▸ Specimen Drawer

Describing Words — Lesson 63

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Browse the cards below, then start a play round — five minutes of quick drills that lock each word into memory.

Specimen

astronomical

ˌæstrəˈnɑːmɪkəl

Relating to astronomy (the study of celestial objects) — the costs of the project were astronomical.

The astronomical observatory is located on a remote mountaintop.

Specimen

astute

əˈstuːt

Having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations and use them to — an astute reader would notice the hidden symbolism.

She was astute enough to spot the problem immediately.

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astutely

əˈstuːtli

In a clever and quick-thinking way that shows good judgment and practical intelligence — he astutely invested his money in emerging markets.

She astutely recognized the opportunity before her competitors.

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asunder

əˈsʌndɚ

Into separate pieces or parts — civil war tore the nation asunder.

The ship was torn asunder by the violent storm.

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asymmetric

ˌæs.ɪˈmet.rɪk

Not having two halves that are mirror images of each other — the molecule has an asymmetric structure.

The building has an asymmetric design with one tower much taller than the other.

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asymptomatic

ˌeɪsɪmptəˈmætɪk

Showing no signs or symptoms of a disease or medical condition — asymptomatic carriers can still spread the virus to others.

Many patients with this condition remain asymptomatic for years.

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asynchronous

eɪˈsɪŋkrənəs

Not happening at the same time — the team uses asynchronous communication tools to collaborate across different time zones.

The team uses asynchronous communication tools to collaborate across different time zones.

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atavistic

ˌætəˈvɪstɪk

Atavistic describes something that returns to a more primitive or ancestral — the child's atavistic behavior worried his parents.

His atavistic instincts made him react with violence.

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atonal

eɪˈtoʊnəl

Referring to music that lacks a tonal center or key — many modern composers experiment with atonal techniques.

Schoenberg's atonal compositions shocked the classical music world.

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atop

əˈtɑp

On the top of or at the summit of something — atop the hill, there was a small church.

She stood atop the mountain admiring the view.

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atrocious

əˈtroʊʃəs

Extremely bad, horrifying, or brutal in a way that causes shock or disgust — the conditions in the refugee camp were atrocious.

The weather was atrocious, with heavy rain and strong winds.

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attainable

əˈteɪnəbl

Able to be achieved or reached — this goal is attainable if we work hard.

This goal is attainable if we work hard.

▸ Catalogue Progress 0 / 12 specimens catalogued

Mark each specimen as learned to complete this drawer.

Next drawer · Describing Words — Lesson 64