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since words have multiple meanings, the context of a word often clues its meaning better than the dictionary's definition. in the following lines from anne bradstreet's poem, "to her father witih some verses," what is the best definition for principal?

"most truly honored, and as truly dear,
if worth in me or ought i do appear,
who can of right better demand the same
than may your worthy self from whom it came?
the principal might yield a greater sum,
yet handled ill, amounts but to this crumb;
my stock's so small i know not how to pay,
my bond remains in force unto this day."

a) the head of a school
b) a primary reason
c) catching
d) rare

B) a primary reason

The word principal is used in the independent clause "The principal might yield a greater sum". Principal is used as a noun in this clause and as the subject of the sentence. Options C and D are not nouns and therefore would not be good options. We also know that people don't often "yield a greater sum" or when dealt with poorly amount to nothing - or at least the head of a school would not. This only leaves reason as the best option.

each year on this day, i make it a point to listen to dr. martin luther king jr.’s great “i have a dream” speech. it’s electrifying every single time.

the content of dr. king’s speech, his inspiring presence, and the moment in history all came together to make the iconic “i have a dream” speech the defining moment of the american civil rights movement. but there are several other reasons why this speech, delivered over 50 years ago, remains an example of one of the best speeches in american history.

since part of my job is to people become better presenters, i’ve noticed several techniques that we can all learn from and be inspired by in this magnificent speech.

it’s anchored in a powerful related location

in most cases, you can’t handpick the spot to give a presentation, as mlk did for supreme symbolic effect when he stood on the steps of the lincoln memorial and echoed the opening words of the gettysburg address (“five score years ago . . ). but you absolutely can amplify your message by adapting it to your setting and location.