Glossary of the Blog


This is a glo
ssary of the new or the less common words  that have come up in the different entries on the blog, beginning from June 2020:




"Veneradas y Temidas" in Caixaforum Zaragoza (09/12/24)
Video introduction to the exhibition: curatorto displayfemininity,a deitybeliefsfaithsto depict [in Art], bigenderedgenderlessto honour [these deities], commonalities and contraststo run through [these themes], a [faith] community, a playwrightto prompt [questions], to tune into hand back [to Belinda], an artwork, a pioneering [artist], a multi-layered [narrative], sacred artefactsvulvato dragto spin out, the cycle of life,  [deliberately] provocativeAbrahamic [narrative], an unapologetically [feminist perspective], second wave feminist, [celebratory] imagery [associated with childbirth], visceralcrudeflexed [knees], labia, a carving, [artworkson displaylustemaciatedto trace [the interpretentions], [stories] revolve aroundto transcend [gender], a printShintoto stir [the primordial water], to bob [its tail], to embody [natural phenomena], to encapsulatefiery [temper], to flow [like lava],roughpolished texture, a dualmultifaceted [nature], unpredictablevolatilecrossovers [between the sections],  [female] agencynudity, a reliefyuxtapositionsto epitomize the [male] gazeto cover upto avert [her gaze], to wield [power], rageto worshipto underscore [other aspects], to mint [a coin], to honour [Venus], a shockingly [erotic image], [who is] in control [of her  power], earthboundstiffdemonologyto submit [to Adam], to lie [underneath Adam], defianceto wreak [havoc], cast [from a body], crouchedon all foursto embellishtemptress,  [seeminglyblameless [Adam], to underscore [innate female deviousness, [women's] collusive [responsibility],  courtshipcowherdevilesoteric [knowledge], to encapsulate
 an icon of [feminist rebellion], to reinterprethunched [over], [the male] gazeassertive [figure], to be tamedto clutch [the chalice], [to have] the upper-hand, a deceptively [seductive figure], to look down her nosewitchcraftvoyeuristicSabbathto epitomizelustto poke fun at, surrealist [artist], folk [belief], [feminityto imbue [the natural world], to draw on [a standard belief], to transgressdemonsvengeance, an ogregrief
sageangerjealousyto encapsulatefurrowed brows, [emotional] turmoildespairannihilationslaughterwrath, to be veneratedto offsetto wipe them off [the planet], to rampageharshnessto dye [beer red] Puja [celebrations], fearlessness, [demonic] hordesto defeat [demons], enragedemanationsto confront and overcome [injustice], compassionto sever [her followers from greedenvyego], the Savior, [to guide] the faithful [to salvation], a striking [piece], straws, a shimmering [effect], a pilgrimage [site], straw mosaic, a calligraphy [work], upbringingunshakeable fortitude, a role modelcompassioncanonicallyto lessen [her importance], an enlightened [being], goddess [of compassion], perceiver [of sound], genderlesswisdom, to be veneratedembodimentto overcome [a vice], karma, a [fully meditative] pose, [a subject of contention, seductiveness, sensuousalluringcurvaceousdraped [in silks], jewelsnirvana.

Written prologue to the exhibition: sneak peekbeliefartworkto shine [a light], femininity, a goddess, annihilationembodimentto showcaseprimordialvulvato grasp, a breastneedleworkersdepiction, a deity, a goddess, a [reddish] huefiery[nature], flaming [hair], to flow [down], a rough/ polished texture,  dual [nature], a reliefto stare [confidently and confrontationally], a [lion] mount, a tiered [crown] volatilevotive [models], to assert [her equality], defianceto cast [the image from a real woman], piercinglifeliketo crouchon all fours, a [voyeuristic] gazeto permeate [mythology], to defy [expectations of female submission], empowermentbulging [eyes], a glyphslaughterto withhold [her wrath], to grant [healing and peace], scorchingto set up, garlandsevered [heads], fearlessnesscompassionkarmaenlightened [being], to fan outto transcend [gender], androgynousswiftlyto spring [into action], wrathful emanations.

Today radio report: goddess, a she-devil, a saint, a witch, to be betrayed, a blood-thirsty warriordivinedemonic, to be installed, a gargoyle, a bronze [sculpture], to crawl, [about] to pounceattached to [the wall], [female] defiance, [to refuseto submit [to Adam], the Garden of Edenhappily ever afterto rebeldepictionfaiths and mythologies, a [painted] terracottadating [from 500 BC], snake-like [hair], fangsto stick [her] tongue out, to have [someone] round for dinner, to reassess [things after Me Too], a survivor [of rape], [female] rage, a statement [of power], to be rageful, [to be sexually] assaulted, a male-dominated [industry],an all-boys [club], gratitudeto put up with [a lot of stuff], to range froman orgasm [machine], to impress [my bosses], [everyday sexual] harassmentmicro-aggressions, an admission price [to being a woman], stepped into [my rage], bulbous [eyes], [to die in] childbirth, to be engaged [in a battle], to long for [children], yearning and shaped [by her lack of children], to open up [about a personal failure], [universal] resonance, my soul, [millennia of] patriarchyto strive [against that], a cohesive narrative to [this exhibition].

Floods in Spain & Climate Change Summit (14/11/24)
Jacqui Ross & Simon Lewis (14/11/24): lashawasheddisruptedbracing [for], heavy [rain], to wash awayflooded [streets], [animal] rescueto clear upto step outwellington boots,  a tsunamiclearanceto burst its bankssheer [quantity of rain], to faretravails, to be prompteddroughtIn Simon Lewis: fossil fuel [emissions], [extreme  weather] eventsmoisturedownpours, the bigger pictureto withstand, a heat wave, a backlashharshto get to grips [with].


Petra, the Treasury of the Nabatean Civilization (08/10/24)
BBC video clip: a nomadincense, a treasurybreathtakingcarved, a frieze, a tomb, a façade, a jarshooting, a [solar] disc, a horn, a statement

Episode 1:trail,to forgeharsh [conditions], swallowed up, to thrive, a clueto delve [deep] intoto carve, a gorge, a threshold to [a city], a treasurybreathtakingexquisite, a frieze, a tomb, a façade, a jar, a shooting, a pediment, a horn, an statement, a sandstone, a shepherd, [to play] hide and seek, a toll, a magnetpottery, a shard, a karat, a whifffrankincensemyrrhoff the beaten trackto eat your heart out, to dig, a shovelbrooding [rock], unrelatingimpressive, a deityto worship, a stepping stone, a scarf, a drought, a date, a dromedary, a one humped camel, an insight.

Episode 2: bubbling [mountain], massive, a towering [monument], a clue, a stonemason,a façade, a burialto carve, a clean-cut [appearance], to chiselsmooth, a forerunner [of Arabic], thrilling, a nerdto overlook [the trade route], a grid-like [system], to kick off, a lawn mowerbumpy, a timelineto [hit] gold, skyscapeto make [somebody] tick, an artefact, a headdress, a thrillawe-inspiringgrindingresourceful, a priestessto round up [our knowledge].

Article: to dwellto span, to be crownedto carve, a tomb, a sandstoneto delve into.

U.S. Presidential Campaign: Issues, Polls and Fakes (12/09/24)
Highlights of the presidential debate: the gloves were offgrievancesto punch [back], the stakes [are high], [to be locked in] dead heatto get away with [something], to be fired, [to get] heated, the GOPhenceto factcheckto overturn [a court decision], to hammer [the Biden administration], [to defend her] record, a bipartisan [border bill],  debunked [claims], to bring up [an issue], to reach out to [the city manager of Springfield, Ohio], to needle, a windmill, [to ban] fracking, a buyback [programme for assault weapons], [opinion] pollsto hold backto go down as [the worst vice pressident], to face off against [a different candidate], a bid [for a second term], a tight [race], [to hold] steady, a hush money [case], liableweaponizationto endorse [Harris],to champion [the rights and causes], a powerhouse [roundtable], a contentious and consequential [Presidential election].

The Times of India: to muddy, [to raise] concerns, a deepfake, a winking [smiley], blatantto downplay [the comment], a hacktivist [group], backlash, a [tech] mogulto grooveto sync [to the music], to captionto poke fun at [critics], wittybanterto pose [a threat].

Cosmopolitan: to endorse, the upcoming [election], to conjure up [fears], to cast [my vote], a steady-handed, gifted [leader], to stand up for [LGBTQ+ rights].

Spain's Pineapple Craze for Supermarket Romance (04/09/24)
BBC News: [pineapple]-gate, to spark, a craze, to seek [partners], a claim, a trolley, to hook up, a caption, disorderly, a bachelor party, rowdy [scenes], a trend, upside-down, to swap, swinging (slang), [pineapple] mania, to clear up, a storeroom, to fall into, clutch.

Curiosities YouTube channel: hookup, a trend, a single, a hotspotto pictureto cruise, , the [wine] aisleupside-down, a cart, a flingto sneakgazpachoquirkyto trade, a swipeto peel, a bump

The Gates Foundation (23/08/24)
a [college] drop-out, a super-villain, his ethosto take on [issues], child-mortality ratesto feed [that enthusiasm], malariadiarrheapneumoniato partner with [governments], a mind-blowing [successful advent], [to organise] the fundinggoofy [things], Slow-Horsesto fit in [exercise], pickleball, a low-key [interest], billionaireland, community [work], a [company] boardPlanned-Parenthoodvoracious, your niche, a flair for [programming], noughts & crossesentranced, a [computer] bug, a payroll [programme], a [school] schedule, [to minimize] the disruptionendearing [level of complexity], a gradehardcoreto reach out to [somebody], a [growing] buzzexponential [capability], a spreadsheetto drop out [of university], a fond [memory], to linger on well-trodden ground, a managerial [role], a  mistep, work-centriccommitmentto jump inempowerment, an evangelistmonomaniacalto mellow [you out], to overturnto drag onto get throughto figure outto devote [time to something], [to change] the narrativemeaslessmallpoxbednetsthe chair [of a company], to strike me as [strange], mindsetdeveloping countriesmalnourishedto wield [that power], Gavi, a high barTB, at the forefrontexpertise on [vaccines], an outlandish [conspiracy theory], to cull [the world population], a shortcutto step downdebt, a [political] upheavalto deliver [better education], to bridge [the polarization], to pursue [my curiosity].

Spain Wins Eurocup and Alcaraz Wins Wimbledon (15/07/24)
BBC Sport, "A good thing for football": to cap offto hail, [fully] deservedto win [over England]to beat [every other European nation], a [teenage] sensation, an assist, to be tipped [for glory], midfield, a winger, the openerto net [the winner], to set up [a goal], the brand, a midfielder, a dissenting [voice], to quietento come off [the bench], a squad, a centre-back, [much-]maligned, a left-backbits and pieces, [on the] pitch, [the Spanish] side, the subs[titutes], [to deserve] credit, the [goal]keeper, to be sacked, a [football] academy.

BBC Sport: "An annihilation - Alcaraz always had the answers": annihilationhighlights, [in three] straight [sets], to retain, the build-upalmightytussleto flip [the script], off-colourrelentlessto get his teeth stuck into, a tie-breakto blinkupwards of [15 Slams], a flawless [performance], to underscore, the Open Era, a featarguablyto outplayominouslyhamstring, [to get] on top of [something], clay.

Optus Sport: "A zestful football nation celebrates the Eurocup": yet again, a zestful [football nation], show businesscrestfallen, the length and breadth [of something], to kick off [fiesta], heartbreakoverallto lift a gear, [to take] momentumpassingdeservedly, the subs, a [great] delivery, the finish, a cohorttough [times], in the makingcruciallyto give awaywillinglyto rattle off, [trulyoutstandinggrimly [familiar], by hook or by crook, [cruellyelusiveto bring to the table, an equalizerresilient.

Ariane-6 (09/07/24)
BBC Radio 4 interview to Kate Underhill: heavy-lift [rocket], [observation] tools, a propulsion [engineer], a launchintricaciesto underpinGalileo GPS positioning systems, a [heavy-liftlauncherlow-earth orbitto deliver [cargo], the Equator, an earthquake, [no] issuestrategicvarious [different satellites], the global positioning systemconfidence.

BBC News, "Rocket blasts off on maiden flilght": to blast off, maiden [flight], to set off, a launchpad, a clutch of [satellites], a crewto soar [into the sky], smoothlyonboardto pressurise [the propulsion system], to set up [the final task], to jettisonnonethelessrelieved, a heavy-lift [rocket], fairing, [upper] stagebooster, a payload, a workhorse [rocket], a backlog [of contracts], expendablereusableto carve out a niche [for itself], to harnessstate-of-the-art [manufacturing techniques], friction stir weldingaugmented reality [design], to result in [faster and cheaper production], to lift, a strap-on boostercore [stage], a [large] batch [of satellites], to pull [itself] back [down to Earth], to linger, [space] junkto hold up [the Ariane-6 programme], [high] jeopardy, an outright [failure], to blow itself apartto put [the loss] down to [an error], dominanceto undercut [the competitiveness], an order book, a leading [player], [to supply] components

Keir Starmer Wins the 2024 General Election (06/07/24)
BBC News: maps & charts article:landslide [majority], a seatto declare [a result], a tally, a gap, the share [of the vote], to plummetto return [an MP], a constituency, the turnout

BBC News: the gap between votes and MPs: gapshare [of vote], to promptblatantlyflawedfirst-past-the-post [electoral system], roughly [equal], a grandeeto boost, a hung parliamentto exact [a price].
 
"Cloistered", a Former Nun Talks about her Life in a Monastery (01/07/24)
cloistered, to be at rock bottomto revolve aroundto deprive of [something], to weaveto bounce off, goshhermitmonasticismto draw [to], an arty [household], to go downhillangsthammer blowbereavement, to be devastatedutterly [static], self-denial, the [monastic] rule, a matraque, a rattleavant-gardeto plumb [the depths], manor [house], rambling, an outbuildingstained-glass [windows], a flagstonederelictbarestarkdrafty, [windows] to rattle,a meadowlinodistemper, a rite of passageaccoutrementto trigger, to be dragged downsergeencumberedto stabto tuck upto glimpsegrilleto set up yourself as [different], a thresholdto lure, [to take] a vow, a prioress, [to give] carte blanchefree rein, a cliquecoterie, a breakdown, to take it out on [somebody phisically], tempers [flying], to be cartedto crack upbruisedto withhold, [to reach] breaking pointbuoyancytwo-edged, a [peaceful] vibeto simmerto seetheto flapto bottle up [questions], buzzy [people], a rupture, a riftflawed, a retreat, to be frowned upon.

Chimpanzees Seek Out Medicinal Plants & Iberian Lynxes Recover (21/06/24)
 to seek out, a lead [researcher], to tickwoundsto go out of their wayraresuper [exciting], [plant] samplesanti-bacterialanti-inflammatoryto expand, [medicinal] repertoireto clutch [your stomach], to sneezeto coughrespiratory [infection], non-invasive, [abnormal] metricsto quantify [parasites], neophobicto raise alarm bells, [next] waveself-medication, a step [to start from], [specific pharmaceutical] compoundsto pinpoint, a [fast] recovery.

Dalí's Moustache (14/06/24)
BBC News: playfulbold, an [artistic] statementbizarre, a dreamlike [image], flamboyantlylustrouswhiskersfittingly, a datedepressinggay, a wax, a [splendid] upturnto plough on, gravity-defying [facial hair], to droop down, brisk, to be captivatedcartoonishly [waxed], to sporthirsuteto embody, [carefully] craftedshamelessly, a logoto curlto bedeck, a [visual] cueto blur [the boundary], eagerstunnedto embalm

What's my Line?/ YouTube: costumingblindfolded, [to keep] scorefolksself-employed, a performer, a leading [man], misleadingeminence, an exploitgermane [to something], up and down [yes], endeavour, an affiliation, within the compass [of his enjoyment], an all-around [man], to encompass, a dummy, the master of ceremonyto strike upon, a conferenceto caricature.

Elections in India, Mexico and South Africa (04/06/24)
The Times of India: to write [someone] off, a pundit, [against] the backdrop, a kingmaker, a [political] camp, the run-upto fall short of [a majority], infamousto reach out [to somebody], steadfast [support], to have a say, a portfolioto implement [key policy changes]. 

AP News (Mexico): ruling [party], to concedeto break through [200 years of male governments], to go down in historyto break [a longstanding] ceilingharsh [conditions].

Aljazeera (South Africa): to surpass, ballotrulingshort of [a majority], turn outto cast [a vote], allocation, a [Parliament] seat, [members of Parliament] to be sworn in, the speaker [of Parliament], to ensuresmooth [transition of power], poor [performance], to rule out [a coalition], to sack, a crackdownto step downto appointto take overimpeachmentto make upremainingto comprise.

BBC News (South Africa charts): [to go to the] polls, a power cut, an opinion pollto herald, to fall steadilya high water mark, a surveyto drop below [50%], GDP [per capita], a downward [trend], incomewell-offto mismanage, to be buffeted, a spike [in prices], a household, a driver [of inequality], to hit [young people] hard, to pledgeto tackle [crime], an assaultrapeto wage [a war against women], load shedding, a respiteto blightoutageto disrupt, a drawto target, a scapegoatto demonise.

Meditation in Science and Mindfulness at School (22/05/24)
National Geographic (meditation): to settle down, a [floor] mat, a worship [room], a deity, a throne, a [prayer] beadto chant, a whisperto enhance, [to be] rooted, a questenlightenmentto conduct [a study], to trigger [anxiety], to glowmildto shed [a fearful response], a [brain] scan, an MRI scan, to rely on [someting], a headbandrife [with stress], to strive [to apply it], a wispy [beard], assaultwrestlingflustered.

NPR (mindfulness): loudspeakerto cope withpackedto hang outto catch up, [apple] strudel, a wrapper, a [banana] peelto line [the kids] up, to assemble, [your body is] stillto focushomelessnessincreasingly [popular], to shrink [the brain], a traitto enhance [well-being], to show up [in school], forgivenessto fidgetto let [that] goto relieve [stress], to take it out on [somebody], an assignmentto draw on [something], to distill [the teachings], to tune into [sounds], to handle [sense awareness], to be dragged [around] [by their thoughts], [to feel] empoweredto scale up, a [shark] finto shape up [well], to hugto high-fiveto applaudto have a hard time.

"Dear Life", by Alice Munro (1931- 2024) (16/05/24)
to pull off, rickety, a mill racecontemptunsoiled, a Highland flingclicking [shoes], to dig [dug, dug], a wellto drillto honkto summonshuddering, a crinkly [smile], a [drinking] pail, a trapline, an [animal] pen, a hayfieldto cull [animals], manureto tell on [somebody], jollyto dawn on [somebody], to dwindledownsloping,a cedar [tree], troll, a miscarriage, a flurry, a dumbwaiterhemstitchingto pelt [the foxes], a downturnmolten [metal], a [metal] moldto buckle down to [something], to cram [my head with knowledge], a quavery [voice], a hatchetto wring [clothes], a misgivingto keep tabs on [somebody/ something], to grabto tiltclatter, a haphazard [way], to wedgeto bangto rattledistraughtto stare, a [wild] grin, a [river] flatto muddy [up], to commend [Nature], to whale [the unkindness] out of [me], to beat the tar out of [me], to dispose of [a house], for dear lifeto spot [somebody].

Met Gala 2024: Stunning Images & a Fake (08/05/24)
Met Gala, celebrities: eye-catchinggroundbreaking,a theme, a string [of stars], A-listersto stun, an outfitto accessorise, a gownto splitdown low, to bloombackless, a column [dress], embroidered, a [floral] patternto blossom, a spotarcheryto hand [it to somebody], a bow, an arrowvelvet, a peonyarchivalto branch out, an overhaul, a corseted [dress], a georgette, a tulle, [to bring up to] date, a headpiecehawthornglowingturquoise, a [tulle] cape, to be overjoyedpouring [rain], a bob [hairstyle], arched bubble, a ponytail, a bouquetto yank, a rappercustom [Maison-Margiela], threading, a pinstripe, the flax [plant], to prick [your finger], a roll, [non-stick] tinfoilcan't hold a candle, an appliqué, a gemstone, a vineto nail [it], sparkly, [sequinedfabric, a marigoldto settle for [something], peckish, [to be] draped [in a cloak], a ravento dazzle, a stemto ditchto coordinate [with gloves], to toss asidesoaking [wet], oversizedseeminglyto pourto steal the showto zoom in [on something], avant-garde, a [tail] train, a [floral] motif, a sketchto channelto team uptaffetairidescent, a baby bumpto sportruffled, a crop topwicked, a smash hitscatteredto craft [a dress], bespokebouffant, a corsetto pair with, sheerlacetrim [with flowers], an understatementstraplesscouture, a bugleboudoirto spruce uplacybedazzledpolka-dot [gloves], a [feather] boato spring, an encore, a vibe.

Katy Perry Fake Image video: to turn outfloweryto fooltricked, a clueto zoom in on [the background], celebsto target [voters], to heighten [tensions], to fan [flames], offlineunrestto put [something] to the testsleuthing.

Taylor Swift Remembers Dylan Thomas in "The Tortured Poets Department" (28/04/24)
BBC News: to wake up to [a new album], to name-drop, to sell out, a gig, to release [an album], a staple [poem], a memorial service, to settle, [to set] a template, stabbed [to death], to rake in [$1.04 bn], to crash [a ticket site], resale [tickets], a scammer, to dupe.

Page Six: to release [an album], to catch the eye, the title track, to scroll, a swelling, fatty, roistering, doomed, tenant, to file a lawsuit, gentrification, an accolade, outspoken, disdain, a condition, to place [a child] for adoption, [her] late [husband]. The short accompanying video is fast, colloquial and has no subtitles, so it is recommended for C2 students, who will hear: to hold my typewriter, an installment, to take aim at [people], to call out, bronze, spray-tanned, a bully, to spell out at, a fair share, seemingly, lovingly, to allude to [somebody], a bunch of, her ex[es], a front man, to revisit, an [age] gap, when it comes to [those exes], jokingly, fitting, to chime in [on X about her track], [to get] wrecked, scathing [songs], to avenge.

Pop Culture Happy Hour: to spanticked offunpackunderdogcompellingto suck me incornyunhingedto toss aroundto hearkensamey, [synth-popbeats, [first] arcopus [fatigue], to buckle under [their own weight], grievance, a [public] darling, a bophypejock jamsdefiancecatchysnippetto rep [for an artist], zany [sense of humour], [send your head into a] tailspinto stinkto gaspto stand the test of timeclunkyto wrack your brain [around this record], to scroll [across the page], scathingto rip [everything] down, bleachers [warmer], to kick into finagleto wield [power], stealthilyto winnow down to, [high] kicksto epitomizecheekyboppyto grooveto mess [her] up, a full-blown [message], to hint, [teenage] petulance, a tantrumto scoldto cater for [vipers], empath's clothing, taken abackto craft [a narrative], to rip [apart a narrative].

The Tortured Poets Department: spike, Charlie Puth, to scratch, a retriever, pounding, undone, cyclone, to screw up, to decode.

The London Marathon 2024: Olympic Athletes, Minions, Wine Tasters & Charities (22/04/24)
The Guardian and BBC News articles about the actual race: to beat, a wheelchair, a tap, a faucet, a rotating puzzle cube, tough, a PB, a bump, to raise awareness, [to take] a break, to turn away, to blast, distress, to struggle [to cope], to pull [myself] out of it, a way out, to fulfill, remarkable, a minion, to pose, to storm [across Tower Bridge], a prayer, to pay off, fitness, stressful, a tough [time], to come through [a car crash], [runners] fit, to rock [threads], to unveil, to wave [to the crowd], up for grabs, to break away, to keep up with [Marcel Hug], to surge, time off etc.
 
BBC News (An Islington man is planning to run the London Marathon dressed as a giant brain): to take on, to faint, a scan, to undergo, [school] pastoral, to make a difference, to host, an auction, a raffle, a challenge, a hole, to reach out, to grab, trepidation, pretty [lonely], to speed up.

BBC News (London Marathon runner tastes 25 glasses of wine during race):  connoisseur, to sampleto raise [money], to swapmalbecmerlotto blind tasteto stashto take up [a challenge], vintagepinot noirhazytipsy, a sipto swallowthe wheels came off, a featto lullfizzchardonnaysangioveseto spansprawlingvineyardsto be up for [doing something], bizarre, packed [with polyphenols] mitochondriato tameto impairto deplete [energy], to down.

The Irrational Biases that Create Anxiety in the Age of Information Overload (17/04/22)
gluttonous, [cognitive] dissonanceto squareconfirmation biassunk-cost fallacy, to fulfillto serve [me], to double down [on something], to stick aroundto engineerzeitgeistclashcognitive biasdeep-rooted, a [mental] trick, [a term] was coined, a saber-toothed tiger, [existential]   paininnateonslaught [of information], to catch up withto overthink, to underthink,   worldlynurturingto align with [our political beliefs], to jump to the conclusiongregarious, a role model, the halo effectto prompt [us to do something], disfigurementparasocial [relationships], to set [everyone] up for [failure], to upliftto mendto dethrone [them], a fallible [human being], [parent-child] attachmentsuperfan [relationship], to trace [something back to the early 1980s], to turn out, [the lines] to blur, an outsider, a [new] paragonto swerve, the stanto long [for role models], ruthless, a surrogate mother, a slim [margin of error], to be transfixedto crack [my world open], a malapropismto cut my teeth [as a writer], a crash course in [feminist sociolinguistics], it is our penchant [to think], loread nauseamlow-stakes, a factoid, a double-edged sword, nefarious [intentions], a buzzwordmanifesthealing wounds, to dovetail, a stock [of expressions], a grifterto put dissonance to bed, a mindset, an edgy [point], to boil down to, a bunch of, random, a misfortuneover-the-topfreakto crave, to hold accountable, the  outcomesketchygriftycultygainfully,  bespokevernacular, an op-eddoomslangnumbdoomscrollingbed-rottingdemisesmall talkblasédoomygroundeddetrimentalscreech owlsdoomsayers, the raptureennuiharrowing, a coping [mechanism], to get throughgrassrootsto reckon with [something], wisdomdaydreamingoverthinky panic, awequaint, [brains] are wired for, DIYeasier said than done, a disorder, the attention spanto shrinkto scroll [through her feed], zero-sum [bias], to clockstiff [competition], cloutnemesisaka, a compoundhaywireto indoctrinatechills, a tenet, a kinksunk-costMAGA, a zealotblackoutto cling to [something], a glut [of something], tradwivesanemoiahardcore, a back-to-basics [style], cottagecore, tchotchkestoadstooldelulu, to be soothed, a backfire [effect], doomedverbatimdeclinismto stomach

25 Best Dresses on Amazon in 2024 (09/04/24)
cutebajillionfabpriceymeh, a retailerstylish, a maxi [dress], BTWupcomingjust because, a round-upclutchflowy, an outfit, a pickbutton downsatinstraplesssleevelessbodycon, a tube [dress], halter neckrufflechiffonplus sizeV neck, a wrap [dress], ballet flatsballetcore, to thrivepeepknee-high [boots], a tab, a divelilpetitefabricto zhuzh upoversizedbutton-upto pair with [a blazer], kitten heels, a stiff [fit], a [last-minute] get up, a must-haveclosetakaLBD, a vibe, a themeslinky [fabric], a mock [neck design], ruching, some punchstretchyto fit the billto throw on [a blazer], a knit [cardigan], a laid-back [outfit], elastane, a breezy [fabric], [fully] linedhacksilhouette, a [supportive] fit, a hit or a miss, [a belt] to sit [on your waist], to mess upcohesiveness, a lightweight [fabric], to flagflirty, a slip [dress], spandexvintage, stand collar, 3/4 sleeve, a plaid [dress], BFFR, a staple [work dress], to cut off [a few inches], ofcto rave about, stretchinesscomfortabilityIDKprofeshcozyoff shoulder, an [evening] gownpantygorgeousfloor-lengthahemhi, a draping [skirt], a [high] slitglowing, to conform [to your body], to rock [a dress], a [fancy] gathering, a bridal shower  [dress], PSAJSYK, a featbumproomy, a tank swing [dress], ASAPathleisure, a crew necktie-dyepickleball, a split [dress], gorgecozyfrumpycomfyalluringbatwing, a snug [fit], to shrinkbohostripedflimsycrispsmocked [back], puff [sleeves], ginghamsleekwrinkle-free, to cling [to the body], to dress up/ to dress downbutteryseamless, to gauge 

Fawlty Towers (30/03/24)

Telepathy? A Brain Implant Lets Impaired Patients Do Incredible Things with their Thoughts (27/03/24)
CNN Business: to send out, a pretty involved [process], [I don't take] lightlyALSto sign up to a clinical trial, a stentrode[brain computer] interface, [to play] pong, FDA [approval], a caregiver, paralysis, [motor] impairment, a wired mesh, [electrode] sensors, a stent, to sit in a [major] vein, deployed in a blood vessel, [minimally] invasive, a device, to fire impulses, an [electrical] signature, [electrical] patterns, [to take] a snapshot, a domain [of function], skull, garbled, [in the patient's] setting, tournament.

International Women's Day, 2024 (08/03/24)
BBC, International Women's Day: to mark, a seedto march, an advocateto tie [to], a strike, a tsar, a blossom, the legacy, a trailblazerto highlightgender violence, an allegationrapeto banto hinderto defy [the rules], lengthy jail terms, to be abducted, a ransomwellbeing.

BBC, 100 Women 2023: to revealattorney, a wildfirea floodto tackleto break downoverwhelming, to dismantle, a shepherdess, a yakto die out, a flockbarterbias, to be firedto raise an issueto freeze [he eggs], procedureto take [the hospital] to court, the verdictpendingto rally [K-pop fans], to pivot, a pledgeto prevent [the hospital] from [treating patients], to raid [a hospital], a targetto follow in her footstepts, early menopause, [ovarianfailureto launch, a networkto grow up in [Oklahoma], to shun [a corporate career], to pursue [her passion], to enroll in [a school], a clientelea brandto encompass, a midfielder, to be crownedto speak out [for equality], to be overshadowed, the fallout, the burgeoning [indigenous rights movement], to vow [to make], illiterateto wreak on [an ecosystem], lead [actress category], to flee [violence], a sandstormgrassrootsoutskirtsto juggleto set upendangerederodedto downgradeto address [a crisis], the mainstream, a seasoned [organisation], floodsdeforestationforestryloggingat-risk [wildlife], rampantpoachingto tackle [a crisis], to drop out [of school], to owe [much to her mentor], to foster [understanding].

St. David's Day, 2024/ Dydd Gwyl Dewi, 2024 (01/03/24)
Visit Wales (Epic Ways to Celebrate St. David's Day): a broadcasterdaffodils, a leekwondrous, [to travel] far and widescores of [religious communities], [his] remainsto settle, to be canonized, the Pope, a paradeto pin [an emblem] to the lapelreliablelavish, a host of [events], heritage, a costumeto spot, a banner, a processionto head down to [the Hayes], a rousing [rendition], a shindig, a [food] stallcookery, arts and crafts, a [daffodildash, an outpouring, a randoma bake off, to fuel [it] out, homemade, a settlement, [to bring out] the buntingundulating, a fortress, to be dotted, a big hitter, a lesser-known [spot].

The Evening Standard (St. David's Day 2024: why and how Wales celebrates its patron saint): patron saint, a bank holidayunliketo mark [the day], a feast, a cliff,  fierce, a nun, a claimto found [a monastery], [a Cathedral] to standto host, a parade, a leek, a helmet, a dishcawlbara brithto top [your cake], a [lemon] curd, a sprinkle [of sugar], [to take to] the stage, [Go to a] gig, a singer-songwriter

The Paco de Lucía Legacy Festival at the Carnegie Hall and Town Hall in New York (22/02/24)
All Of It, WNYC: to kick offto blendto perform, a venuelegacy, a godto accompany, a hit, to approachincredible,a gypsy, a Jew, a Muslim, a mixture, a lineup, a grand finale, a marvel.

AM New York:to kick offlegacyto featureto honorundeniablyto fusestageto give [his brother] a shotto surroundto joke [about], humble, a [character] trade, [to be] grateful, [his main] goalamazingtouchingto pass away, an awardto mourn, to be overwhelmedsuper [full of anguish], cheerfulupcoming [events],[de Lucía's] kidsto attend.

"Flowers" by Miley Cyrus on Valentine's Day (14/02/24)
chart-toppingcoverrelease, a refresher, the chorusempoweringto wallowto faketo make [it]to rebuff [the idea], [album] rolloutto be littered [with something], clues, the craftto trick, to set [something] on fireon the nose, [an] outlandish [theory], alledgedly, a tuxedo.

Lunar Year 2024: The Year of the Dragon (10/02/24)
The Straights Times "Roaring into the Year of the Dragon":  to roarto scale upto spotto weave, an animatronic [sculpture], a cloakstriking, an installationto heraldauspicious, a myriad, ferocious [splendour], reminiscentto pose [for photos], cuteon displayto bestowblessing, a beastto soar [skyward], a roundabout, a lantern, to put up, to shareto graceto toilrepurposed, an attirelightbulbsStyrofoamto embody, community spirit, a renditionhandcraftedto debut, an outsize [version], a performance, vibrant, to perchgreetings, formidable, a mid-vaultto leap over, a waterfallpolyfoamfibreglass, a resort, insta-worthyto whip out [their phones], to slay, a pairingto adorn, troopsoverhead, to set [Chinatown] aglowto launch, festive [lights]. larger-than-life, to be fittedto snap [shots], a showcase.

Grammys 2024: Highlights & Lowlights (05/02/24)
a banggracious, an even-handed [night], to scoop, the highlights, the lowlights, the takeaways, a feathazy, a dream-scrubbed [collection of songs], box officeto boostto promptto stem fromkeen, a standing ovationrawpainfully, an aneurysm, to catch a dusky [vocal tone], laden with [significance], moving, a medley, to shroud, a frisson, a burstto fizzle outto fling [around], an escapeewrestlingoff-scriptallotted [time], wide-rangingrambleoff the batto reminisce, a sippy cup, to joketo snubto embarrassto stun [the audience], a disorderstiffnesslimbsto resumealt-rock, delusionalto pick upsold outto step upthoroughlysoakedto embroil, [to close] the gapto figure outto attendto put pen to paper, a cave, a cavemantorture, a coupto duetto tempt, to cover, a signature [song], hauntingto pick out [the riff]to grinoff-mic, a solohumblingto be fond of, a requirementto beaminsane, a venue, a gigunderwhelmingto put out [a single], a ratebrand newto gyrate, a scaffolding, a swordfightrenditiontear-jerkingto oozemedleytouching, a stirring [rendition], to foilto steal the showshimmyingto posebackstage, to vindicate, a break-upto sum upto swingto let goparenthical, an aside, a [mic] drop.

Small Talk with the FORD and HEFE Methods (31/01/24)
FORD Method: small talkto strike up [a conversation], a check out [line], public transitchallenging, an acronymto come up with [a method], to jog [your] memoryto go blankto launch [into your questions], lestto be up to [you], a siblingto follow up [a question], connection, a casual [encounter], to come in handyopen-ended [questions], to engage with [your questions], a meaningful careera spouseto put a damper on [a converstation], the same holds for [talking with someone], to [fully] acknowledge, to be disrespectfulto diminish [you], sanitized [responses], schmoozefake [friendliness], tongue-tied, a safe-havento wavea grocery storeinvasiveto disclose [information], to lay [people] off, to flossto scrape, awkwardto shore up [investments], to inquireto catch [somebody] off guardsnowflak(y).

HEFE Method: to strike up [a conversation], to figure outto stand forrenovationscrowdedlow-stakesawkwardto requireexpertisecontroversial [subjects], the appealpredictability, to take the focus off [yourself], to revolve around, a beliefto loathenippyclumsy, a trait, [my] forteloathesometo yearn for [personal connections], a chasm, a gateway, a stand-up [comedian], banterwallflower awkwardnessconvenient, a diversionto bring [others] out [of their shell], to seekapproachable [people], a [delayedeyes-rollednodstuffdismissivedisrespectfulto compromise, a bold [idea], intimidating, a telepromptergeezgarbage

AI's Potential Threats (to Privacy, U.S. National Security, Elections & Equality) (23/01/24)
Digital Trends: to stalkhubrisa startupto snap [a photo], a creepa boona stalker, a nefarious [purpose], a statementto monetizeto scrape [information], to track [somebody] downto harass, a flaw, a stark [increase], an ongoing [problem], disruptive [tech], to launch, [sexual] assaultto misuseto rape).

NPR Interview: to unlock [a phone], to scrape [photos], to log into [an app], a beat (area), a [tech] dystopiaPlanned Parenthoodto harasscreepyto wieldchillingto name and shamea restroomto blend in [with the population], a corpse, [to turn the] tide, the tollan outletbodybuildingworkouta counter, the breadcrumbstate-of-the-art [technology], to be pulled over [by the police], a warrantlarcenybewildereda gang, a consignment store, [surveillancefootage, a bunch of [photos], [the charges (law)] to be droppedshoplifting, [to be in the] lineupfaultywrongfully [arrested], [a technological] breakthroughto rig up, the brim [of a baseball cap], countless [photos], a building block, a cease-and-desist [letter], a whimto harness [the benefits], to track [someone]to harvest, a seasoned [consultant], a vintage [store], a dive barastoundingbuggyto pitch [this technology], a venueto sueto hang out with [artists], to shift, to be anointed [the candidate], nefarious [purposes], a fine-tuned [technology], a rioterto storm [the Capitol], the blowbackto let the cat out of the bag.

Consider This Podcast: thrillersneaker, [under] siegeto hack into [computers], to compromise [data], a go-to [tool], devastating [consequences], to ponder, on the flip side, cyber snooping, a formidable [adversary], ransomwarepenchantoverreachwhat makes [it] tick, a stride.

Fresh Air Interview: the male gaze, the coded gaze, to coin [a term], grad school, a glitch, [to issue] an executive order, a landmark [executive order], to endowfancifulto debugto bake in [priorities], messinessmahogany, a windfallto floora nuance, a slew [of letters], overrelianceto misgendera benchmarkto take stepsto regulate, a class-action lawsuit, an opt-in [program], to opt-outgroundbreaking [technology], to labelto speak up, a burdento come off [like an angry black woman], a gimmick, a stake, a gaspto dip my toe into[something], a hoax, a fraudster, a fallback, a high-paying [job], a low-paying [job], an inmate.

On Point show: billsparsely, a giveaway, a deepfake [video], a disclaimermalarkeyheckto utter [a word], to wreak havoc, a bribe, [highly] polarizedto endorse [a candidate], tinnyshady, a caretakerto curb [the use of harmful AI content], grass roots [level], a deterrent, a loophole, the boogeymanto pass the legal musterto reach out [to voters], to level the playing field, to cast [a vote], to crack down on [misinformation], a purveyor [of this information], waryto flag [instances of virality], a circuit breakermainstreamto open the floodgatesto triple check [information].

CES 2024 Las Vegas, the Latest Gizmos and Gadgets (12/01/24)
Euronews:  hairdryerto unveilgadgetinfrared light, thermal rodsto heatup to  [30% less energy],a valet, a concept [car], weirdangle, an assembly plant, a rental car, a twin, a memoto claimto monetise (Am Eng), a 9 to 5 [job], a break, an aero taxiaffordableaircraftto targetman-maderegulationsfoldableto showcasetoughan array, a [temperature] shockicing, a displayscenariofreezing, a screena fairto run

Firstpost: tech showbrand, a tech galato show offflavourAI powereddashboard, a barista, to crab walk, gadget, a steering wheelto decreeto come up with [an alternative], a prototype, to manoeuverrun-of-the-mill, a racing game, to charge [the car], a pinto hit the market, a conceptunique, to take a peekparallel parking, a viewing experience, wireless, a clicknew ageto releaseto end up [making TVs], obsoletealtogetherto enhanceto rush, [to change] the gameto map outappliance, a switch, a stalker, a choreto get rid of, a pickto round upmasseuse, some tissue, a hit, a marvel, to get a glimpse.

The Washington Post: glimpse, a backpackcomfy [shoes], a standout, a displayto double, a catch-all, home assistantto shipbuilt-inhomeboundseniors, to be [fully] fleshed outto work out [details], to toteto trackwell-beingveterantelekinesisIR blaster, a device, a [flat] switch, a toggle, an appliancepreyto strap, a handle, a brakeoff you go.

Words of the Year 2023 (30/12/23)

Cambridge: to spark [a worldwide discussion], natural language processingto track [changes in the language], trustworthyto prevent from [happening], accurate, a prompt, a quizzephemeralghost [work], [voice] cloning.

Merriam-Webster: a lookupto boostto delve into [the reasons], to head for, a spikedeeds, a cockney [accent], worthy, a [data] cruncherto filter out, evergreen, a bevy, a runner-upEGOTrizzkibbutz, to implode, a deadname, an onslaughtto curtail [LGBTQ+ rights], doppelganger, a springboardto soardeepfakea lawsuitdystopiancovenantto indict.

OED: to pertain, to rizz up, a prompt, to harness, a prompt engineersituationship, to blendto coin [a word], the noughtiesswiftie


'Twas the Night Before Christmas & Let It Snow by Michael Bublé (24/12/23)
'Twas the Night Before Christmas: to stir, a stocking, to be nestled, snug, sugar-plums, 'kerchief, cap, to settle down, a nap, the lawn, the clatter, to spring (sprang, sprung), a flash, to tear (tore, torn), a shutter, the sash [window], the breast, new-fallen [snow], the lustre, a sleigh, a reindeer, to whistle,  the porch, to dash away, a hurricane, to mount, the coursers, a twinkling, to prance, to paw, a hoof, a bound, a fur, to be tarnished, ash, soot, a bundle, to fling (flung, flung), a pedler (Am Eng), to twinkle, a dimple, merry, the cheeks, droll, to be drawn up, a bow, the chin,the stump, a pipe, [to hold] tight, to encircle, a wreath, a broad [face], a [round] belly, a bowlful of jelly, chubby, plump, jolly, an elf, a wink [of his eye], a twist [of his head], to dread, a jerk, to lay [a finger], to give [a nod], to rise (rose, risen), a whistle, the down [of] a thistle, [out of] sight.

Let It Snow: frightful, delightful, to pop, [the lights are] way [down] low, to kiss good night, [to hold somebody] tight.

The Science and Lawfulness of Cow Belching (21/12/23)
[to reach] a goal, to curb [emissions], a hoodto scoop up, a pelletto chewto flick [his ears], to exhale, a contraption, high-tech, to cook up, to be laced with, the digestive tractto hoover up, a fan, a gallon, a deviceto snacka burpto churn outlivestockto scrutinisemischief, to be enticed, tasty, a hay cubea lolly, a barn [stay], [food] intake, weight gain, a cattle breeding [cooperative], and counting, a first step in, to curtail [emissions], an [unusual emissions] profileto hang aroundto tackle a [powerful] leverto sign up to [a pledge], to focus onto plug a leak, an oil field, [a gas] pipelineto brewa nicheto punch above its weightbiogenic [methane], waste, to be consistent with [global efforts], an [international] commitmentto unveil [its strategy], greenhouse gases, a low-emissions [future], an [important] player, a chunk [of the pie], a pricing schemeto boostmitigation tech [development], the demisea shift in policygene editing [technology], [to have] what it takesto harness [scientific tools], a [methane-blocking] vaccine, a silver bullet, to seek, to fundthe inception, [scientifically] challenging, a shortfall in [feasible options], an [available] approach, to milk, a set of [technologies], the [2030- 2040] bracket, to pay dividends, to be likely, to make the grade, a feed-additivefeedlot [animals], tricky [to implement], grazingto munch [grass], to figure out, [economically] viable, a holy grail, long-lasting, pastureelusive, the toolbox, [methane] outputs, [dairy] herd, [to verify] the traitto breed, a low-emitting cow, a [gut] bug, feed, to be underway, sired, to be monitored, a curveball, to handle, a painstaking [process], to yielda flock [of sheep], fatty [acid], [the spectre] to loom [large], a levyto date back to [2003], a [fart tax] furorea misnomera cowpatto lobbyto be roped into, an outlier [industry], to campaign on [a promise], to secure [a deal], [well-thought-throughpolicy, to achieve [climate targets], inputa scheme, to be meant to [come into effect], to fall overexpertise, emissions pricing policy, a delay, damagingto catch upcostlyto rewardinvidiousto focus on [mitigation], to level the playing fieldto dip [by 1.4%], a blip, a [stubborn] plateau, a [new] trend, to be offset, [not to be] on track, [to meet] the overall [emissions], to result in [reductions], [to be] steadfast in [its commitment to the Paris agreement], a keystone [climate policy], to be set to [be discarded], work-in-progressproven [interventions], to be up to [the new government], to heed [the commission's advice], to fail [to meet], carbon credits

American Friends of the Prado Museum (17/12/23)
nakedclothedto elicitpraiseto scratch, a stira portrait, to be commissioned, to be displayed, an exhibitsculptureliftedbentelbownudityreclining, a goddess, a nudevoid, a burning [question], a patroncurly [hair], a duchesskeen to [get rid of], [to have a body] exhumed, to rumour, to paint over, [to bear] a resemblance, a leading [expert], [to cause] stirFine Arts, to be storedcensorshipappealingupper-classto bend the rulesliberal [sexual attitudes], controversybrushstrokes, a precursor.

Rowan Atkinson (with Elton John, Wedding from Hell & How to Date (11/12/23)

Wedding from Hell: damnslosheddelightfulcharmingwittywell-placed, fertilethereforeto hell with, a prick, a simile, a compost heap, a weedto prop upblatterlush, a heardsteaming, to spurnrabid, [to propose] a toast [to], the caterers, a pigeonto crap, the (bride)groomto sod off.

How to Date: courting, the turnoutgratifyingto take [a girl] out, a [complex] issue, a [crucial] stepto arrangeto pick up [your date], a complete idiot, to overdo [something], to be introduced toattitudeall-importantcasualkeento escort [her to your table].

"We the People". The Spanish, American and UK Constitutions (03/12/23)
Body of the post: codessovereigntyto uphold, to date back toto grant [legal rights], to augment, a statuteto set out, a petitiondeedsdevolutionconspicuous, a think tankjargonhighbrow, [the three] branches [of power], the cabinet, to be amendedcivil rightsgerrymanderingincarceration, to overturn, a court ruling, a dictatorship, to state, to be vested, a provision.

BBC article "Devolution: What is it and how does it work across the UK?", are: to be run, an elected body, policytax, to raise/ lower [income tax], forestrycourtsstamp dutywelfareto argue for, highwayslandfill [tax], power-sharingmandatory, to be dissolved, [relations] break down, a mayor, to set [priorities], [bus] faresthe Tube, a targetaffordable.

TED-Ed video, "U.S. Bill of Rights": assemblyto bear [arms], an amendmentsearchseizureprivacy, a trial, a jury.

Bilan Media: the All Female News Team in Somalia (28/11/23)
to recedeto reel fromdrought, to cherishfloods, to fleeheavy [rains], pastures, to perishfamine, in pitch darkness, to dig, a grave, a dilapidated [house], displaced people, to cram, to be swept awayflash [floods], to packconcretemud, [waters] to subside, [prices] to soar, to promptaid [groups], in dire [need], a wellsewage, an outbreak [of cholera], [to find yourself] stranded, an autorickshaw. his livelihoodrubbish, a cart, on the outskirts [of the city], a waterborne [disease], a forecast, a riverbed, [a river] to burst its banks, to airlift [food], to cut off [a place], an airstrip, [it is] unclearfertile, to join ranks [with], to sheltermaizesesame.

Thanksgiving (22/11/23)
Wikipedia: blessingharvestfailuresettlers, to flee, God Almighty, to be prompted, reliefsiege, to beseechsham, to observe a festivity, to dub, a feaststaplenon-denominationalcropbarleyoats.

The Farmer's Almanac: to observe a festivity, to scour, a hint, to dig, to browse, mouth watering, cranberrysquashstuffingpumpkinleftoversheartburnmoistfluffymashed [potatoes], yummystew, a riddledjellied.

Thanksgiving: History & Traditions: an occasionpilgrimvoyage, to land, crops, to grow [corn], harvestroastturkeycranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, parade.

The Real Story of Thanksgiving: kumbaya, pier, bound for, a spitspeedwellungainly, to make it [to America], dissentershaunt, to have more say, a printing press, a bad rapflatteringcreaky [boat], undauntedglee, to be refitted, to botch, to cram, a snap, a beam, a sparebucklingdelays, a screw, to be kicked out, to cite land, to set up anchordodgy, to be set downscurvyicy, to send out, to be aboard, to drapearrowsmusketspilgrims, to search the area, clawsriddledtimber, to be wiped out, picky, to huddle together], to thaw, the crew, a storehouse, the localspromptlysupplies, to swap, the chief, to be beset, a cannon, unlikely, tutelage, to thrivebountygame birds, waterfowldeereelcrabharvest, to set aside their differences.

The First Thanksgiving: dawndeceitfulsettlement, in droves, to be wiped out, the fatepilgrims, to flee (fled), the congregationto pay off the debt, to be spotted, a grave, a storage pit, furs, a hostage, to keep an eye on, bountiful, to entertain, settlers, to fastto be up to something, to overthrowswift, sachem, a conspiracy, preemptive, to outnumbergodless, the outcome, to surrender, short-lived, zealous beliefs, to wipe away, the fairy tale.

Thanksgiving Around the World: feast, to compile, to get together, mashed potatoes, to chow downcasserole, cranberry, crew, treacherouspastry, a filling, goddess, the eve, quality time, a bonding activity, odd, tiny, to be overthrown, a coup, a whaling ship, a whaler, a feast, a harvest  festival, the bounty of crops.

The History of the Holidays: the History of Thanksgiving:  iconic, a feast, their bountystaplecodfishlobsterfastingprayerbountiful harvestsdrought, to decree, to set about establishing, to urge politicians, leisure, to boost attendancefledging, a kickoff, to brave the cold, a collective breath, to reconnect with loved ones. 

Latin Grammy Awards (19/11/23)
NPR story:  so what?to head to, to lead up to [the events], to take over, a deal, a telecastcliche, a boundaryto host [acoustic sessions], to stress [that], to echoto stoke [controversy], on the heels ofto raise eyebrowsto dabble in [tropical genres], a backlash, [a debate] to unfoldto hint  [at questions], to upliftwhitewashed, satinized, scrutinize, barely, the [Florida] branch, the rateongoingcontentionstark [criticism], to snub, a breakthrough, allegations, to harass, [highly] pubicized, diaspora, a [colonial] tag, the birthplace, to carry [political] implications, race, tricky, to mirror, in fluxto set out [to solve], to fulfill [a mission], mainstream [music], [profound] underrepresentation, to be looked down [upon], unabashedlygroundbreaking, a queer [woman], to be dubbed, to play a pivotal role, glaringly [absent], vast [diversity], to undervalue, a boundary-pushing [player], to champion.

El País report: to sneak  [into the urban genre], to thrillto crash [the party], a singer-songwriter, [to feel] broken, the overwhelming [precence], a gala, to shine [the most], poise, stature, a bird's eye view, to come out [first], a top-selling [singer], to be eligible [for an award], to stage, to be grippedsorrowresounding [modernity], guts, a daggerclappersprops, [to give them] a twist, unleashedto stand outstingy, [latest] harvest, to border [the absurdity], to get [their interpretations] off the ground, the broadcast, to fit in, to hold your owna kid[to have a lot of] nervemorale, a tenetdeceased, solitude, refreshing naivetyto set foot on [a stage], touching.

Dolly Parton, the Unlikely Bipartisan American Icon (12/11/23)

"Ain't Got No", "I Got Life" by Lisa Simone (03/11/23)

The Princess of Asturias Awards & Leonor's Pledge of Allegiance to the Constitution (22/10/23)
The Princess of Asturias Awards Cermony: Meryl Streep's multimedia contents: holder, to star [in a Broadway production], to stand out, a leading role, to gain [recognition], [her best] performance, to earn [her an Oscar], committed to [defending women's rights]. In Nuccio Ordine's: to earn [a PhD], outstanding, numerous [articles], well-being. In Hélene Carrière D'Encausse's: to head [a Department]. In Eliud Kipchoge's: to stand atop [the highests podium], so-called, ups and downs, [to be] nicknamed, prowess, [ability] to focus, to cut [thirty seconds] off [the previous record], to go through [the arches], to smash [the world record], [300 metres] to go, a lap [of the track], endurance runs, tempo runs, to come down to [this], [history] unfolding, a marathon event, a [considerable] chunk, a history maker, [simply] stunning, scrambling [for superlatives]. Haruki Murakami: a graduate [in Literature], to converge, an unnerving [writer], the dreamlike [world], to be rooted, a budding [writer], to garner [success], a writing fellow [at Princeton University], an earthquake, [universal] scope. DNDi: a non-profit organization, underdevelopment, research, headquarters, to be chaired, funding, [public and private] entities, ailments, affordable [access], to plague [our world], neglected, toxic, scars, powerless, to launch [an initiative], to harness [the science], to develop [drugs], a conductor, a hit, to run clinical trials, to deliver [a treatment], to shape [the next years]. Jeffrey Gordon, E. Peter Greenberg and Bonnie L. Bassler: to spearhead, the microbiome, epithelial [cells], polysaccharides, thereby, to make up [the microbiota], a [new] approach, distinguished, gut, undernourished [children], to play a key role, to address [a problem], an acknowledgment, thrilling. Mary's Meals: to aim [to provide], relief, to achieve a goal, to carry out [its work], to devise, to the utmost, [local] produce, likewise, to ensure, fundraising, affiliates, to beat [in harmony], remarkable, to dwell, to struggle, a ladder, [all] walks of life.

The Daily Mail report on the oath of allegiance to the Constitution: to be flanked, the heir [to the throne], [to look] regal, to be gripped, to step [on to the stage], [to look] composed, allegiance, queen regent, to engulf, to be betrayed, a [slighthint [of nerves], a touching [moment], to glance, reassurance, to be honed, a stint, a boarding school, to mark [the anniversary], an unwavering delivery, to state, a commitment, to step up [her role], Queen-in-training, poignant, [hair] pulled back, a sleek ponytail, understated [make up], a fleeting [gesture].

In the Daily Mail photo report: a snap, a casual [display], a chic [display], a V-neck [t-shirt], to gaze [away], minimal [make up], to reveal, the coming of age, the queen-in-waiting, [to take an] oath, [to preserve] the Magna Carta, the successor, to wave [a flag], appreciation, to be bustling [with revellers], to be chaired, cavalry, squadron, to be deployed, to be up to par, an impressive [speech], to watch on, to entail, to praise, incredible, to achieve, the principality [of Asturias], outstanding, a low-key [birthday], fanfare, the Royal Mint, to mark [the birthday], the effigy, to be engraved, to undergo [military training], to be dubbed, a strict [timetable], [to be on] manoeuvres, to head to. 

Narges Mohammadi, Nobel Peace Prize, 2023 (08/10/23)
SBS News article: jailed, a [human rights] advocate, to honour, to call for [the release], an op-edin custody, to galvanize [protests], to serve [multiple sentences], lashesincarceration.

PBS NewsHour report: to bolsterwilling, to be dragged (out of a train), fearless, to belong to [the people], to be confinedrelentless [intimidation], to galvanizeongoing [protest/ detention], to ebb, an [unprecedented] crackdownpreventive arrests, an assault, to document [violence and abuse]. 

Paella (with a Caribbean Touch) (20/09/23)
cookbook, seafood, award-winning, a fast-casual [restaurant], a gathering, to dive [deep] into [rice], akin to, clams, shrimp, a squeeze, to date back to, expertise, spices, [to become] entwined, a staple, oversized, a medley, stout, kernel, to plump with flavour, to soak up [the stock], to stick [together], a [perfect] bite, fancy, brininess, mussels, prawns, lobster, scallops, a cast-iron [pan], shallow, crispy, a crust, a hint, garnished, [lemon] wedges, a burst, a zing, shellfish, to dice, tbsp (a table spoon), minced, a clove [of garlic], kosher salt, paprika, saffron threads, to crush, to roast, a strip, to scrub, to rinse, to remove, to peel, to devein [prawns], to chop, a chunk, to sauté, gummy, a skillet, to sprinkle, a lid,  to simmer, to discard, the burner, [rice] to set, cockles.

The Spanish Girls Win the Football World Cup (20/08/23)
BBC News report: deservedly, heartbreak, to be outplayed, flair, the whistle, a corner kick, nerve-racking, stoppage time, to slot, the winner, goalkeeper, midfield, stunning [saves], the penalty spot, to award [a penalty], lengthy, deflated, a curling [effort], the crossbar, to be draped in [green], to be thrust [into the limelight]. 

Woman's Hour interview: to step downto speak outa hunger strikebizarreto flip the script, to stand  downworship, former, in terms ofto stand by [somebody], to turn upto work their socks off, to be entitled to, to vow [to change], to grabconsensualludicrousa wimp, a flimsy [excuse], a snog, a witch huntdefiant.

Shakira's Breakup Song (22/01/23)
break-up, ragegrief, to cope, to binge, to unload [emotions], scorching, a diss track, sparks, raw [emotions], heartbreak, [to get] dumpedbitternessrevenge, to beg, [to be] scorned, to be over [this], a wink, a lump [in your throat], to drip, to smudge, tricky, to creep, to relapse, cleansing, to offload.

Best Winter Sun Holidays & Places to visit in 2023 (31/12/22)
In the Hollydo Magazine: averagewhopping, dreamy, charming, a coastal [town], to beat, to check out, waterfront [restaurants], nearby [abandoned castles], stunning [streescapes], breathtaking [beaches], impressive [cliffs], turquoise [waters].


In the Afar.com article: to await, a seaside [village], to prevailrenovations, a hubsteamed [crabs], seasoning, freight, freshwater, to hop, glaciated, lobster rolls, heritage, to boast, to sit [on the shores], endangered species, vineyard, highlights, to debut, a flea market, entrepreneurial, the culinary [capital], pumpkins, meadows, to strech for [618 acres], to rewild, a cheetahwetlandsgrasslands, conservation, to figure out, to showcasesnow-capped [peaks], a thriving [art scene].

The Magic of Christmas (25/12/22)
In the TV add: matepoorly, [this one] is on mecheers, get well soon, well wishes. 
In the song, Constellations by Ellie Holcomb: to long for [you], underneath, a canopy [of stars], to collide, the mess [in my life], to see through, to lose your way, a desolate [place], to make a way, pinprick.

In the BBC News interview: portrayal, the cost of living crisis, to grip [the UK], a graveyard, a flashback, a go-kart, to refurb, a performance, the crew, amazing [presents], to take over [the world], to get wheeled in on [the go-kart], to make a bid on [the go-kart], to steersmoothbumpyto marshal [local resources], to be on the telly positively, a barber shop, the landmarks, to get a go [at Christmas], the real thing, to whispercrikey, tough, fancy [food], to deliver [a line], poorly, to pull [that] out, to focus on [that], to struggle, to get [it] wrong, to snap up [something]a by-election, to hire, a [creative] hubto nurture [young talent], an apprentice, to mould, to get [a place] on the map, to deserve, best of luck, to smash [a record]. 

"Goblin Mode" is Oxford Word of the Year (07/12/22)
metaverse, #IStandWith, goblin mode, a short list, hashtag, unapologetically, self-indulgent, greedyslovenly, to take off, a lockdown, usage, gleefulness, goblingargoyle, to burst forth, gaslightingpermacrisisto vote with your feet, cold and miserable, pithy, thought-provoking, churros.

Walking Fast for 30 Minutes Can Reduce Dementia and Mortality (25/11/22)
a step, to go about [walking], to keep up with a pace, to lower, to be committed to [a daily walk], burst, early death, to peak at [10,000 steps each day], to drop [risk of dementia], purposeful, to review the data, [to walk] briskly, [it] proved to be beneficial, a condition, a device, to monitor [phisical activity].

Mid-term Elections 2022 (11/11/22)
at staketo resonate, to cast a vote, to overturn [the results of the 2020 election], claims of wrongdoing, to oversee, a bid, the ballot, to address the issues, to win control of Congress, to pledge, a showdown, debt ceiling, a bargaining chipto crack down on [tax fraud], to repeal [a law], a cap for payments [for insulin], to roll back [benefits].

Halloween: 50 Costumes, 3 Stories and a Song (27/10/22)
In the cloze task: candle, mist, goodies, ghost, haunteda wizard, a corpse, gruesome, spine-chilling, costumes, to carve, to hollow-outghastly, a jack-o'-lantern, a spider web, an imp, a broomstick, a troll, spooky, a coffin.

In the Halloween Word List: a bat, bizarre, the bogeyman, to cackle, chilling, a curse, doomedeerie, elf, evil, fairy, fangs, ghoulgrimgrislyhocus pocus, a magic wand, a prank, repulsive, revolting, to shiver, a shriek, sorcerer, a spook, a tombstonewickedwitchcraft.

El Pilar Festival (Hispanic Heritage Month, Columbus & Indigenous People's Day) (12/10/22)
In El Pilar Festival reading text: to lead up to, parade, a patron saint, a trail, a lilly, an orchid, a gladiolus, to wind your way, to spread [Christianity], a marble pillar, a chapel, to be displayed, a pilgrim, to trace back to [1600s], the big heads,  papier mache figures, the carnival, to mingle [with the crowds], bull fighting, a gathering, to be spotted, to be packed with [bars and revellers], impressive [landscapes], picturesque [villages], gorgeous, [people] flock to the streets, endless [activities].

In the conversation class about El Pilar festival: the opening speech, the flower offering, the trade fair, the crafts fair, the venue [of a concert], food trucks, the river waterfront, the beer festival, the bullfighting ring, a matador, a recortador, to jump bulls, to dodge [a bull], a street brass band, the giant puppets, the bigheaded, the fireworks, the glass rosary procession, the mass of infants.

Cabaret (1972) (06/10/22)
a ground-breaking [film], to take on, a hit, a chilling [message], release, against the backdrop, uncompromising [hate], acclaim, packed audiences, in pursuit of, vibrant [gay scene], a misfit, the likes of [Sally Bowles], a supporting actor, a magnet, to barrel [into the abyss], to treble, to be purged, grim, prescient, doom, to pervade, on the fringes [of history], to debut, camp, debauched, to dim, grime, bewitching, an outsider, hedonistic, free-spirited, oblivious, a breakout [role], divergence, to be trapped, a gaze, taboo, creeping [fascism], to embrace, explicitness, matter-of-fact, depiction, queerness, a riot, a [Pride] parade, a portrayal, stuffy, [Iserwood's] alter ego, a glance, an utterance, to star [eddie Redmayne], to be cast, quaint, to underscore, a mainstream [film], androgynous, unapologetically, rake-thin, smothered, chalky, raucous, a drag, depravity, to strut [across stage], seediness, gleeful, abandon, to goosestep, to don [a military helmet] a fake [gun], to be embodied, buoyant, to hold [your] breath, [political] apathy, unwittingly, to facilitate, a sledgehammer, to pan out, a paean, to be enraptured, destitute, stark, to depict, to tackle, garishsleazy, to be burdened, to dread,, burgeoning, an outcry.

World News Media Congress, Zaragoza, 2022 (02/10/22)
 to be up to, a breaking news website, payable, the hype, Afrikaans, aggregation, a wire, the motto, the lotto, UGC (User Generated Content), to shift, trusted, a slogan, era, disinformation, fake news, to pivot, freemium, a subscriber, a trade model, to reset, newsroom, a stream, a publisher,  investigative [journalism]in-depth, a podcast, a sub-editor, a complaint.

What Would Kids Do If They Were Rich (24/09/22)
Video: cabbages, lettuce, carrots, a platinum ball, a display cabinet, a pistol, miserable, a piggy bank, a booby, jolly [rich], to polish, silly me! 

Rockefeller's biographya business trust, a partnership, [wealth] to soar, targeted [philanthropy], the hookworm, a trustee, a clerk, a janitor, [to feel] righteous, [transportation] rebates, pitiless, a grasping [monopoly], the boom and bust [of the business cycle], to rack up [profits], a well, a pipeline, to top out, a breakup, stock, to be broken up, [the companies' combined net worth rose] fivefold.

Carnegie's biography: steel [industry], parlance, a bobbin [factory], a bill logger, [two companies] to merge, a pension fund, an oil derrick, a bond, a rags to riches [story], a dispute, unrest, to peak, staunch [anti-union sensibilities], to lock [the union] out, a lockout, to crush, a pivotal [demonstration], strikebreakers, to be tied in [for an assassination attempt].

Elizabeth II (16/09/22)
Boris Johnson's tribute: [cameras] start rolling, to choke up, to be moved to tears, to be overcome with sadness, countless [people], a sense of loss, changeless, unvarying, in a pole star radiance, to be lulled into [thinking], a keener [shock], to be globally trusted, currency, to dispense [justice], to pass [a law], to swear allegiance, to be pledged, to lay down [their lives], the figurehead, the keystone, to fulfill a role, to incarnate [the essence of the nation], sheer [duration], to see off [her 14th Prime Minister], the span, a statesman, to cheer up [the nation], a smash hit, indomitability, an outrider, an armour-plated convoy, a bodyguard, to bounce, a rambler, seamlessly, grief.

Grid News Article:  the newly minted [Prime Minister], [a subject] arises, frail health, policy, a reign, to greet, to prompt [a question], to approve of [the monarchy], to succeed [her] to the throne, profoundly unsettling, to bow, to assume the throne, to buffet, quaint [and dated], preposterous, scrappy, brass, [utterly] at odds, pageantry, the trappings [of royalty], to be battered, suffice to say, realms [of newsprint], to grasp [the moment], to shed tears, a vigil, [her] passing, a landmark, to ascend [to the thorne], at the helm, fixture, turmoil, steady, a daunting [crisis], a staple, the run-up [to the war], to throng [the celebrations], [the number of subjects] to dwindle, a diverse [country], to cheer [the monarchy], to mourn [the Queen], to struggle [to understand], to thrive [by dividing], a poll, skeptic [of the monarchy], to be born [into a family], disgraceful, to outrank, a survey, a runaway [winner], a much-revered [ruler], a few month's shy [of  Elizabeth's reign], to bring concerns [about the Thai monarchy], [concerns] to simmer [below the surface], a thread, an obituary, to deprive [Britain of a thread that wove a nation together], [flags] at half-mast, [ceremonies] to unspool, [a bell] to toll, unease, [political] upheaval, an outpouring [of tributes], to take heart.

Nasir and the KiNESIS Project in Fitero (10/09/22)
rural development, an impact, mayor, brand, heritage, gastronomy, professors, municipal authorities, a monastery, monks, landscape, to be interlinked, to perform a project, to be stuck, to be interconnected, to implement, the target audience, social media stuff, exposure, traineeship, to grab this opportunity, to share your skills, net worth.

Studying at Oxford University (03/09/22)
application process, undergraduate study, postgraduate studies, All Soul's College, a top [university], so they say, [Oxford is] way, way [better], a college, stage one, to sit an entrance exam, unique, to my knowledge, a subject, a handful [of interviews], [it's pretty] intense, you guys, [so] rigorous, one professor, the lecturer, one-on-one learning, a tutorial, research, to thrive, [it'll] improve your chances, self-guided, self-motivated [study], to keep up with [the study], the dining hall, a college choir, a degree, to set the curriculums, to set the exams, to move onwards, the stats, to give [a bit ] of a flavour [of the student body], international students, to clear up [a little bit].

Meghan Markle Talks to Serena Williams about Ambition (26/08/22)
a commercial, greasy, pots and pans, to belong in the kitchen, to reach out to, triumph, to have a ripple effect, an awakening, to box women, to make a difference, diva, the "b" word, slut, harsh, abrasive, to suck around, bitch, mortified, dumb, dragon-lady, household names, to bear the brunt of [something], label, to open up, competitive, an order [of nuns], the sisters, to renounce [their] vows, to behold to a system, to be raised [Catholic], to trickle down, limitless, to date [my now husband], to embody [the spirit of ambition], a trend-setter, a trail-blazer, to focus on [other passions], to pop in, a great vibe, super loyal, to show up, [the pain] I am going through, to check yourself, bossy, to fade, to be fearless, to be blanking, to be afraid of heights, a wound, a godly fear, unhealthy fear, to jump in [there], to call [the ball] out, [to have] a meltdown, a double standard, a stand-point, [pressure] to mount, [these] fellows, that was nuts, to be at fault, [to use] a curse word, to step away [from tennis], deleting, to dig [deeper on an idea], scenarios, [is] power hungry, a role model, it boils down to [antipathy], to come with a backlash, a climber,  a ripple effect, to be nurturing, a boost [in pay], careerwise, the mother-work balance, [I'm always] devil's advocate, breastfeeding, infamous [cat suit], that outfit, [she fell from] a high chair, [I felt so] guilty, a cast, to rock [her to sleep], [I'm] hard on myself, so emotionally drained, I took a lot on, to show up, an official engagement, a township, a nursery, to give [each other] a break, to swim in the shallow end, to betray that trust, a monumental decision, baseball cap, on vacation, to struggle with it, for one purpose, I can't wait [to wake up one day], it's new territory, to toil over [a decision], it takes [counselling, support], [the last] hurrah, the locker room, sad tears, to evolve [into something else], [some sort of] involvement, pregnancy, to wobble around, [I'm] fortunate enough, your calling, choosing a path, it takes [a lot of] courage, that's insane, classy girl, to tear up, this newness, it doesn't get better than that, to be messing around, stunning, it's the sweetest thing, a two-bedroom home, the most amazing ride, I'm getting emotional, to close things out, to hold a space, a perfectionist, thoughtful, compassionate, genuinely funny, a fully-fledged [human being], [I] have a voice, super-understanding, a mom, a marker of drive, a commitment to achievement, nuances, to have an agenda, whatever gets thrown at you, my little mermaid, to shut the door on her ambition, see you guys!

Brad Pitt, the Ultimate Star of the Century (19/08/22)
ultimate, to display, wry [self-referential] humour, to earn an enduring status, hunky, a toy toy, a heartthrob, lookalike, off-screen, tabloids, to overshadow, performance, to range over, genre, savvy, goofy, hitman, unflattering, a bucket hat, to fend off, a high-speed [train], to spout, self-help [lines], deadpan, an [action] extravaganza, distinguishing feature, sardonic tone, to make the case, a stuntman, to be infused, dry [humour], a smirk, mischievous, off-putting, scalper, plummy, a whiff [of humour], droll, a sweet spot, underappreciated, the ease, stressed-out, a powerful [performance], to defy, to plummel, alter ego, flat-out, hilariously, to chomp [gum], to set up [a character], to run away with [it], wit, the path, stature, to give up [acting], to cling to [his past], an endless string, a box-office hit, an earnest [dad], to pick, all over the place, a sly [cameo], canny, an on-screen persona, to be typecast, [to become] stale, to mock, to turn his back on [it], disarming, to show up, nerdy, rom-com, a fixer, kidnapped, stunned, [to answer] matter-of-factly, to dismiss [his looks casually], bemused, [the best] supporting actor, the lead, charisma, to steal [the film], a ranch, to squat, to pitch, concern, easygoing, awareness, scruffy, greased-back [hair], ruthless, uneasy, at close range, to set up [the murder], touchy-feely, to plead, [to make] a squeamish [face], to deliver the line, a tough [guy], a half-hearted [attempt], fate, free will, nice try, cartoonish, a megawatt [actor], to handle, a high-grossing [film], thoroughly [amusing], to tangle with, to go flat, a [sardonic] edge, to catch [viewers] off-guard, gung ho, to nickname, to lean, dashing, an undercover [agent], blatant, caricature, satire, arched [eyebrows], brow furrows, to squint, [a marriage] is on the rocks, an ongoing [custody fight], a lawsuit, a winery, shrewdly, flawlessly, attention-grabbing [fashions], red-carpet, rumpled, to be sober, to make a stir, wan, [eye] liner, a backdrop.

Flamenco, Rock and Songs of Rebellion from Spain (13/08/22)
Hiatus, to rethink, to dig around, 2017, 2014, 2011, to cover [music], earbuds, whether, to wrestle  with, to seep, to draw from [eachother], to feature, rule [over Spain], itinerary, repression, the analogues, Latin counterparts, to absorb [musical influences], Sylvia y Los Caminantes, to check out [this sound], the background vocals, doo-wop [influence],
A jazzy, blues break in the middle, to sip in, tiny bit [of musical influence], [pretty] revolutionary, franquismo, the rule [of Franco], to mobilize the masses, copla, the soundtrack [of franquismo], to incorporate, [jazz], [to be] eyebrow raising, explosion, Martirio, to reflect [on the influence of copla], 
I love Martirio, to trace [this political evolution], development [of Spain], [Martirio is] a character, a performance artist, the post-Franco era, [to dress in] elaborate [costumes], hair combs, dark sunglasses, Pedro Almodovar, fascinating, to go through [a similar period], brutal dictatorships, that creative energy and freedom, to wrap up, a tenor saxophone player, Pedro Iturralde, to record [a track], to be listed, Paco de Lucía,

so brilliant, how the saxophone [is] emulating [the flamenco vocals], Pedro Iturralde, underrated and unsung hero, the music scene, to think far ahead, 

Pedro Iturralde's music, a massive impact, to mingle with, persecution, repression, Antonio Lizana, to inspire [him]

Antonio Lizana, guest DJ, exposure [to flamenco], in flamenco roots, to copy the sound, to mix [flamenco and jazz], Jorge Pardo, a mixture, part of your identity, Camarón de la Isla, 
unmistakeable sound, goose-pumps, a tremendous power and emotion, like rock stars, Jorge Pardo, in the flute, pain, to be chased, to be kicked out, to be persecuted, the blues, an expression of suffering, 
Flamenco is a genre, synonimous to Spain, rock-and-roll, to set the scene, a record label, BMG Ariola, to be geared towards celebrating rock music [from Spain, Argentina, Mexico], to reverberate, heavy metal, basque culture, 

Within the umbrella of Latin alternative, Ángeles del Infierno, 

Which Felix is gonna come to work, techno-Felix, banda-Felix, devil, cursed be your name, the falsetto, crunchy guitar work, driving drums, a high-pitched voice, to bring something out, Ángeles del Infierno, on shelf, black T-shirts, basque, you are kidding, rock radical vasco, anti-establishment, euskera, consonants, made for heavy metal, pacts with the devil, to trick [all human beings], 

To draw from [influences], to tie to [sentiments and histories], shared language, conquest and colonization, appropriation, to be tied to [to my own musical memory], central to my upbringing, on loop, bending and blending [genres], [to produce] chart topping hits, to leave these questions with you, another dive [into the Alt.Latino archives].

Carnival (09/08/22)
lesser-known [islands], to ring, lure, flamboyant, costumes, Lenten, Mardi Gras, debauchery, a masquerade ball, to enslave, to tap into, to drum, a [rebellious] chant, to mock, a [colonial] master, defiance, slavery, to spill [onto the streets], to bear [similarities], distinct [traditions], craftmanship, to honour [their ancestors' resistance], fellowship, a whopping [$124bn], performers, on display, iconic [carnivals], to be dubbed ['the mother of all carnivals'], to draw [visitors], to purchase, to join in, a parade, the entire [country], masqueraders, to gather, mud, sunrise, feather, glitter, jewelled [costumes], a steel pan band competition, fetes, themed parties, a trendsetter, to renact, a riot, emancipated slaves, to ban, to fuel up [on local foods], doubles, bake and shark, roti, pelau, pineapple chow, to add to [the experience], the launch, pan yaad hopping, a meet up, T-shirt mas, a reveller, a swimsuit, a casual cut-off outfit, J'ouvert, a powered-down [body], a wig, daybreak, to showcase, conch wate, souse, bakes, a distinct [feature], cowbells, car rims, infectious beats, to pack a [significant] punch, season festivities, ride parties, soca fetes, to sell out, value for {your] money, to wind down, [island] commute, the harvesting season, a long-running [carnival], to kick off, an elaborate [show], a skit, calypso music, to pass down to [the future generation], to feature, crafts, live performers, the highlight, to name after, a bounty [of spices], glistening [oiled-bodies], to take over, helmets, devil horns, to drag [chains], a smoked herring, to protrude, to lunge, in jubilance, a satire, Bacchanal Friday, Soca Monarch, Pantastic Saturday, Monday Night Mas, to stand out, to show up [at dusk], glowing paraphernalia, sticks, a fancy costumed parade, a last-lap [parade], a picturesque [waterfront], to check out, an off-the-beaten track [experience], a loser, whip, the sidelines, to host, startling [diversity], a vibrant [parade], the seafront [boulevard], island-hopping, a southernmost [island], Junior Pan Fest, a pristine [beach].

Football's Coming Home (02/08/22)
Article about Sarina Wiegman: an alchemist, formidable, an accomplishment, to sum up, austere, stern, the touchline, to imprint on, to flourish, sore, a feat, back-to-back, to play bad cop, to raise an eyebrow, a close-knit [England camp], to eke out, priceless, the dressing-room, to be forthright, the national team, a tall order, arduousness, surreal, contenders, to haul [them] over the line, to tie up, loose [ends], sleek, at the helm, to back up [a title], a stunning [win], deservedly, a letdown, a squad, akin to, [with] momentum, a fixture, a draw, the buildup, to bask, glow, on the pitch, legacy, a camper van [holiday], to eschew, glitz, glare, damehood.

"This Will Change Women's Football for Ever": a lioness, to capture [the country's] imagination, [girls and boys] alike, outrageous, to score, attendance, a turnstile, to top it off, a thunderbolt, to crack [into the net], [the clock] to tick down [towards extra-time], to backheel, a nutmeg [goal], stunning, cheek, to roar, an [advertising] hoarding, the pitch, coverage, a pundit, mainstream, watercooler talk, to flock, to stick around, for years to come, to reach [the final], funding, a squad, a [home/ away] leg, a day job, fixture, vile [weather], to set up, to aim [top], to pay off, to land [a trophy], to draw from [a diverse talent pool], to launch, to address [a problem], a grassroots [club], a step, an inspirational role model, to clear the path, legacy, to ensure [that], to go down in history.

The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2022 (29/07/22)
 a far-flung destination, a thrill, travel restrictions galore, albeit, to cross off [destinations], the hospitality industry was hit hard, downtime, to venture, to reap [the benefits], valiant [efforts], to teem with [fresh-air activities], to be raring, to make up for, splashy, hard-hit destinations, buzzy, stateside, to hold back, wellness, farm-to-table living, to stretch, overlooked, unspoiled [villages], picturesque, stunning, sleepy, underdog, harbinger, an eco-lodge, glamping, a [food] hotspot, local produce, an eager [traveler], vast, towering snow-capped [peaks], pristine [wilderness], to roll out [itineraries], to launch [new ships], myriad, a gathering, easy-going, to resume [service], a fleet [of jets], a sprawling [resort], perks, butler, to debut, a shutdown, a compelling [reason], seals, heli-hiking, a craps table, to skip, crystal-clear waters, [50 miles] off the coast, a day pass, to be whisked away, to indulge [in local food], conch, stew, rock lobster, hiatus, to keep an eye for, junkanoo, an all-inclusive [stay], vibrant, a spa, hammam [treatment], vendors, to stroll down, a boardwalk, ocean-front [food], rainforests, diver, a barrier reef, abundance, casual [spots,], luxe [resorts], an oceanfront [villa], a nonstop [flight], charm, a shining [example], a rooftop [library], an oenophile, unassuming, a wine cellar, draped, a estate, resilience, on tap, hilltop [suites], to glimpse, glitzy, to unveil, [room] renovations, an outpost, a mogul, to snag [the term], a venue, a low-key [escape], stunning, white-washed [buildings], to lust after, cerulean blue, to peruse, to seek out, to hop [aboard], to wield [lightsabers], to brush shoulders with, to be slated, to encapsulate [a definition], a [steel] monolith,

to be buzzing [with energy], to bolster, to carve out a name, the [luxury travel] realm, riesling [wine], to knock, a lighter-bodied [red wine], a [foodie] draw, festival roster, to grasp onto its charms, quaint [downtown], chock-full, storefronts, lining, sidewalk, [race] riots, a winery, a rock quarry, a quirky-cool [enclave], brand-new, a lush [setting], rolling [hills], nourishing [food], to be raised, to be foraged, bustling, to tack on [to], a [presidential] decree, to seek [to combat], amenities, a carbon-neutral footprint, to kick its signature into high gear, a cue, to soak, hot springs, a speakeasy [bar], a budding [surf scene], a state-of-the art [wave pool], a [wave] lagoon, pending [city approvals], a splash zone, a craft beer hotspot, a [biking] trail, alum, to grab [headlines], to make strides, to showcase, jetty, wary [of travelling], solace, to hop on [a flight], to straddle [three regions of Zambia], a hot air balloon, a sundowner, a lofty [resolution], to commence, sparkly [new] digs, to [venture] off the beaten track, snorkeling, scuba diving, to top, to splash out on [dinner and a show], to wrap [a project], a racetrack, the attendees, a medley [of cultures], a smattering [of terrain], verdant [rain forests], to blend, hawker food stalls, a coveted [resort], turquoise, an overwater [villa], primed for [snorkeling], zip-lining, to meld, sleek,

available for charter, a slew of [hotel openings], a [cocktail] curator, to set sail, a tagline, a suspended bridge, an all-nighter, high-end, alluring, otherworldly, cloud-shrouded, an uptick, to partake, volcanic terroir, a grueling [hike], ample [opportunities], a humpback [whale], an orca, to spot, nuanced, a gateway, to tag [a turtle], a hideaway, to put [an area] on the radar, a hub, moss-draped [streets], slick, hazy [ales], sours, a taproom, luster, to garner, cooped-up [city dwellers], to be enthralled, vortex, stargazing, to follow suit, revamped, glitz, to flock, skijöring, snowkiting, tobogganing, to pop up, rugged [land], a penthouse [room], over-the-top [hotels], a flagship [hotel], a stretch [of a path], a hillfort, [gourmet Mexican] fare, boho-chic [lodgings], a beachcomber, to lift off, to ramp up, a jaunt, the edge [of space], a dealbreaker.
 

Mr. Happy Face, the World's Ugliest Dog (23/07/22)
Key words in the radio interview: bat, tuft, snarl, crookedly, bound, curl, quirky, cute, so popular, extra-attention, shelter, unadoptable, hoarder situation, human touch, bond, hospice situation, a second chance, caring and nurturing, strange noises, grunt, a diesel truck revving, barks in his sleep, cries, howl, on tour, meet and greet, joy, face lights up, indigenous, Navajo, rez dogs, an incredible resource, kindness, compassion, congrats.

Key words in the writtten article: crested, mix, neglect, hoarding, a protruding [tongue], a tilted [head], mohawk [hairstyle], tufted [hair], a snarl, a hound, to promote adoption and rescue, a pooch, to be overlooked, a [dog] shelter, a puppy mill, to be crowned, to get [extra] attention, unadoptable, [neurological] issues, medical care, [psychological] wounds, love and comfort, nurturing, to thrive, joy, to host a meet and greet, to set up, newfound [fame], a rez dog, a stray dog.

Daffodils by William Wordsworth (15/07/22)
to wander, to float, o'er (over), a vale, a host, golden, daffodils, to flutterbreeze, to twinkle, the Milky Way, to stretch, never-ending [line], a bay, a glance, to toss [their heads], a sprightly [dance], sparkling [waves], in glee, [to be] gay, jocund [company], to gaze, oft (often), couchvacant or pensive mood, to flash upon, inward eye, blisssolitude.

The Running of the Goats in New York City (07/07/22)
goats, to weed, a sliver, farmland, pretty flat, to slope sharply, invasive plants, porcelain berry, to take over, garden maintenance, a herd of goats, upstate [New York], a trailer, the thick impenetrable bush, hillside, with ease, a beloved ritual, St. Patrick's Day parade, to show up, [dogs] to strain against leashes, to sniff, to poke, dazzling, tawny-colored, horns, to curl in on themselves, poised, a gaze, to commune [with nature], nonprofit rescue service, a fenced area, chill, to drift away, heads down, oblivious, sirens, overhead, to munch thier way down the hillside.

Terry Gross, America's National Interviewer (28/06/22)
WHYY celebration of Fresh Air's 35th anniversary: a full-time staff member, gruelling, an intern, a joy, to condense the brew, a national [radio] show, [our tastes] to overlap [very nicely], to edit the show, to boil [something] down to its essence, to go on tangents, to edit it out, a local [radio] show, to be carefully crafted, to fill in [for somebody else], to get her on invitations [to national shows], the highlights [of my career], the recipients [of an award], an impressive crew, a whole bunch of people, the ribbon, to put work into [the show].

Stephen Colbert's presentation of the Peabody Institutional Award:  WHYY, a national broadcast, an NPR staple, a playwright, a showrunner, a talk show host, to open up [about their work], a sultry [voice], an impish [laugh], effortlessly, to bring out [the unexpected], an attentive probing [and not] intrusive [listener], to display interest, to set [Fresh Air] apart, to eavesdrop on [a cocktail party conversation], to sympathize, to pick on [you], medical care, to strap on, a bulletproof vest, [a bomb] to go off, to fire [shots], worship [of god], to call up [somebody], to have a chat, to cry [my way to the grave], to lie face down, [on the ground], to tie [somebody] up, to beg for [your] life, the epitome [of the coolest], to hit [the mic], a rapper, the dopest Ethiopian, to be honoured, on behalf of [our team], worthy of [an award], a [calm] steady [person], a licensed [therapist], to learn on [the job], incredible terrific [staff], to sweat the details, transcripts, a juggling feat, the roll call, to single out [one], a [total] mench, to give [us] the confidence, to go off script, a caring [colleague].
 
Another Day of Sun (21/06/22)
a Greyhound [station, bus], a sweet [boy], to sink [into our seats], to dim out [all the lights], a nickle, to hop [on a bus], brave, insane, a sleepy [town], he'll [sit], [the lights are] down, the heights, to chase [the lights], to let [you] down, to get up off the ground, to roll around, canyons, to fade away, ballads, barrooms, to bang [on every door], [money] runs low, dusty, mic, neon, glow.

Ellen MacArthur, Winner of the Princess of Asturias Price for International Cooperation (15/06/22)
castaway, to sail solo, limitless passion, iron-will [to triumph], upbringing, to pour over, to skip [school lunches], dinghy, the finish line, relief, it's over, dock, pitch black, to stumble upon, odd scene, crammed, loo, toilet seat, to step off [a boat], to crave [for normalilty], track, outcast, voyage, to get [somebody] through, multitasking, to fix [the engine], chafing, kettle, a gas stove, gas cilinders, to pour in [the water], fuel, an intolerance [to bread], appetite for [a pint of beer], difficult to be around, a feeling of achievement, adrenaline, to wear off, to have a knack [for fixing things], to grow your own vegs, to go karts, lawnmower, a girly girl, a Cindy, a tomboy, to whittle wood, caring, to change the path, to see [me] off, to wish [me] well, scholarship, to make sure [her children went to university], canteen, an inspiration [to me], dinghy, a cabin, a chart table, a bunk, [my] nan, an instrumental force, to dismantle [my bed], barn, a sleeping bag, sewing machine, a set [of sailing trousers], pocket money, income, school dinner money [change], mashed potato & gravy, meniscus, to pile [the money], the money box, a building society, to hand over [the cash], a pet chicken, reservoir, to make do [with playing in the garden], obsessiveness, achiever, obsessive, break times, focused, [I like] being around people, time runs, survival, a moneyed pastime, Derbyshire Education Committe, a wetsuit, a tracksuit, a pakamac, to make it through [to the end of the week], properly equipped, to pack it in, a telling look, brutally selfish, to spread the wings [and fly], poignantly, a massive challenge, to come your way, to take each day as it comes, to be out there, the sunset, the highlights [of your life], in terms of, to smash the daggerboard to pieces, to sum it up, sponsorship, amassing funds, to cobble together [money], the stakes are higher, miniature, Boots, there is room [for relationships], a beanbag, a net, to flush right through, a fleece blanket, waterproofs, to doze, freezing cold, emotional, cheery [song], to recapture [a solo record], an astounding lap [of the planet], to jar [inside me], everything is looked after, precious, to take [something] for granted, kitchen roll, to tear a square, to hit home to me, an adventurous place, resources, [a moment of] epiphany, to eclipse, to draw a line [on that part of your life], leukemia, a new understanding, to maroon, shelter, to have a good shot [at something], a trust, a luxury, bearable, a worm, slinky, fluffy, goggly eyes.

In the Majorca Daily Bulletin report you will find: yachting champ, social entrepreneur, to sail solo, to play a key role, to bring about [a move], to be hailed as a watershed moment, an [environmentalist] campaigner, prestigious, the circular economy, to head, to bear [her name], the jury, a statement, to outlast, to outpace, demanding, to advocate, a sustainable model [of production and consumption], to forge a major legally-binding [international agreement]. 

Rafa Nadal Wins his 14th Roland Garros (06/06/22)
to beat, back-to-back, to reclaim, straight [sets], [eighth] seed, clay, in a row, to surpass, left-hander, to drop his racquet, to hamper, the rib, nous, a miscue, to take his serve, a vicious forehand winner, a double fault, discomfort, a long-standing [foot problem], groundstrokes, a wide backhand, to target, to save [three break points] to hold, a break point, to pummel, to punch, to hand over [a two-set lead], ruthlessly, to wrap up [the third set], the hallmark, to unleash [his forehand], a runner-up.

Queen Elizabeth II, the Fashion Influencer (03/06/22)
trendsetting, daring, iconic, brightly coloured [dresses], to pair with [a matching hat], to be accessorised, a signature [square handbang], to be honed, to be steeped, legacy, dazzling, intricate, full-skirted dresses, a nipped in waist, couture, a [fur] stole, a [diamond] tiara, to dazzle [her way through state banquets], a royal tour, tull and satin gowns, to be embelished, seed pearls, crystals, beads, to be down to [necessity], embroidery, workroom, outfit, a crisp understated look, to tailor, day clothes, eveningwear, a flurry, chiffon, floral prints, bow, [to produce] in-house, a bespoke [item of clothing], a [royal] engagement, to sparkle, to step out [in public], fabric, to drape, to stand out [in a crowd], to highlight [her face], sensible block-heeled shoes, handmade, to be worn in, a trim, on standby, the unpredictable [British weather], to get in her way, a uniform-way of dressing, a consistent [presence], to delight, wellies, to be off duty, to set [a hair style], shampoo and set [hair style], the throne, to embrace, a wave curl, firm structured  [curls], to host [a crown or a hat], [hair] rollers, under a dryer, fashion conscious, trends, gentleness, a top-handled [handbag], the [royal] seal, the ultimate [influencer], to retail for [1,500 GBP], jubilee, no mean feat, pins, brooches, brand statements, a jewelled [gown], a tweed [skirt], a figurehead, a curator, to walk the line, worthy [of  royalty], to bedazzle, a subtle nod, an allegiance, a celebrity branding [expert], to stand for, boldness.

Art and Feminine Power (24/05/22)
goddess, a she-devil, a saint, a witch, to be betrayed, a blood-thirsty warriordivinedemonic, to be installed, a gargoyle, a bronze [sculpture], to crawl, [about] to pounceattached to [the wall], [female] defiance, [to refuseto submit [to Adam], the Garden of Edenhappily ever afterto rebel depictionfaiths and mythologies, a [painted] terracottadating [from 500 BC], snake-like [hair], fangsto stick [her] tongue out, to have [someone] round for dinner, to reassess [things after Me Too], a survivor [of rape], [female] rage, a statement [of power], to be rageful, [to be sexually] assaulted, a male-dominated [industry],an all-boys [club], gratitudeto put up with [a lot of stuff], to range froman orgasm [machine], to impress [my bosses], [everyday sexual] harassmentmicro-aggressions, an admission price [to being a woman], stepped into [my rage], bulbous [eyes], [to die in] childbirth, to be engaged [in a battle], to long for [children], yearning and shaped [by her lack of children], to open up [about a personal failure], [universal] resonance, my soul, [millennia of] patriarchyto strive [against that], a cohesive narrative to [this exhibition].

Londongrad: How the British Money Laundering Machine Works (12/05/22)
accountant, kleptocrats, oligarchs, to launder money, to stash [money], ill-gotten [gains], layers of shell companies, to come down to [a pretty basic calculation], chunks, high-end [property], a [giant] safety deposit box, a looting [machine], to dip into, an incredibly tightly controlled dictatorial kleptocratic system, to wage war, the purse strings, the checks and balances, penalties, a state-run business, a knockdown price, to undervalue, to speak out against [Putin], an asset, to stand up to [Putin], unwise, real estate, [to have money] offshore, saving money for the rainy day, to put [money] aside, a current account, a deposit account, to step up, to look hard enough, courtiers, an [information] leak, astonishingly [wealthy], to call on [the wealth of the oligarchs], to scramble around for [funds], [skilled sanction] busters, [Iran has been] tapped, tough [sanctions], severe [sanctions], to circumvent [the sanctions], to end up with, to be reckoned, the sheer [volume], to upend [this calculation], bling, the law-enforcement [system], [shell companies] and trusts, [Putin's] enablers, to poison, to bring legal proceedings [against journalists], to cut [them] off [from the system], to whack-a-mole [individual enablers], to name and shame, to freeze [their wealth, their assets], to seize [money, wealth], to confiscate [money], to be heartened, embargo, boycott [of Russian oil], a [huge] hardship [for their economy], a [real] game changer, revenue stream, to undermine, to rely on [oil for their wealth], budget, to trace back [to 1956], disruptive, a [real] nadir [of British influence], [death] throes, [heavily] indebted, the legacy, [a huge] overhang [of debt], to stand its ground, to stagger along [in a very] diminished way, to thrash around, regulations, to open a hole in the global financial architecture, scrutiny-free, to bypass the onerous system, to single out [an individual oligarch], to sue [journalists who look into the wealth], to repurpose, at the forefront [of my mind], [really] niche, to abide by [certain regulations], [very] perilous, libel laws, to defame [someone], guilty, defamation, data protection grounds, to be on the hook [for millions of dollars worth of costs], to settle [cases against oligarchs], colossal [costs], to face up against [oligarchs], [the costs are] peanuts, vexatious [lawsuits], scary, a chilling [effect], to shut up, to pick [a fight], the cutting room floor, to be hacked, to warn me off, to tarnish [the oligarch's] reputation, a [fairly]-well trodden path, a philanthropist, a high-profile [oligarch], litigious [reputations], risk averse, to shield [oligarchs], to bolster [the system], the feds, dodgy [business], [hilariously] underfunded, to crack down on [dodgy practices], to be outmuscled [by the oligarchs], a scanty measure, offshore shell companies, gimmicky [measures]. 

Kimpton May Festival (02/05/22)
live events, to host [a village festival], to raise the flag to mark the start of the festivities, blessed [with the weather], brilliant, [quite] a claim, to proof your credentials, [a two-year] hiatus, the highlights, the procession, to parade, [up] the high street, moving, dressed up, floats, a Jubilee related [float], a cannon, to fire, rainbows and brownies dressed up as fireworks, a scout group, to bang pots and pans, theme, the UK Garrison, a charity group, Darth VaderstormtroopersMaypole dancing, a fun run, a hog roast, you name it.

Earth Day (22/04/22)
Speaking tasks: climate change, greenhouse effect, waste, pollution, overpopulation, ozone-layer depletion, consumerism, extinction of endangered species, deforestation, destruction of habitats, nature reserves, breeding areas, conservationism, fossil fuels, renewable energy, non-renewable sources of energy, harmful, toxic, overfishing, to raise awareness, water management, landfills, solar panels, wind turbines, to tackle the problem, threats to the environment. 
"Plogging Paul" listening comprehension task:  trash, plogger, windy (winding) roads, country lanes, bushes, to make the biggest impact, to create a ripple [effect], to start a conversation, to inspire. 

Rejuvenation of Human Skin Cells to Reverse Ageing (17/04/22)
to tackle, ageing, tissues, age-related disease, disorders, to build on [a technique], to clone, super [exciting], to stress that, [scientific] issues to overcome, a critical step forward, to stem from, embryo, [human embryonic] stem cells, worn-out [body parts], to be regrown, to prove difficult, to cut short, a chemical bath, to be confident that, the [human] health span, the lifespan, to speed up [healing], to [part-]fund [the research], the long-stalled [benefits], immune cells, [immune cells become less] responsive, to boost [people's response to vaccination], [a method] of whole-body regeneration, an elixir of youth, an anti-ageing pill, fart-fetched, [scientific] hurdles, a trivial [process], chemicals, a long way off.

The War in Ukraine (03/04/22)
The Battles for Kharkiv, Kherson and Kyiv: "in broad daylight, to leave a trail of destruction, the aftermath of a deadly missile attack, the target [is] an airbase, in the rubble, to keep myself together, shooting, to have captured, sirens wail, [deserted streets] echo fear and dread, [the children made] pistols [to kill the enemy], as war closes in, to put on a brave face in, the national anthem, hit by sustained rocket fire, airborne troops, [planes] shot down, distressing images, [calm] in the wreckage [of people's homes], to hide in basements and bunkers, made a dash, to make it onto a train, to go back and forth, to refuse to be cowed, shoving forward, chaos, desperate to get on board, to swear at [all those who have caused the suffering], to flee abroad, to break down".

Iryna Babich's story:  "a place of retreat, prayer, meditation, my [lovely] van, just to smell [my husband, my house], stayed behind [...] delivering fuel, [a city] under Russian siege, [they can stay] as long as they wish, [I wished Putin] to become wiser, to feel sympathy to Russian troops, sunflowers in the yard, to breathe [this beautiful mountain air], they fled Ukraine, they might be home by Easter, their best hope is by summer".

Marina Ovsyannikova Interrogated for 14 Hours (15/03/22)
to be fined, to be released, a live TV news programme, the set, to plead not guilty, a charge, to call on [the Russian people] to protest, to be prosecuted, to ban, the court hearing, to be denied access [to a lawyer], to stress, to come up with an idea, the courthouse, her whereabouts, the placard, to be ashamed, the television screen, this inhumane regime, a blog run by former BBC journalist, to praise her for telling the truth, to launch an effort, hooliganism.

20 Best Movies of 2021 (06/01/22)
"[a] suspenseful, action-filled [film], wiliness, the film's themes [...] resonate profoundly with social justice movements today,  to feature, damsels in distress, [a] dreamlike film, a callow knight, to behead, to stroll, to gasp, bewildering, a smart-mouthed comic sidekick, swirl, stunningly shot, to blur the boundaries between fact and fiction, to reel back, to capture [the novel's] nuance, an entrancing work of art, over-the-top entertainment, giddy,  to mess up, a spellbinding drama, endless grievances and yearnings, grief, barrage, bone-crunching violence, grip, to boast, strait-laced, brooding, creepy, sprightly, chilling, a grief-racked, a pared-down drama, a stunner, haunting, a heart-wrenching scenario, a run-down prison, griots, roaming free, to veer into myth, chatty, a heart-rending film, a visually dazzling film, the film is loosely based, from defiant pride to pleading to resilience, a glamourous vermilion gown, outrageous, an uproarious celebration, a piquant warning, subtlety". 

Abdulrazak Gurnah Wins the Nobel Prize for Literature (11/10/21)
shortlisted, fate, to flee, civil unrest, scholarly work, to be batted around, to track, marquee names, overdue, sprawling, to reconcile cultural chasms with their dreams, a clip, linen, a chubby face, uprooted [people].

Almodóvar's "The Human Voice" (04/09/21)
deception, to dissemble, the predicament, painful, a dignified goodbye, to fall apart, a fabrication, inarticulacy, articulacy, a pose, utterances, the script, an axe, to smash [a glass], frankly, it's overacting, to overdo something, incredibly moving, a trope, a cliche, a soap opera, a set, to fake [it], to throw open your heart, to spill your guts, it's not good taste, a massive meltdown, a dweeb, a twist and turn, to twiddle with [something], vulnerability, fakery.

Goya's 275th Birthday Brings Aragon Back into the Spotlight (08/04/21)
to summon, to stem [the decline],  to devour, a witches's sabbath, to drown, a printmaker, [to be] appalled, slumber, to cling [to the map], a curator, a resident, [annual] income, a profound pull, to empower, the plight [of Campo de Belchite], the hollowed [Spain], a demographic challenge, [to be] squeezed, to have a project underway, to mark [the 275th anniversary], demolished, [to be] stripped out, canvas, a mock-up [image], to commission, to reintepret, the reworked [paintings], an installation, a casualty, boom-and-bust [cycle], the [perfect] venue, artworks, [to be] displayed, to make the pilgrimage, [the project] is about [ensuring that...], to receive [his] dues, to undertake [a commission], Follies [series], rough [landscape], to be keenly aware of, a lighthouse.

10 Good Friday Traditions in Ireland (02/04/21)
to liven it up, uneventful, a foreboding, guilt-ridden [religious observations], the Stations of the Cross, a retreat, repository, a cluster of [interesting observances], to guard against [headaches], to draw [blood], a bald patch, drips, a rafter, disrespectful, to unhook, fltches [of salted bacon], to nail to the timber, blacksmiths, carpenters, idle, a saw, a hammer, to drive a nail, to cleave [cleft], shrubs, bushes, to thrive, to dig [potatoes], seed, to set [their seed potatoes], spud, the cuckoo, cabbages, turnips, to sow, oats, to rot, cattle, tapeworm, to cast off, [to go] barefoot, thorns, bleeding, a sore, clergy, Maundy Thursday, to ward off [sickness], Lenten [fast], [to lay] laid [eggs], to rub, best-before date, to go off, a plea, to have [a plea] granted, the congregation, the altar, black fast, dairy, Lent, cradle, Ash Wednesday, Spy Wednesday, sowens, to soak, oatmeat, mashed potatoes, drab, gruel, nettles, herring, seaweed, shellfish, to carve, carrageen, laver, limpet, droves of [children], the swallow, the heron, the robin, a switch, a remnant, tax returns, to be submitted, liminal, to grab, a spade, verruca, corn, to queue up, a collation, heritage.

Migrants in the Canary Islands (21/03/21)
pandemic, to halt [global travel], to host, a wave [of visitors], a surge, packed with [tourists], the occupancy, to be down to [COVID restrictions], to soak up [the sun], asylum seekers, [to play] draughts, apprehensive, to flee [conflict], risky, to starve, to scrape a living, the mainland, to bounce back.

Women's Struggle Around the World (08/03/21)
released [from prison], to be jailed, to fast-track, the lifting of prohibition, the male guardianship system, counter-terrorism law, [sexually] assaulted, a travel ban, vague [laws], dissent, a bill, a military takeover, [a law] to be in place, to stop [the state] from intervening, impinging on [public order], online abuse, a Trojan horse, uncanny [similar provisions], to engage in acts, cyber libel, a conviction, [an act] hotly contested, rendered, a tradeoff, chilling, most targeted groups [for harassment and attacks], [cases] recorded, perpetrated, intimidation, oftentimes, to defame, to rape, outspoken [women], submissive, domesticated, hate speech, sexist remarks, utilized, to assassinate their characters, divergent tactics, crackdowns.

Genevieve Bell, a Leader to the Future of Artificial Intelligence (01/03/21)
algorithm, to make sense of [something], AI, system.level scale, mechanization, automation, digitization, deceptively, sustainably, to research into existence, to theorize into existence, critical thinkers, critical doers, collaboratively, to frame the questions, to decolonize our imagination, work in progress, a glimpse, to gather, [fish] traps, fish holding pens, remarkable, an inspiration, meaningful, to sustain [systems], [our] legacy, a sense of purpose, a [clear] framework, an approach [of problem solving], question framing, to open up, challenges, autonomy, agency, assurance, interfaces, indicators, intent, to wander [down the street], controls, limits, a keyslot, to override [the system], trust, liablility, explicability, manageability, policy, regulation, the electrical grid, productivity, efficiency, sustainable, to articulate [a conversation], decommission, a [new] path, to draw the boundaries, to convene, a banner, cybernetics, a holistic [system], to reclaim, to accommodate, a physicist, a heady mix, expertise, diverse, to launch, a cohort [of graduates], to range, backgrounds, committed, a lone [inventor], a shared sense of purpose, owners, ceded, sacred, to pay my respects to, to dwell on [what they mean], a protracted [period of time].

Happy Valentine! (14/ 02/ 21)
skylight, a letdown, to grip [my heart], relief, serenity, to get it wrong, to know for sure, letting you go, love at first sight, on the square, scheming, to enfold [someone] in my arms.

5 Celeb Stories (06/02/21)
to cheat on [Kim], to file for [divorce], to be done, the bar exam, shit, to storm [the US Capitol], a coup attempt, to be unfaithful, alledgedly, a [beauty] guru, to hook up, to claim, to fuel the fire, to tweet, a make-up artist, celebs, the [eternally] spurned mistress, a long-running affair, to break off [an affair], a thrill, the scruciating [Weeping Woman], to depict, an atrocity, politically engaged, to be devastated, [to suffer] a breakdown, to be overlooked, portraits, [to get] engaged to, a toy boy, paparazzi, a bitter divorce, to have a jinx, an earthquake. 

Dubai's World Islands Private Mansion Tour! (29/01/21)
to hang out, a desalination plant, sustainable, an irrigation system, stitching, the hustle and bustle, I feel like a million dollars, soak it up!, an infitity pool, tidal, super VIP, to wave [hello], inspirational [neighbours], a villa, solar power, the groceries, the mainland, make it happen!, a [Swedish] bunker, a sauna, a gym, a massage room, no way!, "glitzer" (a German word which means "glitter" or "purpurina"), ridiculous, layers.

Dating (22/01/2021)
In the article "Texts to Send After a First Date": nerve-wracking, to navigate, a sales game, mental wellness, to relish [the opportunity], a face-to-face chat, an outcome, to craft [a text message], to feel a spark, downright [ugly], to agonize over [something], to put a rule to rest, to reach out [to your date], text flirting, a [perfect] cap [to an evening], [meaning] to be conveyed, an innocuous [question], an emoji, eager, to play it safe, to go overboard, to tackle [the issue of dating], to play it cool, a crazypants, flirty, a [bank] heist, to make off [with millions], super cheesy, [pretty] freaking [adorable], to showcase [your sense of humour], to be down for [round two], to suit [your fancy], to hint at [making plans], a [horror] flick, to bring up [a discussion], a launch pad, a subtle [way to demonstrate], to end up [leading you to a second date], to pace, to take things slow, to allow you time and space, a meet-up, a tight [schedule], to take the pressure off, cute, to spell it out, a coach, a no-strings-attached [text], [to be] a killer [way to put a period], butterflies, to put it out there, to leave the door open, [out of] your comfort zone, fear not, a sweet [text], to bring to the forefront, to highlight [the best part], to ghost [your date], to follow up, to stay in touch, to hang out [as friends], awkwardness, to blow it, to ruminate, [to seem] off, to be up for [an activity], [to alleviate] concerns, flat-out, the chill, the real [me], disarmingly [direct], to beat around the bush, a flicker [of potential], to weigh [the prons and cons], it is hard to know, to give it another go, [unnecessary] fluff, [to be] overly complimentary or put off, to play it down [the middle], to read into [what you are saying], to strive for [being clear], concise, straight-forward, to hit it off, to amp up [the flirting], to get the hint, outrageous, to top [a date], to get the conversation [flowing], to stick to [something], vein, here and there, to sprinkle, [ego] boost, to strike, to tailor [the text], to gauge [the interest], to risk [putting yourself out there], to flood [with ideas], to lock down [an outing], to do wonders, a [good] setup, [to work] wonders, to dole out [a compliment], to pursue.

In the article, "Things You Should Never Do on a First Date", you will find: a [vast] array, to make or break [the success of your date], a parking spot, disrespect, disinterest, truly, [to keep] commitments, to start off [the date], to lessen [the stress], flustered, frazzled, tardiness, closeness, to undercut [your goal], to undermine [your chances], to deceive, self-gain, self-esteem, appealing, core, long-lasting, phubbing, contention, tempting, [to feel] belittled, triggers, the ding [of a text message], a [major] turn off, to ignore [him], to hone in [on a person's nonverbal cues], to engage with [this person meaningfully], to bring up, to cheat [on you], to move on, [to be] hung up [on this person], to speak ill [of your ex], vengeful, to bash, to trash talk [others behind their backs], to linger [on the past], a negative Nancy, a self-fulfilling prophecy, to cast a shadow, [to feel] upbeat, table manners, over-the-top [proper and formal], to belch, to pick at [your teeth], the bartender, to mess up [your drink], to yell, to make a scene, a total waste, to get wasted, to loosen up, jitters, [your attention] span, [to become totally] inebriated, to make a mockery [of your time], sexual assault, it's better to be safe than sorry, self-control, a slob, to vent, to moan about [something], to be wronged, needy, to whine, to let go, grievances, to brag about all your accomplishments,  achievements, to dazzle, to come off as [a boaster], a shameless self-promoter, on the flip side, hubris, to steer clear of a first date faux pas, daunting, to empower yourself, a budding and blooming [relationship].

"I Have a Dream" and the American Civil Rights Movement (10/01/2021)
facilities, [a court] to rule, literacy, to file a suit, a plaintiff, to overturn a decision/ a court ruling, a melting pot, to flirt, to dispose of, casket, to rally support, to acquit of a crime, double jeopardy, outrage, to spark, a standoff, a [lunch] counter, to pledge, bail, a restroom, to flee, to cram, turmoil, a stance, to enforce [a law], to skip school, restraint, upheaval, to gather, to fulfill [a requirement].

The Best Songs, Books and Movies of 2020 (31/12/20)
In the first 5 entries of NPR's 100 Best Songs: whopper, a mixtape, to drop, crappy, shred, jam, at a loss for words, buoyant, to be stuck, [the] forseeable [future], [silver] lining, to craft, relentless, chart-topping, juggernaut, hashtag-ready [exclamations], truly sublime, damned it, to work wonders, desperado, sounds at home, bluegrass, string band album, sardonic, trippy, cryptic, an [ambitious] go-getter, to pray, to live lean, to come off as a fluttering, ethereal ode to newfound [love], a lens, to shed light on, self-confidence, gaze, debut, thereafter, cataclysmic [events], [an eight-year] hiatus, to feature, [the] sole [appearance], [the] grim [theme], uplifting [beats], the soundtrack, a funk-rock house party, to throw [a party], [its] opening [song], a mildly psychedelic welcome mat, bassist, to settle into a groove, wandering [voice], off-kilter synth riffs, to hum etc.

In the NYT's Best Movies of 2020: the screening rooms, blockbusters, in storage, to bleed, to doomscroll, to prompt, to put down [my phone], to tether [me to the world], our preferred [movies], first- and second-run cinemas, art houses, cinémathèques, sightlines, moviegoing, it was instrumental to, texture, to clock [many hours], unmoored, classy, shades, to tape [shopping bags], to figure out, to soak up, the stream [of faces], devastating [Trump] performances, skateboarding, sneezes, coughs, to settle [into a new home], to march [for Black lives], to mourn [the deaths], joyous, enlivening, to grow fond of [people], well-being, [a] shameful [day], discrete [pleasures], [the] seemingly [endless], fleeting [Instagram stories], GIFs, to bypass, to blur [time], respite [from the clock-and-capitalism-determined flow of everyday life], every so often, I haven't a clue, [my] conviction, to weather [the crisis], streaming, to morph, to outlive, time will tell, [a brilliant] take, to embrace, bootstraps, sow, rambunctious litter [of piglets], [a] one-legged [chicken], to roam blissfully, exhilating genre-buster, to upend, weird, deeply [political], a rebuke to rugged [individualism], rage, to waft [off the screen], gripping, to track the aftermath, a floundering playwright, to stake a claim, wit, rap, a burst [of glorious colour], dazzingly, a heartbreaker.

In the BBC Best Books article: [a] bumper [year], dystopian [fiction], a memoir, to round up, [BBC Culture's] picks, to deliver, to burrow down, his outlook, the hotly-anticipaped sequel, to embark on [a new quest], vaults, to be hooked, a playful [viewpoint], afterlives, hyperreal, surreal, a mind-bending [collection], multifaceted [scariness], her struggles [and dilemmas],[to be] relayed, revealing [moments], poignant, to unpick [society's racist structures], hidden [histories], to home in on [the role of white patriarchy], to uphold [a system], to disenfranchise etc.

Common European Framework of Reference Self-Assessment and Learners' Beliefs (28/12/20)
concening, current affairs, delivery, [to be] implied, predictable [information], attitudes, viewpoints, prose, with ease, rate [of speech], to handle [social exchanges], to keep the conversation going, to search for [expressions], [for social and professional] purposes, skilfully, to convey finer shades of meaning, to backtrack, [my educational] background, events, to round off [with an appropriate conclusion], a [clear] smooth-flowing [description or argument], the recipient, a wide-range [of subjects], to highlight, a wellstructured [text], at [some] length, salient [issues], [to present] a case.

Christmas (18/12/20)
pandemic, let me know, calendar, baubles, garlands, Christmas cards, on display, to stick, a Nativity scene, impressive, a figurine, to do a number two, to defecate, lottery, a total payout, community spirited, the winnings, the "Fat One", to meet up, seafood, starters, roast pig, Christmas Eve, nougant, nugget, Christmas carols, stockings, gifts, vivid memories, excitement, enthusiasm, a hangover, the Queen's speech, turkey, roast vegetables, Brussels sprouts, Christmas pudding, mince pice, brandy butter, fantastic, Christmas crackers, a snapping sound, a crown, board games, Boxing Day, alms box, extende family, New Year's Eve, grapes, to chime, a difficult challenge, to peel, to hit midnight, Auld Lang Syne, leftover [turkey], a curry, New Year's resolutions, Kings' Day, 3 Wise Men, floats, hang on a minute, to grow up, to stay [with us]. 

Oral Presentations & Public Speaking (11/12/20)
to churn, to wring [wet], to spell disaster, to dispel, the flow [of your points], setting, reservations to overcome, the adrenaline rush, to tighten, self-defeating, to discard, time constraints, time slot, to disrupt, an issue, to undermine, to strive [for comfort], a cap with a bill, overly loose clothing, blousy sleeves, smooth, to mar [the flow of speech], to interject, to stare, to scan, to dwell, the prevailing [norm], to avert from [direct eye contact], to pace [back and forth], to sway [to and fro], the culprit, to set up [a display table], a slide show, to enhance [my presentation], to engage [the audience], a rule of thumb, the razzle and dazzle, a back up [plan], a [computer] crashes, a bulb blows, overhead [transparencies].

The Future of Jobs: the Most Valuable Skills for 2021-2025 (29/11/20)
self-driving cars, quantum computing, on the cusp of [the Fourth Industrial Revolution], lightning speed [advancements], [a] mind-bloggling [change], to earmark, genomics, to thrive [in this brave new world], to survey, leading [companies], to strap yourself, to rev up, flux capacitator, a balance beam, to swing, to leap, to twirl, back and forth, limber, to shed [new] light, nimble, to flex [our cognitive muscles], to take up, try your hand at [an art class], to glaze over, the comfort zone, to embrace, to flag, for the time being, to be high up [on the list], to shine a spotlight on [consumers], carbon footprint, food safety, labour standards, a grip on [service oritentation], to step into [the minds], the knack [for strong decision-making skills], to nab [seventh spot], sheer [volume], to amass, to sift through, to figure out, to set aside [time], overwhelming, skillsets, to give a boost, to play off, to piggyback, artsy, seemingly, to unleash, on a regular basis, to wander, to weigh up [the pros and cons], savvy, to give [humans] a run for their money, to top [the list], settings, in a nutshell, at breakneck speed, core [skills], to zero in, to be honed, the holy grail, to keep apace [with the changes].

[IT] openings, fierce [competition], high-paying [jobs], [the most] sought-after [tech skills], to grab [top-paying jobs], in-demand, pegged, core, to mine [data], insights, pro, neural networks, natural language processing, robotics, deep learning, chatbot, in the wake of [pandemic recovery], [top technology] trends, to range from, ethical hacker, a prospective [employer], a sexy [job], to rule the roost, to rely on [data], highly valued, to crown as [the top emerging in-demand role], data wrangling, k-means clustering technique, software developers, shortcomings, latency, edge computing, to bypass, the Internet of Things (IoT), to fit in, versed in, embedded systems, rampant, to focus on, scrum, to pursue [excellence], to reckon, to pair, to advance [a career], to open up, back-end [framework skills], the job [outlook], to spruce up, double-digit [growth], to qualify [for a position], to upgrade, to match [your career goals], 

 to surface, timely [data], in-demand, to stand out, to unlock, to hone, highly sought after [skills], to dive into [the list], to make or break, to take on [new opportunities], to top [the list], soft skills, [top] spots, evergreen, to gravitate towards, to fall off [the list], to advance [your career], to brush up, stakeholders, [follow your] lead, to embrace [reality], to show up, stressful, to underscore, blockchain, to highlight, workforce, asset, to be run, [to uncover] insights, to augment, to harness [the power of AI...], the [average] attention span], expertise, a must-have [hard skill], to leverage, [to be] hyper-targeted, to be hard pressed, [the sales] funnel, insatiable [appetite for video content], to cultivate [essential soft skills], to be empowered, 

to reskill, to top [the list], resilience, to require, double-disruption, to take hold, to map, to track, at our disposal, the bounty, to be leveraged, to unleash, to upskill, to deploy [safety nets], to be displaced, destitution, bespoke, to thrive, to estimate, a shift, in-demand [skills], gaps, core [skills], to track, granularity, cross-cutting [skills], to pick up [new skills], a sharp [rise], trend, a fourfold [increase], to seek out [opportunities], fivefold, ninefold, funding, to purse [new opportunities].

Lewis Hamilton: The Greatest British Champion? (22/11/20)
a defining year, the paddock, a monumental moment, to cheer (for him), a standing ovation, achievement, colossal, realm, to witness history, the greatest ever, ultra succesful, a statesman, whole package, measured in his emotion and focused, a genious display, [last few] laps, that genious and brillance, so critical [in his career], to stay put, a leap of faith, to count my blessings, the right thing for me, to be aware of, surroundings, to match an icon, to dream big, plenty to pick, to take points away from him, cannot hold a candle to Lewis on Sunday, can't leave anything on the table, you scrap everything, tenacity, to pit, tyres, he had no right to win [the race], absolutely ridiculous, blown out of the water, absolutely ferocious, absolutely useless, slippery [pit lane], astonishing, acrobatics, do the Maths in your head, strands of information, he gets credit, to deserve, talent, to stay focused, to beat [Michael's] record, a fantastic achievement, to set up the car, the best ever, to be honest, his record surpassed, he would be OK, fair to compare, to exhibit, mastery, an outstanding [driver], win percentage, brilliant, rolled them into one, creeping up around 30%, [the car] they step into, these machines, the sum of all this, the current crop [of football players], facilities, data, magical vacuum, to set parameters, tiers, a like to like comparison, to read the stats, stunning, to take a bow, tributes, to reach out, biassed, based in [Britain], to be hailed as [the greatest sports person], the realm of, in his breadth, he has utterly dominated, Swedish domiciled, the key difference, the equipment, head-to-head, unique, the outright [best], to be knighted, they stand out, engaged, involved, charities, issues, using their platform, they gravitate to him, to step forward, to make his voice heard, charitable contibution, never swayed away from him, the stopwatch, the real world, he has a voice, utilize [his voice], more round up, there is purpose in [something], squeezed in a box, this deal [among us], to work out, to turn up, social intelligence, work ethic, inspirational, glamour, sustainablility, he has a spotlight on [him], to lead the way, to push forward, human rights record, his focus, to speak up, to dream big, not built into them, to deal with, to strengthen, to go through, to take with [him], makes people uncomfortable, there's much more to be done, to drive change, to race against, key points, meritocracy, a blinked view, not a bouncer, good enough, incredible, paddock, [no one] to look up to, to condemn [issues], his stature, to get enraged, to galvanize people behind him, rightly so, racist slurs, to preserve, to take on this mantra, quite clear, cash is king, he revels in this idea, foundations, to get heavily into, different irons in the fire, to ge a headline, he won't play ball, pretty impressive, he transcends sports, a headline generator, an incredible work ethic, quite unusual, aloof, moody, incredibly thoughful, to put a lot of effort, to speak for ten minutes on end, not waffle, underlying point, to quote, on black and white, incredibly softly spoken, glib, disingenious, weird lingering, misconceptions, in your copy, a nice bloke, baffling, post-race interview, he'll definitely be around, to check out 2020, he'll stick around, a decent chance of being in F1, to win all the Wallies around, getting the contracts down, not so straightforward, sponsorship deals, to walk away, he definitely is hungry, end on a high note, to ball out gracefully, to set the bar high, to move aside, to move on, our panel.

Happy Diwali! (14/11/20)
disrupted, fireworks, firecrackers, a row, brightness, a kingdom, clutches, the defeat, a demon, to be free [from prison], to dispel [our own darkness], outwards, to overlap, a fortnight, mankind, [legend] has it, a goddess, to churn, to ready, to purchase, to gather, to play cards, to gamble, to be auspicious, the doorway,the courtyard, to burst crackers, an effigy, clay [lamps], candles are lit, [fireworks are] let off, a fearsome [goddess], to be worshipped, sugarcane, jute sticks, mechants, shortcomings, the bond, blessings, [houses are] spotless, to remove clutter, joy, [firecrackers] go off, breathing [difficulties], to be aware that, peak [travel time], [trains will be] heavily booked, crowded, ear plugs, damaging [to the ears], [pollution has] skyrocketed. 

What is your Personality Type? The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (07/11/20)
to check out, proper, at face value, eccentric, to flex muscles, a gut instinct, to spothands-on, to give away, to have a hard time, to excel, to crave, [to be] in the spotlight, to dive deep, reluctant, willing, to thrive, to carve, to forge, insightful, to see right through [it], mundane, to shy away from [something], charismatic, talented, jolly, recklesslaid-back, reliable, bigoted, deceitful, fickleloutish, stingy, clumsy, shrewd, withdrawn, smug, naive, sluggish, touchybold, rebellious, gullible, committed, off-puttingarticulatefussy, trusting, trustful, trusworthy, wilfulthoroughrashruthlessgloomy etc.

Why Food Allergies are on the Rise (31/10/20)
on the rise, risky, a minor reaction, itching, swelling, a mild, severe [reaction], anaphylaxis, a state of shock, wheezing, dizziness, vomiting, pulse, blood preasure, to drop, airways, hospital admissions, [increased] threefold, to see [a 72%] rise in [the number of hospital admissions], to be aware of [food allergies], to pinpoint, self-reported data, food intolerance, prevalence, the "gold-standard" test for [a food allergy], to involve [feeding], a [clinical] setting, time-consuming, costly, to come [with risks], peer-reviewed sources, the rate, the range [of foods], to widen, to go by the name of ["the hygiene hypothesis], to give a wide berth, appalling, siblings, hay fever, eczema, declining [family size] household amenities, cleanliness, the gut, [to increase] the likelihood of [meeting] the microbiota, [born by] caesarian section, the birth canal, [an allergic] disorder, to lower the risk, to develop an allergy, to coin [a phrase], biocide-treated timber, plasterboard, to bear [no relation to], a failure, dual-allergen exposure, a detour [into], to end up with [guidance], dust, to trigger [a response], an infant, early-onset [eczema], to handle, a window of opportunity, an EpiPen, to caution [women] against [eating peanuts], pregnancy, a conclusive link, to change tack, barely, vulnerable to [food allergies], to deprive ourselves [of Vitamin D], a Goldilocks [scenario], amid [a rise in food allergy cases], to yield, promising [results].

Display Copy: Old Clothes are the Newest Thing in Fashion (24/10/20)
disposablility, chic, a host of big brands, joy, upcycling, the cover [of a magazine], to feature, to debut, newsstands, a plus-size model, inclusivity, glossy shoots, vintage, secondhand, thrifted, pre-loved, for resale, a stream of [mostly] on-line shoppable [content], collectible, sustainable, [upcycled] apparel, 18-karat gold, to scour flea markets [for inspiration], to embrace, to tweak, to refashion, to jazz up, to unveil, a buyback [program], denim, to follow the footsteps, garments, charity shops, to deconstruct, to rework, to double down on [the idea], to come in the wake of, pioneer, attire, partnership, second life store, samples and pieces, to gather [dust], closet, to sell off, embellishment, tags, one-off, quasi-couture, to plot, to reissue, a cape, premier, to put the spotlight on, conventional wisdom, to addle [their senses], to risk [losing their attention], [wallet] share, to turn out, short term, to reek of [insecurity], to rely on [freneticism], white noise, to boost sales, a glut [of stuff], the value proposition, to hang on to [a garment], to be done with [something], to grapple with [the impact of..., the problem], [systems] weren't in place, housedress, leftover fabric, pandemic, lockdown, mills, deadstock, to prompt [Farfetched to expand], on-site [credit], the landfill [problem], to bolster, the [much] heralded [growth], to hit [$ 6 billion], to turn away from, to price out of [something], accessories, to co-opt, to gross out, to move on, to open a new realm [of possibility].

Indian Matchmaking Causes a Stir in India (15/10/20)
cringe-worthy (informal), a [huge] hit,a  matchmaker, a [huge] buzz (informal), docuseries, to jet-set, bride, groom, a meme, to hate-watch (informal), in-your-face misogyny, casteism, colourism, [to cause] outrage, posh [hotels], closet, at stake, to leaf through [a database], to pull out, a [good] fit, to trawl through, a hunt, to come as a surprise, affluent, to rely on, a shopping list, an outsider, [an] alien [world], dating, [to suggest] condescendingly, insightful, hilarious, unaware, a [regressive] mindset, a caveat (formal), an astrologer, a face reader, auspicious, stubborn, to compromise, to adjust, to call out, picky [clients], to gloss over, to scar [women permanently], chattel, painful [memories], [bride viewing] demeaning, to put on display, to be sized up, to reveal, prejudice, a freaking [reality show], woke [people] (US informal).

Louise Glück: "Landscape" and Other Poems (09/10/20)
[the sun] sets, bare, chestnut, quilt, damp, to trail, to rush, to strain the leash, path, sunset, precipice, to call out, faintly, twilight, to untie [his horse], to stir, to float, propitious [time], demure inviting [sounds], to vanish, to bleach, [an image] to fade, to set fire to [a field], wheat, tinder, for [the farmer's] sake, char, [a field] parched, failure, abiding, a memento, soil, a slot, complacent, harsh, obsolete, shallow, to soothe, the earth, to defeat, accurate, shelter, thickly, steadily, [sure] footing, a premonition.

Election Polls: the Swing States That Will Decide the Next President (03/10/20)
polls, battleground states, a tight [race], former, to butt [heads], to bar, blue states, red states, a high-profile [event], too-close-to-call [states], a flurry [of polls], backdrop, to trail, worrisome, key states, the industrial belt, an aberration, a realignment, [non-college-educated] working-class [white] voters, [Republican]-leaning [Ohio], on a knife's edge, a dead heat, [his] edge, coveted [Pennsylvania], a lead, likely [voters], survey, a split, to beat, to trend for [Trump], [to remain] close, a snapshot, pollsters, to flip [for Biden].

The Teenage Inventor Who Wants to Help his Great Aunt (01/10/20)
an award-winning inventor, a facial recognition door entry system, random strangers, to scan my ID tag for authentification, a code club, a wearable sensor, to dispatch [a robot], to rope in [his family], to trigger [a false positive], thoroughly, to be over, for a second year running, to set him up, a former [winner], to showcase [your skills].

Covid Symptoms: Is it a Cold, Flu or Coronavirus? (24/09/20)
a blocked nose, a runny nose, a sore throat, a cough, flu, (a) temperature, (a) fever, to self-isolate with your household, sneezing, to catch your sneeze, the spray, to infect [others], tissues, a loss of taste, a coughing episode, to have trouble breathing, to spread [covid 19], a nasty cold, to put you down, social distancing, masks, handy.
to fight off, a thermometer, chest, armpit, to tuck, to tug, squeeze, muscle aches, chills, tiredness, a stuffed nose, a heavy cold, to feel unwell, a coughing fit, shortness of breath, diarrhoea, [sneeze] droplets, the [flu] jab, the run-up [to winter], to present with [respiratory symptoms], a [skin] rash, a mild/ severe [symptom], [to feel] breathless.

Big Train, Comedy Sketches (19/09/20)
proposal, super fast, franchise, a model, the actual train, to stand to reason. 

What is an Algorithm? (15/09/20)
algorithm, search engines, dating apps, to be baffled [by science], a riddle, overwhelming, to pick her brains (informal), a set of instuctions, to enable a computer programme [to do something], billions, a server room, a bunch of [blocks] (informal), to be concerned about [something], to drag and drop [blocks], a drone, a flip, a challenge, a hoop, a lap, no offence (informal), to take over the world, to take our jobs, to deskill [humans], dependent upon [them], trusting of [them], on the flip side, to speed up decision-making, to spot (something), the criminal justice system, social care, credit checks, prolific, adverts.

Rescue Boat Baby Five Years On (09/09/20)
miracle, a rescue ship, to flee (fled, fled), to struggle [for your life], to bear [a name], to faint, to be in labour, to make it to Europe on a boat, to go through [something], to be in [somebody's] shoes, to be blessed.

Antonio Banderas on "Pain & Glory" and Chutzpah (03/09/20)
screenwriter, ulcers, reflux, to star [in a film], rehearsals, the shooting [of a film], to dig up [deep into memories], a falling out, to overdo, to be bigger than life, the framing, to be measured [with the actors], [colours] clash or match, [it] is unheard of, swell (American English), a warehouse, stents, to be right on, a crier, a tough guy, teary, vulnerable, laundering money, to rule [a country], restraints, the counterculture, eerie, to prove [ourselves], anathema, on the screen, a scandal, there's something wrong, to usher [a new era of freedom], trans and straight characters, a gasp, to be under the political boot, customs, to be compromised, to grow up [in Spain], chutzpah (colloquial for "nerve" or "daring"), perseverant, a movie based on a novel, to fake, to do a screen test, to learn [your lines] phonetically, the exception to the rule, to comprehend English, to be out, to reassure [somebody on something], to label [somebody], a crane, a stunt guy, a harness, to rehearse, CGI (computer-generated imagery), grenades, a conflagration, excellence.

Twitter Turns an Old Quarry in Nigeria into a Tourist Hotspot (28/08/20)
an abandonded quarry, a tourist hotspot, a cliff, a moss-lined footpath, to shimmer [in the sun], [the views are] breathtaking, on the outskirts, to be thronged, food vendors, a burgeoining community, expatriates, lockdown, to be somewhat bemused, city-dwellers, tiers, a stunning view, sightseers, a winding footpath, the top terrace, [the path] snakes down to the water's edge, the brave, to plunge into, an aquifer, a fracture-prone area, tremors, to warn amateurs against hiking, fun-seekers seemed not to be deterred, chagrin, to put measures in place, to clear up a trail of plastic waste, to split, a clean-up dash, to dispose of [litter], to poison [a place], [a job or a profession] to be cut out for [me].

The 50 Best Irish Films Ever Made (22/08/20)
sane, to claim, a parlour game, to be set, fanciful, loose(r), to score, jerry-rigged, to shoot a film, it gets you a long way down the road, stand-in, to be up for [consideration], to lure, to settle, to play hardball, a fleeting mood, to qualify [for this list], a bunch, to make [Irish films] happen, a space probe, weed, a peddler, offload, to pit [them] against, a kingpin, unabashedly, thrall, interweaving [urban stories], abrasive, to buzz about, heighthened, to snatch, a toddler, unsettling, to light out, a minor-key gem, ailing, to stumble, to befriend, a saviour, inner city, sparse, lead performance, sterling support, selkie, an informant, ailments, overdue, a shoestring [production], to soar, on the brink of, upheaval, blarney, hoodlum, a coup d'etat attempt, a treatise, a portrait, turmoil, gorgeously rich, to stick in the memory, to segue, curveball, to stalk, to carve out a niche, a masterpiece, to be fuelled, masterly, on the run, backward, a depiction, stunning, to permeate, a boffin, to rage, to ponder [human life], an asylum, a carer, overlooked, disabled, to tend to [their dying mother], a newsreel, annus mirabilis, to boss [the Oscars], winningly [absurd], boosted by  stirring performance, deserving winner, to skirt, to fall for firebrand [Maureen O'Hara], dowry, sime wave, to be muted as, to drift towards, to tweak, holy kismet, scoundrel, stately composition.

Geena Davis Talks about Gender Inequality and her Career in Hollywood (10/08/20)
Hot dog!, harassment, prejudice, a sweatsuit, athleisure, a bra, knickers, snappy, personable, pals, cosy, lockdown, a homebody, downtime, to snuggle, to wipe, to scrub, to account for, to make up the top 100 grossing films, far-fetched, endeavour, to focus on, to launch, a toddler, her jaw dropped to the floor, gender bias, a dwarf, to gather data, mainstream industry, misogynistic, ennui, in the wake of [#MeToo], to wash away, to retrench, to read up on [a topic], pluckiness, to be let down, a slash, a hit, to go by, a lap, an audition, a [film] set, to fall off the cliff, blithely, femalecentric, tippy-top, high profile, a cameo appearance, a trailer, a showgirl, an outfit, rhinestones, high-powered women, onscreen, lingerie, to start out, to bat a question away, to land a role [or a job], a flop, shattered, to starve, to gasp, to live up to your expectations, to shrink, to vanish.

Jaden Wolfiez Ashman, the Teenage Gamer who Became a Millionaire (03/08/2)
e-sport, chill, quid, set-up, too fancy, step, mortgage, to frame, logo, to be plastered, to take pressure off me, childminder, living day-to-day, you are clock watching, to moan, to strive to do something.  

Padma Lakshmi Hosts and Produces "Taste the Nation" and "Top Chef" (31/07/20)
to acknowledge, cages, backbone, to pick up, to leave off, to be vilified, insight, a diner, to get heckled, [to sneak] snuck snuck, to take somebody to task, a rocking chair, dosa, lentil, crepe, batter, upma, sauteed, sooji, rava, couscous, quinoa, to streamline, carnivorousness, pepperoni, baloney, cold cuts, squeamish, tripe, offal, brewers, to be spotted, audition, legit, booker, mortified, a rocky start, outsider, appeal, scar, to dawn on me, cachet, S & M, pose, to squander, knickers, stockinged, cleavage, duster jacket, keloid, whole-hog, grunge, billboards, self-loathing, to admonish, to rear-end, embankment, jaws of life, windshield, ribs, home-bound, penance, secular, to have a career in [food], a major in theatre, to pay off, collage loans, premiere, cookbook, a spiral notebook, to jot down, splash, ploy, freak, compound, a knitted blanket, a crocheted blanket, to sling slung slung, a platter, gosh, to dress up, guilt, to make waves, sexually assaulted, op-ed, to be challenged [in court], unwillingness, it weighed on me, date rape, taxing, to rip off, to cherish, chronic pain, to crumple in bed, a heating pad, the period, to handle, to dispel, to wreak havoc, lining, leftover tissue, memoir, to instil in [somebody], cuddly, siblings, hem, sari, a well-read person, verbatim.

Sam Giambalvo, a Nurse and a Moving Embrace at the 7:00 Clap (26/07/20)
sirens, applause, honoring, frontline workers, to pass away, ER, to follow your feelings, comforting, I lost it, let me be upset, a split second, to get me through the shift, to give a hug, to look forward to something, a terrace, a storey, to hold a sign, to wave for you, to point at you, he fist pumps, he'll blow kisses, sirens wailing, joyous, appreciation, to sprint out there, to show up, God is blessing us, break, upbeat music.



Morgan Bullock, an African American, Irish Dancer (21/07/20)
praise, to claim, to misappropriate, toddler, the coolest thing, tap dance, to take it up as a hobby, an issue, I wasn’t uncomfortable about, to stand out, it’s hard to miss, a tanner, to work to you advantage, to work against you, to own that, to use it to my advantage, for you to rehearse, blood, sweat and tears, to get in the zone, to upload a video, to dance to [the music?], to feel the beat, I went for it, things went crazy, what comes to mind, to go viral, to catch the attention, overwhelmingly, a handful of people, not appropriate, cultural appropriation, I’ve been met with love & support, cultural appreciation, it upset me, supportive, unbelievable, it’s hard to even, to fathom or imagine, it’s pretty surreal, she’s handling everything, to perform in, if you are up for it, my heart just dropped, a real shock, on the line, calling a catch up, it was unreal, Riverdance is the end gold with dancing, to have the guts, you are unique.

100,000 Mink to Be Culled in Aragon (17/07/20)
mink, to be culled, an outbreak, to contract the virus, to test positive, to be bred for their fur, hotspots, to stress [an idea], unwittingly, an unsubstantiated theory, to pass on a disease, to be slaughtered.

Ennio Morricone, the Italian Composer Who Wrote the Soundtrack of the Far-West (07/07/20)
sneaky tricks,  whistles, animal calls, creaks, gunshots, groans, howls, hip, a raucous sound, avant-garde, to be off-and-running, choirmaster, the score, to pay off, to win a prize.

Galway's Craic (27/06/20)
bustling pubs, freshly poured pints, lilting music, fiddle, mischief, craic, a local, promenade, odd, damp, to strip down to swimsuits, to plunge into, roiling waters, shivering, dripping, wont, to go with the flow, gale-force winds, counterweight, to breed, laid-back spirit, to foster, layout, an out-of-towner, low-key, to pervade, buskers, winding streets, a month goes by, to distil, pretention, uncontrivedness, breakdown, to edge in, to clutch, to connect with other people, to settle for something.

Rowa Atkinson's Sermon (16/06/20)

it came to pass, he said unto them, waterpots, he knew not, they inquired of him, behold, lo!, wailing and gnashing of teeth, ye (archaic for you), you shall be known, hearken onto somebody, Pharisses


"Shirley" starring Elisabeth Moss (11/06/20)
bond, fraught, glimpse, to chime, to deserve, script, loosely, insight, bout, to pursue, chore, vicious, to thrive, to get back on track, to root, wrinkle, muse, stand-in, layers, dizzyingly, jagged, close-up, to swerve, handheld, score, to pulse, to grapple with, conundrums, to blur, uncannily, to excel at, exertion, to tease out, odd, tenderness, prickly, to awe, to bind, to cheat on somebody, to endure to chafe against something, and snobbery. 

time-shifting, impressive, rom-com, widespread, to set up, plot, crossroads, to send off, retreat, to reset, hijinks (high jinks), to ensure, to end up doing something, boundaries, shooting, breakneck, naive, calculating, gullible, weird, show runner, roles, to get something down, to work on something.

Future Boyfriend: a Sci-Fi Romantic Film (05/06/20)
I should come clear about something, disrupting the fabric of time, to take in, to have a lot to handle, weird, gross!, grisly, a better shot, a creep, to work out, to get this straight, deal?

sneak peek, prepping, shoot, clips, behind the scenes footage, crew, picture lock, premiere, make-up and costume person, on set, cameo, to steal the show, being background, a stern look, handled, appreciative, I'm drained, stills