Words starting with P

A paradigm is a widely accepted model or set of ideas that shapes how people think about a subject. It acts as a standard framework in science, education, or society. When the framework changes completely, we call it a 'paradigm shift.'

A statement or situation that seems impossible or contradictory, but turns out to be true or meaningful on closer thought. It appears to break logical rules, yet often reveals a deeper truth.

More important than everything else. When something is paramount, it must be treated as the top priority above all other things.

To take part in an activity or event together with other people. This is a formal way to say 'join in' or 'take part in.'

Done quickly and without real care or effort, usually only because it is expected or required. A perfunctory action is done as a formality — the person is going through the motions, not genuinely trying.

Relating to the outer edge or boundary of something, rather than the center. When used to describe an issue or idea, it means it is not the main focus and is of lesser importance.

Continuing forever or for a very long time without stopping. It describes something that has no end or that seems to go on indefinitely.

To cause something to continue for a long time, often forever. It is most commonly used when talking about something negative — like a harmful belief, a bad situation, or an unfair system — that keeps being passed on or kept alive.

To keep doing something even when it is difficult or when others want you to stop. This sense focuses on a person's determined action.

Spreading through every part of something, so it is hard to avoid or ignore. Often describes problems, feelings, influences, or smells that reach into all corners of a place or situation.

The pleasant, earthy smell that rises from dry ground when rain begins to fall on it. It is one of the most widely recognized scents in nature, especially strong after a long dry spell.

A fact, event, or situation that can be observed, often one that is unusual, significant, or hard to fully explain. Scientists and researchers commonly study phenomena to understand the world.

Something that is very easy to do. You say this when a task takes little effort or skill, and anyone could do it without much trouble.

Seeming reasonable or likely to be true, even without full proof. A plausible idea or explanation makes sense on the surface and is easy to accept. It does not mean something is definitely true — only that it could be.

A very large amount of something, often more than is needed or wanted. It suggests an overwhelming quantity that can feel like too much.

To jump or fall suddenly and with force into something, especially water. The movement is quick, dramatic, and often downward.

Dealing with problems and decisions based on real situations and what actually works, rather than on theories or perfect ideals. A pragmatic person focuses on results over principles.

Not safe, stable, or secure; likely to get worse or fall apart at any moment. A precarious situation feels like it could tip in a bad direction without warning.

To come before something or someone in time, order, or position. It can describe events in a sequence, rank in a hierarchy, or physical placement.

More common, noticeable, or present than anything else in a group or place. It describes something that clearly stands out above the rest.

An event or action that comes before something bigger and more important. It hints at what is going to happen next.

To plan or think about an action — especially something harmful or criminal — before actually doing it. It implies the person had time to think and made a deliberate choice, rather than acting on impulse.

Something that must exist or happen before something else can happen. It is a necessary first step or condition — without it, the next thing cannot proceed.

Suppose something is true without certain proof; take for granted.

To succeed, win, or be common despite opposition or change.

A fundamental truth or rule that guides behavior or reasoning.

Describing someone who acts in advance to deal with a problem or opportunity, instead of waiting for things to happen first. A proactive person plans and prepares rather than simply reacting.

To obtain something, especially with effort or through official channels.

Having great depth, strength, or importance. A profound thing affects you deeply or changes the way you think. It goes far beyond what is ordinary or surface-level.

Producing a very large amount of work, output, or creative material. Most commonly used to describe writers, artists, scientists, or athletes who create or achieve a great deal.

To make something last longer in time.

Very important, well known, or easy to notice or see. We use it for people, jobs, facts, or parts that stand out clearly.

To spread or pass on to others; to cause something to multiply or move further.

Correct or appropriate in amount or degree; matching a situation fairly.

Showing careful thought and good judgment before making decisions. A prudent person thinks about risks, costs, and future results before acting. The word often appears in formal, financial, or academic writing.