Chapter 1 Learning new words from the context

part 1 to 8

counterfeit (adj.) /ˈkaʊntərˌfɪt/

not genuine; imitating something superior

“counterfeit emotion”

“counterfeit money”

“counterfeit works of art”

“a counterfeit prince”

synonyms: imitative, inauthentic, spurious, unauthentic, ostensible, ostensive

intricate (adj.) /ˈɪntrəkət/

Intricate things are complex and have many elements

synonym: complex

concur (v.) /kənˈkʌr/

Like many words with con, concur has to do with agreement and being together.

1. verb

   happen simultaneously

   synonyms: coincide

   see more

2. verb

   be in accord; be in agreement

   synonyms: agree, concord, hold

   
   

Perhaps there were a few whites in the North who did not concur with Mr. Jefferson’s sentiments.

substantiate (v.) /səbˌstæntʃiˈeɪt/

Substantiate is related to the word substantial, which means "solid." So, to substantiate a claim is to make it solid or believable. If the evidence given in support of an argument is weak and unconvincing, that evidence can be described as insubstantial.

1. verb

   establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts

   synonyms: affirm, confirm, corroborate, support, sustain

   
   

2. verb

   represent in bodily form

   “The painting substantiates the feelings of the artist”

   synonyms: body forth, embody, incarnate

   
   

3. verb

   solidify, firm, or strengthen

   “The president's trip will substantiate good relations with the former enemy country”

   
   

4. verb

   make real or concrete; give reality or substance to

   “our ideas must be substantiated into actions”

   synonyms: actualise, actualize, realise, realize

applaud (v.) /əˈplɔd/

1. verb

clap one's hands or shout after performances to indicate approval

synonyms: acclaim, clap, spat

antonyms: boo

2. verb

express approval of

“I applaud your efforts”

acclaim (n. v.) /əˈkleɪm/

You know you've hit it big when you earn acclaim, or enthusiastic approval. And when you have achieved "critical acclaim," even the grouchy critics approve of you.