SMYRNA --
Our vocabulary expert, Smyrna Branch Librarian Paige Hendrickson, knows a
thing or two about words. This
issue, she provides definitions and usage examples for the words Reticent, Sardonic, and Syllogism.
reticent
ret·i·cent
/ˈredəsənt/
adjective:
Not
revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily.
Synonyms: reserved, withdrawn,
introverted, restrained, inhibited, diffident, shy, modest, unassuming,
shrinking, distant, undemonstrative, uncommunicative, unforthcoming,
unresponsive, tight-lipped, close-mouthed, close-lipped, quiet, taciturn,
silent, guarded, secretive, private, media-shy, mum
Example:
For the first presentation of the semester, most students in Speech class are reticent in responding with feedback or
sharing opinions.
sardonic
sar·don·ic
/särˈdänik/
adjective: Grimly mocking or cynical.
Synonyms: mocking, satirical, sarcastic, ironical, ironic,
cynical, scornful, contemptuous, derisive, derisory, sneering, jeering,
scoffing, taunting, scathing, caustic, trenchant, mordant, cutting, sharp,
tinging, acerbic, tart, acid, wry, dry, sarky, mordacious, acidulous
Example:
After the students asked if the midterm exam was open book and open note, the
professor gave the class a sardonic
smile as an answer.
syllogism
syl·lo·gism
/ˈsiləˌjizəm/
noun: 1. an
instance of a form of reasoning in which a conclusion is drawn (whether validly
or not) from two given or assumed propositions (premises), each of which shares
a term with the conclusion, and shares a common or middle term not present in
the conclusion. A typical form is
“All A is C; all B is A; therefore all B is C.” 2. deductive reasoning. 3.
an extremely subtle, sophisticated, or deceptive argument.
(e.g.,
all dogs are animals; all animals have four legs; therefore all dogs have
four legs).
Synonyms: deduction,
dialectic,
reasoning,
logic,
argument
Example:
In order to convey a clearer explanation for the logical argument, the
instructor gave the students a syllogism
to make a real-life connection.
