This picture shows a snowman giving the camera a friendly smile. The snowman is benign in several ways. First, his smile makes him look kind and harmless. Also, snowman aren't usually considered to be harmful or malicious.


Benign

Spelling
B-E-N-I-G-N


Definition

1. “ having a kindly disposition; gracious”
2. “ showing or expressive of gentleness or kindness”
3. “favorable; propitious”
4. “(of weather) salubrious; healthful; pleasant or beneficial”
5. “Pathology . not malignant; self-limiting”
(1)


Most widely used definition
- “showing or expressive of gentleness or kindness”
- “Pathology . not malignant; self-limiting”
(1)


“Translated definition”
1. A nice person; a someone with a kind personality
2. To act kindly
3. Something that is encouraging; something that bodes well
4. Good weather
5. A disease that is nonthreatening to the person who has it.


Part of Speech
Adjective
(1)


Forms of word
benign


Example sentences

- Words could not express Toby’s relief when the doctor told him that the tumor was benign.

- Despite his grumpy expression, George’s personality was quite benign. He never yelled, and always had a kind word to offer in every type of situation.


When to use this word

The word benign would bbe a good word to use when:
- Discussing an illness with a doctor or other people ages 13 and up.
- Describing a person with a nonviolent, kind personality (maybe a grandma, or a really nice aunt)
- Convincing one’s mom that the weather is nice enough to go for a swim.
- Describing characters, weather, and the outlook of things (for a novel, short story, or magazine).


Synonyms
Harmless: The word ‘benign’ is similar to the word harmless but different because the word ‘harmless’ is a much more commonplace word than the word ‘benign’. Also, while the word ‘harmless’ can be used to describe a disease, it may not be used as much for that purpose as it would be for others. The word ‘benign’ is probably more popular to describe a disease than the word ‘harmless’.

Kind: The word ‘kind’ is similar to the word ‘benign’ but different because it is very unlikely to be used as a medical term, while the word benign is very likely to be used as a medical term. Also, the word ‘benign’ is a much more formal word than the word ‘kind’.


Antonyms
Violent: The word ‘violent’ is an opposite of the word ‘benign’ because to be violent is considered an unkind and harmful act. To be benign is considered to be harmless and kind.

Harmful: The word ‘harmful’ is an opposite of the word ‘benign’ because normally, something the main reason that something is benign is because it isn’t harmful.


Rating
I would give this word a rating of three stars out of five. The word ‘benign’ is an original word as well as a very sophisticated word. It is a pleasure to hear, especially when used in a medical context. This word also has a wide variety of definitions that make it possible to use in lots of situations. On the other hand, the word ‘benign’ isn’t always a commonly used word. This can lead to misuse of the word, and confusion on the audience’s part. Also, since this word can sound very formal, it may be inappropriate to use in informal circumstances.


Bibliography
(1) http://www.swedish.org/Services/Cancer-Institute/Services/Bladder-Cancer?gclid=CJHjtfiL1qYCFQkPbAodh1qrJA

Dogmatic

adj. Dogmatically

D-O-G-M-A-T-I-C [dog’maetik]

Definitions:
• Inclined to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true
• Characterized by or given to the expression of opinions very strongly or positively as if they were facts
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dogmatic


Translated:
Dogmatic is when an opinion or belief is said as a fact, when you can’t prove it.

Examples:
 I often feel very dogmatic in the expression of my beliefs because I feel that they are the right ones.
 She is looked on very dogmatically when it comes to politics because of the arrogant and forceful manner she portrays when discussing this topic.

When to Use:
Dogmatic is not your everyday world. Its typically used when referring to something in the history of Europe, or when talking to a very, very educated person with a large vocabulary, such as a professor at a very pristine collage. Otherwise you would never use this word when talking to your friends, parents, or acquaintances. They would think you are quite odd.

Synonyms:
o Dogmatic is very similar to narrow-minded but it more the act of being narrow-minded, and consists of forcing ones opinion on others more so than just being narrow – minded.
o Dogmatic is also similar to opinionated, but in being dogmatic a person is not only opinionated they believe or at least state that their opinions are facts.
o When someone is being dogmatic, they may be thought of as overbearing but overbearing is a more general term while when using dogmatic you are referring specifically to ones opionions.

Antonyms:
 Dogmatic is opposite of being open-minded because when you are open minded you don’t think only your opinions are the truth, you are open to others opinions.
 Dogmatic is also the opposite off uncertain because when you are dogmatic you are sure you are right.

Usefulness:
I would give dogmatic a two out of five stars because it is not a word you would use everyday. It is something you may see in people daily but almost no one thinks that person is dogmatic; they think narrow-minded, or something along those lines. You may use it if you happen to know what it means but others around you will not likely catch on to what you are saying.

The video shows someone who hand a theory for a long time and could have been very dogmatic when it was shown wrong instead he showed the opposite and rejoiced at being wrong. This shows the opposite of dogmatic rather than dogmatic itself, but in doing so, it shows the meaning of dogmatic as well.

I chose this picture because it is a perfect looking lake that has beautiful architecture. This fits the view of one possible utopia.


Utopia


U•to•pi•a


Definition
1. An ideal place or state.
2. Any visionary system of political or social perfection.


Translated Definition
1. A perfect system or political situation
2. A perfect state or place


Parts of speech
• Noun


Most popular definition

• Any real or imaginary society , place or society 
Original sentences

• As he walked around the perfect neighborhood with every one mowing there perfect lawns and looked at the clean healthy people no matter where he went he knew that they all would be smiling happy, it was a utopia.
• A completely sustainable society everyone has what they need, but no excess this society that is perfect it s and utopia.


The best time to uses when your are writing an essay on society talking about books like the giver or 1984 or Farenheight 451. Other times where it would be ok is political conversations


Synonyms

• My word is a lot like perfection but is different because utopia is a subject word not a descriptive word perfection is descriptive also they are different due to the fact that perfection refers to anything you want while utopia is only used for places or ideas.

• My word is a lot like ideal but a little different because again ideal is descriptive but utopia is not.


Antonyms

• My word is the exact opposite of dystopia because dystopia is a none perfect society or idea while utopia is perfect.


I give utopia a six because utopia is a very good word to sound smart and start thought

Utopia 

This video show the definition of utopia by stating the definition, giving examples, and comparing it to a dytopian.

On the fritz

The above iage looks like a computer that's broken. The phrase, 'on the fritz' refers to something (often mechanical) that is broken or not working correctly.


On the Fritz


Definition
“Malfunctioning or inoperable; -- of machinery and devices.”
(1)


Most Widely Used Definition
“Malfunctioning or inoperable; -- of machinery and devices.”
(1)


“Translated” Definition
Something (normally mechanical) that is broken or not working correctly.


Part of Speech
Adjective


Forms of word
Present: [it is/ it is going] on the fritz
Past: [it was/ it went] on the fritz
Future: [it is going to go] on the fritz


Example Sentences

Without warning, the old, clunky computer went on the fritz. The screen flashed red and green and the keyboard emitted a long, high-pitched whistle. There was little doubt in Kate’s mind that the psychotic piece of machinery was broken beyond repair.

George slumped into the chair next to me, looking like he had just been attacked by a blow torch. “The toaster is on the fritz again”, he growled. “This is the third time that it’s caught on fire this month.” It was obvious that he was discouraged that his toaster, named Fred, was still broken. I didn’t have the heart to inform him that Fred had recently taken to rocketing burnt toast half-way across the room whenever anyone attempted to use it.


Pronunciation
On [on] or [awn]
The [th uh]
Fritz [fritz]
(3)


When to use this word
A good time to use this word would be when:
- Hanging out with friends (talking about something that is broken or malfunctioning).
- In a pop, rap, alternative, or rock song
- Doing home repairs
- Sitting in front of a broken home appliance
NOTE: this may not be the best phrase to use in a professional enviroment


Synonyms

Broken: The word broken is similar to the phrase, ‘on the fritz’ but different because it sounds more formal. Also, the word broken is more commonly used than the phrase, ‘on the fritz’.

Malfunctioning (1): The word malfunctioning is similar to the phrase, ‘on the fritz’ but different because the word, malfunctioning is more formal than the phrase, ‘on the fritz’. The word malfunctioning would probably be a great word to say to one’s boss. The phrase, ‘on the fritz’ would probably not be a great thing to say to one’s boss.

Tripped out: The phrase, ‘tripped out’ is similar to the phrase, ‘on the fritz’ but different because the phrase, ‘on the fritz’ is somewhat more formal than the phrase, ‘tripped out’.


Antonyms
Fully functioning: The phrase, ‘fully functioning’ is an opposite of the phrase, ‘on the fritz’ because if something is fully functioning, it’s not broken or malfunctioning.

Fix: The word fix is an opposite of the phrase, ‘on the fritz’ because if something is, ‘on the fritz’, that is generally considered a problem. The solution to this problem is to fix the item. A problem and its solution are opposite of each other.


Rating
I would give this word a rating of three stars out of five. It is a creative and colorful way to describe something that isn’t working correctly. It can be used in numerous situations. It is a nice word to use in an informal situation, simply because it is very informal. On the other hand, using this word in some situations (such as a job interview) could be disastrous. Also, it is easy to use this word too much, and portray oneself as someone who doesn’t have the widest vocabulary.

Bibliography
(1) http://onlinedictionary.datasegment.com/word/on+the+fritz
(2) http://onlineslangdictionary.com/definition+of/on+the+fritz
(3) http://dictionary.reference.com/
(4)openphoto

This video displays a dirt bike that appears to be having trouble starting, so clearly it is not working properly, meaning it is on the fritz.

Broseph

• Spelling: B-R-O-S-E-P-H


• Pronunciation: Broe-Sef, Bro-Sef


• Definitions:


• A term of endearment, used in place of names or the word “Bro”


• Substitutable pronoun used in almost any part of a sentence, generally as a placeholder of the name of a favored or close friend.


• “Translated” Definition:


• A word used in place of the name of a very good friend.


• Part of speech: Pronoun


• Other Forms:


• Brosephine (Female)


• Brosephanie (Female)
  
• Brosephly (adverb, meaning something was done in a way relating to the “normal” – generally humorous – manner of said individual.)
  
• Examples:


• “Hey, Broseph!”


• “…And so you see, Broseph, the whole thing was pretty freakin’ amazing.”


• “You moved so brosephly back there, I was in awe of your utter stupidity, and complete hilariousness”


• When to use: When conversing with a friend, most often only used when speaking to the person deemed “Broseph”. The word conveys humor and an up-beat demeanor, so it is to be used when talking about things like inside jokes, something amazing or hilarious you/they have just done, or when simply having an exceptionally good time.


• When not to use: When speaking in a public forum, with those whom you don’t know well or at all, or during somber occasions. Should you be at a funeral or in front of a friend’s burning home, the use of “broseph” in sentences is generally not taken well, and will often be detrimental to one’s relationship.
  
• Synonyms:
• Bro: Broseph is derived from the words “Bro” and "Joseph" (the latter having no real significance in it’s overall meaning, as it is not restricted to use only with people named Joseph.) For this reason, both words are fairly synonymous, though “broseph” is to be considered something akin to “The next level” over “Bro”, in that broseph is a more endearing and well known friend.
  
• Buddy: While they share general meaning, Buddy is something like the first level of knowing someone, whereas broseph is the final goal, so to speak. They both mean friend, but broseph is a friend much more loved and known.
  
• Antonyms:
  
• All complete antonyms to broseph are not appropriate for all audiences, and so must simply be insinuated through this description. Indeed, like the synonyms, they start with “B”, but are words of hate and profanity rather than endearment and brotherhood.
  
• Usefulness: 5 of 5. Broseph is a word I use multiple times a day in conversations with good friends. It’s easy to use, easy to catch on to, and most especially: fun to say. While it has it’s limitations, the word has a multitude of purposes and honestly is very easy to understand after only a few encounters.


• The picture exemplifies the physical action associated with “Broseph”. As you can see, the young man on the right is thrilled to see his good friend on the left, displaying an ecstatic facial expression and hand gesture. The man on the left is quite cheerful and accepts this greeting naturally. These men, you see, consider each other a "Broseph."

-Picture removed for the sake of your sanity.

Abstain

• Spelling: A-B-S-T-A-I-N
• Pronunciation: Ab-Steyn, Ab-Stain (The word is already quite phonetic)

• Direct Definition (Courtesy Dictionary.com):

• To hold oneself back voluntarily.
• To refrain from casting one’s vote. (Most likely)
• To refrain deliberately, often with an effort.

• “Translated” Definition:
• Much like “To hold back,” especially used when voting. The act of withholding your vote or opinion.
• The act of choosing not to speak your choice or opinion.
• Part of speech:
• Abstain is a Verb – “To Abstain”
• Abstain can also be a noun – “Abstinence, Abstention”
• Other forms:
• Abstain
• Abstained
• Abstains
• Abstaining
• Abstinence
• Abstention
• Examples:
• The man was impartial and chose to abstain from the vote.
• While the others heatedly debated their votes, she abstained from contesting such matters, though it took much effort.
• Use of the word: Use of this word would be/is not all that common. Often best used in a fairly intellectual conversation with others who have a fairly deep understanding of words and their literal meaning, especially when it pertains to a vote or debate. Use with older, more experienced individuals such as those holding office or in a polite, official letter.
• Not to be used: When speaking in a casual conversation, especially with younger people. The word easily confuses the majority of the population and will often screw up your ability to carry on a cohesive conversation.

• Synonyms:
• Abstain is much like the word refrain, though abstain is more used in connection with the withholding of votes and opinions, whereas refrain is a more general term used when withholding general information.
• Abstain is also somewhat like the word “Desist,” although abstain is more of a gradual choice to cease or end, while desist is much more of an immediate and abrupt stop.
• Antonyms:
• Indulge. When one chooses to Abstain, they choose to stop or refrain from voting or voicing their opinion. In the case of indulgence, one moves gung-ho into something that they want to do, forgoing the idea of self-control.
• Rating: I give “Abstain” 4 stars of 5. While it’s a great, descriptive word, I must abstain from giving it all 5 stars because it is so specific and seldom used. While I may often find uses for it, the overall population does not, and its selective nature very well proves it’s undoing in the end.

• The video is effective at conveying the use of abstinence through the (concise) use of it in the video. It was specifically pointed out, i.e. the bar saying the word “abstaining,” and through the fact that when all abstaining votes were called, Zoidberg effectively abstained and withheld his vote… Thus confirming his abstention.

Sites used:

• http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Abstain?src=tbr&qsrc=2894&o=100083&l=dis

Verdant
Spelling
V-e-r-d-a-n-t

Definitions
“1. green with vegetation; covered with growing plants or grass”
“2. of the color green”
“3. inexperienced; unsophisticated”
(1)

Most Popular Definitions
“1. green with vegetation; covered with growing plants or grass”
“2. of the color green”
(1)

My wording of the definitions
1. An area or thing that has a lot of plant life.
2. Something that is green or has a green hue.
3. Someone who is a rookie; someone lacking wisdom

Part of Speech
Adjective
(1)

Different Forms of the Word
Noun (person, place or thing): Verdancy
Adverb (modifies a verb, adjective, or adverb): verdantly,
Adjective (describing word): unverdant,
Adverb (modifies a verb, adjective, or adverb): unverdantly
(1)(2)

Original Sentences
1) Sam’s eyes wondered across the verdant hills of the tropical rainforest. The green mass of trees was beautiful to behold.
2) As the verdant days of our youth pass by in a wave of naïve fantasies and blissful ignorance, we eventually find ourselves confronted by the harsh realities of adulthood.

Pronunciation
(Vur-dnt)
(1)

When to use this word
In literature, especially persuasive or descriptive writing
- In an article, written to convince the public to preserve a forested piece of land
- In an a fictional novel, describing a character’s adventures in a swamp
In situations that call for sophisticated and descriptive vocabulary
- In a job interview, if the conversation is about things that are green, inexperienced, or leafy.
When describing colors or artwork
When describing especially healthy vegetation

Synonyms
- Rookie: This word is very similar to the word verdant, but is different because it only expresses naivety due to inexperience. Someone who is verdant could also be unsophisticated.
- Green: This word is similar to verdant, but different because it verdant can also refer to an object that has a green hue. Also, verdant is a describing word, while green is an actual thing (green is a color) and a describing word.
- Lush: this word is similar to the word verdant, but different because verdant simply describes an area or landscape that is green and full of plants. The word lush can describe anything that is full. A person can have lush hair; a garden can be lush with orange carrots.
(1)

Antonyms
- Experienced: This word is the opposite of verdant because it describes someone who is familiar with what they’re doing. Verdant describes someone who isn’t familiar with what they’re doing.
- Dying: This word is the opposite of verdant because, normally, if a plant is verdant, it is full and green. This is a good sign that the plant is alive. If a plant were dying, it would probably show the opposite of these signs, and therefore it would be the opposite of verdant.
- Brown: This word is the opposite of verdant because verdant can refer to something that is green. Brown is sometimes considered the opposite of green.
- Wilting: This word is the opposite of verdant because verdant the word verdant describes a plant or area of vegetation that is green and healthy. If this plant or area of vegetation is wilting, it might not be very healthy.

How useful is this word?

I would give this article a five star rating for several reasons. The first reason is because this word can be used for three different definitions, which all loosely relate to each other. The definition of lush, green vegetation relates to the definition of the color green because vegetation is often green. The definition of the color green relates to thye definition of being inexperienced because of the phrase: to be ‘green’, or in other words, a rookie. Because the different meanings for the word are related, if a person knows one definition, they can piece the other two meanings together through context clues if needed. This makes the word easy to learn and to remember.
Te other reason that the word verdant is should get a rating of five stars is because it is an interesting word that is relevant to many situations. A lot of people have probably felt as like a rookie or unsophisticated at some point in there lives, or felt that about someone else in their lives. Also, the majority of the population probably knows what the color green is, and has learned about or seen something that is lush and green.


Bibliography
(1) http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/verdant
(2) http://www.englishclub.com/grammar/adverb-what.htm