CHINA’S SON VOCABULARY 2 8 TH GRADE NOVEL STUDY

VINDICATION (NOUN) The state of being clear of an accusation or blame; being guilt-free or suspicion-free through evidence presented. Ex: The man had been wrongly imprisoned for a crime he did not commit, so his vindication was cause for celebration. Ex: “If I succeeded, the family’s ship would sail again It was about pride, humiliation, revenge, dignity, and vindication of the family name.” pg. 163 (Da’s words)

FLOURISH (VERB) To be successful, to prosper, to thrive in growth. Ex: The new student flourished in his new school, making many friends quickly and earning top grades. Ex: “Mom had planted some lima beans, which had flourished in the most imaginative way and now crawled overhead along the wood frames of the doors and windows.” pg. 178 (Da’s words)

DEVIOUS (ADJECTIVE) Not sincere; deceitful, tricky. Ex: Because he was so devious, he was able to fool everyone into believing his lies.

MERIT (NOUN) A superior quality that someone has; something that deserves respect, praise or reward Ex: She was accepted into university because of her merits - her willingness to work hard, her high grades, and her strong community service record. These are the merits!

INCONTINENT (ADJECTIVE) Having little or no control over urination or defecation. Ex: When my grandfather became ill and incontinent, we had to hire a nurse to care for him.

MARXISM (NOUN) An economic and political theory (invented by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels.) This theory states: - actions and human institutions are economically driven - society should be class-less - class struggles create historical change - capitalism will ultimately be replaced by socialism and communism. Ex: The politician did not like Capitalism, so his speeches reflected his support of Marxism and Marxist ideas for creating a better society.

TOIL (VERB) Engage in hard and continuous work; engage in difficult and exhausting labor Ex: The farmers toil in the fields from sunrise to sunset, with only one 20-minute break.

DIPLOMATIC (ADJECTIVE) Skilled in dealing with people or sensitive issues; tactful. Ex: When negotiating with enemies, it’s good to be diplomatic so the situation doesn’t get worse. Ex: When he asked me what I think of his new girlfriend (who I hate), I was diplomatic enough to say I don’t know her very well yet.

NONCHALANT (ADJECTIVE) Cooly unconcerned, unexcited, casual, indifferent. Ex: I wanted to seem cool and nonchalant, but I had trouble hiding my excitement about the good news.

PROSPECT (NOUN) Possibility; expectation; chance for future success; opportunity Ex. Although the two countries argued over borders, the prospect of war prevented them from angering each other too much. Ex: “He came from a landlord’s family, with no prospects whatsoever.” pg. 145 (Da’s words)