Great Gatsby Vocab: Ch. 4

Because fires are sporadic,

the workers never know when the alarm will sound.

sporadic (adj.) – recurring at irregular or unpredictable intervals

I wonder if there’s a fire somewhere—besides the one in our six-pack abs!

This man is taking punctilious

care with ensuring the seats are exactly equidistant from one another.

punctilious (adj.) – painstakingly meticulous; strict attention to minute details

While some found this viral video to be cute, others felt there was something disconcerting

about seeing this cat standing up.

disconcerting (adj.) – something that makes you uneasy or unsettles you; causing emotional disturbance or confusion

In this cartoon Rudolph seeks retribution for being teased and excluded from the other reindeer games.

retribution (noun) - something justly deserved; taking revenge or correcting a wrong

The juxtaposition of this sign and these products creates a message the store might not have actually intended.

juxtaposition (noun) - two or more things placed side by side to emphasize the link or contrast

The succulent strawberries were dipped in chocolate.

succulent (adj.)

1) juicy

2) rich in desirable qualities

jaunty/jauntiness (adj./noun)

1) Having a cheerful, lively, self-confident air

Frank has a jaunty walk—like he can’t wait to get wherever he’s going.

jaunty/jauntiness (adj./noun)

2) marked by up-to-date-ness in dress and manners

façade (noun) 1. front of a building

2. a showy misrepresentation intended to conceal something unpleasant; a front

Wisely, Rachel realized that Shawn’s “love” was only a façade.