Lesson 6: Different Ways to Serve

Let's start by serving up some new words from the Latin root 'serv,' which means 'to help' or 'to serve'.

Key Words

📝Example Usage:

• The computer server went down, so the human server had to take all the orders by hand.
• A good pair of boots should be serviceable for many years, providing great service on long hikes.
• After five hours on your feet, you deserve a break.

🧠Memory Trick

• The hardworking server felt they deserve a big tip for the excellent service they provided with a serviceable and friendly attitude.

Now for a little variety! These words all come from the root 'vari,' which points to things that are 'different' or 'changing'.

Key Words

📝Example Usage:

• The artist used various shades of blue to show the variation in the color of the ocean.
• The lunch menu has a wide variety of sandwiches, but the price is variable depending on the toppings you choose.

🧠Memory Trick

• Because the weather is so variable, we saw a variation in plans among various groups, showing a wide variety of responses.

Time to build your vocabulary! The suffix '-ous' is a handy tool for turning nouns into adjectives that mean 'full of' something.

Key Words

📝Example Usage:

• A firefighter rushing into a burning building is a perfect example of a courageous person.
• Graduating from school is a joyous occasion for students and their families.
• Swimming in the ocean during a hurricane is an extremely dangerous activity.

🧠Memory Trick

• Think of the suffix -ous as meaning 'having' or 'full of'. So, something joyous is full of joy, someone courageous is full of courage, and a situation that is dangerous is full of danger. The courageous and joyous firefighter entered the dangerous building.