used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
abilitiesnounUS /əˈbɪlətiːz/
plural of “ability” — the quality of being able to perform; a quality that permits or facilitates achievement or accomplishment
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
ACADEMYnounUS /əˈkæd.ə.mi/
A place of study or training in a special field of knowledge and arts.
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
a record or narrative description of past events
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
acknowledgeverbUS /ækˈnɑːlɪdʒ/
declare to be true or admit the existence or reality or truth of
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
appearingnounUS /əˈpɪrɪŋ/
formal attendance (in court or at a hearing) of a party in an action
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
AREauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
writes (books or stories or articles or the like) professionally (for pay)
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
earlier than; in front of
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
showing who or what does the action
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
capacitynounUS /kəˈpæsəti/
capability to perform or produce
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
chimeras
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
pick out, select, or choose from a number of alternatives
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
choosingverbUS /ˈtʃuːzɪŋ/
-ing form of “choose” — pick out, select, or choose from a number of alternatives
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
conceiveverbUS /kənˈsiːv/
have the idea for
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
confirmedadjectiveUS /kənˈfɜːrmd/
of persons; not subject to change
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
consultverbUS /kənˈsʌlt/
get or ask advice from
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
a licensed medical practitioner
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
eminentadjectiveUS /ˈemənənt/
standing above others in quality or position
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
employmentsnounUS /emˈplɔɪmənts/
plural of “employment” — the state of being employed or having a job
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
past form of “enter” — to come or go into
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
entertainedadjectiveUS /ˌentərˈteɪnd/
pleasantly occupied
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
the activity of exerting your muscles in various ways to keep fit
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
extravagantadjectiveUS /ekˈstrævəɡənt/
unrestrained, especially with regard to feelings
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
failsverbUS /feɪlz/
third-person singular of “fail” — fail to do something; leave something undone
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
to a considerable degree; very much
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
favoritesnounUS /ˈfeɪvərɪts/
plural of “favorite” — something regarded with special favor or liking
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
foundationnounUS /faʊnˈdeɪʃən/
the basis on which something is grounded
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
to or at a greater extent or degree or a more advanced stage (“further” is used more often than “farther” in this abstract sense)
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
the organization that is the governing authority of a political unit
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
the locus of feelings and intuitions
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
HONORABLYadverbUS /ˈɑːnərəbli/
in an honorable manner
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
used to add a contrasting statement
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
affected by an impairment of normal physical or mental function
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
not capable of occurring or being accomplished or dealt with
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
IMPROVEMENTSnounUS /ˌɪmˈpruːvmənts/
plural of “improvement” — a change for the better; progress in development
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
ingeniousadjectiveUS /ɪnˈdʒiː.ni.əs/
Clever, original, and remarkably inventive in design and execution.
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
instructingverbUS /ˌɪnˈstrʌktɪŋ/
-ing form of “instruct” — impart skills or knowledge to
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
irrationaladjectiveUS /ˌɪˈræʃənəl/
not consistent with or using reason
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
the quality of being just or fair
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
maintainedadjectiveUS /meɪnˈteɪnd/
kept in good condition
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
engage in
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “as” or “too” or “so” or “that”; amounting to a large but indefinite number
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
a feeling of thoughtful sadness
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
meritnounUS /ˈmerət/
any admirable quality or attribute
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
ministersnounUS /ˈmɪnəstərz/
plural of “minister” — a person authorized to conduct religious worship
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
monarchsnounUS /ˈmɑːnɑːrks/
plural of “monarch” — a nation's ruler or head of state usually by hereditary right
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
used to form the superlative
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
the essential qualities or characteristics by which something is recognized
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
not ever; at no time in the past or future
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
not one thing; not anything
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
the act of making and recording a measurement
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
not allowed to continue to bat or run
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
something determined in relation to something that includes it
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
(plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
completely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
plural of “person” — a human being
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
persuadingverbUS /pərˈsweɪdɪŋ/
-ing form of “persuade” — win approval or support for
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
philosophersnounUS /fəˈlɑːsəfərz/
plural of “philosopher” — a specialist in philosophy
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
placingverbUS /ˈpleɪsɪŋ/
-ing form of “place” — put into a certain place or abstract location
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
involving or characteristic of politics or parties or politicians
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
princesnounUS /ˈprɪnsəz/
plural of “prince” — a male member of a royal family other than the sovereign (especially the son of a sovereign)
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
professorsnounUS /prəˈfesərz/
plural of “professor” — someone who is a member of the faculty at a college or university
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
projectorsnounUS /prəˈdʒektərz/
plural of “projector” — an optical device for projecting a beam of light
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
PROPOSESverbUS /prəˈpoʊzɪz/
third-person singular of “propose” — make a proposal, declare a plan for something
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
proposingverbUS /prəˈpoʊzɪŋ/
-ing form of “propose” — make a proposal, declare a plan for something
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
people in general considered as a whole
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
qualifiedadjectiveUS /ˈkwɑːləfaɪd/
meeting the proper standards and requirements and training for an office or position or task
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
conforming to the established language usage of educated native speakers
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
rewardingadjectiveUS /rɪˈwɔːrdɪŋ/
providing personal satisfaction
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
Identical; not different.
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
the place where some action occurs
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
schemesnounUS /skiːmz/
plural of “scheme” — an elaborate and systematic plan of action
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
an educational institution
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
a number or letter indicating quality (especially of a student's performance)
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
past form of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
plural of “sens” — street names for marijuana
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
performance of duties or provision of space and equipment helpful to others
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
used with I and we for the future, or to offer and suggest
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
instrumentality that combines interrelated interacting artifacts designed to work as a coherent entity
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
teachingnounUS /ˈtiːtʃɪŋ/
the profession of a teacher
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
the people or things already mentioned, as the object
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
in or at that place or location
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
consistent with fact or reality; not false
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
a fact that has been verified
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
experiencing or marked by or causing sadness or sorrow or discontent
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/
a formal word for “on”
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
versednounUS /vɜːrst/
an injectable form of benzodiazepine (trade name Versed) useful for sedation and for reducing pain during uncomfortable medical procedures
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
Moral excellence and goodness of character; the highest human attainment in Stoic philosophy.
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
visionarynounUS /ˈvɪʒəneri/
a person given to fanciful speculations and enthusiasms with little regard for what is actually possible
From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.
which person or people
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
including all components without exception; being one unit or constituting the full amount or extent or duration; complete
From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.
to a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (“whole” is often used informally for “wholly”)
From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.
marked by extreme lack of restraint or control
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
accumulated knowledge or erudition or enlightenment
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
in the company of; together with
From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”
