particular period in history, reflecting the ideas and beliefs of the time

The 1960s was a decade defined by the zeitgeist of social change and cultural revolution, with movements for civil rights, feminism, and anti-war activism shaping the era.

someone who believes that all events are predetermined and inevitable, often accepting them passively without attempting to change or influence outcomes

Despite the doctor's recommendations for a healthier lifestyle, the fatalist believes that their fate is already sealed, so they continue their unhealthy habits.

someone who attempts to persuade politicians to agree or disagree with a law being made or changed

someone who derives pleasure or gratification from experiencing pain, humiliation, or suffering, either inflicted by oneself or by others

Despite the discomfort, the masochist enjoys receiving a whipping during intimate encounters.

someone who collects, studies, or deals with coins, currency, and related items, often as a hobby or profession

The numismatist spent years assembling a comprehensive collection of rare coins from around the world.

a healthcare professional specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders

The oculist conducted a thorough examination of the patient's eyes to assess their vision and identify any potential issues.

the intentional act of ending a person's life painlessly and without their consent, typically to relieve suffering from a terminal illness or irreversible condition

In some countries, there is ongoing debate about legalizing euthanasia for terminally ill patients who wish to end their suffering.

a condition in which part of an organ squeezes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place

excessive or uncontrollable fear

an intense enthusiasm or obsession for something, often to an excessive or uncontrollable degree

His mania for collecting rare coins led him to travel the world in search of unique pieces.