Academic English The Pearl Vocabulary

Avarice refers to an excessive or insatiable desire for wealth or material possessions, often characterized by greed. It is the intense longing for accumulating more and more resources, driven by selfishness and a lack of contentment. This answer accurately defines avarice as it aligns with the commonly understood meaning of the term.

Gloating means to brag about one's achievements, success, or superiority in a boastful manner. It involves taking pleasure in showing off or excessively talking about one's accomplishments, often with the intention of making others feel inferior or envious. This behavior can be seen as arrogant and insensitive, as it disregards the feelings of others and focuses solely on self-promotion.

A bulwark refers to a defensive shield or wall. It is a structure that provides protection or defense against external threats or attacks. It acts as a barrier or fortification, safeguarding an area or a person from harm or danger. In this context, the other options mentioned (animal, type of house, army) do not accurately define what a bulwark is.

The correct answer is "unable to be heard." When something is inaudible, it means that it cannot be heard. This could be due to various reasons such as low volume, distance, or interference. It is different from being lost in a mess or being extremely loud.

To be indigent means to be poor. The word "indigent" is often used to describe someone who lacks the financial resources to meet their basic needs. It implies a state of poverty or destitution, where individuals struggle to afford food, shelter, and other necessities. The other options provided in the question (unwelcoming, primitive, unpleasant to look upon) do not accurately capture the meaning of indigent, as they relate to different qualities or characteristics unrelated to financial status.

The correct answer is "to give something a new (typically glorified) appearance." Transfiguring something means changing its appearance to make it look different, usually in a more positive or impressive way. It does not involve impairing or destroying the object, nor does it involve creating an identical figurine.

Incandescence refers to the emission of light from a heated object. When an object is heated to a high temperature, it begins to glow and emit visible light, which is known as incandescence. This process is commonly observed in incandescent light bulbs, where a filament is heated to produce light. Incandescence is the correct answer because it accurately describes the phenomenon of giving off light.

To be judicious means to exercise good judgment. This implies making wise and thoughtful decisions based on careful evaluation and consideration of all relevant factors. Being judicious involves weighing the pros and cons, analyzing different perspectives, and making choices that are fair, reasonable, and beneficial. It goes beyond simply having strong political beliefs or being friendly with others. While understanding the law may contribute to being judicious, it is not the sole defining characteristic.

If someone is furtive, it means that they are being secretive or trying to conceal something. Being furtive implies that the person is behaving in a way that suggests they have something to hide or are being sneaky. This word does not indicate confidence, physical strength, or high intelligence.

Almsgiving refers to the act of giving money or food to the poor. It is a form of charity where individuals provide assistance to those who are less fortunate. This practice is often rooted in religious or moral beliefs, with the intention of helping those in need and promoting social welfare. Almsgiving is a way to show compassion and support for the disadvantaged members of society, aiming to alleviate their suffering and improve their living conditions.

Acting curtly means to be short and rude with someone. This implies that the person is being abrupt and impolite in their communication or behavior towards others. They may use curt or brusque language, display a lack of patience or interest, and show little regard for the feelings or opinions of others. This behavior can come across as disrespectful and may create a negative or uncomfortable atmosphere in social interactions.

When something is consecrated, it is made sacred. This means that it is set apart or dedicated for religious or spiritual purposes. Consecration often involves a formal ceremony or ritual to declare the object or place as holy and worthy of reverence. It is the opposite of being destroyed, disrespected, or improved, as these actions do not involve the act of making something sacred.

If someone has cozened you, they have tricked you. The word "cozened" is derived from the verb "cozen," which means to deceive or cheat someone. Therefore, if someone has cozened you, it implies that they have intentionally misled or tricked you in some way.

Subjugate means to conquer something. This involves gaining control or dominance over a person, group, or territory through force or oppression. It implies the act of subjecting someone or something to one's will or authority, often resulting in the loss of freedom or autonomy for the subjugated party.

Disparagement refers to the act of insulting or belittling someone or something. It involves making derogatory or negative remarks that undermine their reputation or worth. This can be done through spoken or written words, gestures, or actions. Disparagement is different from a violent argument or mild disagreement, as it specifically involves insulting or demeaning someone. A divorce, on the other hand, is the legal dissolution of a marriage and is unrelated to the concept of disparagement.

Dissembling refers to the act of putting on a false appearance or pretending to be someone or something that one is not. It involves hiding one's true feelings, intentions, or motives behind a deceptive facade. This can be done through actions, words, or behaviors that are meant to mislead or deceive others. Dissembling is often used as a strategy to manipulate or gain an advantage in various situations.