Vocabulary Spotlight

Accost

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: To approach and speak to someone, often aggressively or insistently.

“The reporter was accosted by angry fans as she tried to enter the stadium.”

Pronunciation

[uh-KAWST]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Confront
Approach
Challenge
Address
Hail

Antonyms

Avoid
Evade
Ignore
Shun
Bypass

Related Words

Encounter
Approach
Intercept

Word Origin

“Accost” comes from the Latin word “accostare,” meaning “to come up to the side of.”

Word Family

Verb: Accost – To confront or address someone aggressively.

Noun: Accosting – The act of addressing someone aggressively.

Mnemonics

Think “A Costly Encounter” – Accosting someone can be a bold, confrontational approach.

Industry-specific Usage

Law

Accosting someone in a threatening way can be grounds for legal action, such as harassment charges.

Journalism

Journalists may be accosted by individuals who feel strongly about their coverage, especially in controversial situations.

Customer Service

Customer service representatives may be accosted by upset clients, requiring effective conflict resolution skills.

In Context

Being accosted often implies an uncomfortable or confrontational situation, which requires assertiveness and tact to handle effectively. In society, it highlights the importance of respectful and calm communication.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. What is an antonym of “Accost”?

Avoid
Approach
Challenge
Confront

‘Avoid’ is the correct answer as it is the opposite of approaching or confronting someone.

2. Fill in the blank: She was _______ by a stranger while walking down the street.

ignored
accosted
shunned
avoided

‘Accosted’ is correct as it implies being approached in an aggressive or insistent manner.

3. In which scenario would “accost” be MOST appropriate?

Avoiding eye contact
Greeting someone politely
Smiling at a friend
Confronting someone forcefully

‘Confronting someone forcefully’ is appropriate, as accost implies an assertive or even aggressive approach.