“Hypothesis” is something that is assumed to be true, for the sake of argument. In a hypothesis, the known facts are sometimes ignored in order to provide material for further discussion. You might say that a hypothesis is a “what … Continue reading…

Another word for something that is understood without being directly stated is “putative.” However, while “implicit” means the underlying substance is unstated but agreed on, “putative” refers to something that might not really be agreed on, but that no-one wants … Continue reading…

“Implicit” means “understood and agreed on, but not stated openly.” But unlike “nebulous,” something “implicit” is very clearly seen or understood, just not obviously or openly. Example:  “The people she hired knew there was an implicit understanding that they’d join … Continue reading…

Something that’s hard to see clearly is “nebulous.” You might be familiar with the astronomical term “nebula,” which refers to a fuzzy cloud of gas and stars; a nebula is nebulous, because it’s hazy, vague, not clearly defined. An idea … Continue reading…

“Diffident” means “timid” or “bashful.” It’s used to describe someone who lacks self-confidence or who is excessively modest. Shy people tend to be diffident, afraid to offer an opinion, even then they’ve got the right answer. Example:  “Jane is so … Continue reading…

Using words in just the right way can be a powerful tool for influencing other people. Creative and effective use of words is called “rhetoric.” While this can refer to writing, it’s more often used to describe a way of … Continue reading…

A “saw” is a saying, usually one that’s been around for a long time. And even if the saw is no longer much used in modern life, it still describes something that’s true. Another saw, or saying, that you might … Continue reading…

The opposite of laconic is “loquacious.” A loquacious person is one who talks all the time. Synonyms for loquacious are “chatty,” “talkative,” and “garrulous.” Example:  “I tried to study at my desk, but my roommate is so loquacious I couldn’t … Continue reading…

“Laconic” means “brief” or “to the point,” referring to someone’s speaking style. A laconic person uses just enough words to say what they mean, and no more. Example:  “He has a reputation for being laconic at work, but I think … Continue reading…

If you’re fluent in more than one language, you’re a “polyglot”. A polyglot is someone who can read, speak, and write in several languages. Example:  “The translators who work for the diplomats have to be polyglots, because they deal with … Continue reading…