Every word is available to listen to. Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.
adeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
able
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/
on the subject of; concerning
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
aboveprepositionUS /əˈbʌv/
higher than, or over, something
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
acquired
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
act
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From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
advancement
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From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
all
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From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
allowed
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
alreadynounUS /already/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
althoughnounUS /ˈalthough/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
andeterminerUS /æn/
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
average
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
barely
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From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
beauxiliary verbUS /biː/
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
becauseconjunctionUS /bɪˈkɔːz/
for the reason that
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/
the past participle of “be”
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
boat-handling
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
bothdeterminerUS /boʊθ/
the two together, not just one
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
ButconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
cannot
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
certain
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
changed
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
charge
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From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
clear
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
clever
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
comes
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
command
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
comparing
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
completenounUS /complete/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
conditions
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
coursenounUS /course/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
days
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
debarred
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
deep-rooted
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
degenerate
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
detailsnounUS /ˈdetails/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
distrust
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
doauxiliary verbUS /duː/
used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
doesauxiliary verbUS /dʌz/
the form of “do” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
early
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
education
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
else
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
especially
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
essential
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
evennounUS /even/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
evernounUS /ever/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
factor
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
far
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
fearless
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
find
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
finenounUS /fine/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
ForprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
FRANK
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
fromprepositionUS /frʌm/
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
generally
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
GETS
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
go
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
graspnounUS /ɡræsp/
a firm hold in a specific situation in this story
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
habit
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/
the form of “have” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
hepronounUS /hiː/
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
highest
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/
used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
HISdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
hope
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
how
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
howeveradverbUS /ˌhaʊˈevər/
used to add a contrasting statement
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
IpronounUS /aɪ/
the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
Johnson
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
learn
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
learned
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
learning
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
limitations
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
looking
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
loses
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
love
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
made
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
makenounUS /make/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
man
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
matter
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
maymodal verbUS /meɪ/
used to say something is possible, or to give permission
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
men
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
merchantnounUS /ˈmɜːr.tʃənt/
A person or company involved in wholesale trade, especially with foreign countries.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
mighty
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
mindnounUS /mind/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
minor
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
moon
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
morale
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
mydeterminerUS /maɪ/
belonging to the person speaking
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
nodeterminerUS /noʊ/
not any; not one
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
now
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
observations
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
obtainverbUS /əbˈteɪn/
to get something, especially through effort
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
obtaining
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
onepronounUS /wʌn/
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
only
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
opportunities
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
OPPORTUNITY
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
ourdeterminerUS /ˈaʊər/
belonging to the speaker and others
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
outlook
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
painfully
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
physique
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
position
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
practice
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
profession
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
prove
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
readers
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
refinement
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
rely
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
round
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
sails
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
sea
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
seaman
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
self-reliance
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
seventeen
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
sheer
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
ship's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
ships
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
skipper's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
soconjunctionUS /soʊ/
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
so-called
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
some
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
soon
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
specimen
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
spite
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
stars
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
steadfast
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
steamships
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
steering
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/
of the kind already mentioned
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
sun
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
takenounUS /take/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
theory
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
there
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
thesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/
the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
things
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
timenounUS /time/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
trimming
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
trust
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
up
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/
a formal word for “on”
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
watching
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
wepronounUS /wiː/
the speaker together with one or more other people
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
wentnounUS /went/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
whenconjunctionUS /wen/
at the time that
From this reading For no matter how clever the man is in theory, if, when the time comes to act, he is ever looking round for some one else to rely upon, has a certain and deep-rooted distrust of himself, that man is debarred from obtaining an early command, or if he does obtain it, he generally loses it painfully soon, because he cannot trust himself.
whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading For sheer love of his profession he had learned all that there was to learn about it as far as his opportunities went, and above all he had acquired the habit of self-reliance, which is a mighty factor in advancement at sea.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
work
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
working
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
world
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
years
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But in spite of his limitations he was far above the average of his years; he already had that steadfast outlook upon the world of his profession, that fearless grasp of its details that go to make up the complete seaman even in these so-called degenerate days, when conditions have so changed that we may, and do, find men of the highest education and refinement in charge of our merchant ships, and especially steamships.
yetconjunctionUS /jet/
but in spite of that
From this reading Of course practice is essential to prove theory, however certain we may be of the theory, and Frank as yet had only been able to prove his learning in minor things, such as his boat-handling, his steering, his watching the trimming of the sails, and comparing his working of the ship’s position with the skipper’s when he and Johnson had been allowed to take and work up observations of the sun, moon, and stars.
young
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading FRANK GETS HIS OPPORTUNITY I hope I have made it clear to my readers that Frank, although now barely seventeen, was a fine specimen of a young man both in physique and in morale or mind.
