Lesson 12

occurring at the end of a process

Their ultimate aim was to force his resignation, despite the ongoing negotiations.

a final and serious demand made by one person to another, which includes consequences if the demand is not met

The government issued an ultimatum, demanding that the rebels surrender within 24 hours.

to slowly damage and ruin something by exposing it to air, water, or acids

The high humidity in the basement corroded the old photographs, causing them to fade and deteriorate.

the gradual destruction of materials by chemical reaction, usually of metals

The pipes in the old house were heavily damaged by corrosion, resulting in leaks throughout the plumbing system.

having the ability to cause damage or destruction, especially through chemical reactions

The corrosive nature of the cleaning solution caused discoloration on the countertop.

an illusory feat; considered magical by naive observers

creating a false or misleading impression

The illusive dreams of fame and fortune led many aspiring actors down a path of disappointment and disillusionment.

giving a false impression of reality

The mirroring effect of the glass created an illusory extension of the room, making it seem larger than it actually was.

highly distinguished, admired, or well-known due to exceptional and outstanding characteristics or features

The athlete's illustrious career was marked by numerous championships and records, making her a legend in her sport.

a habitual or characteristic mental attitude that determines how you will interpret and respond to situations

a reliable and experienced person who helps those with less experience

The aspiring artist found a mentor who provided valuable feedback and encouragement to help him develop his artistic skills.

to combine multiple individual bets into one larger bet, with the potential for a higher payout if all of the individual bets are successful

I wanted to parlay my $20 win into an even bigger payout with another bet.

to discuss the terms of an agreement with an opposing side, usually an enemy

The opposing military generals agreed to parley in hopes of reaching a ceasefire agreement.

to make someone familiar with or introduce them to another person

I’ll acquaint you with my friends so you can get to know them better.

to reluctantly accept something without protest

The student, unable to convince the teacher otherwise, acquiesced and accepted the lower grade on the assignment.

to buy or begin to have something

Sophie was thrilled to acquire a rare and valuable stamp for her collection.

having a strong desire or tendency to obtain, collect, or possess things, often material possessions

The acquisitive collector eagerly sought out rare and valuable coins to add to their extensive collection.

to officially decide and declare in a law court that someone is not guilty of a crime

The company was accused of wrongdoing, but after a thorough investigation, they were acquitted of any illegal activities.

a visible mark on the skin that serves as a symptom of a particular medical condition

The physician noted a stigma on the patient's arm consistent with Lyme disease.

to assign a negative label or societal judgment to a person, group, or characteristic

The media often stigmatizes individuals struggling with addiction, portraying them as weak-willed and morally corrupt.