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noun

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agenda - A list or outline of things to be considered or done

Angela was frustrated by not able to bring up the subject of raises at the company meeting, because the topic was not on the agenda.

verb

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concoct - To invent or devise a plan, story, or excuse, often in a clever or dishonest way.

They concocted a brilliant plan to surprise their friend on her birthday.

noun

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wits - Mental sharpness and inventiveness; keen intelligence.

In order not to be detected, the spy had to live very moment by his wits, making sure a random mistake might reveal his true identity.

verb

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discern - To understand or identify something, especially after careful thought

I was able to discern a house in the distance by the light of the moon after our long walk when our car broke down.

verb

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finesse - Do (something) in a subtle and delicate manner

After speaking with the customer like a friend, the salesman was able to finesse him into a sale.

verb

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delve - To research or make painstaking inquiries into something

In his research for his book about George Washington, the author delved into the details of his life and presidency.

noun

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scrutiny - Careful examination of someone or something

Sam didn't want to be considered for the position of Secretary of Defense because he didn't want to be subjected to the scrutiny of Congress that is part of the application process.

verb

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comprehend - To understand something completely

In 1911 Ernest Rutherford was able to comprehend that each molecule looked like a miniature solar system.

noun

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wonk - A person who takes an excessive interest in minor details of political policy

Rachel Maddow is a policy wonk on TV who walks her audience through the minor details of legislation and current events.

verb

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bargain - To try to reach an agreement through discussion and compromise.

The two executives bargained all day and came up with an agreement that was good for both of their companies.

noun

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paradox - A situation or idea that seems strange because it involves two aspects that are very different and seem to contradict each other, and both may be true.

It's a paradox that often it's the busiest people that have to most time to contribute to the needs of others.

noun

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bargain - a thing bought or offered for sale more cheaply than is usual or expected.

This jacket was a total bargain—Bill got it for half the original price, and it was in perfect condition.