Make Your Point > Archived Issues > XANADU

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"XANADU" Pronunciation: ZAN uh doo Part of speech: Countable noun. (Countable nouns, like “bottle,” “piece,” and “decision,” are words for things that can be broken into exact units. You talk about “a bottle,” “three pieces,” and “many decisions.” Likewise, talk about one Xanadu or multiple Xanadus.) This word is also a proper noun. You always capitalize these, like “Korea,” “Shakespeare,” and “Christian.” Meaning: A Xanadu is a very peaceful, very beautiful place. This word comes from a famous poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, which you can check out at http://www.poetryfoundation.org/poem/173247. Coleridge describes Xanadu as a sunny place with bright gardens, scented trees, peaceful forests, etc. Whenever a made-up word from literature makes its way into our general vocabulary, you realize how deeply that piece of literature has affected us. But also, please know that when you use a word like this, people might think you're showing off your knowledge. I admit that this word is a bit rare, but I want to share it with you anyway because it's really useful. Other forms: Xanadus How to use it: Talk about a Xanadu, being in Xanadu, finding your Xanadu, and so on. This word gets used commercially, and you can see why: when a company, a theater, or a public project is called "Xanadu," you are reminded of peaceful, beautiful places. The east side of the Big Island of Hawaii is a Xanadu of lush trees, tropical fruits, and easygoing locals. Close to a few universities in the city of Tampa, Ybor City is a thriving Xanadu for students who love parties, dancing, and music. Look away from the screen to explain the definition in your own words. You'll know you understand what "Xanadu" means when you can explain it without saying "beautiful" or "peaceful." Think of an amazing town, city, island, or country you have visited (or one you'd like to visit someday), and fill in the blanks: “(Place) is a Xanadu of _____ and _____.” Example: “New Zealand is a Xanadu of snowy mountains and crystalline waters.” Spend at least 20 seconds occupying your mind with the game and quote below. Then try the review questions. Don't go straight to the review now; let your working memory empty out first. Playing With Words: This month's game is "guess the common word based on the given literal root meanings." Try it out each day and see the right answer the next day. It can be fun and illuminating to see the literal meanings of words when they came into the language! More than one right answer might be possible in some cases, just so you know. Also, it's okay if you can't come up with most or even any of the answers on your own; just check out the solutions and you'll learn the roots as you go along this month. From yesterday: “together” + “touch” + “full of” = ? Answer: "CONTAGIOUS" Try this one today: “know” + “make/do” = ? A Point Well Made: Erin Gloria Ryan, describing how similar people really are to one another: “None of us is Rihanna. Rihanna is barely Rihanna sometimes.” 1. The opposite of XANADU is A. CONFUSION B. HELL C. CONFORMITY 2. For anyone who has worked in a cubicle amidst constant noise, _____ is a Xanadu. A. a lunch break at a busy restaurant B. a coworker constantly interrupting you C. a private office with a door you can close Answers are below. To be a sponsor and send your own message to readers of this list, please contact Liesl at Liesl@HiloTutor.com. Make Your Point is crafted with love and brought to you each day for free by Mrs. Liesl Johnson, M.Ed., a word lover, learning enthusiast, and private tutor of reading and writing in the verdant little town of Hilo, Hawaii. For writing tips, online learning, essay guidance, and more, please visit www.HiloTutor.com. Disclaimer: Word meanings presented here are expressed in plain language and are limited to common, useful applications only. Readers interested in authoritative and multiple definitions of words are encouraged to check a dictionary. Likewise, word meanings, usage, and pronunciations are limited to American English; these elements may vary across world Englishes. Answers to review questions: 1. B 2. C