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Innocent
Innocent

Chapter III

Chapter 3 of Innocent is here in full — 205 sentences across 41 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/41 · 5 lines
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THE FRIENDS OF THE FAMILY.
This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.
I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.
Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.
“Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Innocent

Chapter III

Chapter 3 of Innocent is here in full — 205 sentences across 41 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/41 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
THE FRIENDS OF THE FAMILY.
/ðə frendz ʌv ðə ˈfæməli/
Line 2
This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.
Line 3
I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.
/aɪ æm əˈfreɪd ʃiː wɑːz ʌv ə ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃəl weɪ ʌv ˈθɪŋkɪŋ æt ðɪs ˈpɪriəd ʌv hɜːr eɡˈzɪstəns ənd ˈræðər æpt tuː bɪˈliːv ðæt ˈpiːpəl huː meɪd ðemˈselvz ənˈplezənt ɔːr səˈdʒestɪd ənˈkʌmfərtəbəl ˈmɪstəriz wɜːr ɪn ə bæd ˈhjuːmər ɔːr pʊt aʊt əˈbaʊt ˈsʌmθɪŋ wɪtʃ ˌɪnˈdiːd ɪz ə ˈveri ˈeksələnt ənd seɪf ˌekspləˈneɪʃən ʌv ˈmeni ʌv ðə ənˈplezənt ˈspiːtʃəz wiː meɪk tuː iːtʃ ˈʌðər bʌt jet nɑːt ˈɔːlweɪz tuː biː dɪˈpendəd əˈpɑːn/
Line 4
Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.
Line 5
“Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.

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.

depended verb US /dɪˈpendəd/

past form of “depend” — be contingent upon (something that is elided)

From this reading “I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.”

dwell verb US /dwel/

think moodily or anxiously about something

From this reading “This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.”

heed noun US /hiːd/

paying particular notice (as to children or helpless people)

From this reading “Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.”

mysteries noun US /ˈmɪstəriz/

plural of “mystery” — something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained

From this reading “I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.”

speeches noun US /ˈspiːtʃəz/

plural of “speech” — the act of delivering a formal spoken communication to an audience

From this reading “I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.”

superficial adjective US /ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃəl/

concerned with or comprehending only what is apparent or obvious; not deep or penetrating emotionally or intellectually

From this reading “I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.”

uncomfortable adjective US /ənˈkʌmfərtəbəl/

conducive to or feeling mental discomfort

From this reading “I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.”

yoke noun US /joʊk/

fabric comprising a fitted part at the top of a garment

From this reading “Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.”

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.

next morning adjective + noun

In this reading “Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.”

depended upon verb + particle counted as “depend upon”

be contingent on

In this reading “I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.”

dwell upon verb + particle

In this reading “This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.”

bad humour adjective + noun

In this reading “I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.”

young person adjective + noun

a young person (especially a young man or boy)

In this reading “This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.”

rather apt adverb + adjective

In this reading “I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.”

put out verb + adjective

to cause inconvenience or discomfort to

In this reading “I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.”

take up verb + adjective

pursue or resume

In this reading ““Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.”

All words in this reading · 107

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 This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

afraidadjectiveUS /əˈfreɪd/

filled with fear or apprehension

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

Alice's

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading “Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.

alwaysadverbUS /ˈɔːlweɪz/

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

amauxiliary verbUS /æm/

the form of “be” used with “I”

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

anyadjectiveUS /ˈeni/

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

aptadjectiveUS /æpt/

(usually followed by “to”) naturally disposed toward

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

badadjectiveUS /bæd/

having undesirable or negative qualities

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

believeverbUS /bɪˈliːv/

accept as true; take to be true

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

daynounUS /deɪ/

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

dependedverbUS /dɪˈpendəd/

past form of “depend” — be contingent upon (something that is elided)

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

doneadjectiveUS /dʌn/

having finished or arrived at completion

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

dwellverbUS /dwel/

think moodily or anxiously about something

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

eachdeterminerUS /iːtʃ/

every one of two or more people or things, taken separately

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

Eastwood

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

Ellinor's

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

excellentadjectiveUS /ˈeksələnt/

very good; of the highest quality

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

existencenounUS /eɡˈzɪstəns/

the state or fact of existing

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

explanationnounUS /ˌekspləˈneɪʃən/

a statement that makes something comprehensible by describing the relevant structure or operation or circumstances etc.

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

FAMILYnounUS /ˈfæməli/

a social unit living together

From this reading THE FRIENDS OF THE FAMILY.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

FRIENDSnounUS /frendz/

plural of “friend” — a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

From this reading THE FRIENDS OF THE FAMILY.

giveverbUS /ɡɪv/

cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

halfadjectiveUS /hæf/

consisting of one of two equivalent parts in value or quantity

From this reading “Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.

haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

heednounUS /hiːd/

paying particular notice (as to children or helpless people)

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/

belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

herselfpronounUS /hərˈself/

used when the woman or girl doing the action is also its object

From this reading “Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.

hintnounUS /hɪnt/

an indirect suggestion

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

humournounUS /ˈhjuːmər/

a characteristic (habitual or relatively temporary) state of feeling

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

IpronounUS /aɪ/

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

indeedadverbUS /ˌɪnˈdiːd/

in truth (often tends to intensify)

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

lessadverbUS /les/

used to form the comparative of some adjectives and adverbs

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

light-heartedadjective

carefree and happy and lighthearted

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

likeverbUS /laɪk/

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

madeadjectiveUS /meɪd/

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

makeverbUS /meɪk/

engage in

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

manyadjectiveUS /ˈmeni/

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 I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

mightmodal verbUS /maɪt/

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

mindnounUS /maɪnd/

The element of a person that enables awareness and thought.

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

morningnounUS /ˈmɔːrnɪŋ/

the time period between dawn and noon

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

MrsnounUS /ˈmɪsɪz/

a form of address for a married woman

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

mysteriesnounUS /ˈmɪstəriz/

plural of “mystery” — something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

mysteriousadjectiveUS /mɪˈstɪriəs/

of an obscure nature

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

Nelly's

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

nextadjectiveUS /nekst/

immediately following in time or order

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

occupiedadjectiveUS /ˈɑːkjəpaɪd/

held or filled or in use

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

OFprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading THE FRIENDS OF THE FAMILY.

offadverbUS /ɔːf/

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

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

opinionsnounUS /əˈpɪnjənz/

plural of “opinion” — a personal belief or judgment that is not founded on proof or certainty

From this reading “Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

peoplenounUS /ˈpiːpəl/

(plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

periodnounUS /ˈpɪriəd/

an amount of time

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

personnounUS /ˈpɜːrsən/

a human being

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

preparationsnounUS /ˌprepərˈeɪʃənz/

plural of “preparation” — the activity of putting or setting in order in advance of some act or purpose

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

putverbUS /pʊt/

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

ratheradverbUS /ˈræðər/

on the contrary

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

restverbUS /rest/

not move; be in a resting position

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

safeadjectiveUS /seɪf/

free from danger or the risk of harm

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

saidadjectiveUS /sed/

being the one previously mentioned or spoken of

From this reading “Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.

shepronounUS /ʃiː/

a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading “Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.

somethingpronounUS /ˈsʌmθɪŋ/

a thing, without saying which

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

soulnounUS /soʊl/

the immaterial part of a person; the actuating cause of an individual life

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

speechesnounUS /ˈspiːtʃəz/

plural of “speech” — the act of delivering a formal spoken communication to an audience

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

suggestedverbUS /səˈdʒestɪd/

past form of “suggest” — make a proposal, declare a plan for something

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

superficialadjectiveUS /ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃəl/

concerned with or comprehending only what is apparent or obvious; not deep or penetrating emotionally or intellectually

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

takeverbUS /teɪk/

carry out

From this reading “Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

THEdeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading THE FRIENDS OF THE FAMILY.

themselvespronounUS /ðemˈselvz/

used when the people doing the action are also its object

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

thinkingnounUS /ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/

the process of using your mind to consider something carefully

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

ThisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

thrownadjectiveUS /θroʊn/

caused to fall to the ground

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

uncomfortableadjectiveUS /ənˈkʌmfərtəbəl/

conducive to or feeling mental discomfort

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

unpleasantadjectiveUS /ənˈplezənt/

offensive or disagreeable; causing discomfort or unhappiness

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

upadjectiveUS /ʌp/

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading “Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.

uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/

a formal word for “on”

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

veryadjectiveUS /ˈveri/

precisely as stated

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

waynounUS /weɪ/

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

wepronounUS /wiː/

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

WhynounUS /waɪ/

the cause or intention underlying an action or situation, especially in the phrase “the whys and wherefores”

From this reading “Why should I take up Alice’s opinions?” she said half to herself.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

yetconjunctionUS /jet/

but in spite of that

From this reading I am afraid she was of a superficial way of thinking at this period of her existence, and rather apt to believe that people who made themselves unpleasant, or suggested uncomfortable mysteries were “in a bad humour,” or “put out about something;” which, indeed, is a very excellent and safe explanation of many of the unpleasant speeches we make to each other, but yet not always to be depended upon.

yokenounUS /joʊk/

fabric comprising a fitted part at the top of a garment

From this reading Mrs. Eastwood was “put out” for the rest of the day, and would give no heed to any of Nelly’s preparations; but, like the light-hearted soul she was, had thrown off the yoke by next morning.

youngadjectiveUS /jʌŋ/

(used of living things especially persons) in an early period of life or development or growth

From this reading This mysterious hint did not dwell upon Ellinor’s mind as it might have done in the mind of a young person less occupied.

Chapter 3 of Innocent by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant holds 205 sentences, grouped into 41 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 3 of Innocent contain?

Chapter 3 holds 205 sentences of Innocent, unabridged, divided into 41 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 3 of Innocent by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 205 sentences, grouped into 41 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 3 of Innocent?

Work through the 41 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 41 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 3 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 3 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.

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Is this the complete text of Innocent?

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Which edition of Innocent is used?

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

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  1. Open a chapter

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  3. Listen and tap

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

Vocabulary met early in Innocent

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

Chapter 1
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Chapter 2
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Chapter 3
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