adeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
actionnounUS /ˈækʃən/
something done (usually as opposed to something said)
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
alladjectiveUS /ɔːl/
(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
alwaysadverbUS /ˈɔːlweɪz/
at all times; all the time and on every occasion
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
answeredverbUS /ˈænsərd/
past form of “answer” — react verbally
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
anyadjectiveUS /ˈeni/
one or some or every or all without specification
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
askedverbUS /æskt/
past form of “ask” — make a request or demand for something to somebody
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
backadverbUS /bæk/
in or to or toward a former location
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
beauxiliary verbUS /biː/
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
Beauclerc
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
becauseconjunctionUS /bɪˈkɔːz/
for the reason that
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
beyondprepositionUS /bɪˈɑːnd/
on the far side of; further than
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
calledverbUS /kɔːld/
past form of “call” — assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
caredverbUS /kerd/
past form of “care” — feel concern or interest
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
casesnounUS /ˈkeɪsəz/
plural of “case” — an occurrence of something
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
Clarendon
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
commonadjectiveUS /ˈkɑːmən/
belonging to or participated in by a community as a whole; public
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
commonlyadverbUS /ˈkɑːmənli/
under normal conditions
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
conclusionsnounUS /kənˈkluːʒənz/
plural of “conclusion” — a position or opinion or judgment reached after consideration
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
consideredadjectiveUS /kənˈsɪdərd/
carefully weighed
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
continuallyadverbUS /kənˈtɪnjuːəli/
seemingly without interruption
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/
the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
Davenant
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
decidedadjectiveUS /ˌdɪˈsaɪdɪd/
recognizable; marked
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
disciplinenounUS /ˈdɪsəplən/
a branch of knowledge
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
dreadedadjectiveUS /ˈdredɪd/
causing fear or dread or terror
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
embellishverbUS /ɪmˈbelɪʃ/
add details to
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
enoughnounUS /ɪˈnʌf/
an adequate quantity; a quantity that is large enough to achieve a purpose
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
experienceverbUS /ɪkˈspɪriəns/
undergo or live through a difficult experience
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
explanationnounUS /ˌekspləˈneɪʃən/
a statement that makes something comprehensible by describing the relevant structure or operation or circumstances etc.
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
fitverbUS /fɪt/
be agreeable or acceptable to
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
flightnounUS /flaɪt/
a formation of aircraft in flight
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
flowernounUS /ˈflaʊər/
a plant cultivated for its blooms or blossoms
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
GeneraladjectiveUS /ˈdʒenərəl/
applying to all or most members of a category or group
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
giveverbUS /ɡɪv/
cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
goverbUS /ɡoʊ/
change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
Granville
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
groundnounUS /ɡraʊnd/
the solid part of the earth's surface
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
guardiannounUS /ˈɡɑːrdiən/
a person who cares for persons or property
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
habitsnounUS /ˈhæbəts/
plural of “habit” — an established custom
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
hatedadjectiveUS /ˈheɪtəd/
treated with dislike or contempt
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
hepronounUS /hiː/
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
himpronounUS /hɪm/
the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
ingeniouslyadverbUS /ˌɪnˈdʒiːnjəsli/
in an ingenious manner
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
innovationnounUS /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/
a creation (a new device or process) resulting from study and experimentation
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
invigorateverbUS /ˌɪnˈvɪɡərɪt/
heighten or intensify
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
judgmentsnounUS /ˈdʒʌdʒmənts/
plural of “judgment” — an opinion formed by judging something
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
justadverbUS /dʒʌst/
and nothing more
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
LadynounUS /ˈleɪdi/
a polite name for any woman
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
lastadjectiveUS /læst/
immediately past
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
leadeth
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
mannounUS /mæn/
an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
man'snounUS /mænz/
possessive form of “man” — an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
mepronounUS /miː/
the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
metaphysicsnounUS /ˌmetəˈfɪzɪks/
the philosophical study of being and knowing
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
mindnounUS /maɪnd/
The element of a person that enables awareness and thought.
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/
(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
mottonounUS /ˈmɑːtoʊ/
a favorite saying of a sect or political group
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
MydeterminerUS /maɪ/
belonging to the person speaking
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
newadjectiveUS /nuː/
not of long duration; having just (or relatively recently) come into being or been made or acquired or discovered
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
NodeterminerUS /noʊ/
not any; not one
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
notadverbUS /nɑːt/
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
oldadjectiveUS /oʊld/
(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
onlyadverbUS /ˈoʊnli/
and nothing more
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
opinionnounUS /əˈpɪnjən/
a personal belief or judgment that is not founded on proof or certainty
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
outadjectiveUS /aʊt/
not allowed to continue to bat or run
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/
above and across; more than
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
peoplenounUS /ˈpiːpəl/
(plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
pitynounUS /ˈpɪti/
a feeling of sympathy and sorrow for the misfortunes of others
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
plausiblyadverbUS /ˈplɔːzəbli/
easy to believe on the basis of available evidence
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
practicaladjectiveUS /ˈpræktəkəl/
concerned with actual use or practice
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
processverbUS /ˈprɑːses/
subject to a process or treatment, with the aim of readying for some purpose, improving, or remedying a condition
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
promptverbUS /prɑːmpt/
give an incentive for action
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
quiteadverbUS /kwaɪt/
to a degree (not used with a negative)
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
reachverbUS /riːtʃ/
reach a destination, either real or abstract
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
reasoningnounUS /ˈriːzənɪŋ/
thinking that is coherent and logical
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
referredverbUS /rəˈfɜːrd/
inflected form of “refer” — make reference to
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
rightadverbUS /raɪt/
precisely, exactly
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
roadnounUS /roʊd/
an open way (generally public) for travel or transportation
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
sensenounUS /sens/
a general conscious awareness
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
settingnounUS /ˈsetɪŋ/
the context and environment in which something is set
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/
used to say what is right, expected, or advisable
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
showverbUS /ʃoʊ/
give an exhibition of to an interested audience
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
soconjunctionUS /soʊ/
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
stepsnounUS /steps/
a flight of stairs or a flight of steps
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
takingnounUS /ˈteɪkɪŋ/
the act of someone who picks up or takes something
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
theirdeterminerUS /ðer/
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
thempronounUS /ðem/
the people or things already mentioned, as the object
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
theoristsnounUS /ˈθiːərɪsts/
plural of “theorist” — someone who theorizes (especially in science or art)
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
thereadverbUS /ðer/
in or at that place or location
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
theypronounUS /ðeɪ/
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
thingsnounUS /θɪŋz/
any movable possession (especially articles of clothing)
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
tookverbUS /tʊk/
inflected form of “take” — carry out
From this reading General Clarendon referred in all cases to old experience, and dreaded innovation; Beauclerc took for his motto, “My mind leadeth me to new things.”
twonounUS /tuː/
the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
understandingnounUS /ˌʌndərˈstændɪŋ/
the cognitive condition of someone who understands
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
unlikeadjectiveUS /ənˈlaɪk/
marked by dissimilarity
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
usenounUS /juːs/
the act of using
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
usuallyadverbUS /ˈjuːʒəwəli/
under normal conditions
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
wardnounUS /wɔːrd/
a person who is under the protection or in the custody of another
From this reading No two people could be more unlike in their habits of mind than this guardian and ward.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
welladverbUS /wel/
(often used as a combining form) in a good or proper or satisfactory manner or to a high standard (“good” is a nonstandard dialectal variant for “well”)
From this reading The general hated metaphysics, because he considered them as taking a flight beyond the reach of discipline, as well as of common sense: he continually asked, of what use are they?--While Lady Davenant answered,-- “To invigorate and embellish the understanding.
whatpronounUS /wʌt/
used to ask for information about something
From this reading General Clarendon was what is commonly called a practical man; Granville Beauclerc was the flower of theorists.
whileconjunctionUS /waɪl/
during the time that
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
whopronounUS /huː/
which person or people
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
wordsnounUS /wɜːrdz/
the words that are spoken
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
wrongadjectiveUS /rɔːŋ/
not correct; not in conformity with fact or truth
From this reading The general, fit for action, prompt and decided in all his judgments, was usually right and just in his conclusions--but if wrong, there was no setting him right; for he not only would not, but could not go back over the ground--he could not give in words any explanation of his process of reasoning--it was enough for him that it was right, and that it was _his_; while Beauclerc, who cared not for any man’s opinion, was always so ingeniously wrong, and could show all the steps of his reasoning so plausibly, that it was a pity he should be quite out of the right road at last.
