Every word is available to listen to. Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.
adeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/
later than; following
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
afternoonnounUS /ˈafternoon/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
againnounUS /again/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
all
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
andeterminerUS /æn/
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
beauxiliary verbUS /biː/
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
becoming
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
betweenprepositionUS /bɪˈtwiːn/
in the space, time, or range separating two things
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
byprepositionUS /baɪ/
showing who or what does the action
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
certain
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
confidencenounUS /ˈconfidence/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
contrary
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/
the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
Dan
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
dialogues
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/
the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
doauxiliary verbUS /duː/
used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
doing
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
dramas
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
dramatic
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
dutynounUS /ˈduːti/
a responsibility that must be carried out
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
eachdeterminerUS /iːtʃ/
every one of two or more people or things, taken separately
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
eager
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
effect
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
expressverbUS /ɪkˈspres/
to show or communicate a feeling or idea
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
father
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
forced
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
form
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
get
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
got
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
greatnounUS /great/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
Harlan
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
headway
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
helping
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
himpronounUS /hɪm/
the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/
used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
husband
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
IpronounUS /aɪ/
the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
imagined
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
ingenuity
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
inspire
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
involving
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
just
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
lady
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
littlenounUS /little/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
made
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
makenounUS /make/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
manner
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
many
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
Martha
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
more
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
most
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
Mr
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
Mrs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
murmured
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
necessarily
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
NodeterminerUS /noʊ/
not any; not one
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
nonepronounUS /nʌn/
not one, and not any
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
notadverbUS /nɑːt/
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
Oliphant
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
Oliphant's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
onprepositionUS /ɑːn/
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
only
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
opinion
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
opposite
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
out
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
perhaps
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
pessimism
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
place
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
pointing
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
pondered
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
poornounUS /poor/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
pose
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
precisely
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
proof
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
put
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
reply
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
samenounUS /same/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
say
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
shepronounUS /ʃiː/
a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
Shelby
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
sketched
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
slightest
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
small
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
straightforward
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/
of the kind already mentioned
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
such-and-such
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
suggestions
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
supposenounUS /ˈsuppose/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
taking
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
terms
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading Mrs. Oliphant made more suggestions than her husband did, and she put most of them into the form of little dramatic dialogues imagined as taking place between Mr. Oliphant and Harlan.
thempronounUS /ðem/
the people or things already mentioned, as the object
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
thesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/
the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
THEYpronounUS /ðeɪ/
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
things
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
thoughtnounUS /thought/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
timenounUS /time/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
times
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Many times that afternoon the poor lady murmured, “No, I suppose perhaps it wouldn’t do after all,” and pondered again.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
triumphantly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
turn
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
Unfortunately
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
utterednounUS /ˈuttered/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
ways
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
whatpronounUS /wʌt/
used to ask for information about something
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
whereupon
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
whopronounUS /huː/
which person or people
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading THEY thought of many ways to get him to do it, but none of such ingenuity as to inspire them with confidence.
words
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading Mr. Oliphant was to say such-and-such things to Harlan, who would necessarily reply in certain terms, which she sketched;—whereupon his father could triumphantly turn the words just uttered into proof that Harlan would not only be doing his duty by helping Dan, but at the same time would make great headway with Martha Shelby in a straightforward manner involving not the slightest pose.
wouldn't
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Unfortunately, after each of these small dramas in turn, becoming eager in her opinion that “_this_ time” she had “got it,” she was forced into pessimism by Mr. Oliphant’s pointing out that Harlan wouldn’t say what she had sketched for him; but, on the contrary, was certain to express himself to an effect precisely the opposite.
