Saving Private Ryan (1998) Vocabulary

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In 1998, Steven Spielberg directed the American epic war film “Saving Private Ryan,” which was written by Robert Rodat. The film is set in France during World War II in 1944 and revolves around a courageous group of soldiers, with Captain John Miller (portrayed by Tom Hanks) leading the way. Their mission is to rescue Private James Ryan (played by Matt Damon) from the war zone after he loses all three of his brothers in battle. The talented cast also includes Edward Burns, Tom Sizemore, Barry Pepper, Giovanni Ribisi, Vin Diesel, Adam Goldberg, and Jeremy Davies.

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Vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998) Part 1

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary:

  1. Murder holes: Openings or slots in defensive structures through which defenders can observe and attack the enemy.
  2. Ammo: Abbreviation for ammunition, referring to bullets, shells, or other projectiles used as a weapon.
  3. Rallying point: A designated location where a group gathers or regroups during a military operation or emergency.
  4. Seawall: A barrier or embankment erected along a shoreline to protect the land from the force of the waves.
  5. Pre-sighted: To have predetermined or calibrated the aim or targeting of weapons or artillery before an attack.
  6. Demo guys: Abbreviation for demolition guys, referring to individuals trained in explosives and demolition work.
  7. Battalion surgeon: A medical officer assigned to provide medical care to a military battalion.
  8. Armour: Refers to military vehicles, such as tanks, that are heavily armored and protected.
  9. Defilade: A position or area that provides protection from enemy fire due to natural or artificial barriers.
  10. Bayonet: A blade-like weapon designed to be attached to the muzzle of a rifle, used for close combat.
  11. MG42s: A type of German machine gun used during World War II, known for its high rate of fire.
  12. Mortars: Portable artillery pieces used to fire explosive shells at high angles.
  13. Draw: A narrow, steep-sided ravine or valley.
  14. Fire discipline: The control and management of firing weapons to ensure accuracy and conservation of ammunition.
  15. Impact crater: A depression in the ground caused by the impact of a projectile or explosion.
  16. Defilade: A position or area that provides protection from enemy fire due to natural or artificial barriers.
  17. Firing squad: A group of soldiers assigned to execute a person by shooting them simultaneously.
  18. Detest: To feel intense dislike or hatred towards someone or something.

These words are not extremely complex but may be unfamiliar to learners with a lower intermediate level of English proficiency. By understanding these terms, the reader can better follow the context and dialogue in the script.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998) Part 2

Unknown vocabulary (CEFR B1 and above):

  1. detest: to dislike intensely; to hate
    Explanation: In this context, it means the person strongly dislikes their sins for having offended the Lord.
  2. haste: to hurry or act quickly
    Explanation: “haste thee to help me” means to quickly come and assist.
  3. dozers: short for bulldozers, heavy machines used for pushing and clearing debris
    Explanation: The speaker is referring to the use of bulldozers to clear obstacles or enemy fortifications.
  4. Shabbat: the Jewish day of rest and seventh day of the week, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening
    Explanation: The reference to “Shabbat challah cutter” suggests that the Hitler Youth knife is now being used as a tool for a Jewish religious tradition.
  5. regiment: a military unit composed of several battalions or squadrons, often forming part of a division
    Explanation: The speaker is referring to a specific military unit, expressing sorrow for the loss of soldiers from that regiment.
  6. KIA: acronym for “Killed In Action”
    Explanation: The speaker is referring to the possibility that Private Ryan might be “Killed In Action.”
  7. axis of advance: the direction in which troops are moving forward during an offensive military operation
    Explanation: The speaker is discussing the potential risks of sending a rescue mission along their advancing path.
  8. bereavement: the state of being deprived of a loved one through death
    Explanation: The letter mentions the anguish of bereavement experienced by a mother who lost her sons in battle.
  9. altar of freedom: a metaphorical expression referring to the sacrifice made for the cause of freedom
    Explanation: The letter mentions the sacrifice of soldiers who died for the cause of freedom as if it were an offering on an altar.
  10. duel-drive Shermans: tanks equipped with propellers for amphibious operations
    Explanation: The tanks are specially designed with propellers to be able to float and operate in water during beach landings.
  11. misdropped: when paratroopers or airborne troops land in unintended or scattered locations during an airdrop
    Explanation: The speaker is referring to the situation where the airborne troops did not land at their intended drop zones but instead scattered across various locations.
  12. minefields: areas filled with concealed explosive mines
    Explanation: The speaker is discussing areas that are laden with hidden explosive mines.
  13. Kampfgruppe: a German military term for a battle group or combat team
    Explanation: The speaker is referring to a specific German combat group called “Von Luck Kampfgruppe.”

Note: The unknown vocabulary has been identified and explained without giving away any spoilers or character names from the script.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998) Part 3

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998):

  1. MPs: Abbreviation for “Military Police,” referring to soldiers responsible for enforcing military law and order.
  2. Casualties: Refers to people who are killed, injured, or missing in action during a military operation or accident.
  3. Assignment: A task or mission given to someone.
  4. Public-relations mission: A mission with the purpose of managing the public perception or image of a group or organization.
  5. Airborne misdrops: Refers to situations where parachuted personnel or equipment are not dropped at their intended targets during airborne operations.
  6. Reassigned: To be given a new assignment or task.
  7. Corporal: A military rank above private and below sergeant.
  8. Bavarian: Relating to Bavaria, a region in southern Germany.
  9. Souvenir: A keepsake or memento obtained as a reminder of an event or place visited.
  10. Capisci: An informal Italian word meaning “understand” or “got it.”
  11. Bonds of brotherhood: The close and strong connections formed between soldiers during wartime.
  12. Supersedes: To take priority over or replace something else.
  13. FUBAR: Acronym for “F**ked Up Beyond All Recognition,” indicating a situation that is seriously messed up or chaotic.
  14. Misallocation: The act of allocating resources (in this case, military resources) inappropriately or ineffectively.
  15. Gripe: To complain or express dissatisfaction about something.
  16. Instrument of warfare: Refers to someone or something that can be effectively used in military operations or combat.
  17. Sniper rifle: A specialized rifle used by snipers for accurate long-range shooting.
  18. Clear line of sight: A direct, unobstructed view to a specific target.
  19. Adolf Hitler: The name of the German dictator and leader of the Nazi Party during World War II.

Please note that the identified vocabulary might not cover all the potentially unknown words for a B1-level learner and above, but it includes some of the more challenging words and military-specific terms from the script.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)
Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Vocabulary Part 4

Potentially unknown vocabulary (CEFR B1 and above) for Saving Private Ryan (1998):

  1. Gripes: Complaints or expressions of dissatisfaction.
    Explanation: The character in the script mentions “gripes go up, not down” to emphasize the chain of command in the military and the proper channels for expressing complaints.
  2. Ranger: A member of a special military unit trained for unconventional warfare and special operations.
    Explanation: The term “Ranger” refers to a specific type of highly trained soldier, often associated with elite forces.
  3. Sorrow: Deep distress, sadness, or regret.
    Explanation: The character expresses sorrow for the mother of Private James Ryan, showing empathy for her situation.
  4. Reinforcing: Providing additional support or strength.
    Explanation: In the context of the script, the Germans are reinforcing their regiments by sending more troops, making their forces stronger.
  5. Morale officer: A person responsible for boosting the spirits and motivation of military personnel.
    Explanation: The “friendly neighborhood morale officer” mentioned in the script is responsible for maintaining the soldiers’ morale and motivation during difficult times.
  6. Circumcised: The removal of the foreskin of the penis, typically performed for religious or cultural reasons.
    Explanation: The script contains a reference to a character’s father being circumcised by a rabbi, implying that the character is of Jewish heritage.
  7. Disconcerting: Causing feelings of unease, confusion, or anxiety.
    Explanation: The character describes the situation of the Statue of Liberty being “kaput” as disconcerting, indicating that it is troubling or unsettling.
  8. Enfilade: A military term for a linear attack along the length of a target, such as a street or corridor.
    Explanation: In the script, the characters plan to avoid an enfilade to prevent themselves from being exposed to enemy fire.
  9. Defilade: A military term for taking cover behind natural or artificial obstacles to avoid enemy fire.
    Explanation: In the script, the characters plan to use defilade to stay protected while approaching their objective.
  10. Pay attention to detail: To be careful and thorough in observing and considering all aspects of a situation.
    Explanation: One character mentions the importance of paying attention to detail when trying to figure out information about another character.
  11. Pool: In this context, a shared fund where members contribute money and the winner receives the entire amount.
    Explanation: The script mentions a pool where individuals can enter by paying a certain amount, and the winner gets the collected money.
  12. Spare body parts: Extra body parts available for use in a context related to military training or assembling new soldiers.
    Explanation: The character humorously suggests that a certain captain was assembled at OCS (Officer Candidate School) using spare body parts of deceased soldiers.
  13. Decent thing to do: An action that is morally right or appropriate.
    Explanation: In the script, there is a conflict between following orders and doing what some characters believe is the decent or morally correct thing to do.
  14. God damn it: An expression of frustration or anger.
    Explanation: “God damn it” is a mild expletive used to express strong emotions like frustration or annoyance.

Please note that the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) levels of vocabulary are approximate, and individual language proficiency may vary. Additionally, without character names, some parts of the script may be challenging to interpret fully.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998) Part 5

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998):

  1. Sniper’s got talent: The sniper is skilled and proficient in what they do.
    Explanation: The word “talent” here refers to natural aptitude or skill, suggesting that the sniper is exceptionally skilled at their job.
  2. Papa: Informal term for “father.”
    Explanation: “Papa” is a less formal way of saying “father” and is commonly used to refer to one’s dad, especially by children.
  3. Carpy: Nickname or term of endearment for a person.
    Explanation: “Carpy” appears to be a nickname used among the characters in the script, and without further context, its exact meaning or origin is not clear.
  4. Copy it: Replicate or duplicate something.
    Explanation: In this context, “copy it” likely means to write or replicate a message that someone else is dictating or showing to another person.
  5. Chest, maybe lung shot: A gunshot wound to the chest, possibly affecting the lung.
    Explanation: The phrase indicates that someone has been shot in the chest, and there’s a possibility that the bullet may have hit their lung as well.
  6. Pathfinders: Specially trained troops who lead the way for others during military operations.
    Explanation: Pathfinders are soldiers who are trained to locate and mark drop zones for paratroopers and assist in coordinating airborne operations.
  7. St. John: A reference to the Order of St. John, a religious order with a history of military service.
    Explanation: The “St. John” mentioned here likely refers to a person or group affiliated with the Order of St. John, which has a long history of providing medical and military services.
  8. Ammo check: Verification of the quantity of ammunition available for use.
    Explanation: An “ammo check” involves inspecting and confirming the amount of ammunition remaining for the soldiers’ weapons.
  9. Redeploy: To move or position troops to a different location or task.
    Explanation: “Redeploy” means to reassign or relocate soldiers to a new area or task within the military operation.
  10. Rally point: A designated location where troops gather and regroup during a mission.
    Explanation: A “rally point” is a pre-planned location where soldiers can assemble and reorganize if they become separated during an operation.
  11. Beachhead: A secure area on a hostile shore, established as a foothold for further military operations.
    Explanation: “Beachhead” refers to a secure and fortified area on an enemy-held shore, from which military forces can expand and establish control further inland.
  12. Caen: A city in Normandy, France, that was a strategic objective during World War II.
    Explanation: Caen is a city in northern France that was a significant target during the D-Day landings in World War II.
  13. Saint-Lô: A town in Normandy, France, that was heavily damaged during World War II.
    Explanation: Saint-Lô is a town in Normandy, which saw intense fighting during the Battle of Normandy in World War II.
  14. Valognes: A commune in Normandy, France, that was part of the Allied invasion during World War II.
    Explanation: Valognes is a commune in Normandy that was involved in the Allied invasion and the subsequent liberation of France during World War II.
  15. Cherbourg: A port city in Normandy, France, captured by the Allies during World War II.
    Explanation: Cherbourg is a port city in Normandy that was a strategic target for the Allies during the liberation of France in World War II.
  16. Berlin: The capital city of Germany and a major objective in the later stages of World War II.
    Explanation: Berlin was the capital of Nazi Germany and a key objective for the Allied forces in the later stages of World War II.

Note: CEFR B1 is an intermediate level of English proficiency, so some of the words and expressions in the script may be familiar to learners at this level. However, some specialized military terminology and informal language may still be less common and require clarification for comprehension.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998) Part 6

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998):

  1. embarkation: the process of loading passengers or goods onto a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle, usually at the beginning of a journey.
  2. rationalize: to attempt to justify or explain one’s actions, beliefs, or decisions logically, even if they are not entirely reasonable or moral.
  3. amen: an expression used at the end of a prayer or statement to express agreement or approval.
  4. intern: a student or recent graduate working as an apprentice or trainee in a profession or occupation.
  5. chatted me up: engaged in casual conversation with someone, typically with a friendly or flirtatious intent.
  6. constitution: here, it refers to the physical health and condition of a person.
  7. swift: quick or fast.
  8. collision: a violent encounter or clash between two or more entities.
  9. critical moments: crucial or decisive points in time.
  10. sulfa powder: a type of medication used for its antibacterial properties.
  11. tourniquet: a device used to control bleeding by compressing blood vessels.
  12. plasma: here, it refers to blood plasma, the liquid component of blood.
  13. Glider Infantry: soldiers trained to operate glider aircraft for military purposes.
  14. patch together: to assemble or form something, usually in a makeshift or improvised manner.
  15. mixed unit: a military unit composed of soldiers from different divisions or units.

Explanation:

  1. Embarkation: In this context, the character mentions that the condition with his hand started during “embarkation,” which is likely related to the military setting, indicating the beginning of their journey or deployment.
  2. Rationalize: The character uses this word to describe the process of justifying the difficult choices made during their mission.
  3. Amen: A common word used to express agreement or approval, often heard at the end of prayers.
  4. Intern: Refers to a student or recent graduate working as an apprentice or trainee, typically in a professional setting.
  5. Chatted me up: Means engaging in a casual conversation, often with a friendly or flirtatious intent.
  6. Constitution: In this context, it refers to the physical health and condition of a person.
  7. Swift: Means quick or fast.
  8. Collision: Refers to a violent encounter or clash between two or more entities.
  9. Critical moments: Crucial or decisive points in time.
  10. Sulfa powder: A medication with antibacterial properties, likely used to treat wounds.
  11. Tourniquet: A device used to control bleeding by compressing blood vessels.
  12. Plasma: In this context, it refers to blood plasma, the liquid component of blood.
  13. Glider Infantry: Soldiers trained to operate glider aircraft for military purposes.
  14. Patch together: To assemble or form something, often in a makeshift or improvised manner.
  15. Mixed unit: A military unit composed of soldiers from different divisions or units, brought together for a specific purpose.

Note: The script appears to be from a war-related context, and some vocabulary might be related to military jargon or medical terms used in wartime.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998) Part 7

Unknown Vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998):

  1. canteen: A container used to carry water or other beverages, especially during military operations or outdoor activities.
  2. Baker Company: A specific unit or company within the military, denoted by the name “Baker.”
  3. st (pronounced “first”): An abbreviation for “first,” often used to refer to the first battalion or unit.
  4. Upham: Likely a character’s name or a specific reference in the script.
  5. Reiben: Likely a character’s name or a specific reference in the script.
  6. Juden: The German word for “Jews.”
  7. Brigadier General: A military rank, denoting a high-ranking officer.
  8. Amend: Likely a character’s name or a specific reference in the script.
  9. FUBAR: An acronym used by the military, meaning “Fouled Up Beyond All Recognition.” It signifies a disastrous or chaotic situation.
  10. paratroops: Short for “paratroopers,” referring to soldiers trained for airborne operations.
  11. Dog tags: Identification tags worn by military personnel, containing essential information such as name and blood type.
  12. guineas: A term used colloquially to refer to Italian-Americans.
  13. Mellish: Likely a character’s name or a specific reference in the script.
  14. Rienne: Unclear from the context; might be a character’s name or a specific reference.
  15. poker chips: Round tokens used in gambling, typically in poker games.
  16. Airborne: Referring to military personnel trained for airborne operations, typically parachuting into combat zones.
  17. lowa: Likely a reference to Iowa, a state in the United States.
  18. Hansel and Gretel: A reference to a famous fairy tale about two children who get lost in the woods.
  19. grenade: A small explosive device thrown by hand or launched from a weapon.
  20. Bumville: Likely a colloquial term for a remote or insignificant location.

Explanation:

  1. A canteen is requested for water, indicating a need for hydration during the military operation.
  2. Baker Company refers to a specific unit within the military.
  3. “st” stands for “first,” denoting a particular battalion or unit.
  4. Upham is probably the name of a character mentioned in the script.
  5. Reiben is likely the name of another character in the script.
  6. Juden means “Jews” in German, and it’s a part of someone’s self-identification.
  7. A Brigadier General is a high-ranking military officer.
  8. Amend might be the name of a character or a reference to someone significant in the story.
  9. FUBAR is a military acronym indicating a disastrous situation.
  10. Paratroops refer to soldiers trained for airborne operations, likely relevant to the context of the script.
  11. Dog tags are used for identification purposes and are associated with military personnel.
  12. “Guineas” is a colloquial term, possibly referring to Italian-Americans.
  13. Mellish is likely the name of another character in the script.
  14. Rienne is unclear from the context, possibly a character’s name or a specific reference.
  15. Poker chips are mentioned during a poker game or gambling scene in the script.
  16. Airborne refers to military personnel trained for airborne operations, relevant to the story’s context.
  17. Iowa (lowa) is likely a reference to the state in the United States.
  18. Hansel and Gretel is a reference to a well-known fairy tale, possibly alluding to the characters’ search in the woods.
  19. A grenade is a small explosive device, relevant to a specific event in the script.
  20. Bumville appears to be a colloquial term for a remote or insignificant location.

Please note that some words may have multiple interpretations or specific relevance to the script’s context, which cannot be fully understood without additional information.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Vocabulary Part 8

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998):

  1. Rally point: A designated location where individuals gather or assemble, often in a military context.
    Explanation: A rally point is a meeting place where people come together for a specific purpose, such as regrouping or coordinating actions.
  2. Baby-sit: To watch over or guard something, often in a protective or caretaking manner.
    Explanation: In this context, “baby-sit a bridge” means to guard and protect the bridge from any potential threats or attacks.
  3. Detour: To take a different route or deviation from the original path.
    Explanation: A detour is an alternative route taken to avoid obstacles or challenges on the main route.
  4. Ordnance: Military equipment, weapons, or ammunition.
    Explanation: Ordnance refers to any military-related equipment, especially weapons and ammunition used by armed forces.
  5. Suppression fire: Intense firing aimed at keeping the enemy’s head down to limit their ability to return fire effectively.
    Explanation: Suppression fire is a military tactic used to control enemy movements and prevent them from engaging the attacking force.
  6. Base of fire: A position from which covering fire is provided to support the advance of troops.
    Explanation: Base of fire refers to a location where a unit provides supporting fire to protect and assist advancing troops.
  7. Sulfa: Sulfanilamide, an antibacterial agent used in treating wounds and infections.
    Explanation: Sulfa is a short form for sulfanilamide, a type of antibiotic often used to prevent or treat infections in military medical contexts.
  8. Morphine: A potent pain-relieving drug used to alleviate severe pain.
    Explanation: Morphine is a powerful painkiller often administered in combat situations to manage severe injuries and reduce pain.
  9. Exit wound: A wound caused by a projectile that exits the body after penetrating it.
    Explanation: An exit wound is a wound created when a bullet or other projectile exits the body after passing through it.
  10. Liver: A vital organ in the body responsible for various metabolic functions and detoxification.
    Explanation: The liver is a large organ located in the upper right side of the abdomen that performs essential functions like filtering toxins from the blood and aiding digestion.
  11. Acorn: The nut of an oak tree, often small and oval-shaped.
    Explanation: An acorn is a small, nut-like fruit produced by oak trees, used here to describe the size of the exit wound.
  12. Linger: To remain or stay in a place longer than necessary.
    Explanation: In this context, “linger in the rear” means to stay behind or follow at a slower pace compared to the rest of the group.
  13. Intact: Undamaged or not broken; in its original condition.
    Explanation: Here, “intact bridge” refers to a bridge that has not been destroyed or damaged and is still in usable condition.

Please note that the list provided above includes potentially unknown vocabulary based on the CEFR B1 level and above. However, it is essential to consider that the difficulty of vocabulary can vary depending on the learner’s familiarity with military jargon and specific historical contexts.

Vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998) Part 9

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary:

  1. Paratroopers: Soldiers trained to be dropped into combat zones by parachute.
    Explanation: Paratroopers are military personnel who are trained to parachute from airplanes into battle zones. They are often used for strategic and surprise attacks.
  2. Strip (something) off: Remove something quickly or forcefully.
    Explanation: In this context, it refers to removing the equipment or gear from a person, likely a fallen soldier, for examination or intelligence purposes.
  3. Intelligence: Information gathered for military or strategic purposes.
    Explanation: In a military context, intelligence refers to information collected about the enemy, their activities, plans, and resources. It is crucial for making informed decisions during warfare.
  4. Blindfold: A piece of cloth used to cover someone’s eyes to blind them temporarily.
    Explanation: In this context, it is likely used for restricting the sight of a prisoner to prevent them from seeing the surroundings while being moved.
  5. POW (Prisoner of War): A person held captive by an enemy during wartime.
    Explanation: A POW is a soldier or combatant who has been captured by the enemy during war. They are held captive and protected by international laws.
  6. Decent thing to do: Acting in a fair and morally upright manner.
    Explanation: The phrase refers to doing what is considered morally right or honorable in a given situation.
  7. Stockade: A military jail or prison.
    Explanation: A stockade is a military detention facility or prison used for holding soldiers who have committed offenses or violated military regulations.
  8. Sixth sense: Intuition or a gut feeling about something.
    Explanation: The term “sixth sense” refers to a heightened intuition or instinctive feeling about a situation, often difficult to explain rationally.
  9. Kraut: Slang term for a German soldier or German person.
    Explanation: During World War II, “Kraut” was a derogatory term used by some Allied soldiers to refer to German soldiers or Germans in general.
  10. Pool: A betting pool, where people place bets or wagers.
    Explanation: In this context, it likely refers to a group of soldiers placing bets on whether or not certain events will occur.
  11. Coward: A person who lacks courage or bravery.
    Explanation: A coward is someone who is afraid or unwilling to confront danger, difficulty, or pain.
  12. English composition: The art and practice of writing in the English language.
    Explanation: English composition is the study and practice of writing essays, stories, or other pieces of writing in the English language, usually taught in academic settings.
  13. Mystery: Something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain.
    Explanation: In this context, it refers to the locals not being able to understand the protagonist’s occupation as an English composition teacher.
  14. Gotten: An American English variation of the past participle of “get.”
    Explanation: In British English, the past participle of “get” is usually “got,” whereas in American English, “gotten” is commonly used.
  15. Ramelle: Likely a place name in the script.
    Explanation: Ramelle is mentioned in the script, but without further context, its exact meaning or location is not clear.
  16. Solitude: Being alone or in a state of isolation.
    Explanation: Solitude refers to the state of being alone or withdrawn from society. In the script, it seems to relate to the character’s emotional state during the war.

Please note that without the specific context from the script, some of these interpretations might be slightly different in the actual story.

Vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998) Part 10

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary:

  1. Recon (noun): Short for “reconnaissance,” it refers to a military observation or investigation to gather information about an enemy’s activities or positions.
  2. Probe (noun): In a military context, it means a tentative attempt to explore or investigate the enemy’s strength, defenses, or intentions.
  3. Relief (noun): In this context, it means a replacement or reinforcement of troops to take over a position or duty.
  4. Shorthanded (adjective): To be shorthanded means to have fewer people available for a task or duty than is necessary or desired.
  5. Outfit (noun): It refers to a military unit or a group of soldiers.
  6. Foothold (noun): A secure position or a base of operations that can be used as a starting point for further advancements.
  7. Displace (verb): In a military context, it means to move troops or forces from one position to another.
  8. Surreal (adjective): Having a dreamlike or bizarre quality, often used to describe situations or events that seem strange and unreal.
  9. Small arms (noun): Refers to firearms designed for individual use, such as pistols, rifles, or submachine guns.
  10. Mortar (noun): A type of artillery weapon used to fire explosive shells at high angles, often used in indirect fire support.
  11. Arty round (noun): Short for “artillery round,” it refers to a projectile or ammunition used in artillery guns.
  12. Bottleneck (noun): In a military context, it means a narrow or constricted area that slows down or restricts the movement of troops or vehicles.
  13. Flanks (noun): In a military context, it refers to the sides of an army’s formation.
  14. Mass (verb): To gather or concentrate in large numbers or quantities.
  15. Bell tower (noun): A tower, often part of a building or structure, that contains one or more bells.
  16. Spit wads (noun): Small pieces of chewed paper that are moistened and thrown, typically as a childish prank.
  17. Colleague (noun): A person with whom one works, especially in a profession or business.

It’s worth noting that the script is from the movie “Saving Private Ryan,” which is set during World War II. Some of the vocabulary used in the script is related to military terminology and situations, which might not be familiar to everyone, especially those with a limited exposure to military-themed content.

Vocabulary for Saving Private Ryan (1998) Part 11

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary:

  1. field manual: A manual or guidebook that provides instructions, guidelines, and information related to a specific field of study or activity.
  2. composition B: A type of military explosive composed of a mixture of TNT (trinitrotoluene) and RDX (cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine).
  3. rig up: To assemble or set up something in a makeshift or improvised manner.
  4. axle grease: A lubricant used to reduce friction between moving parts, particularly in the axles of vehicles.
  5. Alamo: In this context, it refers to a strategic position that must be defended at all costs, similar to the famous historical battle of the Alamo in Texas.
  6. displacing: Moving away or relocating from one position to another, often to avoid danger or capture.
  7. Johnny on the spot: Being punctual and ready to act or respond quickly when needed.
  8. FUBAR: An acronym used in the military, standing for “F**ked Up Beyond All Recognition,” indicating a situation or plan that has gone disastrously wrong.
  9. melancholy: A feeling of deep sadness or sorrow.
  10. krauts: Slang term used during World War II to refer to Germans.
  11. double E: In this context, it refers to a cup size for a brassiere, indicating a larger breast size.
  12. dressing room: An area in a store where customers can try on clothes before making a purchase.
  13. side-cut, silk-ribboned, triple-panel girdle with the shelf-lift brassiere: A specific type of undergarment with multiple features designed to provide support and shape.
  14. hard-on: A slang term for an erection, a state of increased blood flow to the penis causing it to become firm and erect.
  15. Statue of Liberty: A famous statue located in New York City, symbolizing freedom and democracy.
  16. teacher: A person who instructs or educates students in various subjects.
  17. hammock: A suspended bed or couch made of fabric or netting, typically used for relaxation.
  18. pruning: Trimming or cutting back plants, such as bushes or trees, to encourage healthy growth.
  19. context: The circumstances or setting in which something happens, providing a background for understanding or interpreting it.

Please note that the script provided is cut off, so there might be more potentially unknown vocabulary in the remaining part of the script.

Vocabulary Part 12

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary in the script for Saving Private Ryan (1998):

  1. Loft: A room or space directly under the roof of a building.
    Explanation: The loft is a specific part of a building, usually directly under the roof, which may be used for various purposes like storage or as an extra living area.
  2. Nosedive: A steep or sudden downward plunge or fall.
    Explanation: Nosedive refers to a sharp downward movement, often used to describe a rapid and significant drop in value, performance, or physical movement.
  3. Bra: An undergarment worn by females to support the breasts.
    Explanation: A bra is a piece of clothing designed to support and shape the breasts, typically worn by females.
  4. Grasp: To hold firmly or seize with the hand.
    Explanation: Grasp means to firmly hold onto something or someone.
  5. Basic: Abbreviation for basic training, which is the initial military training that new recruits undergo.
    Explanation: Basic training is the initial training that military personnel receive to prepare them for their roles and responsibilities.
  6. Unconscious: Not awake or aware; lacking consciousness.
    Explanation: Unconscious refers to a state of being unaware, not responsive, or temporarily without consciousness.
  7. Kerosene: A type of fuel derived from petroleum, commonly used for lamps and heating.
    Explanation: Kerosene is a flammable, light-colored oil commonly used as a fuel for lamps, stoves, and heaters.
  8. Flank: The side or edge of something, often used to refer to the sides of an army formation.
    Explanation: Flank can refer to the side or edge of something, and in a military context, it specifically refers to the sides of an army formation.
  9. Defilade: A position that provides protection from enemy fire by using natural or artificial barriers.
    Explanation: Defilade is a military term that refers to a position where soldiers are protected from enemy fire by using natural or artificial cover, such as a depression in the ground or a trench.
  10. Pincer move: A military tactic where forces attack from two or more directions to encircle the enemy.
    Explanation: A pincer move involves attacking the enemy from multiple directions, intending to surround and isolate them.
  11. Bell tower: A tower, often attached to a building, that contains bells, especially in churches.
    Explanation: A bell tower is a tall structure, often found in churches, that houses bells used to ring the time or signal important events.
  12. Grenade: A small explosive device thrown by hand or launched from a weapon.
    Explanation: A grenade is a small explosive device designed to be thrown by hand or launched from a weapon to cause damage or disruption.
  13. Ammunition: Projectiles, bullets, or other materials used as a supply of bullets for firearms.
    Explanation: Ammunition refers to the bullets, shells, or other materials used as a supply of projectiles for firearms.
  14. Jammed: When a firearm or weapon becomes temporarily unable to function due to a malfunction or obstruction.
    Explanation: Jammed refers to a situation where a firearm or weapon becomes temporarily inoperative due to a malfunction or obstruction.
  15. Bandoleer: A belt-like strap used to carry ammunition.
    Explanation: A bandoleer is a belt or strap designed to hold and carry ammunition, often worn over the shoulder and across the chest.
  16. Tracer: A type of ammunition with a pyrotechnic charge that leaves a visible trail when fired.
    Explanation: Tracer ammunition contains a pyrotechnic charge that creates a visible trail of light, making it easier to track the path of the bullets when fired.
  17. Alamo: A reference to the famous Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution.
    Explanation: The term “Alamo” is used here metaphorically to signify a last stand or a desperate situation.
  18. Medic: A military or medical personnel trained to provide medical care to wounded soldiers.
    Explanation: A medic is a military or medical professional specially trained to provide medical care and first aid to injured or wounded soldiers.
  19. Tyranny: Oppressive or unjust government rule or control.
    Explanation: Tyranny refers to a system of oppressive and unjust rule or control by a single authority or a small group of individuals.
  20. Profound: Having deep insight or understanding; significant or intense.
    Explanation: Profound means having great depth or intensity, often used to describe emotions, thoughts, or experiences that are deeply moving or significant.


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