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brainstorm - A great idea that someone thinks of suddenly.

During the meeting, we had a brainstorm about how to improve our marketing strategy.

verb

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probe - Physically explore or examine (something) with the hands or an instrument

For men, getting a prostate exam can involve a doctor probing their body in an uncomfortable procedure.

noun

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finesse - Intricate and refined delicacy

Roger Federer is a championship player because of his finesse on the tennis court.

noun

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maneuver - A strategic or clever action — used to gain an advantage in a situation, especially in politics or negotiations.

The army conducted a large-scale maneuver to test their new defense strategy.

noun

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intuition - An ability to understand something with your feelings

Liz used her intuition, rather than facts or attraction, to determine whether or not to continue her relationships with guys she dated.

verb

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delve - To research or make painstaking inquiries into something

In his research for his book about George Washington, the author delved into the details of his life and presidency.

verb

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heed - To carefully consider advice, instructions, or information.

The hikers didn’t heed the storm alert and got caught in heavy rain.

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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tactics - Planned actions or strategies used to achieve a specific goal.

The coach taught the players new tactics to improve their defense and offense.

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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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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.

verb

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defray - To pay for something in a way that reduces or delays costs, expenses, or financial obligation.

They decided to rent out the basement in order to defray the cost of the monthly mortgage payments.