The English language is one of the most complex and difficult languages to learn, with many words having multiple meanings and nuances. Even as native English speakers, we use certain words every day without really knowing their meaning or origin. In this article, we’ll take a look at 10 of the most common words we hear every day but don’t actually know the meaning of.
-
Vantage Point
A vantage point is a point of view or a position from which something can be seen or considered. The term can be used both figuratively, where one’s vantage point is a metaphor for their perspective or opinion, or literally and geographically, where one’s vantage point is a particular spot or location. -
Cache
Cache most often refers to a collection of IT data that is stored in a high-speed storage system, such as a RAM or a hard drive, in order to optimize and speed up computing performance. It can also be used to refer to a hidden area of storage for items or money, as in the case of a cache of gold or a drug dealer’s cache. -
Aplomb
Aplomb refers to self-assuredness, composure, and confidence. It describes a person with poise, assurance, and the ability to think quickly and act decisively in tricky situations. -
Litany
Litany is an often lengthy recital of a list, such as a phrase or prayer, repeated over and over. It can also refer to a string of complaints or other related grievances, such as a litany of woes. -
Chutzpah
Chutzpah is a Yiddish term that describes a certain gall and audacity. It’s often used to describe someone who has a certain moxy or daring quality about them, even when the odds are against them. -
Sanguine
Sanguine describes a certain type of optimism or cheerfulness, especially when faced with difficult or challenging situations. It’s often used to describe someone who is unwaveringly positive, even in the face of adversity. -
Solicitous
Solicitous describes an attitude of keen interest or involvement in something, such as a task or a person. It often implies a certain degree of friendly concern or care. -
Assuage
To assuage something is to make it go away or reduce its impact. This could mean anything from making a problem go away to putting someone’s fears or worries at ease. -
Prescient
Prescient means something or someone who has knowledge of the future or an uncanny ability to make predictions. It’s often used to describe a person with an uncanny insight or an eerie ability to predict the future. -
Animus
Animus is a term used to describe strong negative feelings or an intense animosity. It refers to having a deep-seated hatred or dislike for someone or something and implies an often irrational and extreme passion.
As native English speakers, we often use a variety of words every day without really understanding their true meaning or origin. From aplomb to cache, there are many common words that we hear and use every day without knowing their true meaning. Hopefully, this article has helped you learn a bit more about the origin and meaning of some of these common words.
