Lesson 17
Size and Shape (1)
Can infinitesimal units be measured?
Who discovered Lilliput?
Is megalopolis a disease?
Does palatial refer to a place or to a part of the body?
How would you feel if someone referred to your peccadillos?
- amplitude
- effin
- infinitesimal
- Lilliputian
- megalopolis
- minimize
- minutiae
- palatial
- peccadillo
- picayune
- simulacrum
- soupcon
- teeming
- titanic
- vista
Vocabulary Definitions
Amplitude
Amplitude refers to the magnitude or extent of a phenomenon, often used in the context of waves or oscillations.
- The amplitude of the sound wave determined its volume.
- Scientists measured the amplitude of the seismic waves to assess the earthquake’s strength.
- A higher amplitude in a signal can lead to clearer audio quality.
Effin
Effin is a colloquial expression used to emphasize or express annoyance, often a euphemism for a stronger profanity.
- He was effin’ tired after working late every night.
- The movie was so effin’ good that I watched it twice.
- She couldn’t believe the effin’ mess left behind after the party.
Infinitesimal
Infinitesimal describes something that is extremely small or insignificant, often to the point of being nearly zero.
- The scientist measured an infinitesimal amount of the substance during the experiment.
- Even infinitesimal changes in temperature can affect the results.
- The infinitesimal differences between the two samples were difficult to detect.
Lilliputian
Lilliputian refers to something that is extremely small or miniature, often used metaphorically to describe trivial matters.
- The Lilliputian size of the model made it a perfect decoration.
- Their arguments seemed Lilliputian compared to the larger issues at hand.
- He had a Lilliputian collection of rare coins that fascinated collectors.
Megalopolis
Megalopolis describes a very large and densely populated urban area, typically consisting of several interconnected cities.
- The megalopolis stretched across several states, showcasing diverse cultures.
- Traffic congestion is a common issue in this sprawling megalopolis.
- Urban planning in a megalopolis requires careful consideration of resources and infrastructure.
Minimize
Minimize means to reduce something to the smallest possible amount or degree.
- To minimize waste, the company implemented a recycling program.
- She tried to minimize her distractions while studying for the exam.
- The goal is to minimize costs without sacrificing quality.
Minutiae
Minutiae refers to the small, precise, or trivial details of something.
- The minutiae of the contract were scrutinized by the legal team.
- He enjoyed discussing the minutiae of historical events with fellow enthusiasts.
- Focusing on minutiae can sometimes distract from the bigger picture.
Palatial
Palatial describes something that resembles a palace, often grand and luxurious in nature.
- The palatial estate was the envy of the entire neighborhood.
- She hosted the gala in a palatial ballroom with exquisite decor.
- The palatial surroundings made the event feel truly special.
Peccadillo
Peccadillo refers to a minor or trivial offense or sin, often used to downplay its significance.
- He dismissed his late arrival as a mere peccadillo.
- Everyone has their peccadillos, and it’s important to forgive them.
- The politician’s peccadillo was quickly forgotten in the wake of larger scandals.
Picayune
Picayune describes something that is of little value or importance; trivial.
- They argued over picayune details that had no real impact on the project.
- His picayune complaints only served to frustrate the team.
- Focusing on picayune matters can waste valuable time and energy.
Simulacrum
Simulacrum refers to a representation or imitation of a person or thing, often used in philosophical contexts.
- The exhibit featured a simulacrum of the historical figure that sparked much debate.
- In a world filled with simulacra, distinguishing reality from imitation can be challenging.
- The artist’s work was a simulacrum of the original, capturing its essence yet remaining distinct.
Soupcon
Soupcon means a small amount or a hint, often used in culinary or artistic contexts.
- The dish had a soupcon of spice that elevated its flavor.
- She added a soupcon of humor to her speech, making it more engaging.
- Just a soupcon of creativity can transform an ordinary idea into something remarkable.
Teeming
Teeming describes something that is abundantly filled or overflowing, often with life or activity.
- The teeming marketplace was full of vibrant colors and sounds.
- The teeming wildlife in the rainforest is a testament to its biodiversity.
- Ideas were teeming in her mind as she prepared to write her novel.
Titanic
Titanic means of great size, strength, or power, often used to describe something monumental.
- The titanic waves crashed against the shore during the storm.
- His titanic achievements in science earned him numerous accolades.
- The project required a titanic effort from the entire team to complete on time.
Vista
Vista refers to a pleasing view, especially one seen through a long, narrow opening; often associated with landscapes.
- The vista from the mountain top was breathtaking, stretching for miles.
- She enjoyed painting the beautiful vistas of the countryside.
- The hotel room offered a stunning vista of the city skyline at sunset.