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The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2
The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2

Chapter XXXIX

Chapter 39 of The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2 is here in full — 63 sentences across 13 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2
Context Illustration Reading 1/12 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
A Digression concerning Blackness.
There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.
And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.
And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.
And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2

Chapter XXXIX

Chapter 39 of The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2 is here in full — 63 sentences across 13 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/12 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
A Digression concerning Blackness.
/ə daɪˈɡreʃən kənˈsɜːrnɪŋ ˈblæknəs/
Line 2
There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.
/ðer ˈbiːɪŋ ˈðerfɔːr tuː əˈpɪnjənz rɪˈpʌɡnənt ˈʌntuː iːtʃ ˈʌðər ɪt meɪ nɑːt biː priˈzʌmptɪv ɔːr ˈskeptəkəl tuː daʊt ʌv boʊθ/
Line 3
And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.
Line 4
And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.
Line 5
And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

Learner Dictionary

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

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

denigrated verb US /ˈdenɪɡreɪtɪd/

past form of “denigrate” — cause to seem less serious; play down

From this reading “And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.”

Digression noun US /daɪˈɡreʃən/

a message that departs from the main subject

From this reading “A Digression concerning Blackness.”

modification noun US /ˌmɑːdəfəˈkeɪʃən/

the act of making something different (as e.g. the size of a garment)

From this reading “And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.”

Originals noun US /ərˈɪdʒənəlz/

plural of “original” — an original creation (i.e., an audio recording) from which copies can be made

From this reading “And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.”

presumptive adjective US /priˈzʌmptɪv/

having a reasonable basis for belief or acceptance

From this reading “There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.”

progression noun US /prəˈɡreʃən/

a series with a definite pattern of advance

From this reading “And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.”

receptions noun US /rɪˈsepʃənz/

plural of “reception” — the manner in which something is greeted

From this reading “And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.”

skeptical adjective US /ˈskeptəkəl/

denying or questioning the tenets of especially a religion

From this reading “There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.”

Word partnerships in these lines

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

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

greater satisfaction adjective + noun

In this reading “And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.”

All words in this reading · 109

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

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

AdeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading A Digression concerning Blackness.

accordingadjectiveUS /əˈkɔːrdɪŋ/

(followed by “to”) in agreement with or accordant with

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

affordverbUS /əˈfɔːrd/

be able to spare or give up

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

althoughconjunctionUS /ˌɔːlˈðoʊ/

in spite of the fact that

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

AndconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

ariseverbUS /ərˈaɪz/

come into existence; take on form or shape

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

Artauxiliary verbUS /ɑːrt/

an old form of “are”, used with “thou”

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

becauseconjunctionUS /bɪˈkɔːz/

for the reason that

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

BlacknessnounUS /ˈblæknəs/

the quality or state of the achromatic color of least lightness (bearing the least resemblance to white)

From this reading A Digression concerning Blackness.

bodiesnounUS /ˈbɑːdiz/

plural of “body” — the entire physical structure of an organism (an animal, plant, or human being)

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

bothdeterminerUS /boʊθ/

the two together, not just one

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

causesnounUS /ˈkɑːzəz/

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

certainadjectiveUS /ˈsɜːrtən/

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

coloursnounUS /ˈkʌlərz/

a distinguishing emblem

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

concerningverbUS /kənˈsɜːrnɪŋ/

-ing form of “concern” — be relevant to

From this reading A Digression concerning Blackness.

deducing

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

deliververbUS /dɪˈlɪvər/

deliver (a speech, oration, or idea)

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

denigratedverbUS /ˈdenɪɡreɪtɪd/

past form of “denigrate” — cause to seem less serious; play down

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

dependantadjective

contingent on something else

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

DigressionnounUS /daɪˈɡreʃən/

a message that departs from the main subject

From this reading A Digression concerning Blackness.

discoursenounUS /ˈdɪskɔːrs/

extended verbal expression in speech or writing

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

discoververbUS /dɪˈskʌvər/

discover or determine the existence, presence, or fact of

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

discoverynounUS /dɪˈskʌvəri/

the act of discovering something

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

disposeverbUS /dɪˈspoʊz/

give, sell, or transfer to another

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

doauxiliary verbUS /duː/

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

doubtnounUS /daʊt/

the state of being unsure of something

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

eachdeterminerUS /iːtʃ/

every one of two or more people or things, taken separately

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

effectsnounUS /ɪˈfekts/

property of a personal character that is portable but not used in business

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

Emperically

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

expressionnounUS /ɪkˈspreʃən/

the feelings expressed on a person's face

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

generaladjectiveUS /ˈdʒenərəl/

applying to all or most members of a category or group

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

generallyadverbUS /ˈdʒenərəli/

usually; as a rule

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

greateradjectiveUS /ˈɡreɪtər/

greater in size or importance or degree

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

handnounUS /hænd/

the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

hereinadverbUS /hɪˈrɪn/

in this place or thing or document

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

hereofadverb

of or concerning this

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

hopenounUS /hoʊp/

a specific instance of feeling hopeful

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

IpronounUS /aɪ/

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

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

imitationnounUS /ˌɪməˈteɪʃən/

the doctrine that representations of nature or human behavior should be accurate imitations

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

imperfectadjectiveUS /ˌɪmˈpɜːrfɪkt/

not perfect; defective or inadequate

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

LightadjectiveUS /laɪt/

of comparatively little physical weight or density

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

materialls

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

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

maymodal verbUS /meɪ/

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

modificationnounUS /ˌmɑːdəfəˈkeɪʃən/

the act of making something different (as e.g. the size of a garment)

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

naturenounUS /ˈneɪtʃər/

the essential qualities or characteristics by which something is recognized

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

observeverbUS /əbˈzɜːrv/

discover or determine the existence, presence, or fact of

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

opinionsnounUS /əˈpɪnjənz/

plural of “opinion” — a personal belief or judgment that is not founded on proof or certainty

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

OriginalsnounUS /ərˈɪdʒənəlz/

plural of “original” — an original creation (i.e., an audio recording) from which copies can be made

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

others

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

ourdeterminerUS /ˈaʊər/

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

perhapsadverbUS /pərˈhæps/

by chance

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

presentverbUS /ˈprezənt/

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

presumptiveadjectiveUS /priˈzʌmptɪv/

having a reasonable basis for belief or acceptance

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

progressionnounUS /prəˈɡreʃən/

a series with a definite pattern of advance

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

qualitiesnounUS /ˈkwɑːlətiz/

plural of “quality” — an essential and distinguishing attribute of something or someone

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

receptionsnounUS /rɪˈsepʃənz/

plural of “reception” — the manner in which something is greeted

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

refractionnoun

the change in direction of a propagating wave (light or sound) when passing from one medium to another

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

remainverbUS /rɪˈmeɪn/

stay the same; remain in a certain state

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

removedadjectiveUS /riˈmuːvd/

separated in relationship by a given degree of descent

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

repugnantadjectiveUS /rɪˈpʌɡnənt/

offensive to the mind

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

sameadjectiveUS /seɪm/

Identical; not different.

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

satisfactionnounUS /ˌsætəˈsfækʃən/

the contentment one feels when one has fulfilled a desire, need, or expectation

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

secondnounUS /ˈsekənd/

1/60 of a minute; the basic unit of time adopted under the Systeme International d'Unites

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

sensibleadjectiveUS /ˈsensəbəl/

showing reason or sound judgment

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

sensiblyadverbUS /ˈsensəbli/

with good sense or in a reasonable or intelligent manner

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

serveverbUS /sɜːrv/

serve a purpose, role, or function

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

shallmodal verbUS /ʃæl/

used with I and we for the future, or to offer and suggest

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

shortadjectiveUS /ʃɔːrt/

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

skepticaladjectiveUS /ˈskeptəkəl/

denying or questioning the tenets of especially a religion

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

thempronounUS /ðem/

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

thenadverbUS /ðen/

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

TheorynounUS /ˈθɪri/

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

ThereadverbUS /ðer/

in or at that place or location

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

thereforeadverbUS /ˈðerfɔːr/

for that reason; as a result

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

thingsnounUS /θɪŋz/

any movable possession (especially articles of clothing)

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

thoughconjunctionUS /ðoʊ/

in spite of the fact that

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

thoughtnounUS /θɔːt/

the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

twonounUS /tuː/

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

unreasonableadjectiveUS /ənˈriːznəbəl/

not reasonable; not showing good judgment

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

untoprepositionUS /ˈʌntuː/

an old word for “to”

From this reading There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both.

wepronounUS /wiː/

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

wherein

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

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading And though colours of bodies may arise according to the receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

willmodal verbUS /wɪl/

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

worksnounUS /wɜːrks/

buildings for carrying on industrial labor

From this reading And herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover the other.

yetconjunctionUS /jet/

but in spite of that

From this reading And because we remain imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art.

Chapter 39 of The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2 by Thomas, Sir Browne holds 63 sentences, grouped into 13 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 39 of The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2 contain?

Chapter 39 holds 63 sentences of The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2, unabridged, divided into 13 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 39 of The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2 by Thomas, Sir Browne exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 63 sentences, grouped into 13 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

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Work through the 13 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

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Vocabulary met early in The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2

Words and structures a reader meets early in The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Those
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Works of Sir Thomas Browne, Volume 2; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Notes
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