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Gracious Word: Accismus

6/10/2014

 
Accismus
Word every Gracious Individual should know: Accismus

Definition: Accismus (pronounced: ak-‘siz-mus); Greek; noun
1. Feigning disinterest in something while actually desiring it.

Why I love this word:
I took in this word in two ways; first I associated it with almost being modest. For example, let's say for Christmas you desperately wanted a brand new laptop and your uncle actually buys one for you. Inside you're freaking out because everyone else in your family got clothes for Christmas and you got a computer! You're reaction to the kind gesture is, "I couldn't possibly accept this lavish gift." But you can, you can accept this lavish gift. Accismus is showing no interest in something while secretly wanting it. It's a form of irony where one pretends indifference and refuses something while actually wanting it. 


The second way, which I think was probably the more obvious version of interpreting it, is in the complicated subject of love. You love and care for this person, but there are many roadblocks in the way, or perhaps you simply aren't comfortable with expressing your emotions, so you keep them to yourself. You feign your disinterest in him, when on the inside, you're dying to talk to him and to simply hear his voice. 

Photograph by Bethany Marie


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    Gracious Words

    With the Word of the Day and the Monthly Book Club, this page is for the intellectual reader or for anyone who wants to improve their vocabulary.

    As intellectuals, having a remarkable vocabulary speaks measures. Knowing the right words sharpens communication skills and opens minds to help express ourselves better whether in our personal or professional lives. Practice these Words of the Day and join in on the conversation. 


    Unless indicated ©Mariya Dondonyan, most photos on this page are works of other photographers. I believe in giving credit where credit is due, so every post recognizes the source where the photographs were found. If at anytime you see work that is improperly recognized, please send me a quick note and I will update the information. 
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