Vocabulary

Feeling or showing thanks to someone for something they have done for you.

She was deeply grateful for all the help her neighbors gave her after the flood.

To pause before saying or doing something, usually because you are unsure or nervous.

Don't hesitate to call me if you need anything at all.

Strange or unusual, in a way that is hard to explain or that stands out from what is normal.

There was a peculiar smell in the old house that no one could identify.

Having more than one possible meaning; not clear or decided, often causing confusion.

The instructions were so ambiguous that half the students did the exercise incorrectly.

Able to express ideas clearly, beautifully, and persuasively when speaking — moving the listener with language.

She gave an eloquent speech that moved everyone in the room to tears.

Able to recover quickly from difficulties, setbacks, or trauma without falling apart.

Children who grow up in supportive environments tend to be more resilient in later life.

Lasting for only a very short time; transient and fleeting — here today, gone tomorrow.

Fame is often ephemeral — here one moment, completely forgotten the next.

Excessively eager to please or obey someone in authority — to the point of being servile or lacking self-respect.

His obsequious manner made everyone uncomfortable — he agreed with everything she said.

Dealing with problems and situations in a practical, realistic way — focused on what actually works rather than on theories or ideals.

We need a pragmatic approach to this problem — not an idealistic one.

A person who flatters and excessively praises those in power in order to gain personal advantage — often insincerely.

The office was full of sycophants who praised every decision the CEO made, no matter how poor.