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Villette
Villette

Chapter XVI · Chapter 16

Chapter 16 of Villette is here in full — 170 sentences across 34 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/34 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
LA TERRASSE.
These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.
They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.
As to what lies below, leave that with God.
Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Makershow Him the secrets of the spirit He gaveask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointedkneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.
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AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Villette

Chapter XVI · Chapter 16

Chapter 16 of Villette is here in full — 170 sentences across 34 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/34 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
LA TERRASSE.
Line 2
These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.
/ðiːz ˈstrʌɡəlz wɪð ðə ˈnætʃərəl ˈkerɪktər ðə strɔːŋ ˈneɪtɪv bent ʌv ðə hɑːrt meɪ siːm ˈfjuːtəl ənd ˈfruːtləs bʌt ɪn ðə end ðeɪ duː ɡʊd/
Line 3
They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.
Line 4
As to what lies below, leave that with God.
/æz tuː wʌt laɪz bɪˈloʊ liːv ðæt wɪð ɡɑːd/
Line 5
Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Makershow Him the secrets of the spirit He gaveask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointedkneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

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.

approves verb US /əˈpruːvz/

third-person singular of “approve” — give sanction to

From this reading “They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.”

equable adjective US /ˈekwəbəl/

not varying

From this reading “They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.”

fruitless adjective US /ˈfruːtləs/

unproductive of success

From this reading “These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.”

futile adjective US /ˈfjuːtəl/

producing no result or effect

From this reading “These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.”

Maker noun US /ˈmeɪkər/

a person who makes things

From this reading “Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.”

opposes verb US /əˈpoʊzɪz/

third-person singular of “oppose” — be against; express opposition to

From this reading “They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.”

quieter adjective US /ˈkwaɪətər/

comparative of “quiet” — characterized by an absence or near absence of agitation or activity

From this reading “They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.”

regulated adjective US /ˈreɡjəleɪtɪd/

controlled or governed according to rule or principle or law

From this reading “They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.”

All words in this reading · 110

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 They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

actionsnounUS /ˈækʃənz/

plural of “action” — something done (usually as opposed to something said)

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

appointedadjectiveUS /əˈpɔɪntɪd/

subject to appointment

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

approvesverbUS /əˈpruːvz/

third-person singular of “approve” — give sanction to

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/

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

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

AsconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading As to what lies below, leave that with God.

askverbUS /æsk/

make a request or demand for something to somebody

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

bearverbUS /ber/

have

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

belowprepositionUS /bɪˈloʊ/

at or to a lower level than something

From this reading As to what lies below, leave that with God.

bentnounUS /bent/

a relatively permanent inclination to react in a particular way

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

betteradjectiveUS /ˈbetər/

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

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

certainlyadverbUS /ˈsɜːrtənli/

definitely or positively (“sure” is sometimes used informally for “surely”)

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

characternounUS /ˈkerɪktər/

an imaginary person represented in a work of fiction (play or film or story)

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

commonadjectiveUS /ˈkɑːmən/

belonging to or participated in by a community as a whole; public

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

conductverbUS /ˈkɑːndəkt/

direct the course of; manage or control

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

darknessnounUS /ˈdɑːrknəs/

absence of light or illumination

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

differencenounUS /ˈdɪfərəns/

the quality of being unlike or dissimilar

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

doauxiliary verbUS /duː/

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

enableverbUS /eˈneɪbəl/

render capable or able for some task

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

endnounUS /end/

either extremity of something that has length

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

equableadjectiveUS /ˈekwəbəl/

not varying

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

equalverbUS /ˈiːkwəl/

be identical or equivalent to

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

extremeadjectiveUS /ekˈstriːm/

of the greatest possible degree or extent or intensity

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

faithnounUS /feɪθ/

a strong belief in a supernatural power or powers that control human destiny

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

fallverbUS /fɔːl/

descend in free fall under the influence of gravity

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

FeelingnounUS /ˈfiːlɪŋ/

the experiencing of affective and emotional states

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

fitverbUS /fɪt/

be agreeable or acceptable to

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

fruitlessadjectiveUS /ˈfruːtləs/

unproductive of success

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

futileadjectiveUS /ˈfjuːtəl/

producing no result or effect

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

gaveverbUS /ɡeɪv/

inflected form of “give” — cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

gazenounUS /ɡeɪz/

a long fixed look

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

generaladjectiveUS /ˈdʒenərəl/

applying to all or most members of a category or group

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

giveverbUS /ɡɪv/

cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

GodnounUS /ɡɑːd/

the supernatural being conceived as the perfect and omnipotent and omniscient originator and ruler of the universe; the object of worship in monotheistic religions

From this reading As to what lies below, leave that with God.

goodadjectiveUS /ɡʊd/

having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/

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

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

HepronounUS /hiː/

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

heartnounUS /hɑːrt/

the locus of feelings and intuitions

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

HimpronounUS /hɪm/

the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

HisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

how

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

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

howeveradverbUS /ˌhaʊˈevər/

used to add a contrasting statement

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

judgeverbUS /dʒʌdʒ/

determine the result of (a competition)

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

kneelverbUS /niːl/

rest one's weight on one's knees

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

LAnounUS /lɑː/

a white soft metallic element that tarnishes readily; occurs in rare earth minerals and is usually classified as a rare earth

From this reading LA TERRASSE.

leaveverbUS /liːv/

go away from a place

From this reading As to what lies below, leave that with God.

liesnounUS /laɪz/

plural of “lie” — a statement that deviates from or perverts the truth

From this reading As to what lies below, leave that with God.

lifenounUS /laɪf/

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

lightadjectiveUS /laɪt/

of comparatively little physical weight or density

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

makeverbUS /meɪk/

engage in

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

MakernounUS /ˈmeɪkər/

a person who makes things

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

MannounUS /mæn/

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

maymodal verbUS /meɪ/

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

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

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

nativeadjectiveUS /ˈneɪtɪv/

characteristic of or existing by virtue of geographic origin

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

naturaladjectiveUS /ˈnætʃərəl/

in accordance with nature; relating to or concerning nature

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

neednounUS /niːd/

a condition requiring relief

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

oftenadverbUS /ˈɔːfən/

many times at short intervals

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

onlyadverbUS /ˈoʊnli/

and nothing more

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

opposesverbUS /əˈpoʊzɪz/

third-person singular of “oppose” — be against; express opposition to

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

painsnounUS /peɪnz/

an effortful attempt to attain a goal

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

patiencenounUS /ˈpeɪʃəns/

good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

perhapsadverbUS /pərˈhæps/

by chance

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

piteousadjective

deserving or inciting pity

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

prayverbUS /preɪ/

address a deity, a prophet, a saint or an object of worship; say a prayer

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

presencenounUS /ˈprezəns/

the state of being present; current existence

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

quieteradjectiveUS /ˈkwaɪətər/

comparative of “quiet” — characterized by an absence or near absence of agitation or activity

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

ReasonnounUS /ˈriːzən/

a rational motive for a belief or action

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

regulatedadjectiveUS /ˈreɡjəleɪtɪd/

controlled or governed according to rule or principle or law

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

secretsnounUS /ˈsiːkrəts/

plural of “secret” — something that should remain hidden from others (especially information that is not to be passed on)

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

seemverbUS /siːm/

give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

showverbUS /ʃoʊ/

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

shutverbUS /ʃʌt/

move so that an opening or passage is obstructed; make shut

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

slightlyadverbUS /ˈslaɪtli/

to a small degree or extent

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

spiritnounUS /ˈspɪrət/

the vital principle or animating force within living things

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

strengthnounUS /streŋkθ/

the property of being physically or mentally strong

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

strongadjectiveUS /strɔːŋ/

having strength or power greater than average or expected

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

strugglesnounUS /ˈstrʌɡəlz/

plural of “struggle” — an energetic attempt to achieve something

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

surfacenounUS /ˈsɜːrfəs/

the outer boundary of an artifact or a material layer constituting or resembling such a boundary

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

takeverbUS /teɪk/

carry out

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

tendverbUS /tend/

have a tendency or disposition to do or be something; be inclined

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

tenour

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

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

TERRASSEverb

provide (a house) with a terrace

From this reading LA TERRASSE.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

thenceadverbUS /ðens/

from that place or that time

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

ThesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/

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

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

theypronounUS /ðeɪ/

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

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

tooadverbUS /tuː/

to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

turnverbUS /tɜːrn/

change orientation or direction, also in the abstract sense

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

weakadjectiveUS /wiːk/

wanting in physical strength

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

weaknessnounUS /ˈwiːknəs/

a flaw or weak point

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

whatpronounUS /wʌt/

used to ask for information about something

From this reading As to what lies below, leave that with God.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

willmodal verbUS /wɪl/

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading They tend, however slightly, to give the actions, the conduct, that turn which Reason approves, and which Feeling, perhaps, too often opposes: they certainly make a difference in the general tenour of a life, and enable it to be better regulated, more equable, quieter on the surface; and it is on the surface only the common gaze will fall.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading These struggles with the natural character, the strong native bent of the heart, may seem futile and fruitless, but in the end they do good.

youpronounUS /juː/

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

yourdeterminerUS /jɔːr/

belonging to the person or people being spoken to

From this reading Man, your equal, weak as you, and not fit to be your judge, may be shut out thence: take it to your Maker—show Him the secrets of the spirit He gave—ask Him how you are to bear the pains He has appointed—kneel in His presence, and pray with faith for light in darkness, for strength in piteous weakness, for patience in extreme need.

Chapter 16 of Villette by Charlotte Brontë holds 170 sentences, grouped into 34 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 16 of Villette contain?

Chapter 16 holds 170 sentences of Villette, unabridged, divided into 34 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 16 of Villette by Charlotte Brontë exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 170 sentences, grouped into 34 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 16 of Villette?

Work through the 34 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 34 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 16 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 16 can be played aloud in United States English.

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

Questions about reading Villette

Common questions about reading Villette by Charlotte Brontë on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Villette?

Yes. All 9433 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #9182 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Villette is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #9182, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Villette take to read?

About 600 minutes of reading across 1887 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Villette section by section

How to work through Villette section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 40 chapters of Villette to begin.

  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

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

Vocabulary met early in Villette

Words and structures a reader meets early in Villette, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Paulina
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Villette; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Elapsed
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Villette; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Appeared
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Villette; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Likely
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Villette; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.