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Newspaper Vocabulary | Words Starting with A

10 Newspaper Vocabulary Words Starting with A

Aberration (Noun)

A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected

Explanation: An aberration refers to something unusual or unexpected, often negative. In journalism, it can describe a trend or behavior that deviates from the norm.

Example: The sudden drop in stock prices was an aberration in an otherwise stable market.

Abolish (Verb)

To formally put an end to a system, practice, or institution

Explanation: Abolish indicates complete termination of a law, rule, or practice. It is commonly used in legal or social contexts.

Example: The government decided to abolish outdated labor laws.

Abrogate (Verb)

To officially cancel or repeal a law, agreement, or practice

Explanation: Abrogate is used in formal contexts to nullify rules or agreements completely. It is often applied in legislative or diplomatic settings.

Example: Parliament decided to abrogate the unfair trade regulations.

Abstruse (Adjective)

Difficult to understand; obscure

Explanation: Abstruse describes ideas or concepts that are intellectually challenging. It is often used in academic or technical discussions.

Example: His lecture on quantum physics was fascinating but abstruse.

Acquiesce (Verb)

To accept or comply reluctantly but without protest

Explanation: Acquiesce implies passive agreement or silent consent. It suggests acceptance without enthusiasm.

Example: She acquiesced to her manager’s demands, even though she disagreed.

Acrimony (Noun)

Bitterness or harshness in speech, behavior, or attitude

Explanation: Acrimony describes hostility or sharpness, often in debates or arguments. It conveys strong negative emotions.

Example: The meeting ended with acrimony between the two rival parties.

Acumen (Noun)

Keen insight or sharp judgment

Explanation: Acumen refers to practical intelligence or the ability to make quick, correct decisions. It is often praised in business and politics.

Example: Her financial acumen helped the company avoid bankruptcy.

Adroit (Adjective)

Skillful and clever, especially with hands or mind

Explanation: Adroit describes dexterity or competence, both mental and physical. It is used to praise clever or skilled actions.

Example: The surgeon’s adroit handling of the instruments saved the patient’s life.

Adversary (Noun)

An opponent or enemy

Explanation: Adversary is commonly used to describe someone who opposes or contests in competition or conflict. It is often used in sports, legal, or political contexts.

Example: The chess champion defeated his long-time adversary.

Aesthetic (Adjective/Noun)

Concerned with beauty or artistic value

Explanation: Aesthetic refers to visual appeal or principles of art. It can describe objects, designs, or artistic taste.

Example: The building’s aesthetic appeal attracted tourists.

Alleviate (Verb)

To make a problem or pain less severe

Explanation: Alleviate is often used in medical, social, or humanitarian contexts to indicate relief. It reduces the intensity of difficulties.

Example: The medication helped alleviate his chronic pain.

Ambiguous (Adjective)

Open to more than one interpretation; unclear

Explanation: Ambiguous describes statements or situations that can be understood in multiple ways. It often causes confusion or debate.

Example: The politician’s statement was deliberately ambiguous.

Ameliorate (Verb)

To improve or make better

Explanation: Ameliorate is used to indicate enhancement or mitigation of a negative condition. It often refers to social or environmental improvements.

Example: Policies were introduced to ameliorate living conditions in the slums.

Angst (Noun)

A feeling of deep anxiety or dread

Explanation: Angst represents internal worry or existential tension. It is often used to describe emotional unrest or societal unease.

Example: Teenagers often experience angst about their future.

Animosity (Noun)

Strong hostility or hatred

Explanation: Animosity refers to long-standing ill will or resentment. It is often present in conflicts between individuals or groups.

Example: There was growing animosity between the rival gangs.

Annals (Noun)

Historical records or chronological accounts

Explanation: Annals are formal records of events, usually arranged year by year. They are frequently cited in historical or academic contexts.

Example: The discovery was recorded in the annals of science.

Anomaly (Noun)

Something that deviates from the norm

Explanation: Anomaly indicates unusual occurrences or deviations from patterns. It can appear in science, data analysis, or social observations.

Example: The sudden snowfall in April was a weather anomaly.

Antagonize (Verb)

To cause someone to become hostile or unfriendly

Explanation: To antagonize means to provoke anger or irritation. It often results in conflict or opposition.

Example: His rude comments antagonized everyone in the meeting.

Apathy (Noun)

Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern

Explanation: Apathy refers to indifference or lack of motivation. It is often highlighted in social, political, or community contexts.

Example: Voter apathy led to a very low turnout in the election.

Apprehend (Verb)

To arrest or understand

Explanation: Apprehend can mean capturing a suspect or grasping an idea. Its usage depends on context, from law enforcement to intellectual understanding.

Example: The police apprehended the thief after a long chase.

Aptly (Adverb)

In a manner that is appropriate or suitable

Explanation: Aptly describes actions, titles, or descriptions that are fitting or precise. It is often used in reporting or commentary.

Example: He aptly summarized the key points of the discussion.

Arbitrary (Adjective)

Based on random choice or personal whim, rather than reason

Explanation: Arbitrary refers to actions or decisions made without logic or fairness. It is often criticized in governance or policy.

Example: Critics called the law arbitrary and unfair.

Arsonist (Noun)

A person who deliberately sets fire to property

Explanation: An arsonist commits the criminal act of intentionally burning property. News reports often cover arson incidents in crime sections.

Example: The police arrested the arsonist who set fire to the abandoned warehouse.

Assertive (Adjective)

Confidently self-assured and direct

Explanation: Assertive describes someone who expresses their opinions firmly yet respectfully. It is often praised in leadership and communication.

Example: She is assertive in meetings, ensuring her ideas are heard.

Austerity (Noun)

Severe economic measures or simplicity in lifestyle

Explanation: Austerity refers to strict financial policies or personal restraint in spending. It is often applied in economic reporting or historical contexts.

Example: The country implemented austerity measures to tackle the economic crisis.

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