Vocab for high school students 3

astute (adj.)

shrewd; wise; crafty; cunning

The only one to solve the riddle was Joel; he is a very astute thinker.

censure (n.)

act of blaming; expression of disapproval; hostile criticism; rebuke

Bill was about to reach for a third slice of cake but was stopped by a look of censure in Mother’s eyes.

demolish (v.)

tear down; destroy; raze

It took several days for the wrecking crew to demolish the old building.

discharge (o.)

unload

After discharging its cargo, the ship will go into dry dock for repairs.

dissent (v.)

differ in opinion; disagree; object

There was nearly ≪complete agreement on Al’s proposal. Enid and Alice were the only I ones who dissented.

equitable (adj.)

fair to all concerned; just

The only equitable way for the three partners to share the $600 profit is for each to receive $200.

exonerate (v.)

free from blame; clear from accusation

The other driver exonerated Isabel of any responsibility for the accident.

extemporaneous (adj.)

composed or spoken without preparation; offhand; impromptu; improvised

It was easy to tell that the speaker’s talk was memorized, though she tried to make it seem extemporaneous.

forfeit (u.)

lose or have to give up as a penalty for some error, neglect, or fault

One customer gave a $50 deposit on an order of slipcovers. When they were delivered, she decided she didn’t want them. Of course, she forfeited her deposit.

inadvertently (adv.)

not done on purpose; unintentionally; thoughtlessly; accidentally

First I couldn’t locate my glasses; but after a while I found them on the windowsill. I must have left them there inadvertently.

punctual (adj.)

on time; prompt

Be punctual. If you are late, we shall have to depart without you.

extricate (v.)

free from difficulties; disentangle

If you let your assignments pile up, you may get into a situation from which you will not be able to extricate yourself.