Suits Season 1 Episode 1, A “closer” for one of New York City’s most successful law firms decides to hire an aloof genius, who has passed the bar but never gone to law school, as his associate.

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Vocabulary Practice for Suits Season 1 Episode 1

• CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary for Suits Season 1 Episode 1:

1. deal (noun): an agreement or arrangement, often related to business transactions.
2. all-in (adjective): a poker term meaning to bet all of one’s chips or money on a single hand.
3. jeopardize (verb): to put something or someone at risk or in danger.
4. interim (noun): the period of time between two events or points in time.
5. bad faith (noun): acting dishonestly or with the intention of deceiving others.
6. honorary (adjective): given as an honor or recognition without the associated responsibilities or duties.
7. grasp (verb): to understand or comprehend something.
8. pansy (noun, informal): a derogatory term used to describe a weak or timid person.
9. wire transfer (noun): an electronic transfer of funds from one bank account to another.
10. escrow (noun): a financial arrangement where a third party holds and regulates the payment of funds until a specific condition is met.
11. fist (noun): a closed hand with the fingers curled tightly, often used as a symbol of strength or power.
12. dismiss (verb): to officially send someone away or let them go.
13. charmed (adjective): enchanted or fascinated by someone or something.
14. patronizing (adjective): treating someone with an apparent kindness that betrays a feeling of superiority.
15. cache (noun): a collection of items of the same type stored in a hidden or inaccessible place.
16. billables (noun): the amount of time spent by a lawyer or law firm on tasks that can be billed to clients.
17. swan (verb, informal): to move or walk in a graceful or elegant manner.
18. out of line (idiom): behaving inappropriately or crossing a boundary.
19. pretend (adjective): not genuine or real; feigned or simulated.
20. briefcase (noun): a flat, rectangular case used for carrying documents, papers, or other items.

Note: The above vocabulary words are selected based on their potential unfamiliarity for a CEFR B1 and above English learner.

Vocabulary Practice for Suits Season 1 Episode 1 Part 2

Unknown vocabulary (CEFR B1 and above) in the script for Suits Season 1 Episode 1 :

1. puberty: the period during which adolescents reach sexual maturity and become capable of reproduction.
2. facilities: the available resources or features in a place, such as amenities or services.
3. matches: corresponds or agrees with.
4. description: a spoken or written account that gives details about someone or something.
5. exactly: precisely or accurately.
6. walking by: passing by on foot.
7. reason: a cause, explanation, or justification for an action or event.
8. ditch: to get rid of or abandon someone or something.
9. cops: informal term for police officers.
10. signing bonus: an extra payment given to someone as an incentive or reward for joining an organization or company.
11. barbri legal handbook: a study guide or reference book for law students preparing for the bar exam.
12. bar: the legal profession; in this context, passing the bar refers to becoming a qualified lawyer.
13. statute of limitations: a law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings can be initiated.
14. sarbanes-oxley: referring to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, a U.S. federal law that sets standards for corporate governance, financial disclosure, and the accountability of public company boards.
15. moot: irrelevant or having no practical significance.
16. stock option backdating: a practice in which the grant date of stock options is retroactively set to a date when the stock price was lower, potentially increasing the options’ value.
17. IRC section 409A: a specific section of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) that regulates the taxation of deferred compensation.
18. actions to cover up: referring to attempts to hide or conceal illegal or unethical actions.
19. sixth circuit: a specific U.S. federal appellate court jurisdiction.
20. laptop: a portable computer that can be used on one’s lap.
21. Harvard attorney: a lawyer who has graduated from Harvard Law School.
22. chain of command: a hierarchical structure of authority where instructions and directives flow from higher-ranked individuals to lower-ranked individuals.
23. commanding officer: a person in a position of authority who directs and supervises others.
24. paralegal: a person trained to assist lawyers in legal matters, typically performing research, drafting documents, and organizing case materials.
25. associates: referring to junior lawyers who work at a law firm.
26. orientation: a process of introducing and familiarizing someone with a new environment or situation.
27. ogling: staring at someone with strong or excessive interest, often in an inappropriate or suggestive manner.
28. showoff: someone who tries to impress others by displaying their skills, abilities, or knowledge in a boastful or arrogant manner.
29. economic meltdown: a severe economic downturn characterized by financial instability, market crashes, and widespread economic distress.
30. license: referring to a lawyer’s authorization to practice law.
31. client: a person or organization that seeks or receives services or advice from a professional, such as a lawyer.
32. promotion: an advancement to a higher position or rank.
33. work order: a written instruction or request for a specific task to be performed or carried out.
34. authority: power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.
35. bar: referring to the state bar association, a professional organization that licenses lawyers and regulates the legal profession.
36. ethics board: a body or committee responsible for enforcing ethical standards and guidelines within a profession.
37. rehired: being employed again after a previous termination or dismissal.
38. ethics: moral principles that govern behavior and decision-making within a profession or society.
39. obligation: a duty or commitment to fulfill a certain responsibility.
40. notify: inform or give notice to someone about something.

Note: The explanations provided above are based on general definitions and may not capture the exact context or meaning within the script.

Vocabulary Practice for Suits Season 1 Episode 1 Part 3

• Pro Bono: It refers to legal work done without charge, typically for clients who cannot afford to pay for legal services.

Explanation:

1. Pro Bono cases: These are cases that lawyers take on without charging a fee. They are typically done to help individuals who cannot afford legal representation. In the script, the concept of Pro Bono cases is discussed when a character is assigned a Sexual Harassment case.
2. Sexual harassment: This refers to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or offensive work environment. In the script, the main plot revolves around a Sexual Harassment case.
3. Human resources: It is the department within an organization that is responsible for managing employee relations, hiring, training, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. In the script, the character approaches the human resources department to report the sexual harassment incident.
4. Secretary: A secretary is an administrative professional who assists in various clerical tasks, such as managing appointments, organizing paperwork, and providing administrative support to an executive or an organization. In the script, a character starts as a secretary and later gets promoted to secretary of the president.
5. Letter of recommendation: It is a formal document written by someone who can provide insights into an individual’s qualifications, skills, and character. It is often requested for employment or educational purposes. In the script, the character mentions that she was fired without being provided a letter of recommendation.
6. Subpoena: A subpoena is a legal document that requires a person to appear in court or produce specific documents or evidence. It is typically issued by an attorney and is used to gather evidence or compel someone’s presence in a legal proceeding. In the script, a character seeks assistance in filling out a subpoena.
7. CEO: Chief Executive Officer, the highest-ranking executive in a company who is responsible for making strategic decisions and managing the overall operations of the organization. In the script, the character investigates the CEO of a firm for potential sexual harassment incidents.
8. Motion to dismiss: It is a legal request made by one party to a lawsuit, asking the court to dismiss the case for various reasons, such as lack of evidence or legal grounds. In the script, the opposing party files a motion to dismiss the case based on the lack of evidence.
9. Research: In the context of law, research involves gathering and analyzing legal precedents, statutes, case laws, and other relevant information to support arguments or provide legal guidance. In the script, characters engage in legal research to find arguments to counter the motion to dismiss.
10. Privacy law: It refers to the legal framework governing an individual’s right to privacy, including the protection of personal information and the limits of intrusion by others. In the script, one character takes on the task of researching privacy law.
11. Harassment law: It encompasses the legal regulations and protections against various forms of harassment, including sexual harassment, workplace harassment, or harassment based on factors like race, gender, or disability. In the script, another character focuses on researching harassment law.
12. Hearing: A hearing is a proceeding held before a judge or a similar authority to listen to arguments, evidence, and witness testimonies related to a legal case. In the script, a character’s subpoena case is scheduled for a hearing.
13. Cubicle: A cubicle refers to a small partitioned workspace typically found in office environments. It provides some privacy while allowing for interaction with colleagues. In the script, a character mentions having a cubicle while another character has an office.
14. Regally hot: The phrase “regally hot” is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is extremely attractive or good-looking. In the script, a character uses this phrase to describe another character’s appearance.
15. Filing: In legal terms, filing refers to the act of submitting documents or pleadings to the court or other relevant authorities as part of the legal process. In the script, a character is asked about the completion of a filing task.
16. LSAT: The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test required for admission to law schools in many countries. In the script, a character mentions having performed poorly on the LSAT and struggling with the idea of becoming a lawyer.
17. Bar: In the context of law, the “bar” refers to the legal profession as a whole or a specific organization responsible for regulating the admission and professional conduct of lawyers. In the script, a character expresses doubts about passing the bar exam required to become a lawyer.
18. Researcher: A researcher, in the legal context, refers to a professional who conducts extensive research on legal issues, cases, and precedents to provide information and support for legal arguments. In the script, a character is referred to as a skilled researcher.
19. Art and science of research: This phrase highlights that legal research requires a combination of technical skills and creative approaches to find relevant legal information and construct persuasive arguments. In the script, a character mentions that research is both an art and a science.
20. Precedent: A precedent is a previously decided case or legal ruling that serves as an authoritative guide for judges when deciding similar cases in the future. In the script, characters search for precedents to strengthen their argument in the hearing.
21. Argument: An argument, in the legal context, refers to a set of reasons or evidence presented to support a particular position or claim in a legal case. In the script, characters are tasked with finding arguments to counter the motion to dismiss.
22. Researcher’s role: The researcher’s role involves conducting extensive research, examining legal resources, and analyzing relevant information to support legal arguments or provide guidance in legal cases. In the script, a character is assigned the task of conducting legal research.
23. Footsie: The phrase “playing footsie” refers to engaging in flirtatious or non-serious behavior instead of focusing on the task at hand. In the script, one character accuses another of not taking the research seriously.
24. Rickety argument: The term “rickety” means unstable or weak. In the script, a character describes their argument as weak due to the lack of evidence.
25. Firm: In the context of law, a firm refers to a business entity formed by lawyers who work together to provide legal services to clients. In the script, characters refer to their workplace as a firm, specifically Devlin McGreggor.
26. Firm’s investigation: It refers to an internal investigation conducted by a company or firm to examine alleged misconduct, violations, or complaints within the organization. In the script, the opposing party’s investigation is mentioned.
27. Duress: Duress refers to actions or threats that force someone to do something against their will, often through coercion or intimidation. In the script, one character mentions that the firm would look like the bad guys if they put the opposing party under duress.
28. Privacy and harassment law: These terms describe the legal areas related to privacy protection and harassment regulations. In the script, characters research these areas to find relevant cases and arguments for their hearing.
29. Sushi: Sushi refers to a Japanese cuisine that typically consists of vinegared rice combined with various ingredients like raw or cooked fish, vegetables, or other seafood. In the script, a character requests sushi as their dinner choice during the research session.

Vocabulary Practice Part 4

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary for Suits Season 1 Episode 1:

1. Duress: Coercion or pressure that someone is put under, often to force them to do something against their will.
   Explanation: In the script, the term is used to refer to the situation where someone is being put under pressure or forced to act in a certain way.
2. Personnel files: Files or documents that contain information about employees, typically related to their employment history, performance, and personal details.
   Explanation: In the script, the term is mentioned in the context of sensitive information that lies within these files and is being refused to be handed over.
3. Rats’ ass: A colloquial expression used to indicate a lack of concern or interest in something.
   Explanation: In the script, the term is used humorously to express the idea that someone doesn’t care about something, but it acknowledges that even rats’ asses might have more value than the concern being discussed.
4. Bailiff: An officer of the court who helps maintain order and security in a courtroom.
   Explanation: In the script, the term is mentioned in an analogy, suggesting that if a bailiff accused a judge of sexual harassment and the judge’s own staff investigated the accusation, the chances of a fair investigation would be questionable.
5. Stenographer: A person who transcribes speech into written form, typically in a courtroom or during meetings.
   Explanation: In the script, the term is used in the analogy to emphasize the questionable fairness of an investigation carried out by someone who reports to the person they are investigating.
6. Stricken: Removed or deleted, often from a record or document.
   Explanation: In the script, the term is used humorously when a character requests for a statement to be removed from the record.
7. Corroborate: To confirm or support a statement, theory, or claim by providing evidence or additional information.
   Explanation: In the script, the term is used in the context of needing to gather evidence to support the plaintiff’s story.
8. Deposition: A formal statement or testimony given under oath, typically outside of the courtroom, as part of the discovery process in a legal case.
   Explanation: In the script, the term is mentioned in the context of a lawyer requesting a witness to give a deposition to support their case.
9. Sanctions: Penalties or punishments imposed by a court or authority for disobeying rules or orders.
   Explanation: In the script, the term is mentioned in the context of one party threatening to file for sanctions against the opposing attorney if certain documents are not provided.
10. Background: A person’s personal, educational, and professional history and experiences.
    Explanation: In the script, the term is used to refer to gathering information about a person’s background that could be used during a deposition to challenge their credibility.

Please note that the explanations provided here are general and may not capture the specific context in which the terms are used in the script.

Vocabulary Practice Part 5

CEFR B1 and above potentially unknown vocabulary:

1. Oath: A solemn promise, often made in a formal setting, to tell the truth or fulfill a commitment.
   Explanation: In the script, the character lies under oath, meaning they provide false information while making a formal promise to tell the truth.
2. Arrested: To be taken into custody by the authorities due to suspicion of committing a crime.
   Explanation: In the script, one character accuses another of being arrested in the past and lying about it.
3. Sealed record: A legal term referring to a criminal record that is not accessible to the public.
   Explanation: In the script, it is mentioned that the arrest record was sealed, indicating that it was not readily available through regular background checks.
4. Grill (verb): To question someone intensely or aggressively, often to obtain information or to challenge their statements.
   Explanation: In the script, one character asks if the other person grilled the witness during the background check.
5. Twist (verb): To distort or manipulate the facts or information in a way that changes the perception or meaning.
   Explanation: In the script, one character accuses the opposing party of twisting the truth to make the other person look like a liar.
6. Testify: To provide evidence or make a statement under oath in a court of law.
   Explanation: In the script, one character asks the other to testify on a specific date, referring to the act of giving evidence in court.
7. Associate: A colleague or coworker, especially in a professional or legal setting.
   Explanation: In the script, the term “associate” is used to refer to someone working in a law firm.
8. Screw up (phrasal verb): To make a serious mistake or failure.
   Explanation: In the script, one character mentions the possibility of being fired for screwing up a case, meaning making a significant error.
9. Courage: The ability to face difficulties, challenges, or danger without fear.
   Explanation: In the script, one character accuses the other of lacking the courage to stick it out when things get tough.
10. Backup plan: An alternative plan or course of action prepared in case the primary plan fails.
    Explanation: In the script, one character suggests that the briefcase found in the other person’s desk is a backup plan in case their current situation doesn’t work out.
11. Barter transaction: A trade or exchange of goods or services without using money.
    Explanation: In the script, one character mentions a barter transaction involving suits and a briefcase.
12. Press (verb): To apply pressure or push someone to provide more information or take action.
    Explanation: In the script, one character instructs another to press the person for answers or to keep pushing until they reveal the truth.
13. Wire transfer: An electronic method of transferring money from one bank account to another.
    Explanation: In the script, wire transfer is mentioned as a form of evidence related to financial transactions.
14. Affidavit: A written statement made under oath, typically used as evidence in legal proceedings.
    Explanation: In the script, the mention of an affidavit indicates the importance of a written statement regarding the false testimony.
15. Reinstated: To restore someone to a previous position or status.
    Explanation: In the script, one character negotiates for the reinstatement of another person with back pay, implying that they were previously removed from their job.

Note: The explanations provided above are general definitions and may not reflect the specific context or usage in the script.