A Myriad Of Words To Impress

So, as promised, today we are going to look at some more words to impress. Now, remember these words are all perfectly fine to use in everyday conversations, or in your written English, and will help your work stand out from the rest. Furthermore, they will display your extensive vocabulary and show you have an excellent grasp of the English language.

For ease of reference we will continue working our way through the words in an alphabetical sequence starting with :-

Kindred

When used as a noun this refers to family and relations. However as an adjective it can be used to describe things that are similar, for example you may talk of books on kindred subjects. It is not unusual for people to describe their best friends as kindred spirits, meaning they share a special bond and hold similar opinions and beliefs.

Lithe

Is a lovely word used to describe a thin, supple, graceful body. This is often used to describe the bodies of dancers, gymnasts or athletes. It would be quite correct to talk of lithe, graceful ballet dancers.

Myriad

This refers to a great number, possibly even countless, of people or things, and can be used both as an adjective and as a verb. So it would be appropriate in sentences such as “John was so happy as he received a myriad presents on his birthday” or “We had to jump a myriad of small streams when crossing the woods.” As you can see it is not an exact number but means a huge amount!

Novice

A novice is somebody who is new and quite inexperienced in a job or situation. So, for example, if you have just taken up tennis you may describe yourself as a novice player, if you are learning to drive you may be described as a novice driver etc.

This word is also used to describe a person who has entered religious training as a nun or a monk but has not yet taken their vows. 

Oblivious

To be oblivious is to be unaware of something or someone, especially something going on around you. So you may say that Ahmed was so engrossed in his book, he was oblivious to the fire alarm. Alternatively, you could suggest that Jake was completely oblivious to the fact he had hurt Joanna’s feelings. 

Paradox

Now a paradox is a little tricky, but once you get the idea I’m sure you’ll enjoy using the word! A paradox is something, often a statement that appears to be contradictory but may be true.  I know sounds a bit confusing but here are a few examples that should make it all a bit clearer.

“Nobody goes to that club anymore because it’s too busy!”

“You have to be cruel to be kind!”

“Standing is more tiring than walking.”

I think maybe one of my favourites is a quote from Oscar Wilde “I can resist anything but temptation”.

Here’s a good one for you to think about, if someone told you they were a pathological liar would you believe them, or would they be telling a lie?

Quaint

If something or someone is quaint, they are charmingly old fashioned and appealing.

Country cottages are often described this way, they remind us of a more simple life in a past era. Similarly it is often used to describe young children with extremely good manners, again showing a yearning back for a past time.     

Rescind

To rescind is to revoke, repeal or cancel a law contract or agreement. It is to bring an end to something in an official way. For this reason it is often used to describe something carried out by governments or official bodies. It is not unusual to hear of laws being rescinded due to public pressure.   

I hope you have enjoyed reading about the words we have looked at today, and maybe learnt a couple of new concepts. Next week we will finish our tour of the alphabet looking at words to impress.

If you have any words that you are not sure of the meaning of please get in touch and we will do our best to provide you with a clear definition.

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