Master English one word at a time. World of Words provides a daily English word with its precise meaning, pronunciation, and practical usage examples to help you build a powerful vocabulary.
to weaken or reduce in force, intensity, effect, quantity, or value
Explanation
Having a busy week? A funny movie can attenuate some of the stress by making your worries feel less intense. Attenuate comes from a Latin term meaning "to make thin." Whether it's literal or figurative, something attenuated is weakened or reduced.
Example: A heartfelt apology helped attenuate her anger after their disagreement.
steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state
Explanation
Working toward a long-term goal takes perseverance, especially when obstacles get in your way. This word, which comes from a Latin term meaning "steadfast," refers to the persistence it takes to achieve something. Whatever you're working toward, perseverance can help you keep at it.
Example: Through years of hard practice, her perseverance finally paid off with a gold medal.
