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Les Misérables
Les Misérables

Chapter CCCXXV

Chapter 325 of Les Misérables is here in full — 63 sentences across 13 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for Les Misérables
Context Illustration Reading 1/12 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.
On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.
This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.
A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.
Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.
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AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Les Misérables

Chapter CCCXXV

Chapter 325 of Les Misérables is here in full — 63 sentences across 13 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/12 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.
Line 2
On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.
/ɑːn ðə raɪt bæŋk ðə belt ˈsuːər wɪl fɔːrm ðə trʌŋk ʌv ðɪs bræntʃ ðə ˈsekənderi dʌkts wɪl fɔːrm ðə ˈbræntʃəz ənd ðoʊz wɪˈθaʊt ˈeɡzɪt ðə twɪɡz/
Line 3
This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.
/ðɪs ˈfɪɡjər ɪz bʌt ə ˈsʌməri wʌn ənd hæf ɪɡˈzækt ðə raɪt ˈæŋɡəl wɪtʃ ɪz ðə ˈkʌstəmeri ˈæŋɡəl ʌv ðɪs ˈspiːʃiz ʌv ˌsʌb.təˈreɪ.ni.ən ˌræməfəˈkeɪʃənz ˈbiːɪŋ ˈveri rer ɪn ˌvedʒəˈteɪʃən/
Line 4
A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.
/ə mɔːr ˈækjərət ˈɪmədʒ ʌv ðɪs streɪndʒ ˌdʒiːəˈmetrɪkəl plæn kæn biː fɔːrmd baɪ səˈpoʊzɪŋ ðæt wʌn ɪz ˈvjuːɪŋ sʌm ɪkˈsentrɪk ˌɔːriˈentəl ˈælfəbet æz ˈɪntrəkət æz ə ˈθɪkɪt əˈɡenst ə ˈbækɡraʊnd ʌv ˈʃædoʊz ənd ðə mɪsˈʃeɪpən ˈletərz ʃʊd biː ˈweldɪd wʌn tuː əˈnʌðər ɪn əˈperənt kənˈfjuːʒən ənd æz æt hæpˈhæzərd naʊ baɪ ðer ˈæŋɡəlz əˈɡen baɪ ðer ekˈstremətiz/
Line 5
Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.
/sɪŋks ənd ˈsuːərz pleɪd ə ɡreɪt pɑːrt ɪn ðə ˈmɪdəl ˈeɪdʒəz ɪn ðə ˈloʊər ˈempaɪər ənd ɪn ðə ˈɔːrient ʌv oʊld/

Learner Dictionary

These definitions explain words found in the current reading and keep every example grounded in its original sentence.

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, and audio.

ducts noun US /dʌkts/

plural of “duct” — a bodily passage or tube lined with epithelial cells and conveying a secretion or other substance

From this reading “On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.”

geometrical adjective US /ˌdʒiːəˈmetrɪkəl/

of or relating to or determined by geometry

From this reading “A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.”

grafted verb US /ˈɡræftɪd/

past form of “graft” — cause to grow together parts from different plants

From this reading “Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.”

misshapen adjective US /mɪsˈʃeɪpən/

so badly formed or out of shape as to be ugly

From this reading “A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.”

ramifications noun US /ˌræməfəˈkeɪʃənz/

plural of “ramification” — the act of branching out or dividing into branches

From this reading “This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.”

sewer noun US /ˈsuːər/

a waste pipe that carries away sewage or surface water

From this reading “On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.”

sewers noun US /ˈsuːərz/

plural of “sewer” — a waste pipe that carries away sewage or surface water

From this reading “Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.”

welded verb US /ˈweldɪd/

past form of “weld” — join together by heating

From this reading “A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.”

Word partnerships in these lines

English keeps certain words together, and knowing the pair is worth more than knowing each word alone. Every partnership below was counted across our whole published library, and earns its place by appearing far more often than two unrelated words of the same frequency would.

Shown as this reading writes them, with the form the library counts, what kind of pairing it is, and how often it occurs.

Middle Ages noun + noun counted as “middle age”

the time of life between youth and old age (e.g., between 40 and 60 years of age)

In this reading “Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.”

against a background preposition + article + noun counted as “against … background”

In this reading “A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.”

in the Middle preposition + article + noun counted as “in … middle”

In this reading “Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.”

on the banks preposition + article + noun counted as “on … banks”

In this reading “Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.”

great part adjective + noun

In this reading “Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.”

on the river preposition + article + noun counted as “on … river”

In this reading “Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.”

All words in this reading · 105

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

accurateadjectiveUS /ˈækjərət/

conforming exactly or almost exactly to fact or to a standard or performing with total accuracy

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

againadverbUS /əˈɡen/

anew

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

againstprepositionUS /əˈɡenst/

touching and pressing; in opposition to

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

AgesnounUS /ˈeɪdʒəz/

plural of “age” — how long something has existed

From this reading Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.

alphabetnounUS /ˈælfəbet/

a character set that includes letters and is used to write a language

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

anglenounUS /ˈæŋɡəl/

the space between two lines or planes that intersect; the inclination of one line to another; measured in degrees or radians

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

anglesnounUS /ˈæŋɡəlz/

plural of “angle” — the space between two lines or planes that intersect; the inclination of one line to another; measured in degrees or radians

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

anotherdeterminerUS /əˈnʌðər/

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

apparentadjectiveUS /əˈperənt/

clearly revealed to the mind or the senses or judgment

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

backgroundnounUS /ˈbækɡraʊnd/

a person's social heritage: previous experience or training

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

banknounUS /bæŋk/

sloping land (especially the slope beside a body of water)

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

banksnounUS /bæŋks/

English botanist who accompanied Captain Cook on his first voyage to the Pacific Ocean (1743-1820)

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

beltnounUS /belt/

endless loop of flexible material between two rotating shafts or pulleys

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

bird's-eyeadjective

as from an altitude or distance

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

branchnounUS /bræntʃ/

a division of some larger or more complex organization

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

branchesnounUS /ˈbræntʃəz/

plural of “branch” — a division of some larger or more complex organization

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

canmodal verbUS /kæn/

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

confusionnounUS /kənˈfjuːʒən/

disorder resulting from a failure to behave predictably

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

coververbUS /ˈkʌvər/

provide with a covering or cause to be covered

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

customaryadjectiveUS /ˈkʌstəmeri/

in accordance with convention or custom

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

ductsnounUS /dʌkts/

plural of “duct” — a bodily passage or tube lined with epithelial cells and conveying a secretion or other substance

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

eccentricadjectiveUS /ɪkˈsentrɪk/

conspicuously or grossly unconventional or unusual

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

EmpirenounUS /ˈempaɪər/

the domain ruled by an emperor or empress; the region over which imperial dominion is exercised

From this reading Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.

exactadjectiveUS /ɪɡˈzækt/

Strictly particular and correct.

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

exitnounUS /ˈeɡzɪt/

an opening that permits escape or release

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

extremitiesnounUS /ekˈstremətiz/

plural of “extremity” — an external body part that projects from the body

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

figurenounUS /ˈfɪɡjər/

a diagram or picture illustrating textual material

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

formnounUS /fɔːrm/

the phonological or orthographic sound or appearance of a word that can be used to describe or identify something

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

formedadjectiveUS /fɔːrmd/

having or given a form or shape

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

geometricaladjectiveUS /ˌdʒiːəˈmetrɪkəl/

of or relating to or determined by geometry

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

graftedverbUS /ˈɡræftɪd/

past form of “graft” — cause to grow together parts from different plants

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

greatadjectiveUS /ɡreɪt/

relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind

From this reading Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.

halfadjectiveUS /hæf/

consisting of one of two equivalent parts in value or quantity

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

haphazardadjectiveUS /hæpˈhæzərd/

dependent upon or characterized by chance

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

imagenounUS /ˈɪmədʒ/

an iconic mental representation

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

imagineverbUS /ˌɪˈmædʒən/

form a mental image of something that is not present or that is not the case

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

intricateadjectiveUS /ˈɪntrəkət/

having many complexly arranged elements; elaborate

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

largeadjectiveUS /lɑːrdʒ/

above average in size or number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

Letauxiliary verbUS /let/

used to make a suggestion or a command including the speaker

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

lettersnounUS /ˈletərz/

the literary culture

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

liftedadjectiveUS /ˈlɪftəd/

held up in the air

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

likeverbUS /laɪk/

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

LowerverbUS /ˈloʊər/

move something or somebody to a lower position

From this reading Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.

MiddlenounUS /ˈmɪdəl/

an area that is approximately central within some larger region

From this reading Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.

misshapenadjectiveUS /mɪsˈʃeɪpən/

so badly formed or out of shape as to be ugly

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

networknounUS /ˈnetwɜːrk/

an interconnected system of things or people

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

nowadverbUS /naʊ/

in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

offadverbUS /ɔːf/

from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

oldadjectiveUS /oʊld/

(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age

From this reading Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

OrientverbUS /ˈɔːrient/

be oriented

From this reading Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.

orientaladjectiveUS /ˌɔːriˈentəl/

denoting or characteristic of countries of the Far East

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

outlinenounUS /ˈaʊtlaɪn/

the line that appears to bound an object

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

ParisnounUS /ˈperɪs/

the capital and largest city of France; and international center of culture and commerce

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

partnounUS /pɑːrt/

something determined in relation to something that includes it

From this reading Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.

planverbUS /plæn/

have the will and intention to carry out some action

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

playedadjectiveUS /pleɪd/

(of games) engaged in

From this reading Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.

ramificationsnounUS /ˌræməfəˈkeɪʃənz/

plural of “ramification” — the act of branching out or dividing into branches

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

rareadjectiveUS /rer/

not widely known; especially valued for its uncommonness

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

readernounUS /ˈriːdər/

a person who enjoys reading

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

rightadverbUS /raɪt/

precisely, exactly

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

rivernounUS /ˈrɪvər/

a large natural stream of water (larger than a creek)

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

secondaryadjectiveUS /ˈsekənderi/

being of second rank or importance or value; not direct or immediate

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

sewernounUS /ˈsuːər/

a waste pipe that carries away sewage or surface water

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

sewersnounUS /ˈsuːərz/

plural of “sewer” — a waste pipe that carries away sewage or surface water

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

shadowsnounUS /ˈʃædoʊz/

plural of “shadow” — shade within clear boundaries

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

SinksnounUS /sɪŋks/

plural of “sink” — plumbing fixture consisting of a water basin fixed to a wall or floor and having a drainpipe

From this reading Sinks and sewers played a great part in the Middle Ages, in the Lower Empire and in the Orient of old.

someadjectiveUS /sʌm/

(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

speciesnounUS /ˈspiːʃiz/

(biology) taxonomic group whose members can interbreed

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

strangeadjectiveUS /streɪndʒ/

being definitely out of the ordinary and unexpected; slightly odd or even a bit weird

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

subterraneanadjectiveUS /ˌsʌb.təˈreɪ.ni.ən/

Existing, occurring, or done under the earth's surface.

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

summarynounUS /ˈsʌməri/

a brief statement that presents the main points in a concise form

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

supposingverbUS /səˈpoʊzɪŋ/

-ing form of “suppose” — express a supposition

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

thicketnounUS /ˈθɪkɪt/

a dense growth of bushes

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

thosedeterminerUS /ðoʊz/

the plural of “that”: the people or things further away, or already known

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

toparticleUS /tuː/

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

trunknounUS /trʌŋk/

the main stem of a tree; usually covered with bark; the bole is usually the part that is commercially useful for lumber

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

twigsnounUS /twɪɡz/

plural of “twig” — a small branch or division of a branch (especially a terminal division); usually applied to branches of the current or preceding year

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

vegetationnounUS /ˌvedʒəˈteɪʃən/

all the plant life in a particular region or period

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

veryadjectiveUS /ˈveri/

precisely as stated

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

viewnounUS /vjuː/

a way of regarding situations or topics etc.

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

viewingnounUS /ˈvjuːɪŋ/

the display of a motion picture

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

weldedverbUS /ˈweldɪd/

past form of “weld” — join together by heating

From this reading A more accurate image of this strange geometrical plan can be formed by supposing that one is viewing some eccentric oriental alphabet, as intricate as a thicket, against a background of shadows, and the misshapen letters should be welded one to another in apparent confusion, and as at haphazard, now by their angles, again by their extremities.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading This figure is but a summary one and half exact, the right angle, which is the customary angle of this species of subterranean ramifications, being very rare in vegetation.

willmodal verbUS /wɪl/

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading Let the reader imagine Paris lifted off like a cover, the subterranean network of sewers, from a bird’s-eye view, will outline on the banks a species of large branch grafted on the river.

withoutprepositionUS /wɪˈθaʊt/

not having, not using, or not accompanied by

From this reading On the right bank, the belt sewer will form the trunk of this branch, the secondary ducts will form the branches, and those without exit the twigs.

Chapter 325 of Les Misérables by Victor Hugo holds 63 sentences, grouped into 13 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 325 of Les Misérables contain?

Chapter 325 holds 63 sentences of Les Misérables, unabridged, divided into 13 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 325 of Les Misérables by Victor Hugo exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 63 sentences, grouped into 13 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 325 of Les Misérables?

Work through the 13 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 13 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 325 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 325 can be played aloud in United States English.

Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

Questions about reading Les Misérables

Common questions about reading Les Misérables by Victor Hugo on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Les Misérables?

Yes. All 0 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #? are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Les Misérables is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #?, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Les Misérables take to read?

About 5 minutes of reading across 0 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Les Misérables section by section

How to work through Les Misérables section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 0 chapters of Les Misérables to begin.

  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

    Play the section aloud, then tap any unfamiliar word for its entry.

Vocabulary met early in Les Misérables

Words and structures a reader meets early in Les Misérables, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Chapter 1
One of the 0 chapters of Les Misérables, divided into 5-sentence reading sections.
Chapter 2
One of the 0 chapters of Les Misérables, divided into 5-sentence reading sections.
Chapter 3
One of the 0 chapters of Les Misérables, divided into 5-sentence reading sections.