Verb

Illuminate

It means to shed light over something, either physical object or a concept, to brighten it. In a literal sense, this word refers to illuminating a room with a lamp, candle, or the sunlight. In a figurative sense, it represents the process of clarifying, explaining, or making something more understandable.

Ponder

It means to think deeply, reflect, or contemplate something carefully. When you ponder a subject, you engage in a thoughtful examination of it. It involves considering various aspects, consequences, and implications related to a topic or question. Pondering is a deliberate and slow mental process, and it's typically associated with complex or significant matters.

Spur

It means to motivate, stimulate, or encourage something or someone to take action or progress. It’s like giving a little push or boost to get things going.

Languish

It denotes a state of prolonged suffering, decline, or deterioration, often characterized by a lack of energy, vitality, or progress. When something or someone languishes, they experience a sense of stagnation, neglect, or unfulfilled potential.

Sway

It is a versatile verb with multiple meanings. Primarily, it denotes a gentle, back-and-forth or side-to-side movement, like the graceful swaying of a tree branch in the breeze.

Deter

It is used to describe the act of stopping someone from doing something or making them think twice about it. The word deter is all about dissuading or discouraging someone from doing something through various means, such as consequences, warnings, or obstacles.

Rebuke

It is a forceful expression of disapproval or criticism conveyed firmly. It is not merely disagreeing to something but expressing strong disapproval for someone's actions, words, or behaviour. A rebuke is a stern warning, aiming to correct or reprimand wrongdoing and prevent its recurrence.

Stifle

It means to restrain or suppress something, like an emotion, a sound, or an action. It’s like holding back or keeping something from being expressed or released. For instance, if you suddenly feel the urge to sneeze in a quiet place, you try to stifle the sneeze by covering your mouth and nose, or even by holding your breath.

Snuff

Snuff as a verb means to extinguish or put out a flame or light source. It can also be used figuratively to mean ending or eliminating something abruptly or forcefully. It’s like putting an end to doubts or negativity. So, when facing naysayers, you can snuff out their negativity by staying focused on your dreams and proving them wrong with your success.

Oust

Oust, a verb, encapsulates the forceful removal or eviction of an individual, group, or entity from a position, place, power or role. This action often signifies a significant change or shift in power dynamics. Ousting may result from legal, political, or social processes, and it can be accompanied by controversy, conflict, or resistance

Assert

This means to confidently state or express something. It is about speaking up and standing up for what we believe. Assertiveness is an important communication skill that helps us to express ourselves while still respecting the opinions of others. When we assert ourselves, we can effectively communicate our ideas, our rights, and set appropriate boundaries in our personal as well as professional lives.

Oppose

It denotes disagreement with something - a stance, idea or action. It involves actively expressing disapproval or criticism against a particular concept, policy. When someone opposes something, they strive to obstruct, counteract, or hinder its progress or implementation. Opposition can manifest in various forms, such as protests, verbal objections, legal challenges, or alternative proposals.

Veto

It denotes the act of rejecting or prohibiting a decision, proposal, legislation, or action. It is an official power or right held by an individual or a governing body to block or prevent the implementation of a particular course of action. When someone exercises a veto, they essentially say "no" to the proposed idea or action, preventing it from becoming effective or going forward.

Embolden

It means to impart courage, confidence, or a sense of empowerment in someone or a group. When a person or action emboldens others, it inspires them to take bolder or more daring actions, often by boosting their self-assurance and reducing their fears or hesitations.

Expedite

It is a versatile word that means to speed up or accelerate a process or action. When you expedite something, you are taking steps to ensure that it happens fast or efficiently. The word "expedite" can be used in various contexts, such as business, logistics, administration, and also in everyday life. It emphasizes the importance of promptness and efficiency.