Chapter II

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a record or narrative description of past events

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading Ah fie!

equally

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

Having no one else present.

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

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

From this reading The ground cannot cultivate itself, and needs an experienced gardener.

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

delighting the senses or exciting intellectual or emotional admiration

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

third-person singular of “become” — enter or assume a certain state or condition

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

(comparative of “good”) superior to another (of the same class or set or kind) in excellence or quality or desirability or suitability; more highly skilled than another

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

plural of “break” — some abrupt occurrence that interrupts an ongoing activity

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

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

From this reading The ground cannot cultivate itself, and needs an experienced gardener.

the prevailing context that influences the performance or the outcome of a process

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a person who is professionally engaged in the analysis and interpretation of works of art

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

foster the growth of

From this reading The ground cannot cultivate itself, and needs an experienced gardener.

socialization through training and education to develop one's mind or manners

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

someone concerned with the science or art or business of cultivating the soil

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a particular society at a particular time and place

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

third-person singular of “deserve” — be worthy or deserving

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

an effort that is inconvenient

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

a line leading to a place or point

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

having experience; having knowledge or skill from observation or participation

From this reading The ground cannot cultivate itself, and needs an experienced gardener.

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

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

well known or easily recognized

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

grow vigorously

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

to travel behind, go after, come after

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

to or at a greater extent or degree or a more advanced stage (“further” is used more often than “farther” in this abstract sense)

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

a plot of ground where plants are cultivated

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

someone who takes care of a garden

From this reading The ground cannot cultivate itself, and needs an experienced gardener.

the solid part of the earth's surface

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

conforming to an ultimate standard of perfection or excellence; embodying an ideal

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

artwork that helps make something clear or attractive

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

form a mental image of something that is not present or that is not the case

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

of great significance or value

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

used when the thing doing the action is also its object

From this reading The ground cannot cultivate itself, and needs an experienced gardener.

immediately past

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

used to make a suggestion or a command including the speaker

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

the message that is intended or expressed or signified

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

inflected form of “meet” — come together

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

used to form the superlative

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

in such a manner as could not be otherwise

From this reading The ground cannot cultivate itself, and needs an experienced gardener.

disregarded

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

not one, and not any

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

preceding all others in time or being as first made or performed

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a material made of cellulose pulp derived mainly from wood or rags or certain grasses

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a secret scheme to do something (especially something underhand or illegal)

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a geometric element that has position but no extension

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

subject to a process or treatment, with the aim of readying for some purpose, improving, or remedying a condition

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

an essential and distinguishing attribute of something or someone

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

made less in size or amount or degree

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

being the one previously mentioned or spoken of

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

the display of a motion picture

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a figure of speech that expresses a resemblance between things of different kinds (usually formed with “like” or “as”)

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

the state of being covered with unclean things

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

the season of growth

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

the subject matter of a conversation or discussion

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

understood in a certain way; made sense of

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a twisted and tangled mass that is highly interwoven

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

any movable possession (especially articles of clothing)

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

employed in accomplishing something

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

being of use or service

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

precisely as stated

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a black garment (dress) worn by a widow as a sign of mourning

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

(often used as a combining form) in a good or proper or satisfactory manner or to a high standard (“good” is a nonstandard dialectal variant for “well”)

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

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

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

having or prompted by wisdom or discernment

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

a unit of language that native speakers can identify

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

the words that are spoken

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

exert oneself by doing mental or physical work for a purpose or out of necessity

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading In our last paper on this subject we reduced the word “culture” to its simple and original meaning, and used the familiar illustration of a plot of garden ground, showing that weeds would spring up if cultivation were neglected; that things useful and beautiful alike flourish in the ideal garden; that the quality of the soil and other conditions should be taken into account by the wise cultivator; and that, culture being a process as well as a result, a little work in that direction is better than none at all.

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading If let alone, it becomes, as you have said, a tangle of weeds and deserves Hamlet’s words— “‘Fie on’t!

belonging to the person or people being spoken to

From this reading We might follow the simile further; but we are now met by a difficulty, and can imagine some critic expostulating, “Your illustration of the garden is all very well, but it breaks down at the most important point.