Week 1

1. Candid

Definition: honest, frank

The judges on American Idol are candid when talking about contestants' performances.

Antonym: dissembling

The kids dissembled when they said that they didn't know who ate the last cookie.

2. Discernment

Definition: insight; ability to see things clearly

I lack discernment in my chemistry class.

Antonym: imprudence


No one trusted her because of her imprudence.

3. Disdain

Definition: arrogant scorn; contempt


She had a disdain for people who mistreated others.

Antonym: admiration


The boy showed admiration for Superman.

4. Abstract

Definition: theoretical; lacking substance

The abstract artwork did not resemble anything real. 

Antonym: concrete


The business hoped that their new plans would produce concrete results.

5. Temperate

Definition: moderate; restrained

Her temperate appetite at dinner was caused by her eating a big lunch.

Antonym: immoderate


A fennec fox has immoderate ears.

6. Enigma

Definition: mystery

Lady Gaga's outfits are enigmas.


 

Antonym: certainty


Some say that horoscopes lack certainty.

7. Inevitable

Definition: unavoidable; bound to happen


Exams are inevitable.

Antonym: avoidable


Becoming ill is avoidable if you do simple tasks like washing your hands.

8. Eccentric

Definition: not conventional; a little kooky; irregular

The restaurant Buca di Beppo has eccentric decorations.

Antonym: realistic


Her dream was so realistic she thought she was awake.

9. Provincial

Definition: limited in outlook to one's own small corner of the world; narrow

His provincial mind refuses to accept other people's ideas.

Antonym: cosmopolitan


After living in New York City, she was considered a cosmopolitan.

10. Futile

Definition: hopeless; without effect

All of my studying proved futile since I failed the test.

Antonym: effective

Working overtime proved to be effective when he got a promotion.