Lesson 1

to predict that something bad is going to happen very soon

The dark clouds forbode a storm approaching the coast.

a part of a ship used as the crew’s quarters

The sailors spent most of their time in the forecastle when they weren't on deck, resting or playing cards.

(of a bank) to take away someone's property because they have not repaid the money they borrowed from the bank in order to buy it

The bank threatens to foreclose on the house if the homeowner does not make the overdue payment by next month.

a large space in front of a building

The hotel’s forecourt was lined with blooming flowers and elegant fountains to welcome guests.

to go or to be before someone or something in time or place

The ancient civilizations forewent the current technological advancements by centuries, laying the foundations for future discoveries.

the part of the face above the eyebrows and below the hair

She wiped the sweat from her forehead after running the marathon under the hot sun.

knowledge of an occurrence before it actually happens

The detective seemed to have foreknowledge of the crime before it occurred.

a male worker who watches over other workers and is often more experienced

The foreman oversees the workers to ensure all safety protocols are followed.

a decorative plume or feather worn as a fashion accessory on hats or helmets

The knight adorned his helmet with a vibrant panache.

someone who procures customers for whores (in England they call a pimp a ponce)

a speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something

In his speech, he wrote a panegyric to his parents, thanking them for their unwavering support throughout his career.

an impressive collection of things

The museum displayed a panoply of ancient artifacts from civilizations across the world.

the force that causes something to move or to keep moving

The strong winds provided the impetus for the sailboat to glide across the water at high speed.

a method of performance in which the performer uses body and hand gestures in order to suggest an idea or tell something without using words

The street performer entertained the crowd with a pantomime of a person trapped in an invisible box.

done swiftly and without careful thought, driven by sudden and strong emotions or impulses

His impetuous decision to move to a new city without a job lined up worried his friends and family.

the quality of acting quickly and without thinking carefully

His impetuosity led him to sign the contract without reading it.

expecting flawless and precise performance from other people

The exigent manager expected every task to be completed flawlessly and on time.

an urgent affair to deal with

The company’s financial exigency requires immediate action to avoid bankruptcy.