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 Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
a-knocking
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
acknowledged
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
all
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
andeterminerUS /æn/
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
beauxiliary verbUS /biː/
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
bear
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/
the past participle of “be”
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
birth
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
case
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
chief
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
child
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
cold
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
comes
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
continuednounUS /ˈcontinued/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
day
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
dependent
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
depicted
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
desire
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
desires
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
door
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
eager
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
evernounUS /ever/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
everydeterminerUS /ˈevəri/
all the members of a group, with none left out
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
examine
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
existence
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
eyes
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
fleeting
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
flight
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
gave
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
girded
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
Gone
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
happens
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
happy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/
the form of “have” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
haste
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
hepronounUS /hiː/
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
heels
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
hour
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
hunger
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
intervals
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
knowing
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
leastnounUS /least/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
lestconjunctionUS /lest/
in order that something should not happen
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
letauxiliary verbUS /let/
used to make a suggestion or a command including the speaker
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
lightly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
lover
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
lovers
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
mad
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
makenounUS /make/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
maymodal verbUS /meɪ/
used to say something is possible, or to give permission
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
men
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
mischievous
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
mists
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
more
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
mustmodal verbUS /mʌst/
used to say something is necessary, or almost certainly true
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
needs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
nevernounUS /never/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
nodeterminerUS /noʊ/
not any; not one
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
notadverbUS /nɑːt/
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
nourished
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
obey
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
obeys
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
often
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
onprepositionUS /ɑːn/
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
onepronounUS /wʌn/
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
one's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
only
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
openverbUS /ˈoʊ.pən/
To move from a closed position.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
opens
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
opportunities
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
Opportunity
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
own
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
pair
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
parent
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
pause
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
perish
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
philosophynounUS /fɪˈlɑː.sə.fi/
The study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence. (Triết học, đạo lý nhân sinh.)
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
quickly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
reason
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
recognizes
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
relationship
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
retreating
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
return
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
run
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
sheltered
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/
used to say what is right, expected, or advisable
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
showing
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
SoconjunctionUS /soʊ/
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
solemnlyadverbUS /ˈsɑləmli/
seriously and formally
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
sturdy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
swift
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
tapping
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
teaching
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
then
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
threshold
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
toldnounUS /told/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
truer
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
uncertain
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/
a formal word for “on”
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
very
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
wepronounUS /wiː/
the speaker together with one or more other people
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
weakling
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
well
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
wellnigh
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
whenconjunctionUS /wen/
at the time that
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
whetherconjunctionUS /ˈweðər/
used to introduce two or more possibilities
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
wholly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A truer philosophy recognizes opportunity as the child of desire, and wholly dependent for continued existence upon its parent.
why
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading So when opportunity comes a-knocking (as happens every day and wellnigh every hour of the day) let desire make haste to run and open to its child, knowing well that opportunity is but a weakling, and must be sheltered and nourished lest it perish with cold and hunger on the very threshold that gave it birth.
world
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A lover, whether or no he be an acknowledged lover in his own eyes and in the eyes of his world, needs no teaching as to the relationship his eager desires bear to his fleeting opportunities.
wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading In his case, at least, opportunity obeys desire, as a child should ever obey its parent; and this, if the mad world would only pause to examine, is the chief reason why lovers are of all men happy.
yesterdays
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
youth
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Opportunity has been depicted as a sturdy youth, girded for swift flight, tapping lightly at one's door at uncertain intervals; then, when one opens as quickly as may be, more often than not showing but a pair of mischievous heels retreating into the mists of yesterdays--"Gone," we are told solemnly, "never to return!"
