sidestep -
To deliberately avoid or divert attention from a certain subject, often to avoid dealing with it.
During the press conference, he sidestepped questions that he didn't want to focus on or deal with.
noun
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impediment -
Something that obstructs or slows down progress; a hindrance or obstacle.
His lack of funding was a major impediment to starting his business.
noun
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deadlock -
A situation where opposing sides can't make progress to resolve their differences
Congress couldn't pass any new bills because the political and emotional deadlock between the Republicans and Democrats on almost every issue.
verb
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shackle -
Something that prevents freedom of movement, literally or figuratively
Because John had so much debt, he felt he couldn't consider switching careers, and therefore felt shackled to a job that he hated.
verb
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relinquish -
To voluntarily let go of something, such as a right, possession, or responsibility.
After years of running the company, he decided to relinquish control and pass the leadership to his successor.
verb
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clog -
To become blocked or filled so that movement or activity is slowed or stopped.
Some dirt was clogging the sink, so that the water in the sink didn't drain properly.
noun
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mortality -
The state of being human and not living for ever
When we think about the inevitabilty of our own mortality, it makes us more committed to make good use of every minute.
verb
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deter -
To prevent (or aim to prevent) the occurrence of something through fear of consequences.
A barking dog can deter burglars from breaking into a home.
verb
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subside -
To become less intense, violent, or severe; to gradually decrease and go down to a lower level.
After the winds and rain of the hurricane finally subsided, people could see the damage that was left behind.
noun
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verdict -
An official or formal decision, especially after careful consideration.that ends a trial or discussion.
The jury delivered a verdict of not guilty after three days of deliberation.
verb
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kibosh -
When an idea or plan is spoiled or stopped, often due to unforseen circumstances.
Keith was going to go to the museum, but his sudden illness put the kibosh on his plans.
adjective
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abrupt -
Sudden and unexpected, often in an unpleasant way
The company was not succeeding, mostly because the CEO kept abruptly changing the goals of where the company should be heading, and the methods for achieving those goals.
