Word of the Day, September 18, 2023

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Maybe it was some expression they heard at work, or some phrase they grew up hearing their grandmother say. If you know an idiom that isn't already defined on The Free Dictionary, [send it to us]( and you might win $150 USD. Complete English Punctuation Rules [Complete English Punctuation Rules] An Amazon Best Seller! The only punctuation guide with simple, easy-to-remember rules for how to use—and not use—every punctuation mark. ✔ Side-by-side examples of both correct and incorrect punctuation. ✔ Quizzes after every topic to help you retain what you learn. [Buy now]( Idiom of the Day [have a thing for (something)]( — To have a very keen or particular interest in something; to really like or enjoy something. ["More...]( [Idiom video]( Article of the Day The Mandala, a Microcosm of the Universe [Discuss]( The mandala, meaning circle or completion, is a ritualistic diagram that has spiritual significance in Hinduism and Buddhism. Representing a microcosm of the universe and the totality of existence, it serves as a collection point for gods and universal powers. Its symmetric geometric shapes draw the viewer's attention to a central meditative point. A Tibetan sand mandala is created over the course of days or weeks only to be swept away upon completion. What does this represent? [More...]( Daily Grammar Lesson Articles [Discuss]( Articles identify whether a noun is definite (specific or particular) or indefinite (general or unspecific). What are the three articles? [More...]( This Day in History George Washington Lays Cornerstone of US Capitol (1793) [Discuss]( The US Capitol is the seat of the legislative branch of government in Washington, DC. The city's dominating monument, it was built on an elevated site chosen by George Washington in consultation with architect Pierre Charles L'Enfant. The building was begun in 1793, after the president set the cornerstone during a groundbreaking ceremony that included Masonic rites. As it stands now, the building is the result of the work of several architects. When was the imposing dome added to the Capitol? [More...]( Today's Birthday Greta Garbo (1905) [Discuss]( Born in Sweden, Garbo appeared in publicity films for the store where she worked as a young woman. She later studied at the prestigious Royal Dramatic Theatre in Stockholm, where she was discovered by film director Mauritz Stiller. She appeared in her first film in 1924, and her beauty and enigmatic personality made her a star. She made only a handful of films and retired abruptly in 1941 at the age of 36, later living in legendary seclusion. What were some of her most famous roles? [More...]( Today's Holiday Warsaw Autumn Festival [Discuss]( Officially called the International Festival of Contemporary Music, the [Warsaw Autumn Festival]( offerings in its early years were more conservative than the name would seem to indicate. Today more experimental music and world premieres are performed along with classical standbys of the 20th century. It was established in 1956 by a group of Polish composers who wanted to bring other East European as well as West European countries together. The concerts are held in the [National Philharmonic]( building, the [Royal Castle]( and other venues around the city. [More...]( Quote of the Day [Discuss]( It takes very little fire to make a great deal of smoke nowadays, and notoriety is not real glory. 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