85
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
86
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Footnote 86: Suppose a number of men employed to cast a mound into the sea.
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading Footnote 86: Suppose a number of men employed to cast a mound into the sea.
perfect or complete or pure
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
absurdlyadverbUS /əbˈsɜːrdli/
in an absurd manner or to an absurd degree
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
(sentence connectors) because of the reason given
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
a record or narrative description of past events
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
presently existing in fact and not merely potential or possible
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
be able to spare or give up
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
prior to a specified or implied time
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
one or some or every or all without specification
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
applyverbUS /əˈplaɪ/
put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
argueverbUS /ˈɑːrɡjuː/
present reasons and arguments
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
stay clear from; keep away from; keep out of the way of someone or something
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
backwardsadverbUS /ˈbækwərdz/
at or to or toward the back or rear
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/
the -ing form of “be”
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
the two together, not just one
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
(used of soaps or cleaning agents) having a substance (an abrasive or filler) added to increase effectiveness
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
to be able to, or to be allowed to
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
put or send forth
From this reading Footnote 86: Suppose a number of men employed to cast a mound into the sea.
definite but not specified or identified
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
an alert cognitive state in which you are aware of yourself and your situation
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
without stop or interruption
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
act on verbally or in some form of artistic expression
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
a line leading to a place or point
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
distinctionnounUS /dɪˈstɪŋkʃən/
a discrimination between things as different and distinct on the basis of their characteristics or attributes
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
having your services engaged for; or having a job especially one that pays wages or a salary
From this reading Footnote 86: Suppose a number of men employed to cast a mound into the sea.
endlessadjectiveUS /ˈendləs/
tiresomely long; seemingly without end
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
the state or fact of existing
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
the point or degree to which something extends
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
to a considerable degree; very much
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
more distant in especially space or time
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
(of materials or goods) brought to the desired final state
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
marked by firm determination or resolution; not shakable
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
footingnounUS /ˈfʊtɪŋ/
status with respect to the relations between people or groups
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
a printed note placed below the text on a printed page
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
forwardsadverbUS /ˈfɔːrwərdz/
at or to or toward the front
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
set up or found
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
foundationnounUS /faʊnˈdeɪʃən/
the basis on which something is grounded
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
yet to be or coming
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
applying to all or most members of a category or group
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
givenadjectiveUS /ˈɡɪvən/
acknowledged as a supposition
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
destroyed or killed
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/
the form of “have” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
the upper part of the human body or the front part of the body in animals; contains the face and brains
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
in or at this place; where the speaker or writer is
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
hypothesisnounUS /haɪˈpɑːθəsəs/
a proposal intended to explain certain facts or observations
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
identitynounUS /aɪˈdentɪtiː/
the distinct personality of an individual regarded as a persisting entity
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
insistverbUS /ˌɪnˈsɪst/
be emphatic or resolute and refuse to budge
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading Footnote 86: Suppose a number of men employed to cast a mound into the sea.
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
it's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
of or relating to two people who are married to each other
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
and nothing more
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
man'snounUS /mænz/
possessive form of “man” — an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
the force of workers available
From this reading Footnote 86: Suppose a number of men employed to cast a mound into the sea.
metaphysicaladjectiveUS /ˌmetəˈfɪzɪkəl/
pertaining to or of the nature of metaphysics
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
moundnounUS /maʊnd/
(baseball) the slight elevation on which the pitcher stands
From this reading Footnote 86: Suppose a number of men employed to cast a mound into the sea.
used to say something is necessary, or almost certainly true
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
not any; not one
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
the property possessed by a sum or total or indefinite quantity of units or individuals
From this reading Footnote 86: Suppose a number of men employed to cast a mound into the sea.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/
above and across; more than
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
go across or through
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
concerning or affecting a particular person or his or her private life and personality
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
piernounUS /pɪr/
a platform built out from the shore into the water and supported by piles; provides access to ships and boats
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
pier-head
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
a point located with respect to surface features of some region
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
a geometric element that has position but no extension
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
give an exhibition of to an interested audience
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
principlenounUS /ˈprɪnsəpəl/
a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
reach a destination, either real or abstract
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
reasoningnounUS /ˈriːzənɪŋ/
thinking that is coherent and logical
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
recedesverbUS /riˈsiːdz/
third-person singular of “recede” — pull back or move away or backward
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
ridiculouslyadverbUS /rəˈdɪkjələsli/
so as to arouse or deserve laughter
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
Identical; not different.
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
a division of an ocean or a large body of salt water partially enclosed by land
From this reading Footnote 86: Suppose a number of men employed to cast a mound into the sea.
perception by means of the eyes
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
self-interestnounUS /ˈselˈfɪntrəst/
taking advantage of opportunities without regard for the consequences for others
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
the land along the edge of a body of water
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
used to say what is right, expected, or advisable
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
solidadjectiveUS /ˈsɑːləd/
characterized by good substantial quality
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
plural of “stand” — a support or foundation
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
not in physical motion
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
subtletynounUS /ˈsʌtəlti/
a subtle difference in meaning or opinion or attitude
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
express a supposition
From this reading Footnote 86: Suppose a number of men employed to cast a mound into the sea.
carry out
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading A man’s personal identity and self-interest have just the same principle and extent, and can reach no farther than his actual existence.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
the plural of “that”: the people or things further away, or already known
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
in spite of the fact that
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
change orientation or direction, also in the abstract sense
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
the act of traveling by foot
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
used to ask for information about something
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
whitnounUS /wɪt/
a tiny or scarcely detectable amount
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
which person or people
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
used to talk about the future, or about willingness
From this reading Footnote 85: To avoid an endless subtlety of distinction I have not here given any account of consciousness in general: but the same reasoning will apply to both.
in the company of; together with
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
workmennounUS /ˈwɜːrkmɪn/
plural of “workman” — an employee who performs manual or industrial labor
From this reading As far as it has gone, the workmen pass backwards and forwards on it, it stands firm in it’s place, and though it recedes farther and farther from the shore, it is still joined to it.
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
but in spite of that
From this reading But if a man of a metaphysical turn, seeing that the pier was not yet finished, but was to be continued to a certain point and in a certain direction, should take it into his head to insist that what was already built and what was to be built were the same pier, that the one must afford as good footing as the other, and should accordingly walk over the pier-head on the solid foundation of his metaphysical hypothesis—he would argue a great deal more ridiculously, but not a whit more absurdly than those who found a principle of absolute self-interest on a man’s future identity with his present being.
