Daily Life 🗓️

Swamped

I’m ___________ with work

The emergency services were ___________ with calls after the storm

Hints: Overwhelmed, inundated, buried

Formality: Informal🔴

Commute

My daily _____________ to the city takes about an hour

Many people prefer to live in the suburbs and _____________ to downtown work

She decide to get a bike to make her _____________ more enjoyable

Synonyms: Travel, journey, go back and forth

Formality: Neutral⚪

Definition: To travel regularly between one’s home and place of work or study

Make up your mind

Come on, ______ ___ _____ _____! What do you want for dinner?

It took her a long time to ______ ___ ____ ____ about which universtiy to attend

Synonyms: Decide, choose, determine (expression)

Formality: Informal 🔴

Lousy

The weather today is just ________

I had a ________ day at work, nothing right

The restaurant serves pretty ________ food

Synonyms: Terrible, awful, dreadful

Formality: 🔴

Grasp

She tried to ________ the slippery rope, but it slipped from her hands.

It took him a while to ________ the complex instructions.

The baby reached out to ________ her mother's finger.

* Synonyms: Seize, understand, comprehend

* Definition: To take hold of firmly; to understand (a concept or problem) fully.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Snore

His loud ________ kept me awake all night.

I can't believe how loudly he starts to ________ as soon as his head hits the pillow.

Do you know if I ________ when I sleep?

* Synonyms: Saw logs (informal), wheeze, rumble

* Definition: To make a rough, harsh sound while sleeping due to obstructed breathing.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Rag

She used an old ________ to wipe down the counter.

He wore a torn ________ for a bandage.

Could you grab a clean ________ to dry the dishes?

* Synonyms: Cloth, scrap, shred

* Definition: A piece of old, torn, or worn cloth.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Hook up

Can you help me ________ the new printer to the computer?

They decided to ________ for coffee later this week.

I'm going to ________ with my friends at the concert.

* Synonyms: Connect, meet, arrange (a date/casual encounter - depending on context)

Definition: To connect (equipment) to a power supply or to another piece of equipment; to meet or form a casual romantic or sexual relationship with someone.

* Formality: 🔴 Informal (for meeting/romantic context), ⚪ Neutral (for equipment connection)

Thaw out

I need to ________ the chicken before I can cook it.

After being outside in the snow, it took a while to ________.

Leave the frozen vegetables on the counter to ________.

* Synonyms: Defrost, melt, warm up

* Definition: To become warm or unfrozen after being cold or frozen; to cause something to become unfrozen.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Hassle

Getting through airport security can be a real ________.

I don't want to ________ you, but could you help me move this?

Dealing with that paperwork was such a ________.

* Synonyms: Annoyance (noun), bother (verb), inconvenience (noun)

* Definition: (Noun) An annoying inconvenience. (Verb) To annoy or pester (someone) repeatedly.

* Formality: 🔴 Informal

Dozed off

The lecture was so boring, I almost ________ in my seat.

He ________ on the sofa while watching TV.

Be careful not to ________ at the wheel.

* Synonyms: Nod off/Drop off, Napped, snoozed, drifted off

* Definition: (Past tense of doze off) To fall asleep lightly and usually unintentionally.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Brew

I'll ________ some coffee for everyone.

A storm was beginning to ________ on the horizon.

They decided to ________ their own beer in the garage.

* Synonyms: Prepare (coffee/tea), concoct, gather (as in a storm)

* Definition: (Verb) To make (beer or coffee, for example) by steeping, boiling, and fermentation or infusion; (Of an unwelcome development) start to form. (Noun) A beverage made by brewing.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Spare

Do you have a ________ tire in case of a flat?

I don't have any time to ________ today.

Could you ________ a few minutes to help me?

* Synonyms: Extra, available, superfluous

* Definition: (Adjective) Additional to what is required for ordinary use; kept in reserve. (Verb) To give (something of which one has enough to another); to refrain from harming or punishing (someone).

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Bagging

The cashier was busy ________ the groceries.

We spent the afternoon ________ leaves in the yard.

He's hoping to be ________ the top award this year.

* Synonyms: Packing, collecting, securing

* Definition: (Present participle of bag) To put into a bag; to succeed in obtaining or winning (something desirable).

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral (packing), 🔴 Informal (obtaining/winning)

Toddler

The ________ was just learning to walk.

She brought her energetic ________ to the park.

My little brother is a ________ now.

* Synonyms: Infant, tot, young child

* Definition: A young child who is just beginning to walk.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Canned

We opened a ________ soup for lunch.

The comedian's routine sounded a bit ________ and unoriginal.

You can buy ________ peaches year-round.

* Synonyms: Preserved, pre-recorded, prepared

* Definition: (Adjective) Preserved in a can; (Of laughter or applause) sounding artificial or recorded.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral (food), 🔴 Informal (laughter/applause)

Supper

What time are we having ________ tonight?

They invited us over for a quiet ________ at their home.

The children helped set the table before ________.

* Synonyms: Dinner, evening meal, repast

* Definition: An evening meal, typically a light one.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Blend in

He tried to ________ with the local crowd so he wouldn't stand out.

* The camouflaged vehicle was designed to ________ with the environment.

* She changed her style to ________ at her new school.

* Synonyms: Assimilate, conform, fit in

* Definition: To look or seem natural or appropriate in a particular place or situation.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Brunch

Examples:

* We decided to meet for ________ at the new cafe on Sunday.

* ________ is a popular meal on weekends, combining breakfast and lunch.

* What time should we have ________ tomorrow?

* Synonyms: Breakfast-lunch, mid-morning meal, late breakfast

* Definition: A late morning meal eaten instead of breakfast and lunch.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Canvassing

Examples:

* Volunteers are currently ________ the neighborhood for political support.

* The charity is ________ for donations to their new initiative.

* He spent the afternoon ________ opinions for his research project.

* Synonyms: Soliciting, surveying, polling

* Definition: (Present participle of canvass) To solicit votes, opinions, or orders from (an area or a group of people).

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Cram

Examples:

* She had to ________ for her exams all night.

* Don't try to ________ too many clothes into one suitcase.

* We had to ________ five people into the small car.

* Synonyms: Stuff, squeeze, study intensely

* Definition: To force (people or things) into a space that is too small; to study intensively over a short period to prepare for an examination.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Doodle

Examples:

* He tends to ________ in his notebook during long meetings.

* Her notebook margins were filled with little ________ of flowers.

* I was just ________ while on the phone.

* Synonyms: Scribble, sketch, drawing (informal)

* Definition: (Verb) To draw or scribble aimlessly, especially while thinking about something else. (Noun) A rough drawing made absentmindedly.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Drill

Examples:

* We have a fire ________ every month to ensure everyone knows the exits.

* The soldiers performed their morning ________ with precision.

* The coach made them ________ the same play repeatedly.

* Synonyms: Practice, exercise, repetitive training

* Definition: (Noun) A systematic training exercise, especially a military one; (Verb) To train someone by means of repeated exercises.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Endeavor

Examples:

* He made an honest ________ to solve the complex problem.

* We must ________ to improve our customer service.

* This project is a new ________ for our team.

* Synonyms: Attempt, strive, undertaking

* Definition: (Verb) To try hard to do or achieve something. (Noun) An attempt to achieve a goal.

* Formality: 🔵 Formal

Engage

Examples:

* She tried to ________ him in conversation.

* The company decided to ________ a new consulting firm.

* The gears need to ________ properly for the machine to work.

* Synonyms: Involve, hire, interlock

* Definition: To occupy or attract (someone's interest or attention); to participate or become involved in; to bring into operation (a mechanism or part).

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Errands

Examples:

* I have to run a few ________ before heading home.

* My mom sent me out to do some ________ at the grocery store.

* He spent the morning doing small ________ around town.

* Synonyms: Tasks, duties, chores

* Definition: A short journey undertaken in order to deliver or collect something, especially on someone else's behalf.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Foremost

He is the ________ expert in his field.

* Education is of ________ importance for a country's development.

* My ________ concern is the safety of the children.

* Synonyms: Primary, leading, principal

* Definition: Most important; primary; leading.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Folks

Examples:

* How are you all doing today, ________?

* My ________ are coming to visit next weekend.

* He's just a regular working-class ________.

* Synonyms: People, parents (informal), relatives

* Definition: People in general; (Informal) one's parents or relatives.

* Formality: 🔴 Informal

Gasping

Examples:

* She was ________ for air after running the marathon.

* The audience was ________ in shock at the magic trick.

* He was left ________ for breath after the sudden sprint.

* Synonyms: Panting, hyperventilating, struggling for breath

* Definition: (Present participle of gasp) Inhaling suddenly with the mouth open, out of pain, shock, or surprise; struggling for breath.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Grovel

Examples:

* He had to ________ before the king to beg for forgiveness.

* I refuse to ________ to him for a promotion.

* Don't expect me to ________ for your approval.

* Synonyms: Cringe, crawl, kowtow

* Definition: To lie or move on the ground with one's face downward; to act in an obsequious manner in order to obtain forgiveness or favor.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Hitch

We encountered a small ________ in the plans, but it was resolved.

* Can I catch a ________ with you to the next town?

* She managed to ________ up her skirt to avoid tripping.

* Synonyms: Problem (noun), ride (noun, informal), fasten (verb)

* Definition: (Noun) A temporary difficulty or problem; a short ride in someone else's vehicle. (Verb) To fasten or attach (something) with a rope or hook.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Idle

Examples:

* The machinery stood ________ during the factory shutdown.

* Don't waste your time with ________ chatter.

* He tends to ________ away his afternoons watching TV.

* Synonyms: Inactive, lazy, unoccupied

* Definition: (Adjective) (Of a person) not working or active; without purpose or effect. (Verb) To spend time doing nothing.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Indulge

Examples:

* She decided to ________ in a piece of chocolate cake.

* Don't ________ his bad behavior; he needs to learn discipline.

* He likes to ________ in a long bath after a stressful day.

* Synonyms: Pamper, allow, gratify

* Definition: To allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of; to allow (someone) to enjoy something desired.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Input

Examples:

* We need your ________ on this decision before we proceed.

* The computer requires a specific type of ________ data.

* Please provide your ________ on the new proposal.

* Synonyms: Contribution, data, feedback

* Definition: (Noun) What is put in, taken in, or operated on by any process or system; contribution of ideas or effort. (Verb) To put (data) into a computer or other device.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Jack in

Examples:

* I'm so fed up with this job, I'm thinking of just ________ it ________.

* He decided to ________ his career as a lawyer and become a musician.

* Are you really going to ________ your studies just before graduation?

* Synonyms: Quit, give up, resign from

* Definition: (Slang, British English) To give up or abandon (something, especially a job).

* Formality: 🔴 Informal

Jumbled up

Examples:

* All the papers on my desk are completely ________.

* Her thoughts were ________ after the confusing conversation.

* The letters in the word scramble were all ________.

* Synonyms: Mixed up, disordered, confused

* Definition: (Informal) Confused and disordered; mixed together in a confused mass.

* Formality: 🔴 Informal

Knick

He managed to ________ a few coins from the till.

* Be careful not to ________ the paintwork when moving the furniture.

* I just have a small ________ on my finger.

* Synonyms: Steal (verb), chip (verb), minor cut (noun)

* Definition: (British informal, verb) To steal (something, typically something of small value); (Verb) To graze or cut (the skin) slightly; (Noun) A slight cut or scrape.

* Formality: 🔴 Informal

Lease

Examples:

* We signed a one-year ________ for the apartment.

* They decided to ________ a new car instead of buying one.

* The property is available for ________.

* Synonyms: Rent, charter, agreement

* Definition: (Noun) A contract by which one party conveys land, property, services, etc., to another for a specified term, usually in return for a periodic payment. (Verb) To grant or take on a lease of.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Maid

Examples:

* The hotel employs a team of ________ to clean the rooms.

* She worked as a domestic ________ for a wealthy family.

* The bride chose her best friend to be her chief ________ of honor.

* Synonyms: Housekeeper, cleaner, servant

* Definition: A female domestic servant; (Archaic) an unmarried girl or woman.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Meddle

Examples:

* Don't ________ in affairs that don't concern you.

* She's always trying to ________ in her children's lives.

* I wish he wouldn't ________ with my computer settings.

* Synonyms: Interfere, intrude, tamper

* Definition: To interfere in something that is not one's concern.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Mire

Examples:

* The car got stuck in the deep ________.

* He found himself in a ________ of debt and despair.

* The economy is in a deep ________.

* Synonyms: Swamp, bog, predicament (figurative)

* Definition: (Noun) A stretch of swampy or boggy ground; a difficult or unpleasant situation. (Verb) To cause to become stuck in mud.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Muck out

Examples:

* It's your turn to ________ the stables.

* We spent the entire day ________ the flooded basement.

* The volunteers helped to ________ the animal pens.

* Synonyms: Clean out, clear out, tidy up (a dirty place)

* Definition: To clean out (a stable or other place where animals are kept) by removing manure and refuse.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Pry

Examples:

* Don't ________ into my personal affairs.

* He tried to ________ open the locked box with a crowbar.

* She's always trying to ________ information out of people.

* Synonyms: Meddle, snoop (informal), force open (verb)

* Definition: (Verb) To inquire too inquisitively into a person's private affairs; to use force to open or move (something).

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Puke

Examples:

* The sick child started to ________ in the bathroom.

* I feel like I'm going to ________ after that roller coaster ride.

* He was feeling so nauseous he thought he was going to ________.

* Synonyms: Vomit, throw up, sick (informal)

* Definition: (Slang) To vomit.

* Formality: 🔴 Informal

Regain

Examples:

* After a long illness, he is slowly starting to ________ his strength.

* The team managed to ________ possession of the ball in the second half.

* She worked hard to ________ her confidence after the setback.

* Synonyms: Recover, retrieve, repossess

* Definition: To get again; recover.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Relinquish

Examples:

* He had to ________ his claim to the throne.

* The company was forced to ________ control of its assets.

* She refused to ________ her responsibilities.

* Synonyms: Give up, surrender, abandon

* Definition: To voluntarily cease to keep or claim; give up.

* Formality: 🔵 Formal

Rustle

Examples:

* The dry leaves began to ________ in the autumn breeze.

* I heard a quiet ________ in the bushes, but couldn't see anything.

* He tried to ________ up some food for dinner.

* Synonyms: Crinkle, whisper (sound), forage (for food)

* Definition: (Verb) To make a soft, muffled crackling sound like that of dry leaves or paper; (Informal) to steal (cattle). (Noun) A soft, muffled crackling sound.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Scramble

We had to ________ up the steep hillside to reach the summit.

* The reporter tried to ________ for a coherent answer.

* She ordered a plate of scrambled eggs for ________.

* Synonyms: Climb, rush, mix up

* Definition: (Verb) To make one's way quickly and awkwardly; to mix (eggs) with a fork or whisk while heating. (Noun) A difficult climb or walk.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Scribble

Examples:

* He would often ________ notes on the back of napkins.

* Her handwriting was a messy ________.

* Just quickly ________ down the main points.

* Synonyms: Write (hastily), scrawl, doodle

* Definition: (Verb) To write or draw (something) carelessly or hurriedly. (Noun) Untidy writing or drawing.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Settle down

Examples:

* Please ________, children, the lesson is about to begin.

* After years of traveling, he decided to ________ and start a family.

* The storm finally began to ________ after several hours.

* Synonyms: Calm down, become stable, get comfortable

* Definition: To become calm, quiet, or stable; to adopt a more regular or stable way of life.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Shove

Examples:

* He gave the door a hard ________ to open it.

* Don't ________ me, there's plenty of room.

* She tried to ________ the large box into the closet.

* Synonyms: Push, thrust, force

* Definition: To push (someone or something) roughly.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Sling

Examples:

* He put his injured arm in a ________.

* Just ________ your coat over the chair.

* The baby was carried in a fabric ________.

* Synonyms: Bandage (noun), throw (verb, informal), carrier (noun)

* Definition: (Noun) A band of material, typically of cloth or leather, suspended from the neck for supporting an injured arm or hand; a strap or band used for carrying something. (Verb) To hang or throw (something) loosely or carelessly.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Stumble

Examples:

* He tends to ________ over his words when he's nervous.

* I ________ upon an old photo album in the attic.

* She took a misstep and began to ________.

* Synonyms: Trip, falter, discover by chance

* Definition: (Verb) To trip or lose one's balance; to make an error or falter; to discover something by chance. (Noun) An act of stumbling.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Summon

Examples:

* The king decided to ________ his knights to the castle.

* She had to ________ all her courage to face the challenge.

* A doctor was immediately ________ to the scene.

* Synonyms: Call, convene, gather

* Definition: To order someone to come to a place; to bravely bring to mind (a quality or reaction).

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Tamper

Examples:

* Don't ________ with the electrical wiring if you're not an expert.

* Someone might have ________ with the evidence.

* The security seal prevents anyone from ________ with the package.

* Synonyms: Meddle, interfere, alter

* Definition: To interfere with (something) in order to cause damage or make unauthorized alterations.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Tinker

Examples:

* He likes to ________ with old radios in his garage.

* Stop ________ with that; you'll break it.

* She spent the afternoon ________ in the garden.

* Synonyms: Fiddle, dabble, play around

* Definition: To attempt to repair or improve something in a casual or desultory way, often without expert knowledge.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Wear out

Examples:

* My shoes are starting to ________ from all the walking.

* The constant demands of the job are really ________ him ________.

* Let the kids play outside to ________ their energy.

* Synonyms: Become exhausted, fatigue, use up

* Definition: To become or make unusable or tired through continued use or exertion.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Wind up

Examples:

* If you keep doing that, you'll ________ in trouble.

* Let's ________ this meeting so everyone can go home.

* He loves to ________ his little brother, getting him excited.

* Synonyms: End up, conclude, agitate (informal)

* Definition: To bring or come to a conclusion; to prepare (a clockwork mechanism) for operation by tightening its spring; (Informal) to deliberately annoy or tease (someone).

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Afford

Examples:

* I can't ________ to buy such an expensive car right now.

* We can ________ to take a vacation this year.

* The situation doesn't ________ us the luxury of waiting.

* Synonyms: Have enough for, allow for, provide

* Definition: (Of a person) have enough money to pay for; (Of an opportunity or a situation) provide or supply (an opportunity or a means to do something).

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Ahead

Examples:

* Look ________ to see what's coming on the road.

* Our team is currently ________ in the competition.

* She planned everything well ________ of time.

* Synonyms: In front, in advance, forward

* Definition: Further forward in space or time; in a leading position.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Achy

Examples:

* After the long hike, my muscles felt really ________.

* She woke up feeling stiff and ________ all over.

* A warm bath is great for soothing ________ joints.

* Synonyms: Sore, painful, stiff

* Definition: Suffering from or characterized by an ache or aches.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Arrange

Examples:

* Can you ________ the books alphabetically on the shelf?

* We need to ________ a meeting for next week.

* She helped to ________ flowers for the wedding.

* Synonyms: Organize, set up, classify

* Definition: To put (things) in a neat, attractive, or required order; to plan or settle the details of something.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Attire

Examples:

* The dress code for the event was formal ________.

* She chose her finest ________ for the special occasion.

* The staff were dressed in traditional local ________.

* Synonyms: Clothing, garments, dress

* Definition: Clothes, especially fine or formal ones.

* Formality: 🔵 Formal

Apron

Examples:

* She tied her ________ before starting to bake.

* The chef always wore a clean white ________ in the kitchen.

* The plane taxied onto the ________ after landing.

* Synonyms: Smock, pinafore, tarmac (airport)

* Definition: A protective garment worn over the front of one's clothes; (also) a paved area around an airport terminal or hangar for parking, loading, and unloading aircraft.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Bang

Examples:

* He heard a loud ________ as the door slammed shut.

* Don't ________ on the table; you'll break it.

* She got a nasty ________ on her head when she fell.

* Synonyms: Thud, hit, strike, slam

* Definition: (Noun) A sudden loud noise; a blow or thump. (Verb) To strike or hit loudly or forcefully.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Banner

Examples:

* A large ________ hung across the street, advertising the festival.

* They marched under the ________ of freedom.

* The website featured a prominent advertisement ________.

* Synonyms: Flag, standard, pennant

* Definition: A long strip of cloth bearing a slogan or design, carried in a demonstration or procession or hung in a public place; an advertisement on a web page.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Batch

Examples:

* She baked a fresh ________ of cookies this morning.

* We've received a new ________ of orders to process.

* The factory produces goods in large ________.

* Synonyms: Quantity, group, set

* Definition: A quantity or consignment of goods or an amount of material that is handled at one time.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Behalf

Examples:

* On ________ of the team, I thank you for your support.

* She spoke to the committee on her son's ________.

* Can you represent me in court on my ________?

* Synonyms: Representation, benefit, aid

* Definition: As a representative of or in the interest of someone or something. (Used in phrases like "on behalf of").

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Beneath

Examples:

* The treasure was buried ________ the old oak tree.

* She felt that such work was ________ her dignity.

* He could feel the ground trembling ________ his feet.

* Synonyms: Under, below, unworthy of

* Definition: Extending or directly underneath; lower in status or quality than.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Bind

Examples:

* They used rope to ________ his hands together.

* The contract will ________ you to the terms for five years.

* The two families were bound by a shared history.

* Synonyms: Tie, fasten, obligate, unite

* Definition: To tie or fasten (something) tightly; to unite or cause to feel allegiance; (of a contract or promise) to impose a legal or moral obligation on.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Bevvy

Examples:

* A ________ of reporters waited outside the courthouse.

* They enjoyed a quick ________ after work.

* She arrived with a whole ________ of friends.

* Synonyms: Group, collection, drink (alcoholic)

* Definition: (British informal) A drink, especially an alcoholic one; a large group of people or things of a particular kind.

* Formality: 🔴 Informal (British slang)

Blare

Examples:

* The car alarm began to ________ loudly.

* Music was ________ from the open windows.

* The sudden ________ of the siren made me jump.

* Synonyms: Roar, blast, shriek

* Definition: (Of a loud noise or sound) emit a loud and raucous sound; (of a horn, siren, etc.) make a loud, harsh sound.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Bleep

Examples:

* The machine let out a series of short ________ sounds.

* The censor had to ________ out the profanity from the broadcast.

* My pager started to ________, indicating an urgent message.

* Synonyms: Beep, buzz, censor (verb)

* Definition: (Noun) A short, high-pitched sound, typically produced by an electronic device. (Verb) To make such a sound; to censor (a word or phrase) on a recording, typically by substituting a bleep.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Blob

Examples:

* A tiny ________ of paint landed on the canvas.

* The monster in the movie was a shapeless green ________.

* He put a generous ________ of cream on his scone.

* Synonyms: Drop, lump, mass

* Definition: A drop of a thick liquid or viscous substance; a shapeless mass or form.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Blowout

Examples:

* The car had a tire ________ on the highway.

* The team suffered a crushing ________ in the final game.

* They had an extravagant party, a real ________.

* Synonyms: Puncture, defeat (informal), party (informal)

* Definition: (Informal) A sudden bursting of a tire; a decisive defeat in a sporting contest; a large or extravagant party or celebration.

* Formality: 🔴 Informal

Bluff

Examples:

* He knew it was just a ________ to try and scare him.

* She tried to ________ her way into the exclusive club.

* The house stood on a high ________ overlooking the sea.

* Synonyms: Deception, facade (noun), mislead, deceive (verb)

* Definition: (Noun) An attempt to deceive someone into believing that one can or will do something. (Verb) To try to deceive someone as to one's abilities or intentions. (Also, a steep cliff or bank).

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Blunder

Examples:

* The politician made a serious ________ in his speech.

* He tends to ________ when he's nervous.

* It was a monumental ________ to forget her birthday.

* Synonyms: Mistake, error, gaffe (noun), stumble (verb)

* Definition: (Noun) A stupid or careless mistake. (Verb) To make a stupid or careless mistake; to move clumsily or as if bewildered.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Boardwalk

Examples:

* We strolled along the ________, enjoying the sea breeze.

* The amusement park had a famous ________ with rides and shops.

* Vendors lined the ________ selling souvenirs and snacks.

* Synonyms: Promenade, esplanade, pier

* Definition: A promenade made of wooden planks, typically along a beach or waterfront.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Bolt

Examples:

* He used a heavy ________ to secure the door.

* The horse began to ________ across the field after hearing the noise.

* Please ________ the parts together securely.

* Synonyms: Latch, fastener (noun), dash, flee (verb)

* Definition: (Noun) A bar or rod that slides into a socket to fasten a door or window; a sudden, swift movement. (Verb) To run away suddenly and quickly; to fasten with a bolt.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Bow-tie

Examples:

* He looked very dapper in his tuxedo and ________.

* A black ________ is often worn with a formal suit.

* She decided to wear a red ________ to add a pop of color.

* Synonyms: Cravat, necktie (specifically bow-shaped)

* Definition: A type of necktie, consisting of a ribbon of fabric tied around the collar in a symmetrical bow.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Brake

Examples:

* He slammed on the ________ to avoid hitting the deer.

* Make sure your bicycle ________ are working properly.

* The manager tried to ________ the spending on unnecessary items.

* Synonyms: Stop, slow down, halt, control

* Definition: (Noun) A device for slowing or stopping a moving vehicle or mechanism. (Verb) To slow down or stop a vehicle by using it.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Brawl

Examples:

* A drunken ________ broke out in the pub.

* The two teams began to ________ on the field after the foul.

* Police were called to break up the street ________.

* Synonyms: Fight, skirmish, scuffle

* Definition: (Noun) A rough or noisy fight or quarrel. (Verb) To fight in a rough or noisy way.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Breather

Examples:

* Let's take a quick ________ before we continue climbing.

* The game went into overtime, giving the players a much-needed ________.

* I just need a short ________ from work.

* Synonyms: Break, rest, pause

* Definition: (Informal) A short pause for rest or to recover one's breath.

* Formality: 🔴 Informal

Brief

Examples:

* Please keep your explanation ________ and to the point.

* The lawyer gave his client a ________ on the case.

* I'll be back in a ________ moment.

* Synonyms: Short, concise (adjective), summary, instructions (noun), inform (verb)

* Definition: (Adjective) Of short duration; (of a document or statement) using few words. (Noun) A concise statement or summary; a set of instructions. (Verb) To give someone concise instructions or information.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Brochure

Examples:

* We picked up a ________ about local attractions at the tourist office.

* The company handed out a glossy ________ detailing their new services.

* Please read the information ________ before signing up.

* Synonyms: Pamphlet, leaflet, booklet

* Definition: A small book or magazine containing pictures and information about a product or service.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Buckle

Examples:

* He fastened the ________ on his belt.

* The old bridge began to ________ under the heavy load.

* Please ________ your seatbelt.

* Synonyms: Clasp, fastener (noun), bend, collapse (verb)

* Definition: (Noun) A flat, typically rectangular, frame with a hinged pin, used for joining the ends of a belt or strap. (Verb) To fasten with a buckle; (of a structure or object) to bend and give way under pressure or strain.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Buckle up

Examples:

* Don't forget to ________ before we start driving.

* The flight attendant reminded everyone to ________ for takeoff.

* It's important to ________ for safety, even on short trips.

* Synonyms: Fasten seatbelt, strap in

* Definition: To fasten one's seatbelt in a vehicle or aircraft.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Bugging

Examples:

* Stop ________ me with all your questions!

* My little brother is constantly ________ me for candy.

* I think my phone might be ________.

* Synonyms: Annoying, bothering, irritating, wiretapping (surveillance)

* Definition: (Informal) To annoy or bother (someone); to install a hidden listening device in (a place or device).

* Formality: 🔴 Informal

Bump

Examples:

* I heard a loud ________ from the next room.

* The car hit a speed ________ too fast.

* She got a nasty ________ on her head when she fell.

* Synonyms: Thud, hit, knock (noun), collide, hit (verb)

* Definition: (Noun) A sudden, jarring collision; a protuberance or swelling on a surface. (Verb) To hit or knock (something) with a bump.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Bushel

Examples:

* We picked a whole ________ of apples from the orchard.

* A ________ is a unit of measurement for grain.

* She promised me a ________ of happiness.

* Synonyms: Quantity, measure (unit)

* Definition: A measure of capacity equivalent to 8 gallons (36.4 liters), used for dry goods; (informal) a large amount of something.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Carol

Examples:

* The children gathered to sing Christmas ________.

* We went ________ around the neighborhood.

* Her beautiful voice could ________ with joy.

* Synonyms: Hymn, song (religious/festive), sing (verb)

* Definition: (Noun) A religious folk song or popular hymn, typically one associated with Christmas. (Verb) To sing carols.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Catered

Examples:

* The event was fully ________ with a delicious buffet.

* The restaurant also ________ for weddings and private parties.

* The new policies ________ to the needs of working parents.

* Synonyms: Provided food for, supplied, accommodated

* Definition: To provide food and drink for an event or party; to provide what is needed or wanted by someone or something.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Chalk

Examples:

* The teacher wrote on the blackboard with white ________.

* He used ________ to mark the lines on the tennis court.

* My hands felt dry, like ________.

* Synonyms: Crayon, limestone

* Definition: (Noun) A soft, white, porous sedimentary rock; a piece of this or similar substance used for drawing or writing. (Verb) To draw or write with chalk.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Chatter

Examples:

* The constant ________ in the office made it hard to concentrate.

* The children's teeth began to ________ from the cold.

* The monkeys made a lot of ________ in the trees.

* Synonyms: Talk, jabber (noun/verb), clatter (teeth), gossip

* Definition: (Noun) Noisy, rapid, and continuous talk; the rapid, repeated clicking sound of teeth. (Verb) To talk rapidly and continuously about trivial matters; (of teeth) to click together rapidly due to cold or fear.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Check out

Examples:

* We need to ________ of the hotel by noon.

* Did you ________ that new movie? It's great!

* I saw him ________ at the grocery store.

* Synonyms: Leave (hotel), examine, observe, pay (at store)

* Definition: To leave a hotel after paying; to examine or investigate; to look at or observe (something interesting); to complete a transaction at a store.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Checkbook

Examples:

* I need to write a check, but I can't find my ________.

* She always carries her ________ in her purse.

* Many people prefer to pay with credit cards rather than a ________ now.

* Synonyms: Account book, register (for checks)

* Definition: A book of blank checks issued by a bank to a depositor.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Cheesy

Examples:

* The comedian told a really ________ joke that nobody laughed at.

* He wore a very ________ polyester suit to the party.

* I love nachos with lots of ________ sauce.

* Synonyms: Tacky, corny (informal), containing cheese

* Definition: (Informal) Cheap, vulgar, or unoriginal; (of food) containing or resembling cheese.

* Formality: 🔴 Informal (for tacky/corny), ⚪ Neutral (for food)

Chick

Examples:

* The mother hen protected her little ________.

* We saw a fluffy yellow ________ hatch from its egg.

* (Slang) He was trying to impress a couple of ________ at the bar.

* Synonyms: Young bird, girl/woman (slang)

* Definition: A young bird, especially a young chicken; (slang, sometimes derogatory) a young woman.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral (for bird), 🔴 Informal/Offensive (for person, depending on context)

Chime

Examples:

* The clock began to ________ on the hour.

* The doorbell let out a gentle ________ sound.

* She decided to ________ in with her opinion.

* Synonyms: Ring, toll (verb), sound (noun), interject (figurative)

* Definition: (Verb) (Of a bell or clock) make a ringing sound; (of a person) to speak, especially to interject. (Noun) A sound made by a bell or set of bells.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral

Chirp

Examples:

* The birds began to ________ sweetly in the morning.

* The crickets ________ed loudly in the summer night.

* "Good morning!" she said with a little ________.

* Synonyms: Tweet, twitter, peep (verb/noun)

* Definition: (Of a small bird or insect) make a short, sharp, high-pitched sound. (Noun) Such a sound.

* Formality: ⚪ Neutral