101 Words Your Vocab Needs to Have You Being the Smartest Person in the Room ...
By Laura • 3 Comments
By Laura • 3 Comments
No matter the reasoning, it's always great to learn new words. Whether you want to impress at a job interview, sound smart with your new boss, or be an English language goddess your friends turn to in times of vocabulary needs, sheknows.com has got you covered on all the words you need to memorize today!
Definition: Bitterness, especially in vocabulary or mannerisms
Example: The discussion began with such acrimony, it was clear to the lawyer this was going to be a tense contract negotiation.
Acrimony often springs from unresolved conflicts or deep-seated resentment, manifesting in sharp-tongued remarks and a chilly atmosphere. To avoid such negativity, it's crucial to approach disputes with empathy and a willingness to understand the other party's perspective. Remember, injecting a bit of humor and grace can often diffuse tense situations. So the next time you encounter acrimonious exchanges, strive to be the peacemaker. Your calm demeanor and well-chosen words might just turn the tide and lead to more amicable discussions. Always aim to be the voice of reason in a sea of discord.
Definition: consent without objection, even after previously objecting
Example: When the salesman realized he was going to lose the sale unless he threw in a free tire rotation that the customer wanted, he acquiesced.
Acquiescence is often seen as a form of compromise or strategic agreement. It sometimes carries the connotation of giving in reluctantly, but it can also demonstrate wisdom in choosing battles wisely. The term itself rolls off the tongue with a sort of elegant resignation. Imagine sitting at a high-stakes negotiation table, every player with their deal-breakers. Yet, as the tension thickens, you casually lean back and agree to the terms that previously seemed unreasonable—all for the greater good. It's that surprise factor, the twist in the tale, that often leaves everyone with their jaws hanging just a tad lower.
Definition: being highly skilled or well trained in a particular discipline; an expert
Example: She's an adept graphic designer and was headhunted by a rival company.
In the workplace, harnessing your inner adept can work wonders for your career trajectory. An adept individual is often akin to a maestro, orchestrating their skills with finesse and precision. Imagine a coder who can seamlessly debug a complex algorithm, or a chef who intuitively combines flavors to create a masterpiece on a plate. These individuals don't just perform tasks—they elevate them into forms of art. Strive to be the adept in your field, and you'll find doors of opportunity swinging open, with colleagues and competitors alike recognizing your mastery.
Definition: excessive praise, admiration or flattery
Example: The adulation from thousands of excited fans faced by Justin Bieber would make most people uncomfortable, but he seems to enjoy it.
Adulation can often be seen in the realm of celebrity culture, where devotees lavish their idols with praise that borders on worship. While some may thrive on this kind of attention, it's important to remember that excessive adulation can sometimes detach individuals from reality. For those on the receiving end, finding a balance between enjoying the spotlight and maintaining humility could prove vital for personal growth. Remember, while it's delightful to be appreciated, a constant stream of unbridled adoration could make it challenging for one to stay grounded.
Definition: uncertainty when choosing between two options (often involving fluctuating or contradictory emotions)
Example: Sienna knew she had to make a decision, but she just felt ambivalent, so she flipped a coin.
It's a feeling we've all encountered at some point in our lives. Imagine standing at the fork of a road, every path just as enchanting as the other. Your heart tugs you one way, your mind pushes you another. The tick-tock of the clock echoes the pitter-patter of your indecisive heart. Much like choosing between a sultry chocolate lava cake and a zesty lemon tart for dessert, the ambivalence is real and oh-so human.ция
Definition: abnormality, often a red flag that there may be a greater issue
Example: Jennifer found an anomaly in the profit projections that proved to be evidence of embezzlement.
Anomalies can be pivotal in diverse situations, from scientific research to financial audits. They serve as the canary in the coal mine, often prompting further investigation. In Jennifer's case, it wasn't just a minor accounting error but a glaring sign of illicit activity. Hence, spotting an anomaly shouldn't be ignored; it requires a keen eye to discern these irregularities. It demonstrates critical thinking and attention to detail – both exceptional traits that can elevate you above your peers, making you the detective extraordinaire of any scenario.
Definition: unorthodox, experimental or progressive work in any field (usually relating to the arts) or the group who forwards the concept (Tim Burton or E.E. Cummings)
Example: The new ad agency's concept may be too avant-garde for our more traditional image.
In the realm of the avant-garde, creators like Björk in music or Marina Abramović in performance art continuously push boundaries, often leaving audiences both perplexed and captivated. These innovators challenge societal norms, compelling us to question our perceptions of art and life. The reach of the avant-garde isn't confined to galleries and theatres; it permeates fashion, with designers like Rei Kawakubo and their deconstructed pieces redefining what we consider wearable. Embracing the avant-garde mindset might not only refine your artistic tastes but also sprinkle a dash of daring into your everyday conversations!
Definition: obvious or self-evident; based on one or more axioms
Example: It's axiomatic that great salespeople have solid communication skills.
When you say something is axiomatic, you're essentially claiming that it's undeniable truth, the sort that doesn’t need further explanation or argument because of its intrinsic logical foundation. In the bustling world of intellectual discourse or even during a casual banter with friends, dropping the word axiomatic adds both gravity and crisp precision to your observations. It suggests that you recognize the fundamental principles that others might overlook. A well-timed "It's axiomatic" can signal that you're not just knowledgeable, but also analytical at core—quick to discern that which is self-evident.
Definition: striving for but lacking the sophistication of the ultra rich while also lacking the "authenticity" of the working class (often a pejorative term in the U.S.)
Example: The bourgeois attitude of modern culture has changed how many high-end retailers do business.
The term bourgeois has its roots steeped in the social classes of old. Today, it evokes an image of those striving to mimic the lifestyles of the affluent without the means or social pedigree, resulting in a peculiar blend of consumerism and emulation. The impact resonates through neighborhoods undergoing bourgeoisification, where local character and affordability often give way to upscale cafes and boutiques. To bourgeoisify oneself or one’s area suggests not only a change in aesthetic but also a shift in values—preferring the sheen of material success over the gritty reality of everyday hustle. This phenomenon subtly shifts societal dynamics and consumer landscapes.
Definition: devious and surreptitious operation
Example: Lauren's high personal ethics made it difficult for her to work for such a byzantine company, so she tendered her resignation.
The word Byzantine is derived from the Byzantine Empire, known for its complex bureaucracy and intricate system of administration. However, when we borrow it into modern parlance, it implies a level of sophistication in cunning that surpasses the ordinary. It's not just garden-variety trickery; it's the sort of convoluted scheming that would make a spy novel seem straightforward. Whether in office politics or elaborate heists, a Byzantine plot is one that twists and turns, leaving you guessing at every angle until the grand, unexpected reveal.
Definition: harsh, dissonant sounds
Example: The sudden sound of a cell phone only added to the cacophony of the boardroom executives' heated shouting.
Much like the unpleasant jangle of a badly struck chord, cacophonous moments can grate on one's nerves and overwhelm the senses. Whether it’s the clatter and clang of construction work on a busy street or the nerve-wracking squawk of alarm clocks that jolt us from slumber, these sounds tend to evoke a sense of chaos. To be the epitome of eloquence, you might say, "The cacophonous symphony of urban hustle is oddly both the city's heartbeat and its headache." This aptly captures the essence of the word while painting a vivid picture of everyday life.
Definition: to stop fighting or surrender (as in a social battle or negotiation)
Example: The CEO refused to capitulate to Terry's salary demands, so she tendered her resignation.
Capitulation is often seen as a sign of weakness, but there are situations where it can also be a strategic masterstroke. In the cutthroat realm of office politics or intense family discussions, standing down might defuse a heated moment and pave the way for compromise. Remember, surrendering the battle doesn't always mean losing the war. Flexibility can turn the tides in your favor when least expected. So, the next time you find yourself at loggerheads with formidable opposition, consider if it’s truly worth the struggle, or if gracefully bowing out might just be the smarter move.
Definition: a lose-lose paradox in which the only solution to problem is prevented by circumstance or often a means of entrapment or political maneuvering (from the novel of the same name)
Example: Lolita's boss presented her with a catch-22 — she couldn't work another shift without a doctor's sign-off, but couldn't afford another doctor's appointment without a paycheck.
The term catch-22 embodies the essence of being stuck between a rock and a hard place; it's when the very nature of a dilemma binds your hands, often leaving you treading water in a sea of ironic frustration. Whether it's navigating bureaucratic labyrinths or maneuvering through the complex social webs at work, a catch-22 can trap even the most astute individuals. Understand this, and you'll be one step closer to unraveling the perplexities that can ensnare us in our personal and professional lives.
Definition: disdainful or unceremonious
Example: His cavalier attitude toward customers made the manager wonder if he had any respect for others.
Having a cavalier approach can often be mistaken for confidence or assertiveness, but there's a fine line between them. Confidence commands respect through assuredness, while being cavalier may come off as dismissively overconfident, potentially alienating those around you. In social settings, this trait could make you seem intriguing, as long as it's balanced with a dash of charm. However, in professional environments, such nonchalance might not do you any favors. Understanding the connotations of this word adds a nuanced tool to your linguistic arsenal, allowing you to describe someone's brash or haughty behavior with pinpoint accuracy.
Definition: something or a combination of things that's so odd or improbable that it shouldn't logically exist, but does
Example: The software suite of billing and graphic design software was a chimera, but the company managed to sell enough units to make a profit.
Definition: something done in secret, usually with a hidden or nefarious agenda
Example: The president had to fire her vice president when she found out he was making clandestine deals with the competition.
Clandestine activities often evoke images of shadowy figures and whispered conversations in dimly-lit hallways. It's the stuff of spy novels and political thrillers, where the art of deception plays a pivotal role. If someone describes a friend's actions as clandestine, you might imagine them planning a surprise party, not an espionage campaign. Yet, whether it's for a secret romantic rendezvous or corporate espionage, clandestine moves have that pinch of mystery and potential scandal that spices up any narrative. Just remember, if you're the one plotting secretly, be wary of watchful eyes because secrets have a way of coming to light.
Definition: well-reasoned, logical and compelling
Example: Ally's points were well founded, but her inability to present a cogent argument left the stockholders wondering if she was the right woman for the job.
Having the ability to articulate a cogent case is vital in persuasive communication, whether it's in the boardroom or at a local community meeting. When you marshal facts in a logical sequence, connecting the dots with clarity and purpose, you not only showcase your intelligence but also your capability to sway opinion and inspire action. Think of it as weaving a tapestry of evidence so seamless that your audience can't help but follow the thread to the same conclusion you’ve reached. Cogent remarks can transform a passive listener into an enthusiastic supporter, underscoring the power of a well-crafted message.
Definition: a difficult problem
Example: Jackie was charged with solving the shipping conundrum before the company lost money.
The conundrum presented to Jackie was anything but trivial. It was a Gordian knot of logistical snarls, threatening to derail the company's profits and reputation. As the clock ticked down, she pored over maps and numbers, seeking a solution that was clever as it was efficient. The challenge here wasn't simply about finding a quick fix, but crafting a sustainable strategy that would safeguard future transactions. With a blend of wit and wisdom, Jackie tackled the puzzle piece by piece, aware that her peers were counting on her to unfurl the complexity into a streamlined process.
Definition: partiality to one's friends, often evidenced by favors or promotions they don't deserve or are unqualified for
Example: The boss' cronyism became apparent when he appointed his fraternity brother's deadbeat son as vice president.
Cronyism not only breeds inefficiency but sparks a wildfire of discontent among the workforce. Imagine the frustration among dedicated employees who watch less-qualified pals sail up the corporate ladder. This not-so-secret handshake between buddies chips away at the core of meritocracy, leaving a bitter taste in the mouths of those who truly toil. Such nepotistic maneuvers can tarnish the reputation of a company, leading one to ponder—shouldn't success be earned, not handed out like party favors at a glitzy shindig? Remember, folks, fairness keeps the office gears greased and in tiptop shape.
Definition: to precisely describe or outline
Example: To ensure things ran smoothly, the team moved to the conference room to delineate their plan on the whiteboard before beginning the project.
When discussing complex topics or elaborate plans, it is crucial to delineate the specific steps involved. Much like an artist sketching out the fine lines of a portrait, conveying your intentions with clear, well-defined boundaries can be the difference between a masterpiece and a muddled mess. Whether you're orchestrating a sophisticated event or explaining a nuanced concept, taking the time to delineate each segment ensures that everyone is on the same page, reducing the risk of miscommunication and errors. Just remember—clarity is key, and a little precision can lead to perfection!
Definition: to stray or depart (from a standard, course of action or the norm)
Example: If you deviate from your customer's expectations, they may buy from competitors who offer a more consistent experience.
In relationships or team projects, deviation from agreed plans without communication can lead to misunderstandings and distrust. It's crucial to align with others’ expectations and follow through on commitments made. When one deviates, especially without prior notice, it can disrupt the flow of collaboration and erode the foundation of trust that's been built. Think of it like veering off a hiking trail; it's not just about losing your way, it's also about keeping your hiking buddy in the loop so you both stay on track together.
Definition: a division into two parts, often contradictory or mutually exclusive
Example: By attempting to work half an hour on the production line, the president only further illustrated the dichotomy that exists between executives and factory workers in our company.
The concept of dichotomy extends beyond mere differences—it emphasizes a stark contrast, like two opposing poles. In everyday conversation, remarking on the dichotomy between wealth and poverty can provoke deep discussions about societal structure. When used cleverly, this term can subtly underscore significant dualities that we experience, perhaps without even realizing, such as the dichotomy of heart and mind or tradition and innovation. By recognizing these divides, we can engage more thoughtfully with the world around us, appreciating the nuance and complexity of seemingly binary situations.
Definition: to disturb, upset or confuse, as in demeanor or plans
Example: Salma was disconcerted by the accountant's sudden outburst during the meeting, but quickly recovered.
Definition: to deprive someone of a privilege or right
Example: Regardless of how hard their jobs are, the factory workers found it difficult to feel disenfranchised while working for a company.
Definition: to spread or disperse
Example: Celebrities have it rough these days, because the internet makes it easy and fast to disseminate rumors about their misdeeds.
Definition: disclose or reveal private or secret information
Example: Phishing scams are emails sent by spammers in an attempt to get you to divulge your banking or other private information.
Definition: a belief in the equality of all people (especially political, economic or social)
Example: Self-help groups succeed based on egalitarian principles — Charlie Sheen is no different than Joe Schmo.
Definition: to deprive of strength or spirit (often associated with male procreative power)
Example: Adding a provision that prohibits managers from reviewing the contents of company-paid cell phones effectively emasculates the rule against doing personal business on company time.
Definition: a disease or condition restricted to a particular area or department
Example: There's an endemic of petty theft from the third floor supply closet.
Definition: discontent related to boredom or lack of interest
Example: We created an iPad app to fight the ennui that children feel when accompanying Mom on errands.
Definition: discriminating or sophisticated tastes
Example: To appeal to customers with more epicurean tastes, our company uses only the freshest, organic ingredients from local farmers.
Definition: difficult to understand except by a chosen few; an interest that's special or rare
Example: When conversing with clients, be careful of esoteric, industry-specific terms.
Definition: not worth keeping or maintaining; something you can sacrifice (usually for the greater good)
Example: Xenia worked hard and always carefully researched things to ensure her employer knew she wasn't expendable.
Definition: to produce or create (in manufacturing); manufactured (with regard to facts), fake or untrue; imitation
Example: To get his boss to her surprise retirement party, Jamal fabricated a story involving angry clients and a meeting at her favorite restaurant.
Definition: playful (sometimes inappropriate) humor
Example: The manager often made facetious remarks to his subordinates, but took on a more serious demeanor in front of the company bigwigs.
Definition: critical; demanding; difficult to please
Example: The best customer service representatives can please even the most fastidious customers if they're willing to listen.
Definition: a total failure; a complicated situation that ends in failure
Example: My suit was wrinkled, my business cards got soaked in the rain and when I left, I found a huge piece of spinach in my teeth — the whole thing was a total fiasco.
Definition: to propel a person or people into activity or inspiration
Example: Gina gave a rousing victory speech, galvanizing her campaign volunteers to stay active on social media long after the election was over.
Definition: a remark or tactic used to redirect a conversation or seek an advantage
Example: Elena began to cry, but the officer was used to that gambit and gave her a ticket anyway.
Definition: anything political affecting the relationships or two or more countries
Example: Many people blame rising gasoline costs on geopolitical instability in the Middle East.
Definition: pertaining to the pursuit of pleasure or blatant self-gratification
Example: The Lonely Island's parody "I'm on a Boat" is a commentary on the hedonistic lifestyle glamorized by many modern music videos.
Definition: flawless; free from or incapable of fault or blame
Example: While he liked Kyle's more adventurous designs, the boss decided to put Kaylie, whose impeccable code is more reliable, in charge of the website.
Definition: penetrating, biting or remarkably clear (tone, words, etc.)
Example: Dan tried to counter the damaging points made by the defense attorney, but in the end, her points were too incisive and the jury sided with the defendant.
Definition: lacking in manners or good taste; tactless
Example: Juno indelicately remarked to the obese woman, "you shouldn't be drinking if you're pregnant!"
Definition: so small it can't be measured
Example: The effect of the change to the cheaper formula was so infinitesimal, it was hardly worth mentioning.
Definition: treacherous or deceitful (often related to entrapment)
Example: Email spammers who attempt to impersonate your friends are particularly insidious.
Definition: place two items close together and side by side (often referring to objects that may at first seem to be in opposition or contrast)
Example: To illustrate her point about how far the company had come, Mary juxtaposed the image of the company's original product with the modern version.
Definition: to stop something
Example: Mom quickly put the kibosh on Bobbie's plans to wear a skimpy dress to prom.
Definition: to exert influence on to gain the desired effect (in business)
Example: A buyer can limit the leverage of the seller if she doesn't seem desperate.
Definition: a long list or recital (of excuses, reasons, etc.)
Example: Meagan had a litany of excuses for her miscalculation — many were valid, some were not.
Definition: tactics that are cunning, often deceptive, in which the end result is more important than morality
Example: Diana's Machiavellian attempts to get her coworker Michael fired weren't well received by his friends.
Definition: to flow or sound sweet or smooth
Example: Peggy was nervous about her speech, but her mellifluous words brought the crowd to their feet.
Definition: a professional soldier often hired by a foreign army; motivated by profit rather than loyalty
Example: Brianna left the DA's office to become a mercenary of sorts — she began providing consultations on how to survive a cross-examination by the DA.
Definition: volatile or erratic; fickle; flighty, animated or lively (often quick-witted)
Example: The lead singer's mercurial nature was well loved by fans and the media, but loathed by his bandmates.
Definition: the incorrect or an unsuitable name (not a misunderstanding or popular misconception)
Example: Calling that dog sweet pea is a misnomer; he just bit me!
Definition: a novice; beginner
Example: Layla may be a neophyte, but you'd never know by looking at her sales numbers.
Definition: a response that doesn't logically follow the statement it follows
Example: After Nan pointed out that the stock prices were dropping, Melanie interrupted with a total non sequitur by saying, "Who wants lunch?"
Definition: to talk or write about a subject in such a way as to make it unclear or hide the full truth
Example: Olivia attempted to obfuscate her husband's surprise party by telling him they were going to his favorite restaurant because she'd snagged a Groupon.
Definition: extremely showy; loud
Example: Guy Fieri is the Food Network's most ostentatious celebrity chef.
Definition: cure-all; magic elixir (usually not literal in modern English)
Example: E-learning isn't a panacea for all educational issues; we still require teachers to direct a child's learning, even over the internet.
Definition: superior, supreme
Example: The issue of paramount importance is whether the baby is healthy. Everything else is something we can deal with.
Definition: skim, review
Example: Alexis was annoyed when Dan only perused the document before declaring her work unimpressive.
Definition: a person who is lacking in or hostile toward accepted cultural values or social refinement
Example: You don't like Shiraz? You philistine!
Definition: highly controversial
Example: The prostate cancer awareness advertisements featuring male celebrities in the buff (with only their key parts covered) is polemic, but effective.
Definition: natural tendency, disposition
Example: Trying to curb her proclivity for micromanagement, Diamond gave her employee carte blanche on the first draft of the proposal.
Definition: to seek and gain ownership of something
Example: Michelle was able to procure a computer that was able to read a floppy disk.
Definition: the authority to represent someone else in an official capacity
Example: Rosalida acted as a proxy, paying the bills and taking care of her siblings while her mother took a month-long business trip.
Definition: something given for something taken (you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours)
Example: Jazmin and Nathan had a quid pro quo arrangement — she took his desk near her friend and he got her desk near the girl he has a crush on.
Definition: a perfect example or the pure essence of something
Example: Having learned to cook from her mother, who's from Cabo San Lucas, Lisa had confidence she could open the quintessential Mexican restaurant in the states.
Definition: pursuing a seemingly unreachable or ambitious goal; idealist, impractical or both
Example: Dawn's quixotic vision paid off when, to her boss's surprise, her formula worked.
Definition: results, consequences or implications
Example: As she drove back to work, Catriona was nervous about the ramifications of losing her company's biggest client.
Definition: something intended to divert attention from the actual problem or situation
Example: To prevent the competition from knowing what they were really working on, the tech company introduced a red herring in the form of a false rumor.
Definition: a clever or witty response
Example: Emily's sparkling rejoinders made her popular with the group very quickly.
Definition: reluctant to speak or speak freely (often confused with reluctant, which means unwilling)
Example: Laura was reticent on the subject of her children because her son is in jail.
Definition: the effective use of speech, especially that which is exaggerated to make a potentially erroneous point
Example: Despite the fact that Leslie agreed with Tom's analysis, she distanced herself from his over-the-top rhetoric.
Definition: abundant, abounding; prevalent
Example: The store was rife with customers, so the manager was forced to open a new register.
Definition: to think about something thoroughly and in great detail
Example: Elysia ruminated about her hiring decision for several days before choosing raw talent over experience.
Definition: accepting even negative circumstances with a positive attitude
Example: While it would make her job more difficult, Theresa was sanguine when she was told she'd have to complete the project a week earlier than expected.
Definition: sternly disciplined, rigorously simple, frugal or austere
Example: He made plenty of money, yet lead a Spartan lifestyle in his 600-square-foot apartment and drove an early model Honda Civic to work each day.
Definition: a loyal and reliable member or supporter
Example: Even after she retired as librarian, Pearl remained a stalwart supporter of local book drives.
Definition: free from passion, including happiness and grief (think Spock)
Example: Ebony attempted to remain stoic as her boss explained why she was being let go.
Definition: a new level of quality or perfection; unduplicated
Example: The chef's food was so sublime, the harshest critic in the area came back once a week for the rest of his life.
Definition: excessive, unnecessary or needless; extra
Example: To make extra space on her hard drive, Doreen asked the technician to eliminate the superfluous files.
Definition: a person who controls or dominates another, usually with selfish motives (from evil hypnotist character in Maurier's Trilby)
Example: Raven knew Michael was far too caring and submissive to be the Svengali her coworkers portrayed him to be.
Definition: a brownnoser; someone who flatters others in an attempt to serve their own interests
Example: Jenny realized she'd misjudged her boss when her hard work got her the promotion over the lazy sycophant she was up against.
Definition: a partnership or combination that works well to the advantage of both
Example: The goal of the Apple TV is to create synergy between your various Apple devices: iPhone, iPad and iMac or MacBook.
Definition: equivalent in significance or effect, though not identical
Example: The public relations head told us that saying anything that could make people stop buying our products is tantamount to stealing.
Definition: unsubstantiated or weak
Example: The link between the appetizer and entree was tenuous, though both were executed beautifully.
Definition: a private conversation between two people
Example: After the board meeting, the marketing director was called aside for a tête-à-tête with the president, making the entire marketing team nervous.
Definition: present everywhere; everywhere at once
Example: Try as competitors might, the iPhone has become ubiquitous.
Definition: indefensible, usually in relation to a difficult or impossible situation
Example: Aliyah was in an untenable position; she couldn't keep telling the employees to cut costs while staying in five-star hotels on business trips.
Definition: suave, sophisticated, refined; being or appearing to be high-society
Example: Even in a low-end suit from last season, Claudia struck all she met as urbane.
Definition: to go back and forth between two points
Example: Nina vacillated between the lamb and fish for so long, her friends just ordered for her.
Definition: probable or realistic; the appearance of truth
Example: The ad campaign has a certain verisimilitude that customers seem to identify with.
Definition: able to perform a variety of tasks; adaptable
Example: A versatile employee, Kim is just as comfortable troubleshooting software as she is making sales.
Definition: to do or feel on behalf of another
Example: Kat can't stay away from celebrity news; she lives vicariously through the Kardashians.
Definition: insistent and inflexible
Example: Eva was so vehement that the salespeople would follow up with customers within two days of dropping off the proposal; anyone who didn't would be fired.
Definition: a metaphor for an individual's area of comfort or expertise (in business)
Example: Sandra, whose degree was in accounting, was asked to calculate the team's sales projections because that type of work is in her wheelhouse.
Definition: something that costs more to keep or maintain than it's actually worth
Example: Because of the constant discounts we have to give to move this product, I think it's a white elephant. We should consider discontinuing it.
Definition: a young person who succeeds, usually in business
Example: After creating Facebook while in college, wunderkind Mark Zuckerberg recently married the love of his life.
Definition: enthusiastic, often to the point of fanatical
Example: Penelope's zealous chatter about her cats was a real turnoff to her coworkers.