Chapter 15 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 15

disparity (noun)

A great difference or inequality between things, especially one that is unfair

compunction (noun)

A feeling of guilt or moral scruple that prevents or follows the doing of something bad

unassuming (adjective)

Not pretentious or arrogant; modest and unpretentious in manner

vocation (noun)

A strong feeling of suitability for a particular career or occupation, especially one involving service to others

impulsive (adjective)

Acting or done without forethought; driven by sudden urges rather than careful consideration

condescension (noun)

An attitude of patronizing superiority toward others, often regarding them as inferior

austerity (noun)

Sternness or severity of manner or attitude; also conditions of reduced spending and simple living

juxtaposition (noun)

The placement of two things close together for contrasting effect, often to highlight differences

flashback (noun)

A literary device in which the narrative shifts to an earlier time period to provide background or context

pretentious (adjective)

Attempting to impress by affecting greater importance, talent, or culture than is actually possessed

empathy (noun)

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person

subversive (adjective)

Seeking to undermine or challenge an established system or institution

symbolism (noun)

The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities beyond their literal meaning in a literary work

altruism (noun)

Selfless concern for the well-being of others; the practice of helping others without expecting reward

contradiction (noun)

A combination of statements, ideas, or features that are opposed to one another