Unit 4

a thing or person that is impossible to improve or succeed

After numerous failed attempts, the project seemed like a lost cause.

the final and decisive event or action that pushes someone beyond their tolerance or patience, leading to a significant reaction or decision

After months of dealing with her roommate's constant messiness, the dirty dishes left in the sink were the final straw, and she decided to move out.

a situation that is hard to define or categorize and therefore unclear

When it comes to environmental regulations, there's a gray area where economic interests clash with ecological concerns.

to create equal opportunities for all individuals or groups, regardless of their background or circumstances

The point of this legislation is to level the playing field for those who have typically found it harder to access public funding.

a situation where a small initial action or decision leads to a chain of events that ultimately results in a more significant and often negative outcome

Allowing one exception to the rule could be the start of a slippery slope toward chaos.

a phone call that is made at a particular time to wake someone up, at their request, for example in a hotel

She requested a wake-up call at 6 AM to ensure she wouldn't miss her early flight.

a delicate distinction between two things, particularly two apparently similar situations or concepts

There's a fine line between confidence and arrogance; it's important to strike a balance.

a strong urge to travel or leave somewhere

Ever since he was a child, he had itchy feet and dreamt of exploring distant lands.

an attempt made without having any high hopes of achieving success

Trying to win the lottery is often seen as a long shot, as the odds are astronomically against you.

a treatment that is not fair or equal

I feel like I'm getting a raw deal in this business partnership.

a sensitive or vulnerable topic or issue that causes discomfort, distress, or irritation when discussed or mentioned

His missed promotion is a sore point, so try not to bring it up.

the act of imagining or hoping for something to be true, despite there being little or no evidence or likelihood of it actually happening

They dismissed her plans as wishful thinking, given the lack of resources.

something that is assumed to be true or already decided upon before any evidence or arguments are presented

With their impressive lead going into the final inning, it was a foregone conclusion that the home team would win the game.

an option or solution that is only chosen when every other alternative has failed

He used his savings as a last resort to pay the bills.

used to state that one has adopted a different opinion

I initially agreed to the plan, but on second thought, I think it might be too risky.

(Christian theology) a state of sanctification by God; the state of one who is under such divine influence

something that has both advantages and disadvantages, making it both positive and negative

Winning the lottery turned out to be a mixed blessing, as it brought both wealth and unexpected problems.

the state in which one loses all one's confidence and willingness to continue doing something

He had cold feet about going bungee jumping and decided to back out at the last minute.

to attach or secure something by means of a curved or angled object

She hooked her keys onto the belt loop of her jeans.

a loud, sustained noise or shout of disapproval, protest, or outrage

From all corners of society, there arose a unified outcry against the unjust treatment of marginalized communities.

concern with things of the spirit

to deceive someone by creating a false story or situation

The prankster tried to hoax his friends by pretending to be an alien visitor.

having to stay in bed, usually for a long time, due to illness or injury

Sarah's grandmother became bedridden after breaking her hip, requiring assistance with all daily activities.

to seize or grab suddenly and firmly

He clutched the steering wheel tightly as he navigated through the winding mountain road.

a pair of rings made of metal with a chain attached to them, used for putting on the wrists of prisoners

The police officer placed the suspect's hands in handcuffs after arresting him.

to disregard something as unimportant or unworthy of consideration

She regularly dismisses suggestions that deviate from the established plan.

to resist or endure the force, pressure, or challenges imposed upon oneself

The sturdy structure of the building can withstand strong winds and earthquakes.

(of an illness) suddenly becoming severe but for a short time

Jack was hospitalized due to an acute bout of appendicitis.

(of a construction) to fall down suddenly, particularly due to being damaged or weak

The old building collapsed after years of neglect and structural decay.

putting someone or something at a disadvantage

The company’s inauspicious financial report worried investors.

thinking deeply about oneself and one's experiences, often resulting in new understandings or realizations

She spent a thoughtful afternoon journaling about her goals and dreams.

slightly strange in behavior, appearance, or ideas

Her eccentric fashion choices always turn heads.

beyond what is ordinary and indicating the inference of supernatural powers

The uncanny resemblance between the twins, who had never met before, left everyone amazed.

the action or process of taking an amount away from a total

Deduction helps calculate how much is left after spending money.

having doubts about something's truth, validity, or reliability

Despite the promising claims, Lisa remained skeptical about the new diet's effectiveness.