Inimitable

Building Your Power of Expression Inimitable, adj. Pronunciation: iˈnimədəb(ə)l Meaning: Things (or people) that are very unique can be said to be inimitable. The word points to something (or someone) who is so good or unusual as to be impossible to copy. A one-of-a-kind. . . Usage: “She was mesmerized by the inimitable ambiance of […]

Building Your Power of Expression Parochial, adj. Pronunciation: pəˈrōkēəl Meaning: Although this word usually refers to things relating to a church parish, it can also be used in a symbolic sense to mean having a limited, narrow outlook or scope. Usage: “His worldview seems incredibly naïve and parochial.” “How can a place be at once […]

Building Your Power of Expression Doppelgänger, n. Pronunciation: ˈdäpəlˌɡaNGər Meaning: Refers to an apparition or a double of a living person. It is usually a reference to a non-biologically related look-alike or double of a living person. The term comes from German, meaning “double walker.” In folklore and fiction, a doppelgänger is often considered a […]

Building Your Power of Expression Imperious, adj. Pronunciation: ˌimˈpirēəs Meaning: Ever hear someone say to someone else, “Who died and made you king?” The person on the receiving end of that barb was probably assuming power and authority without justification. Any time a person displays an arrogant posture or a demanding persona is probably behaving […]

Building Your Power of Expression Censorious, adj. Pronunciation: senˈsôrēəs Meaning: We hear this word used often in the media – especially conservative media (such as talk radio, one of the few mediums dominated by conservative thought). When used in such settings, it is usually in reference to accusations of censorship of conservatives by Leftists. While […]

Building Your Power of Expression Pied, adj. Pronunciation: Pīd Meaning: Refers to having two (or more) differing colors, especially in blotches or patches. It is often used to describe animals, horses in particular. Birds, cats, and dogs are often the recipients of the adjective, although the term is not exclusive to animals. It can also […]

Building Your Power of Expression Reticent, adj. Pronunciation: ˈredəsənt Meaning: This word conveys a sense of hesitancy, of caution, or of being guarded in one’s expressions. To be reticent is to be reserved, or quiet, or reluctant to express oneself. A reticent person tends to avoid speaking freely or to reveal much about themselves. Such […]

Building Your Power of Expression Sentient, adj. Pronunciation: ˈsen(t)SH(ē)ənt Meaning: Coming from the Latin word sentire, which means “to feel,” this word refers to the ability to perceive or feel things. People who are conscious and aware could be said to be sentient. Further, a sentient being could be said to be one that can […]

Building Your Power of Expression Reciprocity, n. Pronunciation: ˌresəˈpräsədē Meaning: Reciprocity is the practice of exchanging things with others for mutual benefit. Tit for tat. I scratch your back, you scratch mine. But it’s not a word that exclusively deals with things of a positive benefit. Think an eye for an eye. It could also […]

Building Your Power of Expression Racy, adj. Pronunciation: ˈrāsē Meaning: This word can be used in several ways. If the context has to do with speech, or writing, or behavior, the word refers to qualities such as liveliness, entertaining, and even mildly provocative or titillating in a sort of sexual manner. Conversely, if the context […]