Face masks were many thing this year: crucial health measure, sign of communal solidarity, political football, important income stream, fashion statement and, latterly, highly visible call to action. (Vanessa Friedman, “The Ups and Downs of Fashion in 2020,” The New York Times, 12/23/2020.)
This word is also a synonym for lately or currently.…
At this stage, John [Lennon] and Paul [McCartney] were both magpies, lifting whatever took their fancy from other people’s songs: the ‘woo woo’ came from the Isley Brothers’ ‘Twist and Shout.’ (Craig Brown, 150 Glimpses of the Beatles, FSG [2020], p.113.)
a magpie, as in one who appropriates concepts and ideas from others plagiarist is also a synonym for plagiarist, copycat and imitator…
[The small Bank of Wilmington] is managed by local people who … when they say hello, use your name in the same sentence and their smiles are sincere and you know it. These are foursquare, forthright people who make sure that the depositor feels appreciated. (Malcolm Berko, “Small Banks and Long-Term Investments,” The Courier (Waterloo, Iowa), 7/05/2005.)
foursquare can also be a synonym for straightforward, honest, blunt, upfront, or forthright …
[As an intransitive verb, this word means to mean to opt for one choice over others.] A panel composed almost entirely of journalists will vote Saturday on {NFL Commissioner Paul] Tagliabue’s candidacy [for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.]. The museum’s website has plumped for his admission, citing his good works. (Michael Powell, “Paul Tagliabue Yearns for Hall of Fame, but Concussions Tarnish Legacy,” The New York Times, 2/3/2017.)
This word, in the sense of supporting one person or choice over others, can also be a synonym for back, encourage or support …
Some of the most blatant official actions by Mr. Silver took place so long ago that they were beyond the statute of limitations. … But the more recent acts were pretty small beer: an honorary proclamation, for instance, or helping family members with jobs and internships. (Jim Dwyer, “Three Judges Overturn Twelve Jurors,” The New York Times, 7/13/2017.)
small beer can also be a synonym for inconsequential, insignificant, minor, petty, or immaterial …
