Calvin Coolidge, our thirtieth president, was named “Silent Cal” by reporters because of his laconic speech. One Sunday, after Mr. Coolidge had listened to an interminable sermon, a throng of newsmen gathered around him. An intrepid reporter accosted the Chief Executive: “Mr. President, we know that the sermon was on the topic of sin. What did the minister say?” “He was against it,” the reticent Coolidge replied.
- Laconic – singkat
- interminable – tak berkesudahan
- sermon – khotbah
- throng – kerumunan
- intrepid – pemberani
- accost – menyapa
- against – terhadap, melawan, menentang
- reticent – segan
Laconic
The term “laconic” describes someone or something brief, concise, or terse in their language or communication. Laconic speech or writing is characterized by using a few words to convey a message or idea and is often considered straightforward, to the point, and economical.
The word “laconic” comes from the name of the region of Laconia in ancient Greece, which was known for its terse and concise communication style. The ancient Spartans, who were from Laconia, were renowned for their brevity and economy of language, and their use of laconic phrases became famous throughout the ancient world.
In modern usage, the term “laconic” is often used to describe someone briefly and to the point in their communication, especially when time or space is limited. It can also be used to describe writing or speech that is concise and straightforward, without any unnecessary words or elaboration.
Elaborate
Elaboration is adding more details, explanations, or information to something to make it more complete or nuanced. It can involve expanding upon or clarifying a point, idea, or concept or providing more context or background information. Elaboration can be used to make something easier to understand, to provide more depth or insight, or to make it more persuasive or convincing.
Elaboration can take many forms, including writing, speaking, or visual representation. It can be used in various contexts, including academic writing, public speaking, and creative expression. When elaborating on something, providing accurate and relevant information and using clear and concise language to convey your ideas is crucial.
Elaboration can be an essential part of the learning process, as it helps deepen understanding and build upon existing knowledge. It can also be a valuable tool for communication, as it can help to clarify and expand upon ideas, making them easier for others to understand and remember.
Interminable
The term “interminable” describes something that seems to have no end or that seems to go on indefinitely. It can describe a situation, event, or process that seems to last forever or that seems never-ending. Interminable things can be tedious, monotonous, or tiresome, as they may require a lot of time or effort to complete or to endure.
For example, you might describe a long car journey as interminable if it seems to go on forever or if it is particularly dull or tedious. Similarly, you might describe a meeting or lecture as interminable if it goes on for a long time and seems to have no end. In general, the term “interminable” conveys a sense of frustration, boredom, or impatience with something that seems to go on for too long.
Elaborate
To elaborate on something means adding more details, explanations, or information to make it more complete or nuanced. Elaborating on something can involve expanding upon or clarifying a point, idea, or concept or providing more context or background information. Elaboration can be used to make something easier to understand, to provide more depth or insight, or to make it more persuasive or convincing.
Elaboration can take many forms, including writing, speaking, or visual representation. It can be used in various contexts, including academic writing, public speaking, and creative expression. Providing accurate and relevant information and using clear and concise language to convey your ideas is essential when elaborating on something.
Elaboration can be an essential part of the learning process, as it helps deepen understanding and build upon existing knowledge. It can also be a valuable tool for communication, as it can help to clarify and expand upon ideas, making them easier for others to understand and remember.
Throng
A throng is a large group of people gathered together in a crowded or densely packed way. The word “throng” often carries connotations of chaos or confusion, as it suggests that there are many people in a small space and that they may be moving or behaving in an unruly or uncontrolled way.
A throng of people can be found at events or locations where there is a lot of activity or excitement, such as concerts, sporting events, or tourist attractions. It can also describe a large crowd of people trying to do the same thing, such as boarding a train or entering a building. In some cases, a group of people may be so large or dense that it is difficult to move through or get past.
Intrepid
The term “intrepid” describes someone brave, courageous, and daring, especially in the face of danger or difficulty. An intrepid person is not afraid to take risks or confront challenges and is willing to face adversity or danger with fortitude and determination. The word “intrepid” comes from the Latin “intrepidus,” which means “fearless.”
Intrepid people are often admired for their bravery and determination, as they are willing to face challenges and overcome obstacles to achieve their goals. They may be leaders or innovators who inspire others to follow their example and take on complex tasks or challenges. In some cases, intrepid people may be willing to put themselves in danger or to make sacrifices to achieve their goals or to help others.
Adversity
Adversity refers to difficult or unfavorable circumstances or conditions that must be faced or overcome. Adversity can take many forms, including financial hardship, illness, natural disasters, and personal or professional challenges. Adversity can be difficult to cope with, as it can cause stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions. However, it can also be an opportunity for growth, resilience, and personal development, as it can help people to learn, adapt, and overcome challenges.
People who face adversity often need to develop coping strategies to deal with the challenges and stresses that they are facing. This can involve seeking support from friends, family, or other resources, such as therapy or counseling, or finding ways to manage stress and maintain a positive outlook. Coping with adversity can be difficult, but it can also be a rewarding and enriching experience, as it can help people to learn more about themselves and to develop resilience and strength.
Accost
To accost someone means to confront or approach them in an aggressive or threatening manner. Accosting someone can involve making physical or verbal threats, attempting to start a fight, or making unwanted advances or comments. Accosting is generally considered rude or aggressive behavior and is often used to intimidate or bully others.
Accosting someone can be a crime, depending on the circumstances and the laws of the jurisdiction in which it occurs. Accosting someone can sometimes be considered assault or harassment, resulting in criminal charges or civil liability. It is generally best to avoid accosting someone, as it can lead to conflict and may cause harm or damage to the person being accosted or others.
Reticent
The word “reticent” means unwilling to speak or express oneself freely, especially about one’s thoughts or feelings. It can describe someone who is quiet, reserved, or reluctant to speak openly or share information. The word is often used to describe someone hesitant or unwilling to express their opinions or feelings, either because they are shy or want to avoid causing conflict or controversy. It can also be used to describe someone who is reluctant or unwilling to engage in social situations or to participate in activities or discussions.
***
The Prophet and the Paradox
Seraphim, a priest known for his laconic sermons and stoic demeanor, stood before a throng of anxious villagers. An interminable drought had parched their lands, turning hope into dust. Today, they craved more than the usual platitudes; they desired answers, a spark of guidance.
A lone figure, cloaked in shadow, accosted Seraphim mid-sermon. It was Kaia, an intrepid nomad ostracized for her unorthodox views. “Your empty words offer no solace,” she declared, her voice ringing with defiance. “Seek the ancient well beyond the forbidden mountains, for there lies the answer to your woes.”
Seraphim, reticent and bound by tradition, dismissed her words as blasphemy. Yet, the murmurs of desperation in the crowd resonated with him. Could an unorthodox path offer salvation when tradition had failed?
His internal struggle mirrored the growing storm outside. Torn between faith and doubt, he sought council from the elder Elias, his mentor. The old man, his eyes clouded with wisdom, spoke in riddles: “Seek the truth, even if it lies beyond the borders of your comfort.”
The next morning, under the cloak of the storm, Seraphim embarked on a journey against his own judgment. Kaia, her face etched with determination, became his unlikely guide. Days turned into weeks, the journey testing their resilience. The treacherous mountains, the howling wind, and the whispers of doubt challenged their resolve.
Finally, they reached the legendary well, hidden within a forgotten temple. As Seraphim approached, the storm abated, revealing a celestial light emanating from the well. Hesitantly, he dipped his chalice, expecting a magical elixir. Instead, he saw his own reflection, distorted and troubled.
Kaia’s voice broke the silence, “The solution lies not in magic, but in unity. The villagers, divided by fear and suspicion, have forgotten the power of collective action.”
Seraphim understood. The drought wasn’t just a physical challenge, but a mirror reflecting the fractured spirit of the community. His mission wasn’t to find a mystical solution, but to rekindle the flame of cooperation.
Returning to the village, Seraphim delivered a sermon unlike any before. He spoke of their shared responsibility, the power of unity, and the strength found in overcoming differences. His words, imbued with newfound conviction, resonated deeply.
Together, the villagers dug irrigation channels, shared resources, and prayed for rain. Slowly, the land began to heal, mirroring the mending of their broken community.
Seraphim, the once laconic priest, had found his voice. He realized that faith wasn’t confined to tradition, but in the courage to question, explore, and ultimately, unite. He and Kaia, the unlikely duo, had become symbols of hope, proving that even the most profound truths can be found in the most unexpected places, and sometimes, the greatest miracles are sparked by the bravest paradoxes.