Chapter 25

AcquireCommitment

FormalFragmentFundamental

PrecedeResentSolemnSpiteSymbolize

Definition – To get through one’s own actions; gain something as one’s own

Part of speech – verbSentence – Before going on the trip, I acquired a good pair of hiking boots.

Definition – A promise to do something; pledge

Part of speech – nounSentence – Nita has made a commitment to stop smoking this year.

Definition – Proper; not casual; according to custom or tradition

Part of speech – adjectiveSentence – The boss is very formal so the workers never call him by his first name.

Definition – A small piece broken off something whole

Part of speech – nounSentence When I broke a bulb, a fragment of glass fell on the floor.

Definition – Basic; forming a foundation; essential

Part of speech – AdjectiveSentence – A fundamental rule of water safety is this: Don’t go swimming alone.

Definition – To come before

Part of speech – VerbSentence – The 11 o’clock news precedes the Tonight Show.

Definition – To feel angered and injured by

Part of speech – verbSentence – People often resent advice they did not ask for.

Definition – Serious and respectful

Part of speech – AdjectiveSentence – The laughing children became solemn when their friend was hurt.

Definition – An unfriendly feeling that causes one to want to hurt or shame another

Part of speech – NounSentence – The unhappy girl said to her friend with spite, “You’re a real loser.”

Definition – To stand for; be a symbol of; represent

Part of speech – verbSentence – The U.S. flag symbolizes freedom.