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July 31 - August 1, 2004 erosion (i RO zhun) The noun erosion refers to the gradual destruction or removal of something. This can be rocks or soil because of forces of nature like rain or wind or it can be a gradual destruction of someone's power or authority, or a decline in values, morals or support. Government geologists and environmentalists have raised the alarm about increased erosion caused by sand extraction along major rivers. Increasing need for food and firewood have resulted in the deforestation and cultivation of steep slopes, resulting in severe erosion. The previously front-running candidate had clearly suffered an erosion of support across the country. The has been an erosion of respect for minority members of society. July 30, 2004 malfeasance (mal FEE suns) The noun malfeasance refers to dishonest and illegal behaviour by a person in authority. The Cabinet yesterday removed respected health advocate Prakit Vatheesatokit form the position of deputy chairman of the Thai Health Promotion Foundation on the grounds of malfeasance. Government tolerance for corporate malfeasance seems to have been high. The governor said it would be hard take action against city inspectors for malfeasance unless they were caught red-handed. Protests against bureaucratic malfeasance have grown to record levels. July 29, 2004 auspicious (aus PISH us) The adjective auspicious means to show signs that something is likely to be successful in the future. Supporters of Mr Apirak cheered and even jumped for joy when he eventually drew the auspicious NO.1 position on the ballot paper. The swearing-in ceremony would likely take place on October 14, which is considered to be an auspicious day. With heavy overnight rains, the playing conditions were not auspicious. The conference is being held at an auspicious moment for developing countries. July 28, 2004 unscathed (un SKATHD) The adjective unscathed means to be unhurt or undamaged, especially after a bad experience or situation. A grandmother survived unscathed more than three days after becoming lost in Australia's rugged outback following a run in with a wild bull. The only building unscathed in this Ethiopian village is the green and white tomb of Ibrahim Ahmed Ben Omar, who died 750 years ago. A farmer can spray his whole field at once and kill off the weeds while leaving the beans unscathed. Several city departments have escaped essentially unscathed during the power crisis. July 27, 2004 flout The verb flout means to deliberately fail to obey a rule or law. Bribery is common in India where private businesses often pay government officials to ignore those who flout safety standards. Fire safety standards were widely flouted. Meanwhile, residents flouted rules imposed by the Taliban. The fishing fleet was accused of deliberately flouting quota regulations. July 26, 2004 plight The noun plight refers to a difficult or distressing situation that is full of problems. The seriously wounded elephant's plight drew worldwide attention. As more firms collapses from cashflow problems, the plight of the financial sector worsened. The elderly couple were among hundreds of villagers whose plight had been ignored by government authorities. Relief workers continue to express anxiety over the plight of 700,000 civilians who have been uprooted by the fighting. Click here to see our words in the news for the previous week. Return to our home page |© The Post Publishing Public Co., Ltd. All rights reserved 2004 | Last modified: August 2, 2004