Noun
idiosyncrasy
IPA /ˌɪdiəˈsɪŋkrəsi/
An unusual habit or feature that is characteristic of a particular person, group or thing.
See example sentence: idiosyncrasy
Arranging every mug by colour is one of his endearing idiosyncrasies.
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Noun
hyperbole
IPA /haɪˈpɜːbəli/
Deliberate exaggeration used in speech or writing for emphasis or effect, rather than as a literal statement.
See example sentence: hyperbole
Saying that my bag weighs a tonne is obvious hyperbole.
Adjective
gregarious
IPA /ɡrɪˈɡeəriəs/
Enjoying the company of other people and feeling comfortable joining conversations and social activities.
See example sentence: gregarious
My gregarious brother soon made friends with everyone on the tour.
Adjective
futile
IPA /ˈfjuːtaɪl/
Unable to achieve the intended result, making further effort seem pointless or unlikely to succeed.
See example sentence: futile
Searching the empty car park for our missing bus was futile.
Adjective
forthright
IPA /ˈfɔːθraɪt/
Expressing your opinions clearly and honestly, without hiding what you think or using indirect language.
See example sentence: forthright
She was forthright about why she disliked the holiday plans.
Adjective
fledgling
IPA /ˈfledʒlɪŋ/
New and still developing, with limited experience or strength compared with something that is well established.
See example sentence: fledgling
Our fledgling book club has only held two meetings so far.
Adjective
fickle
IPA /ˈfɪkl/
Changing feelings, preferences or loyalties often and unpredictably, so that others cannot easily rely on them.
See example sentence: fickle
Her fickle friend cancelled their plans whenever a more exciting invitation arrived.
Adjective
fervent
IPA /ˈfɜːvənt/
Showing deep, sincere and strongly felt enthusiasm, belief or support for someone or something.
See example sentence: fervent
She remained a fervent supporter of the local football club.
Noun
fallacy
IPA /ˈfæləsi/
An idea that people may believe is true even though it is based on a mistake or faulty reasoning.
See example sentence: fallacy
It is a fallacy that expensive products are always better.
Adjective
expedient
IPA /ɪkˈspiːdiənt/
Useful for achieving an immediate purpose, even if the action may not be the fairest or best long-term choice.
See example sentence: expedient
He found it expedient to apologise rather than prolong the family argument.
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