Glossary of the Blog


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




The Odyssey (2026): a Classic Epic Movie... and More Books & Films (01/09/26)
a highlight [of the year], a blockbuster, a farcical [sex comedy], to aim at [grown-ups], to feature, loved-up, to drop in [for dinner], to bicker, a laidback [guest], hilarious, a moving [screenplay], [to lay] bare, pacing, a contender [to the Oscars], hype, beguiling, stunning, a [natural, modern] delivery, a relatable [king], cramped, to intertwine, an enthralling and layered [film], ludicrously [inventive], [to shoot] footage, [two] buffoonish, would-be [superstars], a daft [film], wit, a flock, to steep in [detective story], to set out [to track the clues], a cast, deft, game, a bumbling [police officer], a high-powered [lawyer], childlike [qualities], tender, a standout, a battle-scarred [veteran], a ram, a [comic] romp, cosy, a sequel, gore, a buddy-comedy, a hulking [cannibal], cheeky, eccentric, pitch-perfect [intimacy], the backdrop [of the presidential election], to nullify, loosely, stunningly, to capture, bold [colours], [heartbreaking] coda, fizzily [energetic], conceit, to hop [into a beaver], furry [friends], plotted, an exhilarating [take on the book], artistry, daring, fiery, caustic, to overlook, prettified [period scenes], an enticing [kaleidoscope of colour], to drop in [some comic moments], to be over the top, enduring [passion], class-bound [time], action-packed [set piece], painstaking [research], touching, inspiring, a bleak [narrative], fast-paced, cheerful, goofball [charm], a bracing [drama], a purge, wilfully [to echo], creeping [authoritarianism], [the film] to unfold, eerie [calm], a low-boil [thriller], to circumvent, a harrowing [story], the grip [of a dictatorship], a stranger-than-fiction [true story], to kidnap, a mortgage [broker], [financial] woes, to wield [a shotgun], pathos, a nerve-racking [situation], a romcom, wilfully, dramedy, a sharp [detour], a high-wire [act of a film], a deft [star], jumpy [nerves], a backlash, sheer [Hollywood star power], a thought-provoking [comment], a hot-button [issue].

Slime Matters (07/08/26)
All Things Considered (NPR): slime, to splatter, tubeworms, hagfish, a bucket, a colloid, an interface, to mesmerize, a brown-lipped snail, to tune, mucus, to seal [a wound], to deliver [a drug], a many hued [wonder], a nuance [of yellow], an array [of mucuses], sticky, slippery, to adhere, to glide, a foam, a pest, a [sticky] glue, a shell, to cling to [everything], the versatility, lichen, to coax, [twin] tweezers, to secrete, to trick, to tickle, stiff, to tweak, a catheter, to synthesize.

Spain Wins the 2026 World Cup (20/07/26)
BBC Sport: trite, cliche, to slam, extra-time, [to slam in/ to score] a winner, endurance, to derserve [the trophy], a [goals] tally, a goalkeeper, a clean sheet, to concede [one goal], metrics, to stumble, out of the gate, the opener, a squad, a spoiler, [commander] in chief, to be booked, to wilt, [Torres'] strike, a save, to somersault,[involved in] scraps, [to throw] a punch, a [BBC] pundit, to outplay, to get in their face, to wind up, to be wronged. [to be] on your back.

NPR report: to defeat, extra time, a squad, to mark, a run, to concede [a goal], [to be] ecstatic, flabbergasted, [Argentina's magic] to run out, back-to-back, [Spain's penalty] box, to hold firm, [Spain's] crosses, [Spain's] attempts, to break up, a shin, a clean, seemingly, a save, to seal [a victory], stoppage time, a tackle [on a player], a midfielder, to flip [into the air], [to earn] a yellow card, dissent, to break through, to knock [the ball] in, nothing short of [unbelievable], an assist, a heart-stopping [semifinal], sencond only to [Kylian Mbappé], to shrug, [to be] ranked [number 1], to be draped [in Spain flags], a bagel, the get-in [price], five figures, to pile [into] the stands, [to be] treated [to a halftime show], a nod [to American audiences].

Chart Watch: Three Upcoming Artists Can Lead the Summer Charts (11/07/26)
NPR report: to be poised, to hold [at No 1], K-pop [band], to land, atop, to crash [the chart's] uppermost, reaches, to wait in the wings, to pounce, room [to grow], a sleeper, [to hit] a peak, a hook, a [summery] mood-lifter, word-of-mouth [country hits], to stick around, a rapper, to score, a viral [hit], to float around, solo, duo, [to have] proven, by a mile, a [TikTok] phenomenon, [to hit] a [career] peak, a [chart] mainstay, to debut, to rank [among K-pop's kings of quantity], to dwarf, streaming [numbers], vinyl, a short-timer, [to give] bragging [rights], trivia, prolificacy, [no easy] feat, [to sit] motionless, to slide [to No. 2], a [chart] champ, the [summer] doldrums, a breakout [star], mainstay, to swap [places], a [chart] bump.

Boston lyrics: to jump the gun, what's up, to be along with [the ride], to head [back to where you come from].

Falling in Love with AI (03/07/26)
an [emotional] outlet, [to be] on the rise, [to be] set, to envisage, the bass, to engage with [her], to ditch, to embrace, a flirty [personality], shaky [hands], intimate, cariño, to run out of [memory], to cry my eyes out, [to feel] emotional, to propose [to you], to cherish [a memory], connection and affection, [to be] fixated, acceptance, validation, "non-judgement", to date, steamy [chats], a libido, an AI companion, tricky, a truly [mass market product], to open up, tough [times], to monetize, a devastating [future], to suck up [your time], the motherboard, [to grow] deeply [attached], [to have] an issue, to cohabitate, to give it up, to dial [it] back, a flesh-and-blood [wife], elevating, a dealbreaker, to pull back the curtain, to hold [you], to hug [you]. B2 students may want to start by reading first the summary of the story that Rachel Flynn wrote for People magazine: "Man Proposed to his AI Chatbot Girlfriend Named Sol, then 'Cried his Eyes Out', when she Said 'Yes'.

Classic British Humour: The Sketch Show and the Vicar of Dibley (18/06/26)

From The Sketch Show: "The Imaginary Friend": to overcome, to pop [next door], [to be] around [ever since], a delusion, rotten [teeth], to keep an eye on [you], a figment of your imagination; Then, "The Trust Exercise": [with your arms] outstretched, to let you down; after that, "The Body Collectors" featuring the word darling; then, "The Phobia Workshop": an apology, an awkward [silence], borderline, to bark, to snap [a finger]; and finally, in "The ABC Lesson": a headmaster, [the rhyme] it goes [like this], to rhyme, to pick on [me], a nursery rhyme.

A Tapas Crawl with Chef José Andrés (23/05/26)
BBC News: a Spaniard, a Michelin-starred [chef], tapas, a tip, culinary [customs], a restaurateur, an eatery, to be credited, cuisine, a [snack-sized] plate, a Trojan horse, a commitment, a humanitarian, a lively [bar], a bowl of [olives], fine [dining places], an anchovy, to pour [a bottle of wine], a [tapas] crawl, a bite, a snack, to tell somebody how to live his/her life, to pick, a prawn, a spicy [sauce], a croquette, creamy, a gin-tonic, cider, a toothpick, a skewer, the story goes, to check out, an outsider, a mushroom, to set [your destination to a place], to wander, grilled [bread], a bubble, a razor clam, a clam, an artichoke, cured [pork shoulder], crispy, lacy, a fritter, a shrimp.

WNYC: to revolve around, mojo, paella, gazpacho, a churro, baked [bread], sautéd [mushrooms] parsley, a tavern, a cover, to celebrate [life], [hand] motion, a melting pot, ahead of his time, [money]wise, to belong [here], to paraphrase, jamón, a cured [meat], the goodness, preservation, rotten, to slice, delicate, [to act] funny, semiwild, acorn, an oak tree, unique, a bite, iberico ham, a ripe [tomato], a purist, a controversy, over [the years], astonishing, a fried cutlet, a cachopo, beef, floured, crunchy, creamy, a librito, [pork] loin, a butcher, soggy, a crust, olive oil, a pot [of hot oil], croquetas, the leftovers, béchamel, fritters, a pay check, to stretch, [hot] gazpacho, mind-blowing, a launch [party].

Wildlife Artists on Massingham Heath (12/05/26)
a heath, an attachment [to], otherworldly, eerie, the trappings, to take over the button, grassland, calcareous, chalk, soil, shallow, flora, precious, biodiverse, to outcompete, vigorous [grasses], clovers, fertile [land], a crop, to feed [ourselves], sugar beet, barley, a strand, to flog [it], marginal land, to yield [a crop], Natural England, to restore, [old] trace, to breathe in, a skylark, Bagot goats, Konic ponies, to [free] roam, a fence, seed [varieties], heathland, wildflower [seeds], a head torch, to blow away, up it came, oddly enough, poppies, [to be] carried away, unfathomable, on it went, a sweep [of wildflowers], a sculptor, a residency, to document [a year in the heath], an exhibition, an oil painter, a water colorist, mixed media, scrap [metal], [found] tools, a falcon, agile, dragonflies, a sickle, to edge [your lawns], pliers, a scissor, rusty, a glimpse, a kingfisher, a capercaillie, engaging, a handsaw, a treasure trove, on plein air, a [drawing] workshop, to dot [all around], an oil beetle, a dingy skipper [butterfly], [looking] intently, binoculars, a stonechat, a ring ouzel, a skylark, a long way off, the highlight, a negative, a shadow, to get there, in brush, dairy [pages], a naturalist, to be driven [to paint], the mist, a [bird] scare, the geese, my pad, a store, yellow ocher, delicacy, a cardoon, the coot, humming, a bumblebee, lush [green], overgrown, hawthorn, brambles, to kneel [down], a hedge, the dormant [period], to zoom in [the details], a ground ivy, a bee fly, a cirrus, crawly, a linnet, a whitethroat, scratchy, a daisy, a bud, a mining bee, to patrol, to lay [eggs], to connect [with the place], to deepen [knowledge].

Hope & Faith in Turmoil: the Negro Spiritual "Ain't Got Time to Die" at San Carlos de Borromeo (02/05/26)
Skyfall: a Tribute to Amy Winehouse (22/04/26)

Marie Claire article: to snub, a late [musician], the [mid-]noughties, to laud, to credit, mournfully, [her] legacy, poisoning, to struggle with [addiction and mental health issues], to rock [the entertainment world], to prompt, an outpouring [of grief], an icon, heartbreaking, never ever, [her] wellbeing, super-duper [human], to tarnish, to pave the way, [fearlessly] hilarious, blasé, charming.

Trump vs. Pope Leo, in the Jimmy Kimmel Show (14/04/26)
Jimmy Kimmel Show: untethered, to top [it], to bash, to poke around, barely, commander-in-chief, to doctor [a photograph], [real &] fake, oblivious, stumpy, blotchy, glob, yam, bobbling, ointment, pee, to be out of it, nuts, the poping [process], MAGA, a compliment, ass, South Park, Batman, a bananas [thing], a fighter [jet], demogorgon, Stranger Things, to heal, messiah, [to be] on board, to delete, notable, the gospel, to abuse, to speak out [loud], efilled, to sign up [for], a commercial, to settle [this], tax on tips, desperate [for approval], to cheat, [I] bet [you do], reckless, a coward, Red Cross, fake news, a robe, dumb, a health insurance, crisp, to tip, to clean up, to fall apart, a blockade, a straight, effing [straight], regardless, to make no difference, UFC [fight], binged [rivalry], to carve out, [to hit the] links, to check out, horny, a squeeze, a turd, to slip into [it], to disavow [her ties to Jeffrey Epstein], a deep dive, subreddit, severance, to dismiss [a lawsuit], to sue, to throw out, malice, to refile [the lawsuit], to smack [down], a bruise, ongoing [abuse of the legal system], to shift [to], a bickering [couple], the lip readers, road game [of the year,] Pacers, to stick around.

Guernica: a Masterpiece against War (03/04/26)
Witness History (BBC World Service): a witness, [to give] a try, a [news] archive, to hand to [Spain], to stress, care, a masterpiece, to freeze [the blood in our veins], troops, to overturn, an aerial [attack], a mural, to commission, nightmarish, to stare on, [to go] on show, an artwork, on loan, to rule, dictator, to claim [the painting], to restore [democratic freedoms], to reclaim [the Spanish throne], a handover, a golden rule, to bear in mind, an inheritance, proof [of the ownership of the painting], the [paper] trail, [to end] the loan, stalemate, to bluff, to skate on thin ice, a widow, a sum [of money], a civil guard, an [attempted] coup, to fail, the canvas, the utmost [secrecy], to arrange [protection], to roll up, to stand in line, the bloody [fascist bombing of Guernica], to set foot [on Spanish soil], bulletproof, on display.

Steph Davis, Rock Climbing in Rodellar (Sierra de Guara) & Flow State (21/03/26)
Steph Davis's Wikipedia entry: a BASE jumper, to free climb, to free solo, a wingsuit flyer, to summit, a straight-A [student], an asset, sheer [will], brainy, a flawless [technique], an [English] major, a lift up, to [get] sucked in, a [school] break, to boulder, to pursue [climbing], a bacherlor's degree, the canon [of mountaneering literature], disparate shifting [reality], to decide against [it], to quit, to relate to [climbing].

KSJD interview: a venture, a memoir, an avid [reader], an infatuation, an essay, to jump [into a project], a proper [book], [all] from scratch, to accomplish, funnily [enough], to free solo, attached, to figure out, awareness, to go about [things], a sustainable [life], arguably, to highlight [the fact that], to make an attempt on [a climb], BASE jumping, [to go for] a hike, a lifestyle [really], the tagline, to pass away, to follow in your footsteps, to get into [it], to parachute, wingsuit [flying], to skydive, to blow me away, [to get] stuck [on that], to dive [down], a [climbing] clinic, she-[climbers], to see how it goes, [to learn] stuff [on my own], to live by, to take on [risks].

Climb Europe text: a gorge, limestone, steep, stamina, to find your way [out], overhanging [caves], an arch, a tufa, a pinnacle, split, a single pitch [route], trad [gear], a rope, a quickdraw, a multi-pitch [route], a twin rope, accommodation, self-catering [bungalows].

National Geographic article: flow state, laser [focus], to tap into, peak [focus], slim, sandstone, grip, free solo [climbing], harness, a parachute, engrossed, a mindset, to leverage, impervious, a javelin [thrower], to accomplish [a goal], to come up [with a theory], to ramp up, [your skills] to take over, the frontal lobe, a seasoned [jazz player], to rely upon, to let go, drywall, your expertise, to tackle [a difficult challenge].

Barbies as Role Models & Girl Power K-pop on International Women's Day, an Indian Viewpoint (08/03/26)
Sneha Kumari's Barbie Dream Team story: vibes, a reset, a role model, a trailblazer, a Dream Team, [sky-high] heels, a debut, a [pop-culture] icon, [beauty] standards, fast-forward, a reboot, a brand, a lineup, to honour, one-of-a-kind [dolls], likeness, a [headline] moment, a doll, in other words, Gen Z, a highlight, a shift, to matter, to flip that script, to bat, [record-breaking] performances, [to push the sport into the] spotlight, packed [stadiums], [trending] hashtags, a [toy] aisle, to spot, the pitch, [the old Barbie fantasy] to land, a disability, to take [an idea] one step further, to inspire, to pick up [a cricket bat], a makeover, to enthral.

Karen Noronha's K-pop story: to embody, bold, self-worth, a track, resilience, empowerment, unapologetic [self-love], to deliver [an anthem], to stand tall, to embrace [individuality], a feel-good [anthem], to blast, a spot, an upbeat [anthem], to let go, to do [you] wrong, girl power, vibes, a statement, to thrive, quirks, a cutie [bluff charm], a rallying [cry], hardship, fearless, a stepping stone, a soaring [anthem], a path, a versatile [journalist], seamlessly.

CBS19 News clip: to mark (Internation Women's Day), a lineup, a pioneer, a doll, a race-car [driver], a soccer player, [new Barbies'] coming out, a random [Barbie], to make a difference [in the world], actual [people], inclusive, autism, stuff [out there], all around, a teachable [experience for kids].

The Best Tech in the Mobile World Congress, 2026 (05/03/26)
Samsung press note: groundbreaking, impactful, consumer-focused [products], [to set] a benchmark [for technology], the gold-standard, across the [digital] landscape, a seamless [blend] [of hardware and software], a built-in [Privacy Display], a breakthrough, vibrant [viewing], a [customized] chipset, to power, effortless [mobile experiences], compelling [technology], [to push] the boundaries, a meaningful [impact], to address [the needs], a [judging] panel, an agentic AI phone, ongoing [commitment].

Android Authority video: weird, a concept, modularity, a ton of, accessories, a power bank, bulky, modules, to fancy, cool, at first glance, a tagline, a [hidden] display, to prop it up, pixels, textures, [so much] hype, amulet display, glare, coatings, a refresh [rate], a prototype, a [camera] gimbal, footage, gimmicky, a lens, [200] frame [a second], a [camera] rig, to stick with [phones], a foldable [smartphone], flagship [style phones], coating, bizarrely, specs, a grid, gamers, a built-in [cooling fan], by-pass charging, a pop-up [fire starter], wireless, an upgrade, an update, a bargain, to make up for [the not massive battery], a headphone, affordable, a [battery] to run out, padding.

Valentine's Day: The Best Places to Elope in 2026 (14/02/26)
to elope, [to get] engaged, commitment, [to be] on the rise, soaring [wedding costs], stunning [locations], [increasingly] chic, cheesy, shameful, to trace [the shift back to the mid-2020s], wanderlust, [to push the idea into] the mainstream, to swap, a vow, thrilling, to splash out, wilderness, a no-brainer, to tie the knot, a loch, secluded [wilderness], untouristed, heather, [nuptials] hack, the red tape, alleyways, a cove, to unfold, a dip [in the Mediterranean], the vibe, the cliffside, laid-back [pace], a leap [of faith], overrun, touristy, off the beaten path, a rugged [landscape], a pristine [beach], a mezze [platter], [the coastline] dotted, to crave, to rough it, to be studded, a [major] draw, a melting pot, bougie, a cerulean [sea], to overlook [the ocean], a bliss, the scenery, unmatched, a moose, to blow [your] mind, a glacier, a waterfall, trooper, lush [volcanic topography].

Russia Tricks Africans to Die in Ukraine (04/02/26)
CNN Video: to entice, to lure, to recruit, a land mine, to strap, to storm [positions], a can opener, to trace, traumatising, a [Kenyan] number (person), a growing [number of men], to glamorise, to brag, [to feel] trapped, shrapnel, an ambush, an armour [vest], buttocks, a grenade, to flee, (fled), aimed at [foreign fighters], a sign on [bonus], wounded, [to have] an issue, [to go] underground, a crackdown, to sign up.

CNN text: to fight back tears, to reach [somebody], to end up, to serve [in the military], the frontline, a [Kenyan] number (person), a [racist] slur, a can opener, to breach, distraught, his plight, a last-ditch effort, to jolt, to hurl [racist slurs], to be deployed, to uncover [new details], a rosy [promise], a first-hand [account], to entice, to bolster [its ranks], to dupe [into becoming mercenaries], to follow suit, to be coerced, to flee, at gunpoint, a binding [picture of service], to lock [the serviceman into broad obligations], to reimburse, to trigger, to surrender [a passport], to disclose [sensitive information], a screenshot, the enrollment [procedure], to allege [racism], to admonish, pidgin [English], in the target [country], [forced] conscription, [countless] casualties, to rot, a limb, to spotlight, a send-off, committed, a [military] tag, to desert, to handle [firearms], a grenade, to chase [me away], to issue [him with a travel document], buttocks, a pipeline, a windfall, [plans] [to go] awry, to miscarry, a limp [hand], bait [for Ukrainian drones], an assault, a recruiter.

Sirat: a Gripping Road Movie to Hell (22/01/26)
a gripping [film], a raver, a fitting [title], exhilarating, devastating, an unlikely [traveling companion], to make your way [through a godforsaken stretch of the Sahara Desert], the setting, derivative, a reveler, a dystopian [thriller], to sweep [you up], the propulsive [beat], an unruly [desert], a bacchanal, to vanish, to show up, to break up [the party], the ensuing [chaos], to drive off, bound [for another rave further south], to chronicle, a perilous [journey], the cast, mesmerizing [ability], to feel for [somebody], an off-the-grid [daredevil], a [dangerous] trek, a camper van, treacherous [terrain], reluctantly, to tag along, to help [each other] out, to ford [a small river], a steep [mountain road], an overwhelming [experience], propelled [by that thrillingly percussive score], to strike, a nail-biter, wary, mistrustful, at his bleakest [moments], [his driving skills] to come in handy, tenderness, unrelenting [in its ferocity], [apocalypse] to loom, a pitiless [world]. 

How Rich is Donald Trump? (10/01/26)
a tally, to leverage [the presidency for profit], to stall out, a [court] judgement, dormant, a licencing [business], to surge, to clamor, to drop off, a liquid asset, net value, [to be] flush with cash, a stockpile, a memecoin, a token, the buzz, [a coin] to unlock [value], to get off to a [rocky start], to snap up, a pile, to lock up, a stablecoin, to tie [to the dollar], to mint [a stablecoin], to drive [adoption], a venture, a [crypto] exchange, a bundle, a bunch [of cash], a stake [in a firm], from [a financial] standpoint, a net loss, revenue, to bid up [shares], head-scratching [prices], a liability, [Trump's golf game] to take off, a profit, to foreshadow, an indebted [golf resort], [to put it] underwater, [business] to pick up, real estate, a leasehold, retail, to wound, glitzy, to oversee, to refinance, to hedge [a variable interest rate], [a portion, a stake] to float, a condo, a penthouse [apartment], to helm [a business], to boast, to leverage [its network], to pay off [a debt], to unburden [a property], a [residential] lot [of land], a winery, to terminate [a loan], to offload, a shell company, a co-op [unit], to disclose [a price], to list [it for sale], to slash [a price], vacant land, a storage unit, a licencing [business], a branding [business], a tax return, sweetheart, a [legal] liability, an appellate court, to throw out [a €500 million court judgement], to stem [from], [to remain/ to be] on the hook, [interests] to accrue, to keep score.

Trump vs the BBC: Litigation and Freedom of Speech in the US (16/12/25)
BBC report on the defamation lawsuit: defamation, to file a lawsuit, a claim, deceptively, ongoing [legal proceedings], to sue, to cheat, a riot, to leak, malice, to allege, libel, to stand up for [the BBC], shadow [culture secretary], a fee [payer], the Bar, litigation, to cough up [the money]. 
The Conversation on ABC and CBS settlements: a settlement, commander in chief, a surrender, to foresee, seemingly, meritless, a shareholder, liable, the pursuit, to seek [to apply editorial pressure], unrelenting, biased [TV coverage], a newscast, to air, to trade [away the trust], [to break] a scoop, to hold [power] to account. 

BBC story on the Ellison's media interests: to shake up, to take on [a new dimension], to pursue [deals], to pave the way, to bless [the dealings], to rank, to skew, a [Republican] megadonor, a fundraiser, to broker [a deal], to be poised [to become], a foray, a flop, a takeover, a [significant] leap, a sprawling [operation], a sign-off, anti-bribery [laws], in compliance with, to duck [questions], to sway [news coverage], the kernel, to get your head around [that], a tie-up, a would-be [media] mogul, to go in flames. 

Fresh Air interview to David Enrich: a gathering, to overturn [a court decision], a landmark [case], a [media] outlet, the campaign trail, libel, a stump speech, high-power [lawyers], to linger, reckless [disregard for the accuracy], malice, to set out, a rocky [start], to bash [the media], nuanced [understanding of the issue], shoddy, oblivion, to pop up, saber-rattling, the wherewithal, to flinch, to dig into, to chip away [around the edges], kooky [stuff], to mastermind [this campaign], hand-wringing.

Jane Goodall (30/11/25)
a conservationist, groundbreaking [observations], mating [patterns], a host of [awards], to tackle [problems], offspring, to charge, bristling [hair], to drag [branches], to stamp [on me], to push, a baboon, a bush pig, dull [eyes], to get on with their lives, to lean [away from the microphone], striking, to embrace, to pat (one another on the back) to swagger, to tickle, a Band-Aid, Epsom salts, the undergrowth, a queer (white-skinned ape), to run off, oil [nut] palm, to groom, to peer, involvement, a wimp, a [return] fare, to be impressed, a gorge, a track, a trail, a scheme, to tramp [off], the bush, to stamp, to snort, to be charged [by a buffalo], a close call, a bully, rugged [ground], to knock [me] over, to charge, to drag, to crack [open] [my head], [to get] mad [at him], to squat, a twig, [to seem] unlikely, a mound, to crunch [them] [up], uproar, mothering, attentive, supportive, harsh, a toddling [child], a raid, a splinter [group], to twist, a limb, a prey, [primate] heritage. 

Rosalía talks about "Lux" (05/11/25)

The Worst Wildfire Season in Spain & Portugal (28/08/25)
a wildfire, on record, to scar, to scorch, a severe [fire], a forested [area], pilgrimage, to trigger, a vicious cycle, to release [CO2], to surge, a blaze, [fire]-prone, flammability, [rural] depopulation, to be overgrown, a fire break, [fire]-hardy [ecosystems], to struggle, a hare, a cork oak, [to keep] in check, to offset, a [climate] feedback loop, to pose [a threat], soil [erosion], ash, a reservoir.

Jaialdi/ San Inazio, the Basque Festivals in Idaho (31/07/25)
Boise State Public Radio article: to chop, an attendee, a [basque] staple, the Gold Rush, a tight-knit [community], a garb, buoyant, to toss, a hay bale.


KTVB: a gamut, a thunderstorm, to honour [the culture], to head [to], a closure, to check out, to shape, seating.

England Wins the Women's Euro Title, 2025 (28/07/25)
the score, a fixture, an assist, a venue, stunning, penalty-shootout, the winner, a spot-kick, to seal, [to miss three] in a row, to save, soil, [single-]legged, comeback, to trail, to concede, [a] knockout [match], feeble, a header, to dampen, unwavering [belief], to come on, struggling, the build-up, a [whipped] cross, to pick out, to dig [deep], to have what it takes, to bounce back, to backfire, resilience, the limelight, to whirl, the wake, sexual assault [case], to stumble, free-flowing [football], to pull away, to prove [costly], a stumbling block, to stand out, a [long-ball] outlet, the backline, to dribble, to set up [a goal], to slot [back into team].

Azizam and the Best 2025 Summer Songs in U.S.A. (18/07/25)
Azizam by Ed Sheeran: azizam, floor, wrapped, careless, [do it our] way. 
Relationships by Haim: to be through, to be cought up in [something], to end up, to blame, guilty, averse to [conflict], to bring [you] down.

Toxic Mushroom Murder Trial in Australia (10/07/25)
NPR text: death cap mushrooms, guilty, estranged [husband], beef Wellington, a paste, [finely] chopped [mushrooms], [multiple organ] failure, a witness, a twist and turn, a prosecutor, a motive, to plead [non-guilty], [three] counts [of murder], to forage [mushrooms], to cover up [her actions], to prove [her guilty], a recap, a split, an amicable [relationship], to pull out, a quirk, amanita phalloides mushrooms, to be discharged, scrutiny, back and forth, to throw up, to acknowledge, a grocery store, to dispose of [something], the stand, to dump, a knee-jerk [reaction], to dig [deeper], to cover her tracks, a deception, a fabricated [cancer claim], to plant the seed, a lump, to spark [a search for death cap mushrooms], to cherry-pick, a ruse, to take a leap, 

3-minute NPR radio report: to grip, a suburban [mom], to pass up, an estranged [husband], death cap mushrooms, the leftovers, bizarre, to fake [a cancer diagnosis], to forage for [mushrooms], to chalk it up, a [kitchen] mix-up, devastated, on [pretty] decent [terms], to pull out, to recap.

The Listening Planet by Martyn Stewart (23/06/25)
NPR: the wilds, the [Scottish] highlands, a skylark, a curlew, a moor, a low, a haunting [place], humbleness, to engulf, a cliff [top], pristine, to mess, [all] over the top [of it], a canvas, to pave the road, a loch, a lapwing, bleak, desolate, to eke [into the audio], [the wind] to howl, elated, a hedgerow, a disruptive [family], [there wasn't food]on the table, bluebell [woods], to jam, a blackbird, a thrush, a wren, a chiffchaff, rusty, a hinge, to be blown away, stunning, to blow it out, the cherry on top of the cake.
 
Video by Mike Figgis (bio):  a struggle, a heartache, a dysfunctional [family], hooked, talented, a [naturalist] at heart, to crawl, a shit [singer], to nick [his microphone], pleasing, bluebell [woods], a thursh, a skylark, a blackbird, a wren, a nuthtach, a songster, the [dawn] chorus, the Geordie, the "Liverpoolie", a tuner, to layer, self-effacing, extinct, an archive, [to put your life] on the line, leukemia, to go through, urgency, visceral, hands-on, to give [the animals] a voice, precious, to give up on [something].
 
Video by Mark Savage: a howler [monkey], a wren, an archive, extinct, mesmerized, a council estate, a [Eurasian] blackbird, a hard drive, remarkable, a legacy, to crush, fortunate, a performer, to capture.
 
Backstage with Shakira (14/06/25)
backstage, bowels, to be taped, on fire, a scrawl, to put on [a stadium tour], sold out, to polish, frayed nerves, a screaming [match], vibe, to stretch, seamstress, to sew, a catsuit, a [guitar] check, tuning, to hang around, a tumble dryer, to plumb in, a venue, wardrobe, a costume, to care for, to stitch, to scrub, an outfit, to scuff [their shoes], to stash [reserves of Gatorade], iced coffee, sticky [Miami heat], a trade-off, the underworld, a set, to stash away, to stud, a [sound] check, [non-]deceitful, to be flanked, a [police] escort, flared, a vest [top], flawless, the crew, to deliver, a quip, a wink, to be [full] out, to figure something out, one way or another, a pan pipe, a riff, a wristband, a workout, [the obsession] to pay off, a parade, a [tribal-knife] routine, to thrash, to howl, to bray, heartbreak, [personal] upheaval, to fall apart, [tax] fraud, to settle [a case], out of court, to prompt, an outburst, a barb, a string [of hits], to rack up [13 billion], streams, furry, a she-wolf, commitment, [to come] off [stage], to put together [a show], to make something happen, to carry you through, to break into [the Western pop market], precarious, humane, to catch up with [the BBC], to christen, a [powerful] statement, to underpin, to span [generations], to bounce around, a tender [ballad], to duet, mixed emotions, stressed out, [to stay] tuned, to tease.

Camino de Santiago with Manni Coe (07/06/25)
chilly, crops, brotherly [love], a foundational [month], Down syndrome, to come up with [an idea], to give up, tough, [his] pace, roles reversed, [to open my] consciousness, the scallop [shell], an insignia, faithful,  a [route] to converge, a pungent [smell], to sprout, moss, a [red] tile, a sleepy [village], a [rain] cover, a [recognized] pilgrimage, the tomb [of Santiago], within your means, an upturn [scalop shell], [to collect] stamps, "compostela" (credential), an up-and-coming [route], a [strong] odour [of cows], to rock up, to wing it, St James' appeal, a hermit, "compostela" (field of stars), to hand draw, to rage [down], a drop [of 40 meters], a [single]-arch [bridge], a steep [peak], stonemasons' [insignia], moss & ivy, lichen, to lean over [the balcony], a vocal [dog], a little hamlet, a [raised] [grain-]storage [building], on stilts, grills, stone pillars, to be brought up [in the Church of England], [my faith] to fall apart, the confession, a [public] forum, trauma, [to be] set [at our house], to come up with [the title of the book], to be groomed, to be abused, a vicar, to press charges, to go to court, circumstantial evidence, earthly [father], skewed, to acknowledge [what happened], [a case] to stand up [in court], rage, guilt, to struggle [to forgive], to release [it], shattered, a breakdown, the ramparts [of the castle], to pick up on [the signs], gay, to blame, [for as long as it] takes, to bring them up, fishhooks, to collapse, a gate, to grab [each other], a stream, to flush [them away], baggage, to shed, a healing [process], not linear, a [continuous] mindset, to catch you off guard, thrilled, to catch up.
Gloriously Uncrowded Zaragoza (27/05/25)
a [surprising tapas] scene, a mighty [baroque church], an under-the-radar [weekend], to loom over [the River Ebro], to go unnoticed, an [architectural] powerhouse, a stronghold, the formidable [Basilica del Pilar], ochre, a dome, to cast [a glow], to glint, the brickwork, to echo, to put to shame, overhyped [Barcelona], cramped, a maze, a local, to jostle, to ooze, garlicky [gambas], to swell, a [flower] offering, the faint-hearted, unvarnished, at a glance, to blend, meandering [cobbled streets], to heave, [party] ephemera, to soak, laid-back, a show-stopper, flanked, backlit, blessed, carved [ceilings], mini-me, Moorish, compelling, a glimpse, layered, granted, an alley, oil-spitting, crowned, parsley, pie, mash, to top, overlooked, a chapel, a soaring [needle], brutalist, beguiling, the draw, to stud, a fruit gum, to flood, a beam, a crib, to grab, the foundations, [to be] tucked, meaty, a gyoza, lacquered, packed, boisterous, a clan, at the helm, wisecrack, to spill [on], a [modern] spin, camp, bric-a-[chic], tiered, car-boot, brasserie, to be lined, vintage, crackly, wholesome [plates], finesse, a cast, to stare at [you], a haunt, starchy, a [gastro-]hub, a bite, [no] frills [low bills], overkill, varnished, unflashy, wallet-friendly, [accommodation] bang, an olive's throw, to sample, sleek, respite, the [urban] sprawl, up to scratch, deftly, to put the world to rights, to haunt, crash pad, [to strew, strewed], strewn, to plunder, goose-bump, to shimmer, to catch up with, a fleet, a jumping off point, a foodie [city].

The Parsi Museum in Mumbai (17/05/25)
a saree, a peek, to dwindle, to [be] tucked away, a lane, Zoroastrianism, to flee, [fled, fled], the mainstream [population], to shake-off, an artefact, on display, a curator, to showcase, a print, [to be] draped in [saree], cuneiform, a terracotta [pot], to source, [to be] dated [to 4000-5000 BCE], to rule, a barren [desert], to settle, to outline, to grant, a [human rights] charter, a portrait, to own, a brand, striking, to trade, an exhibit, to depict, a compelling [exhibit], a glimpse into, off-limits [to non-Parsis], [to be] renovated, [well]-captioned, a [glass] case, packed with [history].

Steve Bannon Predicts a Constitutional Crisis in the U.S. by Summer (06/05/25)
to hurdle, livestream, a [wide] swath [of Trump supporters], a mantel, a drive [to deport people], first off, to rattle, an audit, a high-paying [job], to impose [tariffs] on [China], to back off, to stack up, Bessent, to go in [full] force, to speak out against [elites], to target [top private and public universities], to bleed [the money] back in, a [Chinese] national, tuition, to run up against [judicial resistance], due process, to check [something against the law], to defy [the Supreme Court chief justice], [on his] say so, fentanyl, bookkeeping, to grant [everything you say], to pass a bill, to roll over [to the globalists], to step up [and say], to turf out, to tap along [the president], [disapproval] ratings, [to go] way [down], [I don`t] buy [it], [media] psyop.

From TikTok to AI: What the EU now calls a security threat (25/04/25)
a burner phone, to ban, stripped-down [laptops], surveillance, to black-list, an [EU] agency, the budgetary watchdog, to gather [data], [to deny] these claims, to compel, alleged, to muddle, to launch [an investigation], to breach [a law], to come under fire, to curb [offences], fraud, promotion of terrorism, [to have] leverage, to hold the keys, encryption, [to impose]   restrictions, disinformation, so-called, to be [AI Act] compliant, to decline [to comment], to be charged, a [corruption] probe, to bribe, a backdoor, critical [infrastructure], build-out, to crop up, ongoing [doubts], to be in line with [regulations], to advise against [using], to comply with [the law], [to flee] fled, [fled], dissatisfied, unchecked, a conspiracy theory, hate speech, to quit, [to find yourself] in hot water, to uncover, a [major security] breach, to track [the movements], a high-profile [official], to deploy.

Bike Buses to School in Cardiff, Valencia and Barcelona (16/04/25)
a [bike] ride, to set [pupils] up for [a successful school day], non-profit, a charity, a marshal, to pick up [children], to foster [a sense of community], a convoy, loads [of fun], [to have a] chat. 

Justice, Politics and Money in Wisconsin (01/04/25)
WUWM, Out-of-state billionaires..: to rake in, to be fueled, the tally, to funnel, to back, a non-partisan [Wisconsin Supreme Court], an issue, at stake, a cap, a rally, to spell out, a stake, [President Trump`s] agenda, to take over [Schimel's campaign], a megadonor, to fire back, a boogeyman, an endorsement, an heir, distressed, the fundraising, to hit, a recusal, to chill, to be beholden.

NPR, The Wisconsin Supreme Court vote..: a rally, a contested [issue], partisan [politics], to play out, voting rights, a court ruling, to redraw [congressional districts], to end up, to pour, to hand out, a [legal] back-and-forth, to bribe, a [democracy] advocacy [group], a swing state, to face off, a seat opening, non-partisan, a justice, the ballot, liberal-leaning [judges], the attorney general, to endorse, a [legal] counsel, a bid, to barrage, an issue, to tee up [issues], on the books, to overturn [the right to abortion], collective bargaining, the ballot, to end up, to deploy, the GOP, transgender [rights], to feature, to side with [radicals], fearmongering, [to run] misleading [adds], a buzzword, a sweepstake, to redraw [the districts], to enforce [the law], the legislature, a matter, to sue, a [car] dealer, a backer.

WUWM, Trump and Musk's wasn't enough..:  to back, to flip, endorsement, advocacy, to top, to fuel, a bruising [election cycle], the [national] stakes, a swing state, to cheer, to concede [the race], to take on, to vow, to yell, to cheat, turnout, to supersede [state law], collective bargaining, to end up [redrawing], to sue, a dealership, a private attorney, attorney general, a general counsel, a circuit court [judge], the will [of the people], a megadonor, to endorse, to recuse, to portray, beholden, latitude, to serve [a term of ten years]. W

Caged Bire (20/03/25)
to leap, to dip, to stalk, to be clipped, a trill, a worm, the lawn, a grave.

Afghan Women under the Taliban (08/03/25)
Al Jazeera: timid, a cage, [to take] power, to be banned from [a job], a chaperon, a beauty salon, to take a [huge] toll on [their mental health], a surge, a midwife, a health care provider, [against] a backdrop [of an economic crisis], to struggle with [an issue], to flee fled, a breadwinner, the mindset, gender apartheid, on [gender] grounds, to be committed, to spin, to be on board [with the restrictions], resilient.

BBC News: a decree, to bar [them] from [education], a midwife, to scroll  [down], Freshta: a C-section, labour,  Lima: fake [hope], an overthinker, Zenat: mud, a bakery, a set-up, dough, a batch [of dough], Ala: an outbreak, to be deprived of [education], [to hold on to] a glimmer [of hope], Freshta: to strive, to step out, a brand, Lima: a takeover, MMA, kickboxing, numb, Hela: to bless [us with success], to sponsor [us financially], to stand on our own feet, Iftar feast pictures: [to break their] fast, Iftar, Ala: sheer [necessity], to bear the burden, overwhelming, to be weighed down [by traditions], to sorrow, to deem [worthy of], Arshida: to take over, to be trapped, harsh [reality], resilience, to mirror, Moska: to shatter, to deprive of [learning], to resume [my education] etc.

SNL: US Political & Cultural Satire (04/03/25)
TV Insider: glitchy, deluge, a cameo, cast, to take on [a role], a contentious [meeting], to crash [a party], to kid, a riff, crass [personality], a sequel, an installment, an anchor, meth,a ring, mayhem, damn, [to keep a] straight face, opinionated, an usher.


Catherine of Aragon, Queen Consort of England (24/02/25)
Woman's Hour: be allocated to [other monarchs], fate, to take something in your stride, dowry, an eating disorder, to fast, to bear [a child], pious, a steely [character], submissive, obstinate.

In Our Time: to engage in, formidable [skills], fellow, born to [greatness], a monarch, to lay the foundation, a superpower, the lesser [partner], a throne, a half-sister, resilient, a prime [example], to rally [the troops], [to survive to] adulthood, pious, to betroth [children], [to seek an] alliance, a contested [succession crisis], betrothal, to bolster, a deficient [education], a patron of [humanists], a retinue, pageant, a hood, a gown, pleated, [bands of] cane, to send [him] off, to jeopardize [their childbearing potential], to rake [mercilessly], a maiden, a deeply religious [woman], to consummate [a marriage], dowager [princess], dowry, to be at loggerheads, to befit [a Infanta], in cahoots with [the Queen of England], very vocal, self-assertive, outspoken, to drift, a tussel, her piety, [religious] observant, to fast, Infanta [of Spain], linen, brocade [dresses], a warm and affectionate relationship, to feel warmly to one another, exuberant, athletic, a reassuring [presence], raw, glamour, to joust, joie de vivre, a courtly love [convention], to lay her triumphs at her feet, [to court] mask, to throw off [his disguise], to conduct herself [as Queen], devout, arguably, a relief [army], armour, [to buy] supplies, a bloodied [coat], to sew [banners], domesticated and martial [themes], to push forward [the Spanish] agenda, a beacon [for Spanish interests], wool trade, in a vacuum, to intermarry, weary, a debacle, to stew, the kingdom of Navarre, to add insult to injury, to mutiny, to rebuff [an attempt], an annulment, feisty, to wield [authority], [queen] regnant, to be perturbed, [to become] an issue, more ugly than not, [religious] viability, [not without] precedent, appalling, [royal] dignity, reluctant, more telling, to groom [his illegitimate child], a [royal] bride, a role model, [Spanish] heritage, a treatise, to draw up [a plan of education], to be depicted, her upbringing, a shift, patronage, [to give it a new] spin, the dispensation, double-binding, to dispense [a marriage], determination, to engage with [the best intellects], [to support her] corner, an [intellectual] tussle, Papal [authority], to wrangle [around that], God-given [authority], to take a stand, to be interwoven, scandalous, for the sake of [her daughter], to be vanished, a watershed [moment], a dispute, to have the upper-hand, more poignantly, to repeal [a law], her will, to be addressed, [princess] dowager, discreet life, a manor [house], to command [popular support], to nurse [her daughter], vindictive, a bearing, a cooling [of relations], an uneasy [relation], to gather [support], a moving [letter], a hint [of steel], a concubine, a heartbreaking [sentence], astonishing, appallingly, sense of duty, longevity, regent, to set [the model], uncaring [son], [not a] catch, mean, to pass the buck, to make out, wordy [letters], fury, her misfortunes, he is to blame, a flamboyant [dresser], to offset [the complaints], a [last minute] reversal, a cipher, to quail, [politically] apt, dour, sarcastic, impeccably [dressed], the Field of the Cloth of Gold, a makeshift [city], a [wine] fountain, to herald [lasting peace], an encounter, a wrestling [match], [to go] rough, awkward, to smooth things over, the woodcut, a pomergranate, regalia, a robe, a [queen] regnant.

Diamonds & Rust: Joan Baez and her Relationship with Bob Dylan (11/02/25)

Humour: Amber Marie, Foil Arms & Fog and Big Train (09/02/25)
Amber Marie: a presentation, the book bag, an essay, [it's not my] fault, to take [a test], you guys, just give me a minute!
Foil Arms & Fog: savages, to get on with [something], to welcome [someone], a birthplace [of democracy], to set out [for India], Scots, [the weather was] shit, gold, natural resources.
Big Train: savages, to get on with [something], to welcome [someone], a birthplace [of democracy], to set out [for India], Scots, [the weather was] shit, gold, natural resources.

Best Places to Travel in 2025 (30/01/25)
BBC report: [pink] bubblegum-coloured, to connect, to peer, the edge, a crashing [waterfall], sawtooth [spires], wondrous, to overwhelm, to grapple with [the negative effects], overtourism, a spot, the [cultural] heritage, to compile [a list], to soar, a bucket-list [destination], to trek, glamping. Dominica: a sperm whale, a groundbreaking [commitment to marine conservation], sustainable [tourism], to ease [arrival], to launch [a direct flight], to top [a list], a [hidden] gorge, a towering [waterfall], to feast, an eatery, a burgeoning [model]. Naoshima: polka-dotted, connoisseur, copper, to smelt, stunning, dwindling [population], unveiling of [artwork],  to scatter, one-of-a-kind, an [art] installation. The Dolomites: sawtooth [cliff], to be overwhelmed, a detour, rugged, a limestone [cliff], to sprawl, [Italians] in droves, stick-to-your-ribs [dishes], to be overlooked, to be poised [to change], to be stated [to co-host the Olympics], a ski lift, to enhance [connections to public transit], a cable car, a trail. Greenland: to span [more than 2 millio sq km], an ice cap, unspoiled wilderness, a coveted [geopolitical entity], stunning, spellbinding, dog sledding, a bucket-list [destination], a pledge, a launchpad for [hiking], a waterfront, glamping, a gateway, a jaw-dropping, gorgeous, scenic [green hills], dotted [with sheep farms]. Wales: awe-inspiring, up-and-coming, to showcase, to position [yourself], at the forefront, sustainable. Western Newfoundland and Labrador: mainland, a rugged [region], windswept, a towering [iceberg], to underpin, a boardwalk, a settlement, to enhance, to upgrade. Tucson, Arizona: to mark [an anniversay], a [hiking] trail, squash, to meld, a crop, a staple, edible [cacti], a prickly pear. Western Australia: to play second fiddle, a gateway, an [aviation] hub, to be poised [to become], to span, to encompass, pristine, bubblegum-pink [lakes], towering [forests], a winery, to snap [a selfy], a foraging [tour]. Sri Lanka: misty, a roaming [elephant], rolling [surf], to tick a box, bankrupcy, resilient, to get back on your feet, an oculus, to stargaze, to launch, a coolcation, a mixologist, to put your spin on [arrack], a startup, a tuk tuk. Panama: to hand [control], namesake, a waterway, to hint at [a possibility], to reseize, timely, to weave, lush, to boost, staggering. Rif Mountains: snowcapped [mountains], sweeping, [cultural] heritage, an earthquake, a medina, an [almond] grove, cedar, craggy [peaks], unwinding, white-washed. Bradford: to be poised [to step out], a mill, a brass band, an array of  [warehouses], a moor, rugged, an accolade. Jordan: breathtaking, stunning, to weave [through], rust, to be teeming with, illusive, to dwell, a gorge, to dive. Haa Valley, Bhutan: mesmerising, erstwhile [kingdom], nestled, pristine, graze, a bid for [visitors], canopy, a [bamboo] grove, a homestay, a glimpse. Hawaii: to devastate, a downturn, to embody, stewardship. Uzbekistan: to take over, to strive [to maintain], a startup. Haida Gwaii, Canada: off the coast, groundbreaking, [envisonmental] stewardship, a murrelet, to underscore. Emerald Coast, Nicaragua: mist-shrouded [rainforests], set [to be completed], a sprawling [capital], a [surf] hub, to lure in [backpackers], ridley, a leatherback [turtle]. Isle of Man: to be ringed, a cliff-fringed [island], Manx, brew, to partake, myriad, craggy [coastlines], a trekker, a wind-whipped [summit]. Gilgi-Baltistan, Pakistan: a slew [of initiatives], a coveted [trekking visa], a glance, to be dubbed, to brim with [lush valleys], pristine, cradled, a [cherry] blossom, an [apricot] orchard, undulating, to venture. Azores: marrooned [in the ocean], a [steaming] hot-spring, sparkling, to boast, a coral reef, a boon, eager, a scenic [drive], to hop your way, bubbling, lush, a [leisurely] stroll, bonafide. Kansas City, Missouri: a glow-up [year], heretofore, barbeque, slated [to open], renovations, an upgrade. Bolivia: to stargaze, a salt flat, to sip, a booming [town], an up-close [look], a capybara, a cougar, a macaw. Botswana: to be hailed as [a leader], high-income, to usher in [a new government], a cache, to bolster [tourism], to grant [free entry], a wetland, a cheetah, savannah, a [luxury] lodge, a blend, mokoro, an armchair safari, an owl. Oslo: tongue-in-cheek, to nod, overetourism, to sully, to showcase, to lure [visitors], [organic] produce. 

Almodóvar's Gaze at Life & Death ( 19/01/25)
to make out to [somebody], to draw [a crowd], to run into [somebody], a guinea pig, in [good] spirits, to give up, to forgo [treatment], to get along, to swap, to take over, [to be] over, to be high [on drugs], to carve out [an abyss], rehab, to ease [his conscience], to track down, to be trapped, to pass out, a nuisance, to stop by, to be [right] over, to feel obliged, to be infatuated, to devote [time to somebody], an alley, to let [somebody] down, to keep [somebody] company, an opioid, to settle in, to impose [something on somebody], defeatist, bullshit, [what's the] point [in doing something?], a terrible fear of [death], to be confused, to be in touch, to flirt, a blood count, to fill [somebody] in with [information], a caretaker, to misplace [something], the skyline, hassle, [I] got it, a chemo brain, to be spared [something], to budge [from something], to waste away, unacceptable [behaviour], unbearable, [to be] one of a kind, to be winded, a lawsuit, the life of the party, to rush [in], to fend off, looming [thoughts of death], spell, a rehearsal, to act out [all things], here you go, a will, chilly, a downer, [a topic] to come up [in a conversation], to mutter, a coward, blitzed, appalled, a miscarriage, death throes, a scavenger, teethering, to fade away, a patch, the specifics, faith, to aid, to abide [in], the charges, an attorney, an asshole, a [religious] fanatic, sorry for your loss, to pack up, here you go, an estranged [child], to be hard on yourself, dawn.

Celebrities Lose their Homes in LA Wildfires (12/01/25) 
BBC News: wildfire, to rage, a sibling, to toast, devastation, Pacific Palisades, a burnt-out [house], to acknowledge, to burn down, and whatnot, to turn it off, to make do, heiress, heartbreak, indescribable, a beachfront [home], ash, a statement, hazard, to be under threat, to raise a child, a hit [show], gossip, [fire] to take over, a blaze, a livable [house], to grieve, a razed [property], to grab, to flee, a gnarly [situation], a fellow [actor], to pledge [money] to [fire] relief, smouldering [ruins], [to start] from scratch, a heavy heart, [on the] bluffs,a devastating [scene], [wind] to howl. 

Inside Story (YouTube video): a smoldering [house], to raise [children], to come to terms with, charred, wreckage, the shell [of his car], to flee/ fled, numb, to be gutted, a bearded dragon, to ravage [a neighbourhood], to make it, to be on fire, concrete, foundation, [to feel] fortunate, by sheer [luck].

Marianela Núñez, Ballerina (03/01/25)
a todler, to pursue [a dream], to rise through the ranks, the [company] repertoire,  infectious [joy], to grab [the bar], emotional, the opening night, a [new] production, an [extra] buzz, to come down, bouquet, to go along with [that], to sew [shoes], spoilt, ribbons, darning, toes, the dressing room, neat, layers, a shawl, meticulousness, a track, to contain [myself], homesick, [ice in your] veins, this drive, talent, a stay-at-home mum, [to go to] uni, to fulfil [his dream], shaky, extra [energy], gruelling, my bun, a duvet, to shift, [any word won't come] close, a customary [quinceañera], to audition, [to make] a buzz, [main] roles, a [major] shock, to be all over the place, to focus [on that], to mime, Blockbuster [store], snobby, to go up to the roof, vulnerable, a solo [role], bumpy, promotions, [enough room] to fit in, a curtain call, a run [of Don Quijote], foamy, to check on [her], [red] lipstick, to overthink, total [pleasure], incredible, partnership, to give the tools [for that], intense [jobs], a debut, to work out, fiery [people], to stay [really good friends], to call [a role], [part of my heart] stayed there, to reshape [the roles], [to find new] layers, to live through [the COVID pandemic], clichéd, to count on [me], [my] security blanket, a [gas] leak, to pick up the pieces, to give it all, to cast [you] away, to fend for yourself, to be called upon [stage], a hectic [life], my me-time, a rehearsal, an [exquisite] companion, solace, to encapsulate, the audiences.

Words of the Year 2024, in the UK, USA and Australia (31/12/24)
Oxford English Dictionary: brain rot, demure, slop, dynamic pricing, romantasy, lore, to endorse, rizz, brat. 
Cambridge English Dictionary: to manifest, wellness, to endorse, to look up [a word], to spike, demure, brat, goldilocks.
Collins Dictionary: brat, messy, to resonate with [people], dumb, a breakdown, blunt, to outline, strappy, bra, a seal of approval, to be shortlisted, delulu, looksmaxxing, rawdogging, anti-tourism, supermajority, to make the cut.
Merriam-Webster Dictionary: to highlight, sharp, to date back to [1800s], to split [apart], MAGA, to be decried, totality, demure, fortnight, pander, to spike, a [conservative news] outlet, to resonate, allision, weird, to lob [back], cognitive, [to put] the spotlight [on something].
Macquarie Dictionary: enshittification, to sum up, to deem [someting offensive], cozzie livs, to coin [a word], shrinkflation, right to disconnect (RDD), rawdogging, to stem from, a long-haul [flight], brain rot, social battery, fairy porn, incidentaloma, looksmaxxing, kup murri, overtourism, Q-day, pig-butchering, a scammer, rent bidding, a sigma, skibidi, spoon bowl, colesworth, derogatory.

Best Movies 2024 (29/12/24)
News Hour: to draw to a close, a gem, wicked, [quite] a ride, twists and turns, a stuntman, a rom-com, to go through [cruel things], in terms of, compelling, the cast, sibling, a mock [government].

Time Out (entries 1 to5): a well-trodden [subject], cursed, a coming-of-age [journey], lopsided [visions], a riff, lusty, bonkers, blockbuster, a sequel, a [hot] streak, ludicrous, a starry [cast], sandworms, an awe-inspiring [movie], flooring, to sob, undercurrents, screwball [comedy], a riot, to hustle, dumb, to woo, big bucks, to cue, whirlwind, to spin [out of control], mirthful [style].

The Guardian (entries 1 to 10): a portrayal, chilling, pin-sharp, a dreamlike [tale], an absorbing [story], an escort, to betray, bratty, a captivating [film], lovelorn, to plunder, bizarre, hilarious, a cantankerous [teacher], to hole up, a wayward [teen], to track.

Best Wildlife Photographers and (Silly) Pictures, 2024 (19/12/24)
The Guardian report: record-breaking [59,228 entries], an exhibition, a tadpole, a swarm, to snorkel, a lily pad, a stonechat bird, hefty, tricky, ownership, to roll [a log] over, to fruit, [slime] mould, a springtail, a split second, focus stacking, to mirror, a spot, a [camera] trap, a prey, an [elusive] lynx, fungi, gnarled, a birch tree, a lichen, a timeless [beauty] etc.

NPR article: a lynx, a tadpole, a swarm, a lily pad, to lay [in wait], to track [animals], to set up, [camera] traps, to frame, a shot, to seize the moment, to stretch, to wrestle, a yacare caiman, a falcon, underwater, to narrow down, to be featured, a venue, to spark [creation], to coil itself, a snout, to snorkel [painstakingly], a lily pad, silt, to dodge, stunning, to hatch, wetlands, to rally [the community together] etc.

USA Today report: a squirrel, [stuck], to stick, smooching, owlets, to highlight, a compromising [position], a [tree] hole, hind [legs], a statement, a raucous [laughter], to be shortlisted, ecstatic, to narrow down, a standalone [photograph], to showcase etc.

World Nature Photography Awards: hired, waterproof, a gannet, to dive into [water], anglerfish, a reef, a cheetah, a herd, a topi, dotted [across the valley], to cling [onto a foal], to launch, iconic [iguanas], a lizard, to bask, etc.

"Veneradas y Temidas" in Caixaforum Zaragoza (09/12/24)
Video introduction to the exhibition: curator, to display, femininity,a deity, beliefs, faiths, to depict [in Art], bigendered, genderless, to honour [these deities], commonalities and contrasts, to run through [these themes], a [faith] community, a playwright, to prompt [questions], to tune in, to hand back [to Belinda], an artwork, a pioneering [artist], a multi-layered [narrative], sacred artefacts, vulva, to drag, to spin out, the cycle of life,  [deliberately] provocative, Abrahamic [narrative], an unapologetically [feminist perspective], second wave feminist, [celebratory] imagery [associated with childbirth], visceral, crude, flexed [knees], labia, a carving, [artworks] on display, lust, emaciated, to trace [the interpretentions], [stories] revolve around, to transcend [gender], a print, Shinto, to stir [the primordial water], to bob [its tail], to embody [natural phenomena], to encapsulate, fiery [temper], to flow [like lava],rough/ polished texture, a dual/ multifaceted [nature], unpredictable, volatile, crossovers [between the sections],  [female] agency, nudity, a relief, yuxtapositions, to epitomize the [male] gaze, to cover up, to avert [her gaze], to wield [power], rage, to worship, to underscore [other aspects], to mint [a coin], to honour [Venus], a shockingly [erotic image], [who is] in control [of her  power], earthbound, stiff, demonology, to submit [to Adam], to lie [underneath Adam], defiance, to wreak [havoc], cast [from a body], crouched, on all fours, to embellish, temptress,  [seemingly] blameless [Adam], to underscore [innate female deviousness, [women's] collusive [responsibility],  courtship, a cowherd, evil, esoteric [knowledge], to encapsulate, 
 an icon of [feminist rebellion], to reinterpret, hunched [over], [the male] gaze, assertive [figure], to be tamed, to clutch [the chalice], [to have] the upper-hand, a deceptively [seductive figure], to look down her nose, witchcraft, voyeuristic, Sabbath, to epitomize, lust, to poke fun at, surrealist [artist], folk [belief], [feminity] to imbue [the natural world], to draw on [a standard belief], to transgress, demons, vengeance, an ogre, grief, a sage, anger, jealousy, to encapsulate, furrowed brows, [emotional] turmoil, despair, annihilation, slaughter, wrath, to be venerated, to offset, to wipe them off [the planet], to rampage, harshness, to dye [beer red] Puja [celebrations], fearlessness, [demonic] hordes, to defeat [demons], enraged, emanations, to confront and overcome [injustice], compassion, to sever [her followers from greed, envy, ego], the Savior, [to guide] the faithful [to salvation], a striking [piece], straws, a shimmering [effect], a pilgrimage [site], straw mosaic, a calligraphy [work], upbringing, unshakeable fortitude, a role model, compassion, canonically, to lessen [her importance], an enlightened [being], goddess [of compassion], perceiver [of sound], genderless, wisdom, to be venerated, embodiment, to overcome [a vice], karma, a [fully meditative] pose, [a subject of contention, seductiveness, sensuous,  alluring, curvaceous, draped [in silks], jewels, nirvana.

Written prologue to the exhibition: sneak peek, belief, artwork, to shine [a light], femininity, a goddess, annihilation,  embodiment, to showcase, primordial, vulva, to grasp, a breast, needleworkers, depiction, a deity, a goddess, a [reddish] hue, fiery[nature], flaming [hair], to flow [down], a rough/ polished texture,  dual [nature], a relief, to stare [confidently and confrontationally], a [lion] mount, a tiered [crown] volatile, votive [models], to assert [her equality], defiance, to cast [the image from a real woman], piercing, lifelike, to crouch, on all fours, a [voyeuristic] gaze, to permeate [mythology], to defy [expectations of female submission], empowerment, bulging [eyes], a glyph, slaughter, to withhold [her wrath], to grant [healing and peace], scorching, to set up, garland, severed [heads], fearlessness, compassion, karma, enlightened [being], to fan out, to transcend [gender], androgynous, swiftly, to spring [into action], wrathful emanations.

Today radio report: a goddess, a she-devil, a saint, a witch, to be betrayed, a blood-thirsty warrior, divine, demonic, to be installed, a gargoyle, a bronze [sculpture], to crawl, [about] to pounce, attached to [the wall], [female] defiance, [to refuse] to submit [to Adam], the Garden of Eden, happily ever after, to rebel, depiction, faiths and mythologies, a [painted] terracotta, dating [from 500 BC], snake-like [hair], fangs, to 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], gratitude, to put up with [a lot of stuff], to range from, an orgasm [machine], to impress [my bosses], [everyday sexual] harassment, micro-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] patriarchy, to 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): lash, awashed, disrupted, bracing [for], heavy [rain], to wash away, flooded [streets], [animal] rescue, to clear up, to step out, wellington boots,  a tsunami, clearance, to burst its banks, sheer [quantity of rain], to fare, travails, to be prompted, drought. In Simon Lewis: fossil fuel [emissions], [extreme  weather] events, moisture, downpours, the bigger picture, to withstand, a heat wave, a backlash, harsh, to get to grips [with].


Petra, the Treasury of the Nabatean Civilization (08/10/24)
BBC video clip: a nomad, incense, a treasury, breathtaking, carved, a frieze, a tomb, a façade, a jar, shooting, a [solar] disc, a horn, a statement. 

Episode 1:a trail,to forge, harsh [conditions], swallowed up, to thrive, a clue, to delve [deep] into, to carve, a gorge, a threshold to [a city], a treasury, breathtaking, exquisite, 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 magnet, pottery, a shard, a karat, a whiff, frankincense, myrrh, off the beaten track, to eat your heart out, to dig, a shovel, brooding [rock], unrelating, impressive, a deity, to worship, a stepping stone, a scarf, a drought, a date, a dromedary, a one humped camel, an insight.

Episode 2: a bubbling [mountain], massive, a towering [monument], a clue, a stonemason,a façade, a burial, to carve, a clean-cut [appearance], to chisel, smooth, a forerunner [of Arabic], thrilling, a nerd, to overlook [the trade route], a grid-like [system], to kick off, a lawn mower, bumpy, a timeline, to [hit] gold, skyscape, to make [somebody] tick, an artefact, a headdress, a thrill, awe-inspiring, grinding, resourceful, a priestess, to round up [our knowledge].

Article: to dwell, to span, to be crowned, to carve, a tomb, a sandstone, to delve into.

U.S. Presidential Campaign: Issues, Polls and Fakes (12/09/24)
Highlights of the presidential debate: the gloves were off, grievances, to punch [back], the stakes [are high], [to be locked in] dead heat, to get away with [something], to be fired, [to get] heated, the GOP, hence, to factcheck, to 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] polls, to hold back, to 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], liable, weaponization, to 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], blatant, to downplay [the comment], a hacktivist [group], backlash, a [tech] mogul, to groove, to sync [to the music], to caption, to poke fun at [critics], witty, banter, to 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: a hookup, a trend, a single, a hotspot, to picture, to cruise, , the [wine] aisle, upside-down, a cart, a fling, to sneak, gazpacho, quirky, to trade, a swipe, to peel, a bump. 

The Gates Foundation (23/08/24)
a [college] drop-out, a super-villain, his ethos, to take on [issues], child-mortality rates, to feed [that enthusiasm], malaria, diarrhea, pneumonia, to partner with [governments], a mind-blowing [successful advent], [to organise] the funding, goofy [things], Slow-Horses, to fit in [exercise], pickleball, a low-key [interest], billionaireland, community [work], a [company] board, Planned-Parenthood, voracious, your niche, a flair for [programming], noughts & crosses, entranced, a [computer] bug, a payroll [programme], a [school] schedule, [to minimize] the disruption, endearing [level of complexity], a grade, hardcore, to reach out to [somebody], a [growing] buzz, exponential [capability], a spreadsheet, to drop out [of university], a fond [memory], to linger on well-trodden ground, a managerial [role], a  mistep, work-centric, commitment, to jump in, empowerment, an evangelist, monomaniacal, to mellow [you out], to overturn, to drag on, to get through, to figure out, to devote [time to something], [to change] the narrative, measles, smallpox, bednets, the chair [of a company], to strike me as [strange], mindset, developing countries, malnourished, to wield [that power], Gavi, a high bar, TB, at the forefront, expertise on [vaccines], an outlandish [conspiracy theory], to cull [the world population], a shortcut, to step down, debt, a [political] upheaval, to 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 off, to hail, [fully] deserved, to win [over England], to beat [every other European nation], a [teenage] sensation, an assist, to be tipped [for glory], midfield, a winger, the opener, to net [the winner], to set up [a goal], the brand, a midfielder, a dissenting [voice], to quieten, to come off [the bench], a squad, a centre-back, [much-]maligned, a left-back, bits 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": annihilation, highlights, [in three] straight [sets], to retain, the build-up, almighty, tussle, to flip [the script], off-colour, relentless, to get his teeth stuck into, a tie-break, to blink, upwards of [15 Slams], a flawless [performance], to underscore, the Open Era, a feat, arguably, to outplay, ominously, hamstring, [to get] on top of [something], clay.

Optus Sport: "A zestful football nation celebrates the Eurocup": yet again, a zestful [football nation], show business, crestfallen, the length and breadth [of something], to kick off [fiesta], heartbreak, overall, to lift a gear, [to take] momentum, passing, deservedly, the subs, a [great] delivery, the finish, a cohort, tough [times], in the making, crucially, to give away, willingly, to rattle off, [truly] outstanding, grimly [familiar], by hook or by crook, [cruelly] elusive, to bring to the table, an equalizer, resilient.

Ariane-6 (09/07/24)
BBC Radio 4 interview to Kate Underhill: a heavy-lift [rocket], [observation] tools, a propulsion [engineer], a launch, intricacies, to underpin, Galileo GPS positioning systems, a [heavy-lift] launcher, low-earth orbit, to deliver [cargo], the Equator, an earthquake, [no] issue, strategic, various [different satellites], the global positioning system, confidence.

BBC News, "Rocket blasts off on maiden flilght": to blast off, maiden [flight], to set off, a launchpad, a clutch of [satellites], a crew, to soar [into the sky], smoothly, onboard, to pressurise [the propulsion system], to set up [the final task], to jettison, nonetheless, relieved, a heavy-lift [rocket], fairing, [upper] stage, booster, a payload, a workhorse [rocket], a backlog [of contracts], expendable, reusable, to carve out a niche [for itself], to harness, state-of-the-art [manufacturing techniques], friction stir welding, augmented reality [design], to result in [faster and cheaper production], to lift, a strap-on booster, core [stage], a [large] batch [of satellites], to pull [itself] back [down to Earth], to linger, [space] junk, to hold up [the Ariane-6 programme], [high] jeopardy, an outright [failure], to blow itself apart, to put [the loss] down to [an error], dominance, to 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: a landslide [majority], a seat, to declare [a result], a tally, a gap, the share [of the vote], to plummet, to return [an MP], a constituency, the turnout. 

BBC News: the gap between votes and MPs: a gap, share [of vote], to prompt, blatantly, flawed, first-past-the-post [electoral system], roughly [equal], a grandee, to boost, a hung parliament, to exact [a price].
 
"Cloistered", a Former Nun Talks about her Life in a Monastery (01/07/24)
cloistered, to be at rock bottom, to revolve around, to deprive of [something], to weave, to bounce off, gosh, hermit, monasticism, to draw [to], an arty [household], to go downhill, angst, hammer blow, bereavement, to be devastated, utterly [static], self-denial, the [monastic] rule, a matraque, a rattle, avant-garde, to plumb [the depths], a manor [house], rambling, an outbuilding, stained-glass [windows], a flagstone, derelict, bare, stark, drafty, [windows] to rattle,a meadow, lino, distemper, a rite of passage, accoutrement, to trigger, to be dragged down, serge, encumbered, to stab, to tuck up, to glimpse, grille, to set up yourself as [different], a threshold, to lure, [to take] a vow, a prioress, [to give] carte blanche, free rein, a clique, coterie, a breakdown, to take it out on [somebody phisically], tempers [flying], to be carted, to crack up, bruised, to withhold, [to reach] breaking point, buoyancy, two-edged, a [peaceful] vibe, to simmer, to seethe, to flap, to bottle up [questions], buzzy [people], a rupture, a rift, flawed, a retreat, to be frowned upon.

Chimpanzees Seek Out Medicinal Plants & Iberian Lynxes Recover (21/06/24)
 to seek out, a lead [researcher], to tick, wounds, to go out of their way, rare, super [exciting], [plant] samples, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, to expand, [medicinal] repertoire, to clutch [your stomach], to sneeze, to cough, respiratory [infection], non-invasive, [abnormal] metrics, to quantify [parasites], neophobic, to raise alarm bells, [next] wave, self-medication, a step [to start from], [specific pharmaceutical] compounds, to pinpoint, a [fast] recovery.

Dalí's Moustache (14/06/24)
BBC News: playful, bold, an [artistic] statement, bizarre, a dreamlike [image], flamboyantly, lustrous, whiskers, fittingly, a date, depressing, gay, a wax, a [splendid] upturn, to plough on, gravity-defying [facial hair], to droop down, brisk, to be captivated, cartoonishly [waxed], to sport, hirsute, to embody, [carefully] crafted, shamelessly, a logo, to curl, to bedeck, a [visual] cue, to blur [the boundary], eager, stunned, to embalm. 

What's my Line?/ YouTube: costuming, blindfolded, [to keep] score, folks, self-employed, a performer, a leading [man], misleading, eminence, an exploit, germane [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 ceremony, to strike upon, a conference, to 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-up, to fall short of [a majority], infamous, to reach out [to somebody], steadfast [support], to have a say, a portfolio, to implement [key policy changes]. 

AP News (Mexico): a ruling [party], to concede, to break through [200 years of male governments], to go down in history, to break [a longstanding] ceiling, harsh [conditions].

Aljazeera (South Africa): to surpass, a ballot, ruling, short of [a majority], turn out, to cast [a vote], allocation, a [Parliament] seat, [members of Parliament] to be sworn in, the speaker [of Parliament], to ensure, smooth [transition of power], poor [performance], to rule out [a coalition], to sack, a crackdown, to step down, to appoint, to take over, impeachment, to make up, remaining, to comprise.

BBC News (South Africa charts): [to go to the] polls, a power cut, an opinion poll, to herald, to fall steadily, a high water mark, a survey, to drop below [50%], GDP [per capita], a downward [trend], income, well-off, to mismanage, to be buffeted, a spike [in prices], a household, a driver [of inequality], to hit [young people] hard, to pledge, to tackle [crime], an assault, rape, to wage [a war against women], load shedding, a respite, to blight, outage, to disrupt, a draw, to target, a scapegoat, to 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] bead, to chant, a whisper, to enhance, [to be] rooted, a quest, enlightenment, to conduct [a study], to trigger [anxiety], to glow, mild, to shed [a fearful response], a [brain] scan, an MRI scan, to rely on [someting], a headband, rife [with stress], to strive [to apply it], a wispy [beard], assault, wrestling, flustered.

NPR (mindfulness): loudspeaker, to cope with, packed, to hang out, to catch up, [apple] strudel, a wrapper, a [banana] peel, to line [the kids] up, to assemble, [your body is] still, to focus, homelessness, increasingly [popular], to shrink [the brain], a trait, to enhance [well-being], to show up [in school], forgiveness, to fidget, to let [that] go, to relieve [stress], to take it out on [somebody], an assignment, to draw on [something], to distill [the teachings], to tune into [sounds], to handle [sense awareness], to be dragged [around] [by their thoughts], [to feel] empowered, to scale up, a [shark] fin, to shape up [well], to hug, to high-five, to applaud, to have a hard time.

"Dear Life", by Alice Munro (1931- 2024) (16/05/24)
to pull off, rickety, a mill race, contempt, unsoiled, a Highland fling, clicking [shoes], to dig [dug, dug], a well, to drill, to honk, to summon, shuddering, a crinkly [smile], a [drinking] pail, a trapline, an [animal] pen, a hayfield, to cull [animals], manure, to tell on [somebody], jolly, to dawn on [somebody], to dwindle, downsloping,a cedar [tree], troll, a miscarriage, a flurry, a dumbwaiter, hemstitching, to pelt [the foxes], a downturn, molten [metal], a [metal] mold, to buckle down to [something], to cram [my head with knowledge], a quavery [voice], a hatchet, to wring [clothes], a misgiving, to keep tabs on [somebody/ something], to grab, to tilt, clatter, a haphazard [way], to wedge, to bang, to rattle, distraught, to stare, a [wild] grin, a [river] flat, to 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 life, to spot [somebody].

Met Gala 2024: Stunning Images & a Fake (08/05/24)
Met Gala, celebrities: eye-catching, groundbreaking,a theme, a string [of stars], A-listers, to stun, an outfit, to accessorise, a gown, to split, down low, to bloom, backless, a column [dress], embroidered, a [floral] pattern, to blossom, a spot, archery, to hand [it to somebody], a bow, an arrow, velvet, a peony, archival, to branch out, an overhaul, a corseted [dress], a georgette, a tulle, [to bring up to] date, a headpiece, hawthorn, glowing, turquoise, a [tulle] cape, to be overjoyed, pouring [rain], a bob [hairstyle], arched , bubble, a ponytail, a bouquet, to yank, a rapper, custom [Maison-Margiela], threading, a pinstripe, the flax [plant], to prick [your finger], a roll, [non-stick] tinfoil, can't hold a candle, an appliqué, a gemstone, a vine, to nail [it], sparkly, [sequined] fabric, a marigold, to settle for [something], peckish, [to be] draped [in a cloak], a raven, to dazzle, a stem, to ditch, to coordinate [with gloves], to toss aside, soaking [wet], oversized, seemingly, to pour, to steal the show, to zoom in [on something], avant-garde, a [tail] train, a [floral] motif, a sketch, to channel, to team up, taffeta, iridescent, a baby bump, to sport, ruffled, a crop top, wicked, a smash hit, scattered, to craft [a dress], bespoke, bouffant, a corset, to pair with, sheer, lace, trim [with flowers], an understatement, strapless, couture, a bugle, boudoir, to spruce up, lacy, bedazzled, polka-dot [gloves], a [feather] boa, to spring, an encore, a vibe.

Katy Perry Fake Image video: to turn out, flowery, to fool, tricked, a clue, to zoom in on [the background], celebs, to target [voters], to heighten [tensions], to fan [flames], offline, unrest, to put [something] to the test, sleuthing.

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 span, ticked off, unpack, underdog, compelling, to suck me in, corny, unhinged, to toss around, to hearken, samey, [synth-pop] beats, [first] arc, opus [fatigue], to buckle under [their own weight], grievance, a [public] darling, a bop, hype, jock jams, defiance, catchy, snippet, to rep [for an artist], zany [sense of humour], [send your head into a] tailspin, to stink, to gasp, to stand the test of time, clunky, to wrack your brain [around this record], to scroll [across the page], scathing, to rip [everything] down, bleachers [warmer], to kick in, to finagle, to wield [power], stealthily, to winnow down to, [high] kicks, to epitomize, cheeky, boppy, to groove, to mess [her] up, a full-blown [message], to hint, [teenage] petulance, a tantrum, to scold, to cater for [vipers], empath's clothing, taken aback, to 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 sample, to raise [money], to swap, malbec, merlot, to blind taste, to stash, to take up [a challenge], vintage, pinot noir, hazy, tipsy, a sip, to swallow, the wheels came off, a feat, to lull, fizz, chardonnay, sangiovese, to span, sprawling, vineyards, to be up for [doing something], bizarre, packed [with polyphenols] mitochondria, to tame, to impair, to deplete [energy], to down.

The Irrational Biases that Create Anxiety in the Age of Information Overload (17/04/22)
gluttonous, [cognitive] dissonance, to square, confirmation bias, sunk-cost fallacy, to fulfill, to serve [me], to double down [on something], to stick around, to engineer, zeitgeist, clash, cognitive bias, deep-rooted, a [mental] trick, [a term] was coined, a saber-toothed tiger, [existential]   pain, innate, onslaught [of information], to catch up with, to overthink, to underthink,   worldly, nurturing, to align with [our political beliefs], to jump to the conclusion, gregarious, a role model, the halo effect, to prompt [us to do something], disfigurement, parasocial [relationships], to set [everyone] up for [failure], to uplift, to mend, to dethrone [them], a fallible [human being], [parent-child] attachment, superfan [relationship], to trace [something back to the early 1980s], to turn out, [the lines] to blur, an outsider, a [new] paragon, to swerve, the stan, to long [for role models], ruthless, a surrogate mother, a slim [margin of error], to be transfixed, to crack [my world open], a malapropism, to cut my teeth [as a writer], a crash course in [feminist sociolinguistics], it is our penchant [to think], lore, ad nauseam, low-stakes, a factoid, a double-edged sword, nefarious [intentions], a buzzword, manifest, healing wounds, to dovetail, a stock [of expressions], a grifter, to put dissonance to bed, a mindset, an edgy [point], to boil down to, a bunch of, random, a misfortune, over-the-top, freak, to crave, to hold accountable, the  outcome, sketchy, grifty, culty, gainfully,  bespoke, vernacular, an op-ed, doomslang, numb, doomscrolling, bed-rotting, demise, small talk, blasé, doomy, grounded, detrimental, screech owls, doomsayers, the rapture, ennui, harrowing, a coping [mechanism], to get through, grassroots, to reckon with [something], wisdom, daydreaming, overthinky panic, awe, quaint, [brains] are wired for, DIY, easier said than done, a disorder, the attention span, to shrink, to scroll [through her feed], zero-sum [bias], to clock, stiff [competition], clout, nemesis, aka, a compound, haywire, to indoctrinate, chills, a tenet, a kink, sunk-cost, MAGA, a zealot, blackout, to cling to [something], a glut [of something], tradwives, anemoia, hardcore, a back-to-basics [style], cottagecore, tchotchkes, toadstool, delulu, to be soothed, a backfire [effect], doomed, verbatim, declinism, to stomach. 

25 Best Dresses on Amazon in 2024 (09/04/24)
cute, bajillion, fab, pricey, meh, a retailer, stylish, a maxi [dress], BTW, upcoming, just because, a round-up, clutch, flowy, an outfit, a pick, button down, satin, strapless, sleeveless, bodycon, a tube [dress], halter neck, ruffle, chiffon, plus size, V neck, a wrap [dress], ballet flats, balletcore, to thrive, peep, knee-high [boots], a tab, a dive, lil, petite, fabric, to zhuzh up, oversized, button-up, to pair with [a blazer], kitten heels, a stiff [fit], a [last-minute] get up, a must-have, closet, aka, LBD, a vibe, a theme, slinky [fabric], a mock [neck design], ruching, some punch, stretchy, to fit the bill, to throw on [a blazer], a knit [cardigan], a laid-back [outfit], elastane, a breezy [fabric], [fully] lined, hack, silhouette, a [supportive] fit, a hit or a miss, [a belt] to sit [on your waist], to mess up, cohesiveness, a lightweight [fabric], to flag, flirty, a slip [dress], spandex, vintage, stand collar, 3/4 sleeve, a plaid [dress], BFFR, a staple [work dress], to cut off [a few inches], ofc, to rave about, stretchiness, comfortability, IDK, profesh, cozy, off shoulder, an [evening] gown, panty, gorgeous, floor-length, ahem, hi, a draping [skirt], a [high] slit, glowing, to conform [to your body], to rock [a dress], a [fancy] gathering, a bridal shower  [dress], PSA, JSYK, a feat, bump, roomy, a tank swing [dress], ASAP, athleisure, a crew neck, tie-dye, pickleball, a split [dress], gorge, cozy, frumpy, comfy, alluring, batwing, a snug [fit], to shrink, boho, striped, flimsy, crisp, smocked [back], puff [sleeves], gingham, sleek, wrinkle-free, to cling [to the body], to dress up/ to dress down, buttery, seamless, 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] lightly, ALS, to 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 seed, to march, an advocate, to tie [to], a strike, a tsar, a blossom, the legacy, a trailblazer, to highlight, gender violence, an allegation, rape, to ban, to hinder, to defy [the rules], lengthy jail terms, to be abducted, a ransom, wellbeing.

BBC, 100 Women 2023: to reveal, attorney, a wildfire, a flood, to tackle, to break down, overwhelming, to dismantle, a shepherdess, a yak, to die out, a flock, barter, bias, to be fired, to raise an issue, to freeze [he eggs], procedure, to take [the hospital] to court, the verdict, pending, to rally [K-pop fans], to pivot, a pledge, to prevent [the hospital] from [treating patients], to raid [a hospital], a target, to follow in her footstepts, early menopause, [ovarian] failure, to launch, a network, to grow up in [Oklahoma], to shun [a corporate career], to pursue [her passion], to enroll in [a school], a clientele, a brand, to encompass, a midfielder, to be crowned, to speak out [for equality], to be overshadowed, the fallout, the burgeoning [indigenous rights movement], to vow [to make], illiterate, to wreak on [an ecosystem], lead [actress category], to flee [violence], a sandstorm, grassroots, outskirts, to juggle, to set up, endangered, eroded, to downgrade, to address [a crisis], the mainstream, a seasoned [organisation], floods, deforestation, forestry, logging, at-risk [wildlife], rampant, poaching, to 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 broadcaster, daffodils, a leek, wondrous, [to travel] far and wide, scores of [religious communities], [his] remains, to settle, to be canonized, the Pope, a parade, to pin [an emblem] to the lapel, reliable, lavish, a host of [events], heritage, a costume, to spot, a banner, a procession, to head down to [the Hayes], a rousing [rendition], a shindig, a [food] stall, cookery, arts and crafts, a [daffodil] dash, an outpouring, a random, a bake off, to fuel [it] out, homemade, a settlement, [to bring out] the bunting, undulating, 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 holiday, unlike, to mark [the day], a feast, a cliff,  fierce, a nun, a claim, to found [a monastery], [a Cathedral] to stand, to host, a parade, a leek, a helmet, a dish, cawl, bara brith, to 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 off, to blend, to perform, a venue, legacy, a god, to accompany, a hit, to approach, incredible,a gypsy, a Jew, a Muslim, a mixture, a lineup, a grand finale, a marvel.

AM New York:to kick off, legacy, to feature, to honor, undeniably, to fuse, stage, to give [his brother] a shot, to surround, to joke [about], humble, a [character] trade, [to be] grateful, [his main] goal, amazing, touching, to pass away, an award, to mourn, to be overwhelmed, super [full of anguish], cheerful, upcoming [events],[de Lucía's] kids, to attend.

"Flowers" by Miley Cyrus on Valentine's Day (14/02/24)
chart-topping, cover, release, a refresher, the chorus, empowering, to wallow, to fake, to make [it], to rebuff [the idea], [album] rollout, to be littered [with something], clues, the craft, to trick, to set [something] on fire, on 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 roar, to scale up, to spot, to weave, an animatronic [sculpture], a cloak, striking, an installation, to herald, auspicious, a myriad, ferocious [splendour], reminiscent, to pose [for photos], cute, on display, to bestow, blessing, a beast, to soar [skyward], a roundabout, a lantern, to put up, to share, to grace, to toil, repurposed, an attire, lightbulbs, Styrofoam, to embody, community spirit, a rendition, handcrafted, to debut, an outsize [version], a performance, vibrant, to perch, greetings, formidable, a mid-vault, to leap over, a waterfall, polyfoam, fibreglass, a resort, insta-worthy, to whip out [their phones], to slay, a pairing, to adorn, troops, overhead, to set [Chinatown] aglow, to launch, festive [lights]. larger-than-life, to be fitted, to snap [shots], a showcase.

Grammys 2024: Highlights & Lowlights (05/02/24)
a bang, gracious, an even-handed [night], to scoop, the highlights, the lowlights, the takeaways, a feat, hazy, a dream-scrubbed [collection of songs], box office, to boost, to prompt, to stem from, keen, a standing ovation, raw, painfully, an aneurysm, to catch a dusky [vocal tone], laden with [significance], moving, a medley, to shroud, a frisson, a burst, to fizzle out, to fling [around], an escapee, wrestling, off-script, allotted [time], wide-ranging, ramble, off the bat, to reminisce, a sippy cup, to joke, to snub, to embarrass, to stun [the audience], a disorder, stiffness, limbs, to resume, alt-rock, delusional, to pick up, sold out, to step up, thoroughly, soaked, to embroil, [to close] the gap, to figure out, to attend, to put pen to paper, a cave, a caveman, torture, a coup, to duet, to tempt, to cover, a signature [song], haunting, to pick out [the riff], to grin, off-mic, a solo, humbling, to be fond of, a requirement, to beam, insane, a venue, a gig, underwhelming, to put out [a single], a rate, brand new, to gyrate, a scaffolding, a swordfight, rendition, tear-jerking, to ooze, medley, touching, a stirring [rendition], to foil, to steal the show, shimmying, to pose, backstage, to vindicate, a break-up, to sum up, to swing, to let go, parenthical, an aside, a [mic] drop.

Small Talk with the FORD and HEFE Methods (31/01/24)
FORD Method: small talk, to strike up [a conversation], a check out [line], public transit, challenging, an acronym, to come up with [a method], to jog [your] memory, to go blank, to launch [into your questions], lest, to be up to [you], a sibling, to follow up [a question], connection, a casual [encounter], to come in handy, open-ended [questions], to engage with [your questions], a meaningful career, a spouse, to put a damper on [a converstation], the same holds for [talking with someone], to [fully] acknowledge, to be disrespectful, to diminish [you], sanitized [responses], schmooze, fake [friendliness], tongue-tied, a safe-haven, to wave, a grocery store, invasive, to disclose [information], to lay [people] off, to floss, to scrape, awkward, to shore up [investments], to inquire, to catch [somebody] off guard, snowflak(y).

HEFE Method: to strike up [a conversation], to figure out, to stand for, renovations, crowded, low-stakes, awkward, to require, expertise, controversial [subjects], the appeal, predictability, to take the focus off [yourself], to revolve around, a belief, to loathe, nippy, clumsy, a trait, [my] forte, loathesome, to yearn for [personal connections], a chasm, a gateway, a stand-up [comedian], banter, wallflower awkwardness, convenient, a diversion, to bring [others] out [of their shell], to seek, approachable [people], a [delayed, eyes-rolled] nod, stuff, dismissive, disrespectful, to compromise, a bold [idea], intimidating, a teleprompter, geez, garbage. 

AI's Potential Threats (to Privacy, U.S. National Security, Elections & Equality) (23/01/24)
Digital Trends: to stalk, hubris, a startup, to snap [a photo], a creep, a boon, a stalker, a nefarious [purpose], a statement, to monetize, to scrape [information], to track [somebody] down, to harass, a flaw, a stark [increase], an ongoing [problem], disruptive [tech], to launch, [sexual] assault, to misuse, to rape).

NPR Interview: to unlock [a phone], to scrape [photos], to log into [an app], a beat (area), a [tech] dystopia, Planned Parenthood, to harass, creepy, to wield, chilling, to name and shame, a restroom, to blend in [with the population], a corpse, [to turn the] tide, the toll, an outlet, bodybuilding, workout, a counter, the breadcrumb, state-of-the-art [technology], to be pulled over [by the police], a warrant, larceny, bewildered, a gang, a consignment store, [surveillance] footage, a bunch of [photos], [the charges (law)] to be dropped, shoplifting, [to be in the] lineup, faulty, wrongfully [arrested], [a technological] breakthrough, to rig up, the brim [of a baseball cap], countless [photos], a building block, a cease-and-desist [letter], a whim, to harness [the benefits], to track [someone], to harvest, a seasoned [consultant], a vintage [store], a dive bar, astounding, buggy, to pitch [this technology], a venue, to sue, to hang out with [artists], to shift, to be anointed [the candidate], nefarious [purposes], a fine-tuned [technology], a rioter, to storm [the Capitol], the blowback, to let the cat out of the bag.

Consider This Podcast: a thriller, sneaker, [under] siege, to hack into [computers], to compromise [data], a go-to [tool], devastating [consequences], to ponder, on the flip side, cyber snooping, a formidable [adversary], ransomware, penchant, overreach, what 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 endow, fanciful, to debug, to bake in [priorities], messiness, mahogany, a windfall, to floor, a nuance, a slew [of letters], overreliance, to misgender, a benchmark, to take steps, to regulate, a class-action lawsuit, an opt-in [program], to opt-out, groundbreaking [technology], to label, to speak up, a burden, to come off [like an angry black woman], a gimmick, a stake, a gasp, to dip my toe into[something], a hoax, a fraudster, a fallback, a high-paying [job], a low-paying [job], an inmate.

On Point show: a bill, sparsely, a giveaway, a deepfake [video], a disclaimer, malarkey, heck, to utter [a word], to wreak havoc, a bribe, [highly] polarized, to endorse [a candidate], tinny, shady, a caretaker, to curb [the use of harmful AI content], grass roots [level], a deterrent, a loophole, the boogeyman, to pass the legal muster, to reach out [to voters], to level the playing field, to cast [a vote], to crack down on [misinformation], a purveyor [of this information], wary, to flag [instances of virality], a circuit breaker, mainstream, to open the floodgates, to triple check [information].

CES 2024 Las Vegas, the Latest Gizmos and Gadgets (12/01/24)
Euronews:  hairdryer, to unveil, gadget, infrared light, thermal rods, to heat, up to  [30% less energy],a valet, a concept [car], weird, angle, an assembly plant, a rental car, a twin, a memo, to claim, to monetise (Am Eng), a 9 to 5 [job], a break, an aero taxi, affordable, aircraft, to target, man-made, regulations, foldable, to showcase, tough, an array, a [temperature] shock, icing, a display, scenario, freezing, a screen, a fair, to run. 

Firstpost: a tech show, brand, a tech gala, to show off, flavour, AI powered, dashboard, a barista, to crab walk, gadget, a steering wheel, to decree, to come up with [an alternative], a prototype, to manoeuver, run-of-the-mill, a racing game, to charge [the car], a pin, to hit the market, a concept, unique, to take a peek, parallel parking, a viewing experience, wireless, a click, new age, to release, to end up [making TVs], obsolete, altogether, to enhance, to rush, [to change] the game, to map out, appliance, a switch, a stalker, a chore, to get rid of, a pick, to round up, masseuse, some tissue, a hit, a marvel, to get a glimpse.

The Washington Post: a glimpse, a backpack, comfy [shoes], a standout, a display, to double, a catch-all, home assistant, to ship, built-in, homebound, seniors, to be [fully] fleshed out, to work out [details], to tote, to track, well-being, veteran, telekinesis, IR blaster, a device, a [flat] switch, a toggle, an appliance, prey, to strap, a handle, a brake, off you go.

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

Cambridge: to spark [a worldwide discussion], natural language processing, to track [changes in the language], trustworthy, to prevent from [happening], accurate, a prompt, a quizz, ephemeral, ghost [work], [voice] cloning.

Merriam-Webster: a lookup, to boost, to delve into [the reasons], to head for, a spike, deeds, a cockney [accent], worthy, a [data] cruncher, to filter out, evergreen, a bevy, a runner-up, EGOT, rizz, kibbutz, to implode, a deadname, an onslaught, to curtail [LGBTQ+ rights], doppelganger, a springboard, to soar, deepfake, a lawsuit, dystopian, covenant, to indict.

OED: to pertain, to rizz up, a prompt, to harness, a prompt engineer, situationship, to blend, to coin [a word], the noughties, swiftie. 


'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 hood, to scoop up, a pellet, to chew, to flick [his ears], to exhale, a contraption, high-tech, to cook up, to be laced with, the digestive tract, to hoover up, a fan, a gallon, a device, to snack, a burp, to churn out, livestock, to scrutinise, mischief, to be enticed, tasty, a hay cube, a lolly, a barn [stay], [food] intake, weight gain, a cattle breeding [cooperative], and counting, a first step in, to curtail [emissions], an [unusual emissions] profile, to hang around, to tackle a [powerful] lever, to sign up to [a pledge], to focus on, to plug a leak, an oil field, [a gas] pipeline, to brew, a niche, to punch above its weight, biogenic [methane], waste, to be consistent with [global efforts], an [international] commitment, to unveil [its strategy], greenhouse gases, a low-emissions [future], an [important] player, a chunk [of the pie], a pricing scheme, to boost, mitigation tech [development], the demise, a shift in policy, gene editing [technology], [to have] what it takes, to harness [scientific tools], a [methane-blocking] vaccine, a silver bullet, to seek, to fund, the 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-additive, feedlot [animals], tricky [to implement], grazing, to munch [grass], to figure out, [economically] viable, a holy grail, long-lasting, pasture, elusive, the toolbox, [methane] outputs, [dairy] herd, [to verify] the trait, to breed, a low-emitting cow, a [gut] bug, feed, to be underway, sired, to be monitored, a curveball, to handle, a painstaking [process], to yield, a flock [of sheep], fatty [acid], [the spectre] to loom [large], a levy, to date back to [2003], a [fart tax] furore, a misnomer, a cowpat, to lobby, to be roped into, an outlier [industry], to campaign on [a promise], to secure [a deal], [well-thought-through] policy, to achieve [climate targets], input, a scheme, to be meant to [come into effect], to fall over, expertise, emissions pricing policy, a delay, damaging, to catch up, costly, to reward, invidious, to focus on [mitigation], to level the playing field, to 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-progress, proven [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)
naked, clothed, to elicit, praise, to scratch, a stir, a portrait, to be commissioned, to be displayed, an exhibit, sculpture, lifted, bent, elbow, nudity, reclining, a goddess, a nude, void, a burning [question], a patron, curly [hair], a duchess, keen to [get rid of], [to have a body] exhumed, to rumour, to paint over, [to bear] a resemblance, a leading [expert], [to cause] stir, Fine Arts, to be stored, censorship, appealing, upper-class, to bend the rules, liberal [sexual attitudes], controversy, brushstrokes, a precursor.

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

Wedding from Hell: damn, sloshed, delightful, charming, witty, well-placed, fertile, therefore, to hell with, a prick, a simile, a compost heap, a weed, to prop up, blatter, lush, a heard, steaming, to spurn, rabid, [to propose] a toast [to], the caterers, a pigeon, to crap, the (bride)groom, to sod off.

How to Date: courting, the turnout, gratifying, to take [a girl] out, a [complex] issue, a [crucial] step, to arrange, to pick up [your date], a complete idiot, to overdo [something], to be introduced to, attitude, all-important, casual, keen, to escort [her to your table].

"We the People". The Spanish, American and UK Constitutions (03/12/23)
Body of the post: codes, sovereignty, to uphold, to date back to, to grant [legal rights], to augment, a statute, to set out, a petition, deeds, devolution, conspicuous, a think tank, jargon, highbrow, [the three] branches [of power], the cabinet, to be amended, civil rights, gerrymandering, incarceration, 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, policy, tax, to raise/ lower [income tax], forestry, courts, stamp duty, welfare, to argue for, highways, landfill [tax], power-sharing, mandatory, to be dissolved, [relations] break down, a mayor, to set [priorities], [bus] fares, the Tube, a target, affordable.

TED-Ed video, "U.S. Bill of Rights": assembly, to bear [arms], an amendment, search, seizure, privacy, a trial, a jury.

Bilan Media: the All Female News Team in Somalia (28/11/23)
to recede, to reel from, drought, to cherish, floods, to flee, heavy [rains], pastures, to perish, famine, in pitch darkness, to dig, a grave, a dilapidated [house], displaced people, to cram, to be swept away, flash [floods], to pack, concrete, mud, [waters] to subside, [prices] to soar, to prompt, aid [groups], in dire [need], a well, sewage, an outbreak [of cholera], [to find yourself] stranded, an autorickshaw. his livelihood, rubbish, 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] unclear, fertile, to join ranks [with], to shelter, maize, sesame.

Thanksgiving (22/11/23)
Wikipedia: blessing, harvest, failure, settlers, to flee, God Almighty, to be prompted, relief, siege, to beseech, sham, to observe a festivity, to dub, a feast, staple, non-denominational, crop, barley, oats.

The Farmer's Almanac: to observe a festivity, to scour, a hint, to dig, to browse, mouth watering, cranberry, squash, stuffing, pumpkin, leftovers, heartburn, moist, fluffy, mashed [potatoes], yummy, stew, a riddled, jellied.

Thanksgiving: History & Traditions: an occasion, pilgrim, voyage, to land, crops, to grow [corn], harvest, roast, turkey, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, parade.

The Real Story of Thanksgiving: kumbaya, pier, bound for, a spit, speedwell, ungainly, to make it [to America], dissenters, haunt, to have more say, a printing press, a bad rap, flattering, creaky [boat], undaunted, glee, to be refitted, to botch, to cram, a snap, a beam, a spare, buckling, delays, a screw, to be kicked out, to cite land, to set up anchor, dodgy, to be set down, scurvy, icy, to send out, to be aboard, to drape, arrows, muskets, pilgrims, to search the area, claws, riddled, timber, to be wiped out, picky, to huddle together], to thaw, the crew, a storehouse, the locals, promptly, supplies, to swap, the chief, to be beset, a cannon, unlikely, tutelage, to thrive, bounty, game birds, waterfowl, deer, eel, crab, harvest, to set aside their differences.

The First Thanksgiving: dawn, deceitful, settlement, in droves, to be wiped out, the fate, pilgrims, to flee (fled), the congregation, to 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 fast, to be up to something, to overthrow, swift, sachem, a conspiracy, preemptive, to outnumber, godless, the outcome, to surrender, short-lived, zealous beliefs, to wipe away, the fairy tale.

Thanksgiving Around the World: a feast, to compile, to get together, mashed potatoes, to chow down, casserole, cranberry, crew, treacherous, pastry, 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 bounty, staple, codfish, lobster, fasting, prayer, bountiful harvests, drought, to decree, to set about establishing, to urge politicians, leisure, to boost attendance, fledging, 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 telecast, cliche, a boundary, to host [acoustic sessions], to stress [that], to echo, to stoke [controversy], on the heels of, to raise eyebrows, to dabble in [tropical genres], a backlash, [a debate] to unfold, to hint  [at questions], to uplift, whitewashed, satinized, scrutinize, barely, the [Florida] branch, the rate, ongoing, contention, stark [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 flux, to set out [to solve], to fulfill [a mission], mainstream [music], [profound] underrepresentation, to be looked down [upon], unabashedly, groundbreaking, 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 thrill, to 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 gripped, sorrow, resounding [modernity], guts, a dagger, clappers, props, [to give them] a twist, unleashed, to stand out, stingy, [latest] harvest, to border [the absurdity], to get [their interpretations] off the ground, the broadcast, to fit in, to hold your own, a kid, [to have a lot of] nerve, morale, a tenet, deceased, solitude, refreshing naivety, to 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 [slight] hint [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-ed, in custody, to galvanize [protests], to serve [multiple sentences], lashes, incarceration.

PBS NewsHour report: to bolster, willing, to be dragged (out of a train), fearless, to belong to [the people], to be confined, relentless [intimidation], to galvanize, ongoing [protest/ detention], to ebb, an [unprecedented] crackdown, preventive 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 down, to speak out, a hunger strike, bizarre, to flip the script, to stand  down, worship, former, in terms of, to stand by [somebody], to turn up, to work their socks off, to be entitled to, to vow [to change], to grab, consensual, ludicrous, a wimp, a flimsy [excuse], a snog, a witch hunt, defiant.

Shakira's Breakup Song (22/01/23)
break-up, rage, grief, to cope, to binge, to unload [emotions], scorching, a diss track, sparks, raw [emotions], heartbreak, [to get] dumped, bitterness, revenge, 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: average, whopping, 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 prevail, renovations, a hub, steamed [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 cheetah, wetlands, grasslands, conservation, to figure out, to showcase, snow-capped [peaks], a thriving [art scene].

The Magic of Christmas (25/12/22)
In the TV add: mate, poorly, [this one] is on me, cheers, 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: a 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 steer, smooth, bumpy, to marshal [local resources], to be on the telly positively, a barber shop, the landmarks, to get a go [at Christmas], the real thing, to whisper, crikey, 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] hub, to 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, greedy, slovenly, to take off, a lockdown, usage, gleefulness, goblin, gargoyle, to burst forth, gaslighting, permacrisis, to 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 stake, to 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 chip, to 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, haunted, a wizard, a corpse, gruesome, spine-chilling, costumes, to carve, to hollow-out, ghastly, 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, doomed, eerie, elf, evil, fairy, fangs, ghoul, grim, grisly, hocus pocus, a magic wand, a prank, repulsive, revolting, to shiver, a shriek, sorcerer, a spook, a tombstone, wicked, witchcraft.

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, garish, sleazy, 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 biography: a 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 flutter, breeze, 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), couch, vacant or pensive mood, to flash upon, inward eye, bliss, solitude.

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)
a goddess, a she-devil, a saint, a witch, to be betrayed, a blood-thirsty warrior, divine, demonic, to be installed, a gargoyle, a bronze [sculpture], to crawl, [about] to pounce, attached to [the wall], [female] defiance, [to refuse] to submit [to Adam], the Garden of Eden, happily ever after, to rebel depiction, faiths and mythologies, a [painted] terracotta, dating [from 500 BC], snake-like [hair], fangs, to 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], gratitude, to put up with [a lot of stuff], to range from, an orgasm [machine], to impress [my bosses], [everyday sexual] harassment, micro-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] patriarchy, to 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 Vader, stormtroopers, Maypole 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" & the American Civil Rights Movement (10/01/21)
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 spot, hands-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, reckless, laid-back, reliable, bigoted, deceitful, fickle, loutish, stingy, clumsy, shrewd, withdrawn, smug, naive, sluggish, touchy, bold, rebellious, gullible, committed, off-putting, articulate, fussy, trusting, trustful, trusworthy, wilful, thorough, rash, ruthless, gloomy 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 (03/08/20)
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

Nayim's Goal for Real Zaragoza and David Seaman's Ballad (01/01/19)


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