Lesson 10

(of a condition) dangerous, terrible, or uncertain

They were in a parlous condition after the severe storm damaged their home.

seemingly truthful but wrong in nature

The politician gave a specious argument that hid the real facts.

(of a sound) resonant and deep

hardworking, committed, and deeply engaged in the pursuit of a particular goal or objective

She kept a studious focus during the lecture.

having a lot of respect, honor, and admiration in a particular field or society

Winning a Nobel Prize is considered one of the most prestigious achievements in academia.

extremely sorrowful and serious

The movie's lugubrious soundtrack set a tone of deep sadness.

unreasonable or exaggerated to the point of being ridiculous

The idea of a flying pig delivering mail seemed ludicrous to the townsfolk.

very greedy and voracious

very great in number or amount

After the rainfall, there were copious puddles on the streets.

taking risks that are bold and shocking

His audacious plan to revolutionize the industry involved introducing radical changes that shocked competitors and investors alike.

giving the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen

The dark clouds gathering on the horizon cast an ominous shadow over the town.

having a combination of elements that are in agreement and balance with each other

The garden was designed to have a harmonious blend of colors and scents.

ugly and extremely unpleasant to the sight

The painting depicted a hideous monster with twisted features and glowing eyes, sending shivers down the viewers' spines.

causing offense or unhappiness due to being prejudice or unjust

The invidious comparison between the two candidates was unfair.

causing harm

The factory released noxious fumes into the air.

created by imagination and not based on reality

The characters in the novel were entirely fictitious and bore no resemblance to real people.

causing doubt or suspicion

His dubious explanation for being late didn’t seem believable.

requiring great physical effort or energy

The strenuous hike drained their physical energy.

extremely careful and attentive to details

She was meticulous in checking every detail of the report.