| backfire |
to have results that are the opposite of what one wanted. |
| belligerence |
a very aggressive or hostile attitude; warlike nature. |
| bland |
without interest, spirit, or excitement; dull; indifferent. |
| constituent |
forming a part of something. |
| disenfranchise |
to deprive (someone) of a right of citizenship, especially the right to vote. |
| dowdy1 |
not at all stylish; shabby or dull. |
| empathy |
identification with or sharing of another's feelings, situation, or attitudes. |
| euphemism |
the word or expression so substituted. |
| inescapable |
unable to be avoided or ignored. |
| noncommittal |
not revealing what one's preference, feeling, or opinion is. |
| ominous |
giving a sign of future evil or trouble. |
| pragmatic |
concerned with actual causes and effects rather than abstract theories or ideas; practical. |
| retention |
the act or process of maintaining the possession or use of. |
| timely |
happening at just the right moment. |
| usurp |
to take and hold (a right, position, office, or the like) illegally, wrongfully, or by force. |