Vocabulary Insight 4

to get ready for action by removing physical and mental obstacles

Clearing the decks before Christmas, that's my plan.

rescued from an unpleasant or difficult situation at the last moment by an unexpected event, action, or intervention

I wish I had been saved by the bell.

someone who cannot stop taking, using, or smoking a substance

The rehab center provides support and treatment for addicts struggling with substance abuse.

the inability to stop using or doing something, particularly something harmful or unhealthy

Addiction is a complex condition characterized by compulsive drug use or engagement in a behavior despite harmful consequences.

having little or no hair on the head

He used a special shampoo to try to prevent becoming completely bald.

the condition of having little or no hair on the head or body

Baldness can be caused by genetics or medical conditions.

partly or completely unable to hear

The deaf child communicates using sign language.

the state or condition of being totally or partially unable to hear

Deafness can occur at any stage of life.

to prevent someone or something from being able to perform a specific action or function

Governments may disable specific services during times of crisis for public safety.

a physical or mental condition that prevents a person from using some part of their body completely or learning something easily

He was born with a disability that affects his ability to walk.

having faults, flaws, or shortcomings

The old chair was comfortable but imperfect, with a wobbly leg.

a state of having flaws or mistakes, which make something or someone less than ideal

extremely overweight, with excess body fat that significantly increases health risks

Due to his sedentary lifestyle and poor diet, Tom has become obese.

the condition of having such a high amount of body fat that it becomes very dangerous for one's health

Obesity rates have been steadily rising worldwide, becoming a major public health concern in many countries.

used for saying that a person or thing has more of a specific quality than it seems

The new employee seemed quiet and reserved, but there was definitely more than meets the eye as she turned out to be a talented artist and musician.

in a gloomy, depressing, or hopeless manner

The sky was dismally gray, reflecting the mood of the day.

to move smoothly and continuously in one direction, especially in a current or stream

The river flowed gently through the valley, carrying leaves downstream.

used to describe someone or something that is far superior when compared to others of the same type

The talented pianist was head and shoulders above the other competitors in the music competition, showcasing exceptional skill and artistry.

to believe something strongly, even though one cannot explain why

When she first set foot in the new city, she knew in her bones that it was the right place for her to start a new chapter in life.

used to suggest that working together with others can often lead to better results than working alone, as combining different perspectives and ideas can create stronger solutions

The business partners brought different skills and expertise to the table, recognizing that two heads are better than one when it comes to launching a successful venture.

without success or achieving the desired result

Despite hours of searching, the lost keys were found in vain, and she had to get a spare set.

with all that one has

She was now committed to the band, body and soul.

to remember or consider a particular piece of information or advice

Keep in mind that the meeting is at 3 PM.

used to suggest that one must be bold and take risks to achieve one's goals

The timid athlete was afraid to attempt the difficult jump, fearing injury.Her coach reminded her that faint heart never won fair lady, and encouraged her to push her limits.

a thing that someone takes pride in, such as an accomplishment, honor, etc.

Winning the award was a real feather in her cap.

to reveal information that were supposed to be kept secret, often by accident

She wanted to buy designer clothes and dine at fancy restaurants, but with her student budget, she had champagne taste on a beer budget.

without any signs of life or vitality

The lifeless body of the bird lay motionless on the ground.

informal terms for a human `tooth'

reduced in efficacy or vitality or intensity

having too much water and little taste

The soup was disappointingly watery, lacking the rich flavor of homemade broth.

to leave a place or go on a journey, especially for a specific destination

He needs to head out to the store to pick up some groceries.

to be fired from one's position or job

He got the boot from his last job for being consistently late.

to accept unpleasant or difficult things or situations, such as criticism or misfortune, without complaining

Despite the harsh feedback from the client, he took the criticism on the chin and used it to improve his work.

to show or teach someone how a particular job or task is done

When it comes to astronomy, Professor Smith really knows his stuff.

(of a particular idea, statement, or situation) challenging to accept as true

He said the news that the farm was being sold was hard to swallow at first.