verb

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Other / Move

pluck - To take hold of something and quickly remove it from its place

In Ralph Waldo Emerson's beautiful poem Forbearance, he suggests that it is good to appreciate a beautiful flower without plucking it from the ground.

verb

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Bad / Hostile

polarize - To divide into two completely opposing groups

It's frightening to see how many issues have caused the US to polarize into Right and Left groups that hate each other.

verb

See noun

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Bad / Pain

Url

plague - To cause constant worry, annoyance, or distress, often by repeatedly confronting someone with problems or challenges.

She was plagued by constant headaches, making it hard for her to focus on her work.

adjective

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Good / Strong

Url

persistent - Continuing firmly or stubbornly despite challenges or opposition.

The child was persistent in asking for a puppy until his parents gave in.

verb

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Bad / Unfriendly

Url

poke - To prod or push something with a finger, stick, or other pointed object, often in a light or playful manner.

He poked the stick into the fire to watch the flames flare up.

noun

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Bad / Small

Url

pittance - A very small amount of money, less than what one wanted and expected.

The workers decided to strike because they felt that their wages were a mere pittance compared to what they deserved.

adjective

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Other / Slowly

Url

piecemeal - Done in a series of steps, little by little, gradually over time.

The general knew that the battle could not be won all at once, so he had a plan to win it piecemeal, one part at a time.

adjective

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Good / Pleasure

Url

pleasant - Friendly, kind, or polite in manner or behavior.

The host was so pleasant, greeting each guest with a warm smile and making everyone feel at home.

adjective

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Good / Good

Url

pious - Devoutly religious

As he looked at the wall and inside himself, he felt in a very pious mood.

adjective

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Good / Flexible

Url

pliable - When a person is easily influenced, controlled, or persuaded by others

The boss wanted to hire employees who were pliable, so they wouldn't give his resitance when he told them what to do.

adjective

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Good / Brave

plucky - Having or showing determined courage in the face of difficulties

Mary's plucky personality made her determined to compete in the race despite being confined to a wheelchair.

adjective

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Bad / Small

petty - Of little importance; trivial

The voters were angry over politicians fighting over petty matters instead of the big issues facing the country.