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The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations
The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations

Chapter XIII · The American Puzzles

Chapter XIII of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations, “The American Puzzles,” is here in full — 779 sentences across 156 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations
Context Illustration Reading 1/155 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.
Both games are played on the same board.
The ‘blocks’ may be readily made by any lad.
They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.
Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations

Chapter XIII · The American Puzzles

Chapter XIII of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations, “The American Puzzles,” is here in full — 779 sentences across 156 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/155 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.
Line 2
Both games are played on the same board.
/boʊθ ɡeɪmz ɑːr pleɪd ɑːn ðə seɪm bɔːrd/
Line 3
The ‘blocks’ may be readily made by any lad.
/ðə blɑːks meɪ biː ˈredəli meɪd baɪ ˈeni læd/
Line 4
They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.
Line 5
Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

Learner Dictionary

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

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

accomplishment noun US /əˈkɑːmplɪʃmənt/

the action of accomplishing something

From this reading “Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’”

cork noun US /kɔːrk/

outer bark of the cork oak; used for stoppers for bottles etc.

From this reading “They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.”

irregularly adverb US /ˌɪˈreɡjələrli/

at an uneven rate

From this reading “Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’”

numbered verb US /ˈnʌmbərd/

past form of “number” — add up in number or quantity

From this reading “Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’”

numerals noun US /ˈnuːmərəlz/

plural of “numeral” — a symbol used to represent a number

From this reading “They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.”

puzzles noun US /ˈpʌzəlz/

plural of “puzzle” — a particularly baffling problem that is said to have a correct solution

From this reading “These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.”

sliding adjective US /ˈslaɪdɪŋ/

being a smooth continuous motion

From this reading “Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’”

uninitiated adjective US /ˌʌnɪˈnɪʃieɪtɪd/

not initiated; deficient in relevant experience

From this reading “Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’”

Word partnerships in these lines

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

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

simple enough adjective + noun

In this reading “Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’”

cut out verb + adjective

delete or remove

In this reading “They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.”

upper side adjective + noun

the highest or uppermost side of anything

In this reading “They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.”

general interest adjective + noun

In this reading “These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.”

some years adjective + noun

In this reading “These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.”

All words in this reading · 95

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

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

1

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

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

15

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

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

accomplishmentnounUS /əˈkɑːmplɪʃmənt/

the action of accomplishing something

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

agoadverbUS /əˈɡoʊ/

in the past

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

amongstprepositionUS /əˈmʌŋst/

surrounded by; in the company of

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

anyadjectiveUS /ˈeni/

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading The ‘blocks’ may be readily made by any lad.

areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/

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

From this reading Both games are played on the same board.

arrangeverbUS /ərˈeɪndʒ/

put into a proper or systematic order

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading The ‘blocks’ may be readily made by any lad.

beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

blocksnounUS /blɑːks/

plural of “block” — a solid piece of something (usually having flat rectangular sides)

From this reading The ‘blocks’ may be readily made by any lad.

boardnounUS /bɔːrd/

a committee having supervisory powers

From this reading Both games are played on the same board.

BothdeterminerUS /boʊθ/

the two together, not just one

From this reading Both games are played on the same board.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading The ‘blocks’ may be readily made by any lad.

canmodal verbUS /kæn/

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

corknounUS /kɔːrk/

outer bark of the cork oak; used for stoppers for bottles etc.

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

createdverbUS /kriˈeɪtəd/

past form of “create” — make or cause to be or to become

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

cutverbUS /kʌt/

separate with or as if with an instrument

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

describeverbUS /dɪˈskraɪb/

give a description of

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

easyadjectiveUS /ˈiːzi/

posing no difficulty; requiring little effort

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

enoughnounUS /ɪˈnʌf/

an adequate quantity; a quantity that is large enough to achieve a purpose

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

FifteennounUS /fɪfˈtiːn/

the cardinal number that is the sum of fourteen and one

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

followingadjectiveUS /ˈfɑːloʊɪŋ/

about to be mentioned or specified

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

GamenounUS /ɡeɪm/

a contest with rules to determine a winner

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

gamesnounUS /ɡeɪmz/

plural of “game” — a contest with rules to determine a winner

From this reading Both games are played on the same board.

generaladjectiveUS /ˈdʒenərəl/

applying to all or most members of a category or group

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

interestnounUS /ˈɪntrəst/

a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

introductionnounUS /ˌɪntrəˈdʌkʃən/

the act of beginning something new

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

irregularlyadverbUS /ˌɪˈreɡjələrli/

at an uneven rate

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

knownadjectiveUS /noʊn/

apprehended with certainty

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

ladnounUS /læd/

a boy or man

From this reading The ‘blocks’ may be readily made by any lad.

Letauxiliary verbUS /let/

used to make a suggestion or a command including the speaker

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

looksnounUS /lʊks/

plural of “look” — the feelings expressed on a person's face

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

madeadjectiveUS /meɪd/

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading The ‘blocks’ may be readily made by any lad.

materialadjectiveUS /məˈtɪriəl/

concerned with worldly rather than spiritual interests

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

maymodal verbUS /meɪ/

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading The ‘blocks’ may be readily made by any lad.

merelyadverbUS /ˈmɪrli/

and nothing more

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

neednounUS /niːd/

a condition requiring relief

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

numberedverbUS /ˈnʌmbərd/

past form of “number” — add up in number or quantity

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

numeralsnounUS /ˈnuːmərəlz/

plural of “numeral” — a symbol used to represent a number

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

ordernounUS /ˈɔːrdər/

(often plural) a command given by a superior (e.g., a military or law enforcement officer) that must be obeyed

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

PlacenounUS /pleɪs/

a point located with respect to surface features of some region

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

playedadjectiveUS /pleɪd/

(of games) engaged in

From this reading Both games are played on the same board.

practicenounUS /ˈpræktəs/

a customary way of operation or behavior

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

puzzlesnounUS /ˈpʌzəlz/

plural of “puzzle” — a particularly baffling problem that is said to have a correct solution

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

readernounUS /ˈriːdər/

a person who enjoys reading

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

readilyadverbUS /ˈredəli/

without much difficulty

From this reading The ‘blocks’ may be readily made by any lad.

removingverbUS /riˈmuːvɪŋ/

-ing form of “remove” — remove something concrete, as by lifting, pushing, or taking off, or remove something abstract

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

roundnounUS /raʊnd/

a charge of ammunition for a single shot

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

sameadjectiveUS /seɪm/

Identical; not different.

From this reading Both games are played on the same board.

sayverbUS /seɪ/

express in words

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

shapenounUS /ʃeɪp/

any spatial attributes (especially as defined by outline)

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

sidenounUS /saɪd/

a place within a region identified relative to a center or reference location

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

simpleadjectiveUS /ˈsɪmpəl/

having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

slidingadjectiveUS /ˈslaɪdɪŋ/

being a smooth continuous motion

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

someadjectiveUS /sʌm/

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

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

squareverbUS /skwer/

make square

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

suitableadjectiveUS /ˈsuːtəbəl/

meant or adapted for an occasion or use

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

thempronounUS /ðem/

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

thenadverbUS /ðen/

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

theorynounUS /ˈθɪri/

a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world; an organized system of accepted knowledge that applies in a variety of circumstances to explain a specific set of phenomena

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

ThesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

TheypronounUS /ðeɪ/

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

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

thinkverbUS /θɪŋk/

judge or regard; look upon; judge

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

Thirty-fouradjective

being four more than thirty

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

ThisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

thusadverbUS /ðʌs/

(used to introduce a logical conclusion) from that fact or reason or as a result

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

triedadjectiveUS /traɪd/

tested and proved useful or correct

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

TryverbUS /traɪ/

make an effort or attempt

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

uninitiatedadjectiveUS /ˌʌnɪˈnɪʃieɪtɪd/

not initiated; deficient in relevant experience

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

upperadjectiveUS /ˈʌpər/

the topmost one of two

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

uspronounUS /ʌs/

the speaker and others, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

wepronounUS /wiː/

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

whereverconjunctionUS /weˈrevər/

in or to any place at all

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

withoutprepositionUS /wɪˈθaʊt/

not having, not using, or not accompanied by

From this reading Place the blocks, numbered 1 to 15, on the board irregularly, and then, by sliding them about from square to square, but without removing them from the board, arrange them in the following order:-- This looks simple enough in theory, but to any uninitiated reader who may think it easy of accomplishment in practice, we need merely say, ‘Try it.’

woodnounUS /wʊd/

the hard fibrous lignified substance under the bark of trees

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

writtenadjectiveUS /ˈrɪtən/

set down in writing in any of various ways

From this reading They can be cut out of cork, wood, or other suitable material, and may be square or round in shape, the numerals being written on the upper side, thus-- Let us describe the ‘15’ game first.

yearsnounUS /jɪrz/

a late time of life

From this reading These puzzles, known as the ‘Thirty-four Game’ and the ‘Fifteen Game,’ on their introduction amongst us some years ago, created general interest wherever tried.

Chapter 13 of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations by G. Andrew [Editor] Hutchison holds 779 sentences, grouped into 156 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 13 of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations contain?

Chapter 13 holds 779 sentences of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations, unabridged, divided into 156 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 13 of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations by G. Andrew [Editor] Hutchison exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 779 sentences, grouped into 156 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 13 of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations?

Work through the 156 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 156 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 13 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 13 can be played aloud in United States English.

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

Questions about reading The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations

Common questions about reading The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations by G. Andrew [Editor] Hutchison on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations?

Yes. All 9803 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #49415 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #49415, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations take to read?

About 600 minutes of reading across 1961 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations section by section

How to work through The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 29 chapters of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations to begin.

  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

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

Vocabulary met early in The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations

Words and structures a reader meets early in The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Philadelphia
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Lippincott
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Company
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Presenting
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy's Own Book of Indoor Games and Recreations; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.