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scrutinize - To look at something in great detail, often to understand it better or to detect any flaws or issues.

The detective carefully scrutinized the evidence he had gathered, trying to find a clue that might help him figure out who committted the crime.

verb

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brainstorm - To think of ideas quickly and freely, often in a group.

Let’s brainstorm to think of some marketing ideas for our new product.

noun

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agenda - A list or outline of things to be considered or done

Angela was frustrated by not able to bring up the subject of raises at the company meeting, because the topic was not on the agenda.

verb

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rectify - To make something right, especially by removing errors or mistakes made previously.

At the scene of the accident, he tried to rectify the result of his careless driving by apologizing, but the owner of the other car was too upset to listen.

noun

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gist - The substance or essence of a speech or text

Very intelligent people can understand the gist of a topic even if they can't remember every word of it.

noun

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sage - Someone who is highly knowledgeable and has a profound understanding of life, often imparting teachings or guidance.

As a sage of ancient philosophy, Socrates is still revered for his teachings on ethics and the nature of knowledge.

verb

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plumb - To explore or examine something in great detail or thoroughly.

Scientists often use mathematics to plumb the depths of the mystery of the universe.

noun

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probe - A blunt-ended surgical instrument used for exploring a wound or part of the body

A probe is used by doctors for various procedures when they need to examine a patient's body.

noun

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wits - Mental sharpness and inventiveness; keen intelligence.

In order not to be detected, the spy had to live very moment by his wits, making sure a random mistake might reveal his true identity.

verb

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demystify - To make something easier to understand

Louis Pasteur demystified why people would get sick, by describing little beings called bacteria that were the cause.

noun

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wonk - A person who takes an excessive interest in minor details of political policy

Rachel Maddow is a policy wonk on TV who walks her audience through the minor details of legislation and current events.

noun

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techie - A person who is very interested and skilled in technology, especially computers and electronics.

My brother is a real techie—he built his own computer from scratch.