Lesson 12

to gain control of a place or people using armed forces

The army worked strategically to conquer the enemy's territory.

to create obstacles or difficulties that prevent progress, movement, or success

The heavy rain hindered our plans for a picnic.

(Middle Ages) an attendant and shield bearer to a knight; a candidate for knighthood

(of a river, trail, etc.) to follow along a curvy or indirect path

The river meanders through the picturesque countryside, creating a serene and scenic landscape.

similar to but smaller than the finback whale

move without being stable, as if threatening to fall

to bring about, generate, or cause the existence or development of something

The new educational initiatives aim to engender a culture of lifelong learning among students.

to mockingly laugh or shout at someone

to formally reject something, often a belief, behavior, or allegiance

He vowed to forswear violence after years of conflict.

a three-beat stride of a horse that is faster than a trot but slower than a gallop

The horse broke into a smooth canter across the field.

to forcefully break or separate something

The earthquake threatened to sunder the ancient bridge, causing concern among the villagers.

to give someone the power or authorization to do something particular

The manager sought to empower the team by delegating decision-making authority.

to give an official degree, title, right, etc. to someone

The university will confer degrees upon the graduating students during the commencement ceremony.

to laugh quietly in a restrained or nervous manner, often with short, high-pitched sounds

She couldn't help but titter nervously during the awkward silence.

to stop something from happening

The visible security cameras are intended to deter theft in the store.

to expose someone or something to potential harm or risk

Ignoring safety protocols can endanger workers on a construction site.

a legislative tactic used to delay or block the passage of a bill by giving prolonged speeches or using other time-consuming methods

The senator launched a filibuster to stop the vote on the bill.

to argue over unimportant things in an ongoing and repetitive way

The siblings continued to bicker over who got to use the TV remote, each insisting on their preferred channel.

a tremulous sound

to utter something hesitantly or with uncertainty

He faltered an apology when confronted about the mistake.