Forget just what to write; learn how in this series. We give you the know-hows of academic, professional, and casual English, guiding you towards flawless expression and precise use of language.

Monologuing: Is It a Real Word?

"Monologuing" is an informal verb form of the noun "monologue," which is a speech or presentation given by a single person, typically a character in a play, movie, or performance.

Bludgeoned Meaning and Examples

"Bludgeoned," the past tense of "bludgeon," means to repeatedly beat, typically with a heavy object such as a bludgeon, which is a stick with a heavy end. It can also mean to bully, force someone to do something, or attack by aggressive argumentation.

"The World Is Your Oyster" Meaning and Examples

"The world is your oyster" is an expression that means you have the freedom to do whatever you want and go wherever you would like. Just as an oyster contains a valuable pearl within its shell, the world contains countless possibilities and treasures waiting to be discovered.

Bearer of Bad News Meaning and Examples

The bearer of bad news is a person who delivers unpleasant, unfortunate, or unwelcome information to someone else. This person may start off by saying, "I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but..." or "I don't want to be the bearer of bad news, but..."

Paltry Meaning and Examples

Although not a commonly used word, "paltry" means trivial, inferior, or meager. The term is often used to emphasize the lack of worth or quality of something, suggesting that it is inadequate or small in comparison to what is expected or desired.

Obstinacy Meaning and Examples

"Obstinacy" means the state of being stubborn, unyielding, or resistant to change, persuasion, or advice. Obstinacy is typically seen as a negative trait as it is the quality of being unreasonably determined to not change despite the efforts of others.

Blood Is Thicker Than Water Meaning and Examples

"Blood is thicker than water" means that family bonds are stronger than friendships or other non-family connections. It suggests that family ties should be of higher priority than other relationships in times of need or difficulty.

Disjointedly Meaning and Examples

"Disjointedly" means disconnected, incoherent, or fragmented as if separated at a joint. It refers to when something is not clear or orderly and can be used to describe actions, thoughts, or elements that lack smooth continuity or logical flow.

Beheader Meaning and Examples

A beheader is a person who decapitates people, which means cutting off someone's head from their body. The term can refer to an executioner, a tool or instrument used for beheading, or someone who carries out this gruesome act.