Chapter I

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

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

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

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

past form of “assemble” — create by putting components or members together

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

excessively forward

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

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

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

for the reason that

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

the cognitive process that leads to convictions

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

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

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

events that provide the generative force that is the origin of something

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

plural of “cause” — events that provide the generative force that is the origin of something

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

an institution created to conduct business

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

continue a certain state, condition, or activity

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

very opposed in nature or character or purpose

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

plural of “contrast” — the opposition or dissimilarity of things that are compared

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

taking a series of rhythmical steps (and movements) in time to music

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

a Mid-Atlantic state; one of the original 13 colonies

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

without doubt; certainly

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

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

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

either extremity of something that has length

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

-ing form of “enjoy” — derive or receive pleasure from; get enjoyment from; take pleasure in

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

a New Orleans district lying outside the original city limits; used in combination with the names of various quarters of the city

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

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

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

expect, believe, or suppose

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

comparative of “happy” — enjoying or showing or marked by joy or pleasure

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

state of well-being characterized by emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

enjoying or showing or marked by joy or pleasure

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

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

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

the quality of being important and worthy of note

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

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

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

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

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

and nothing more

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

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

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

a chronic inflammatory collagen disease affecting connective tissue (skin or joints)

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

the superlative of “little” that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by “the”; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

plural of “love” — a strong positive emotion of regard and affection

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

small silvery drumfish often mistaken for white perch; found along coasts of United States from New York to Mexico

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

(astrology) one of 12 equal areas into which the zodiac is divided

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

humorist who wrote about the imaginary life of cockroaches (1878-1937)

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

The faculty by which the mind stores and remembers information and knowledge.

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

used as a French courtesy title; equivalent to English “Mr”

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

the essential qualities or characteristics by which something is recognized

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

many times at short intervals

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

being directly across from each other; facing

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

an organization to gain political power

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

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

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

completely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

a human being

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

possessive form of “person” — a human being

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

the act of giving a false appearance

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

keep from happening or arising; make impossible

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

with considerable certainty; without much doubt

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

plural of “produce” — fresh fruits and vegetable grown for the market

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

To recall to mind.

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

plural of “result” — a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

precisely, exactly

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

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

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

Identical; not different.

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

express in words

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

primarily temporal sense; indicating or being or seeming to be limited in duration

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

situated in a particular spot or position

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

on certain occasions or in certain cases but not always

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

a thoroughfare (usually including sidewalks) that is lined with buildings

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

used when the people doing the action are also its object

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading It was, then, the year 1818.

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

a special situation

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

up to a particular time

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

a more or less definite period of time now or previously present

From this reading But this has been so in all times, and doubtless it will continue to be so till the end of time, assuming that time is to have an end.

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

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

emotions experienced when not in a state of well-being

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

the social event at which the ceremony of marriage is performed

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

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

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

any or all of a kind, it does not matter which

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

used to introduce two or more possibilities

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

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

From this reading In an old mansion in Faubourg Saint-Germain, situated on I do not know what street,--and that is of little importance,--a large company was assembled; they were dancing, enjoying themselves--or, at least, pretending to do so, which is not always the same thing; in short, it was a wedding party, the wedding of Monsieur le Marquis de Grandvilain and Mademoiselle Aménaïde Dufoureau.

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

From this reading Nature loves contrasts; I cannot guess why, but that does not prevent me from believing that she is right, for Nature always does perfectly whatever she does.

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

a period of time containing 365 (or 366) days

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.

a late time of life

From this reading It was the year 1818, I will not say of happy memory, because I do not remember whether that year was happier than other years; probably it was so to certain people, and just the opposite to others; and sometimes, often, I may say almost always, the same cause produces contrary results; that is to say, the thing that causes one person’s happiness causes the unhappiness of another person.