Advanced English Word List

Introduces words that I would like to add to my vocabulary.

impugn

dispute the truth, validity, or honesty of (a statement or motive); call into question.

cavil

make petty or unnecessary objections.

pertain

be appropriate, related, or applicable.

laudable

(of an action, idea, or goal) deserving praise and commendation.

indefatigable

(of a person or their efforts) persisting tirelessly.

encomium

a speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly.

fidelity

faithfulness to a person, cause, or belief, demonstrated by continuing loyalty and support.

redound

contribute greatly to (a person's credit or honor).

detract

diminish the worth or value of (a quality or achievement).

quadragesimal

(of a fast, especially one in Lent) lasting forty days.

traduce

speak badly of or tell lies about (someone) so as to damage their reputation.

scurrilous

making or spreading scandalous claims about someone with the intention of damaging their reputation.

mollify

appease the anger or anxiety of (someone).

aphorism

a concise, terse, laconic, or memorable expression of a general truth or principle.

laconic

(of a person, speech, or style of writing) using very few words.

extant

(especially of a document) still in existence; surviving.

cloister

a covered stone passage around the four sides of a courtyard, especially in a religious building such as a church or monastery.

diffident

modest or shy because of a lack of self-confidence.

vilify

speak or write about in an abusively disparaging manner.

pusillanimous

showing a lack of courage or determination; timid.

sagacious

having or showing keen mental discernment and good judgment; shrewd.

heuristic

enabling someone to discover or learn something for themselves.

sonder

the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own — populated with their own ambitions, friends, routines, worries and inherited craziness.

horrorshow

good, well, wonderful, excellent.