adeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
ableadjectiveUS /ˈeɪbəl/
(usually followed by “to”) having the necessary means or skill or know-how or authority to do something
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
affairnounUS /əˈfer/
a vaguely specified concern
From this reading Practical jokes are never countenanced at a formal affair of this sort.
afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/
later than; following
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
agenounUS /eɪdʒ/
how long something has existed
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
agreesverbUS /əˈɡriːz/
third-person singular of “agree” — be in accord; be in agreement
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
ambitiousadjectiveUS /æmˈbɪʃəs/
having a strong desire for success or achievement
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
amongprepositionUS /əˈmʌŋ/
surrounded by; in the middle of a group
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
amountnounUS /əˈmaʊnt/
a quantity of money
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
AndconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
aptadjectiveUS /æpt/
(usually followed by “to”) naturally disposed toward
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
arrangedadjectiveUS /ərˈeɪndʒd/
disposed or placed in a particular kind of order
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading Practical jokes are never countenanced at a formal affair of this sort.
beauxiliary verbUS /biː/
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
behaviournounUS /bɪˈheɪvjər/
the action or reaction of something (as a machine or substance) under specified circumstances
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
ButconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
carefullyadverbUS /ˈkerfəli/
taking care or paying attention
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
certainadjectiveUS /ˈsɜːrtən/
definite but not specified or identified
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
chairnounUS /tʃer/
a seat for one person, with a support for the back
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
comeverbUS /kʌm/
move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
complexnounUS /ˈkɑːmpleks/
a conceptual whole made up of complicated and related parts
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
consentnounUS /kənˈsent/
permission to do something
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
correctverbUS /kərˈekt/
make right or correct
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
countenancedverbUS /ˈkaʊntənənst/
past form of “countenance” — consent to, give permission
From this reading Practical jokes are never countenanced at a formal affair of this sort.
couplenounUS /ˈkʌpəl/
a pair who associate with one another
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
decidedlyadverbUS /ˌdɪˈsaɪdədli/
without question and beyond doubt
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
detailsnounUS /dɪˈteɪlz/
true confidential information
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
diner-out
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
dinnernounUS /ˈdɪnər/
the main meal of the day served in the evening or at midday
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
dinner-table
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
doauxiliary verbUS /duː/
used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
doesauxiliary verbUS /dʌz/
the form of “do” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
eggsnounUS /eɡz/
oval reproductive body of a fowl (especially a hen) used as food
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
etiquettenounUS /ˈetəkət/
rules governing socially acceptable behavior
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
everydeterminerUS /ˈevəri/
all the members of a group, with none left out
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
experienceverbUS /ɪkˈspɪriəns/
undergo or live through a difficult experience
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
findverbUS /faɪnd/
come upon, as if by accident; meet with
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/
preceding all others in time or space or degree
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
followingadjectiveUS /ˈfɑːloʊɪŋ/
about to be mentioned or specified
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
formaladjectiveUS /ˈfɔːrməl/
being in accord with established forms and conventions and requirements (as e.g. of formal dress)
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
fromprepositionUS /frʌm/
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
funnounUS /fʌn/
activities that are enjoyable or amusing
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
fundamentalsnounUS /ˌfʌndəˈmentəlz/
principles from which other truths can be derived
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
gleefullyadverbUS /ˈɡliːfəli/
in a joyous and gleeful manner
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
good-naturedadjective
having an easygoing and cheerful disposition
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
governverbUS /ˈɡʌvərn/
bring into conformity with rules or principles or usage; impose regulations
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
GuessverbUS /ɡes/
expect, believe, or suppose
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
guestnounUS /ɡest/
a visitor to whom hospitality is extended
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
habitnounUS /ˈhæbət/
an established custom
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
handleverbUS /ˈhændəl/
be in charge of, act on, or dispose of
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/
the form of “have” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
hepronounUS /hiː/
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
helpingnounUS /ˈhelpɪŋ/
an individual quantity of food or drink taken as part of a meal
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
hostessnounUS /ˈhoʊstəs/
a woman host
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
IpronounUS /aɪ/
the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
jokesnounUS /dʒoʊks/
plural of “joke” — a humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter
From this reading Practical jokes are never countenanced at a formal affair of this sort.
kickingnounUS /ˈkɪkɪŋ/
a rhythmic thrusting movement of the legs as in swimming or calisthenics
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
knowverbUS /noʊ/
be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
lawsnounUS /lɔːz/
the first of three divisions of the Hebrew Scriptures comprising the first five books of the Hebrew Bible considered as a unit
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
longadjectiveUS /lɔːŋ/
primarily temporal sense; being or indicating a relatively great or greater than average duration or passage of time or a duration as specified
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
makesnounUS /meɪks/
plural of “make” — a recognizable kind
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
mannernounUS /ˈmænər/
how something is done or how it happens
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
masternounUS /ˈmæstər/
an artist of consummate skill
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
mepronounUS /miː/
the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
meanverbUS /miːn/
mean or intend to express or convey
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
menunounUS /ˈmenjuː/
a list of dishes available at a restaurant
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
mightmodal verbUS /maɪt/
used to say something is possible but not certain
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
modernadjectiveUS /ˈmɑːdərn/
belonging to the modern era; since the Middle Ages
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/
(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
neighbornounUS /ˈneɪbər/
a person who lives (or is located) near another
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
neveradverbUS /ˈnevər/
not ever; at no time in the past or future
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
nicetiesnounUS /ˈnaɪsɪtiz/
plural of “nicety” — conformity with some esthetic standard of correctness or propriety
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
non-ests
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
notadverbUS /nɑːt/
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
onlyadverbUS /ˈoʊnli/
and nothing more
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
outadjectiveUS /aʊt/
not allowed to continue to bat or run
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
partynounUS /ˈpɑːrti/
an organization to gain political power
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
payverbUS /peɪ/
give money, usually in exchange for goods or services
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
personnounUS /ˈpɜːrsən/
a human being
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
placenounUS /pleɪs/
a point located with respect to surface features of some region
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
poachedadjectiveUS /poʊtʃt/
cooked in hot water
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
PracticaladjectiveUS /ˈpræktəkəl/
concerned with actual use or practice
From this reading Practical jokes are never countenanced at a formal affair of this sort.
professionnounUS /prəˈfeʃən/
the body of people in a learned occupation
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
pullingnounUS /ˈpʊlɪŋ/
the act of pulling; applying force to move something toward or with you
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
reachedverbUS /riːtʃt/
past form of “reach” — reach a destination, either real or abstract
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
refinementsnounUS /rɪˈfaɪnmənts/
plural of “refinement” — a highly developed state of perfection; having a flawless or impeccable quality
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
runverbUS /rʌn/
move fast by using one's feet, with one foot off the ground at any given time
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
satisfactoryadjectiveUS /ˌsætəˈsfæktri/
giving satisfaction
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
sayingnounUS /ˈseɪɪŋ/
a word or phrase that particular people use in particular situations
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
shins
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
shoutingnounUS /ˈʃaʊtɪŋ/
encouragement in the form of cheers from spectators
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
soconjunctionUS /soʊ/
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
sortnounUS /sɔːrt/
a category of things distinguished by some common characteristic or quality
From this reading Practical jokes are never countenanced at a formal affair of this sort.
sportnounUS /spɔːrt/
an active diversion requiring physical exertion and competition
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
Squabnoun
flesh of a pigeon suitable for roasting or braising; flesh of a dove (young squab) may be broiled
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
squeamishnessnounUS /ˈskwiːmɪʃnəs/
a mild state of nausea
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
studynounUS /ˈstʌdi/
a detailed critical inspection
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
stuntsnounUS /stʌnts/
plural of “stunt” — a difficult or unusual or dangerous feat; usually done to gain attention
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/
of the kind already mentioned
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
suggestverbUS /səˈdʒest/
make a proposal, declare a plan for something
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
supposedadjectiveUS /səˈpoʊzd/
required or under orders
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
tablenounUS /ˈteɪbəl/
a set of data arranged in rows and columns
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
tacitlyadverbUS /ˈtæsɪtli/
in a tacit manner; by unexpressed agreement
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
thereadverbUS /ðer/
in or at that place or location
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
thesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/
the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading Practical jokes are never countenanced at a formal affair of this sort.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
underprepositionUS /ˈʌndər/
below or beneath something; less than
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
undoubtedlyadverbUS /ənˈdaʊtɪdli/
without doubt; certainly
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
unwrittenadjectiveUS /ənˈrɪtən/
based on custom rather than documentation
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
viewnounUS /vjuː/
a way of regarding situations or topics etc.
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
whenconjunctionUS /wen/
at the time that
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
whopronounUS /huː/
which person or people
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
willmodal verbUS /wɪl/
used to talk about the future, or about willingness
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading But, as in every sport or profession, there are certain refinements—certain niceties which come only after long experience—and it is with a view of helping the ambitious diner-out to master these more complex details, that I suggest that he study carefully the following “unwritten laws” which govern every dinner party.
wondernounUS /ˈwʌndər/
the feeling aroused by something strange and surprising
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
youpronounUS /juː/
the person or people being spoken to
From this reading In the first place, a guest is supposed tacitly to consent to the menu which the hostess has arranged, and the diner-out who makes a habit of saying “Squab, you know, never agrees with me—I wonder if I might have a couple of poached eggs,” is apt to find that such squeamishness does not pay in the long run.
youngadjectiveUS /jʌŋ/
(used of living things especially persons) in an early period of life or development or growth
From this reading And so, when the young person has reached the age for his first formal dinner party, he will undoubtedly be able to handle the fundamentals of correct etiquette in a satisfactory manner.
yourdeterminerUS /jɔːr/
belonging to the person or people being spoken to
From this reading I do not mean that a certain amount of good-natured fun is out of place, but such “stunts” as pulling the hostess’ chair out from under her—or gleefully kicking the shins of your neighbor under the table and shouting “Guess who?”—are decidedly among the “non-ests” of correct modern dinner-table behaviour.
