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 He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
addressing
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/
later than; following
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
againnounUS /again/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
always
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading Mr. J.G. Reeder rang his bell and sighed.
anythingpronounUS /ˈeniθɪŋ/
any thing at all
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
beauxiliary verbUS /biː/
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
becauseconjunctionUS /bɪˈkɔːz/
for the reason that
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
bell
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. J.G. Reeder rang his bell and sighed.
better
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
bring
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
broughtnounUS /ˈbrought/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
business
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
chair
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
concerned
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
created
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
determinedadjectiveUS /dɪˈtɜrmɪnd/
having firmly decided to do something
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/
the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
down
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
dutynounUS /ˈduːti/
a responsibility that must be carried out
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
employer
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
everybodypronounUS /ˈevribɑːdi/
every person
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
exacting
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
exciting
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
fatherly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
favoured
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
fiction
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
fifth
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
firm
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
foundnounUS /found/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
four
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
fourthnounUS /fourth/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
fromprepositionUS /frʌm/
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
G
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. J.G. Reeder rang his bell and sighed.
Gillette
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
happening
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
HepronounUS /hiː/
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/
used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading Mr. J.G. Reeder rang his bell and sighed.
hours
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
ignored
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
impossible
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
insist
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
J
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. J.G. Reeder rang his bell and sighed.
less
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
matter
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
Miss
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
moments
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
Mr
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. J.G. Reeder rang his bell and sighed.
new
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
nextnounUS /next/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
notadverbUS /nɑːt/
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
occupation
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
office
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
onprepositionUS /ɑːn/
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
out
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
perhaps
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
pointnounUS /pɔɪnt/
the main matter or purpose being discussed
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
questionnounUS /ˈquestion/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
rang
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. J.G. Reeder rang his bell and sighed.
read
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
Reeder
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. J.G. Reeder rang his bell and sighed.
ringing
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
room
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
rose
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
rung
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
samenounUS /same/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
sat
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
saw
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
say
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
secretary
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
service
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
settle
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
shepronounUS /ʃiː/
a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/
used to say what is right, expected, or advisable
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
sighed
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mr. J.G. Reeder rang his bell and sighed.
similar
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
situation
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
somebodypronounUS /ˈsʌmbɑːdi/
a person, without saying who
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
summonsnounUS /ˈsʌmənz/
an official order to appear or respond
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
tender
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
then
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
There
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
timenounUS /time/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
times
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But always, when he rose from his chair after ringing four times, determined to settle the matter there and then, he sat down again and rang a fifth time.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
tones
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
views
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
walking
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
way
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
whenconjunctionUS /wen/
at the time that
From this reading There were moments when he saw himself walking into the next room and addressing Miss Gillette in firm but fatherly tones.
whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
whopronounUS /huː/
which person or people
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
withoutprepositionUS /wɪˈθaʊt/
not having, not using, or not accompanied by
From this reading He sighed because it was the fourth time he had rung the bell without anything happening.
wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading He would point out to her the impossible situation which was created when a secretary ignored the summons of her employer; he would insist that she did not bring into the office, or, if she brought, should not in business hours read the tender or exciting fiction which she favoured; he would say, in the same firm and fatherly way, that perhaps it would be better for everybody concerned if she found a new occupation, or a similar occupation in the service of somebody who had less exacting views on the question of duty.
