Grammar Clinic

Meaning: open to more than one interpretation; ambiguous (of a person) using ambiguous or evasive language uncertain or questionable in nature. Synonym: ambiguous, indefinite, vague, indeterminate Example: The results of the investigation were equivocal

Meaning: excessive confidence or boldness; audacity. Synonym: audacity, boldness, effrontery, nerve Example: John had the temerity to question the president’s decision during the senate meeting

Meaning: Capable of destroying or eating away by Chemical reaction. Synonym: corrosive, burning, harsh, destructive. Example: John was angry by Jane’s caustic tone.

Meaning: To persuade or influence someone by using flattery. Synonym: flatter, cajole, coax, smooth talk. Example: Because he wanted to go to the game so badly, Joe tried to blandish his mother by complimenting her hair.

Meaning: disorderly and disruptive and not amenable to discipline or control Synonym: disorderly, wild, rowdy, uncontrollable Example: The group of unruly children just walked past

Meaning: (of a disease) not harmful in effect Synonym: harmless, gentle Example: He’s suffering from a benign condition.

Meaning: a trite or obvious remark Synonym: triteness, platitudinousness Example: There is an essential banality to the story Paul tells

Meaning: Causing harm or damage Synonym: harmful, damaging, detrimental, injurious, inimical, hurtful Example: Cocaine is proven to have deleterious effects on children

Meaning: friendly, good-natured, or easy to talk to. Synonym: amiable, genial, congenial, cordial, warm, pleasant, pleasing, likeable, personable, charming, agreeable Example: Mark is an affable and agreeable companion

Meaning: having an extremely offensive smell Synonyms: unpleasant, nasty, distasteful, displeasing, revolting, nauseating Example: She had to drink a noisome concoction