The government approves of this shark now.
In 1986, a large shark sculpture made of fiberglass and steel was secretly installed in the roof of a house in Headington, Oxford. This unusual artwork, created by the homeowner and sculptor John Buckley, was a protest against war and bombings. The local council tried for six years to have it removed because it lacked planning permission, but a government official eventually allowed it to stay due to its artistic merit. The shark is now a famous local landmark. Recently, it was added to a local heritage list, which means it will need to be maintained, even though this goes against the original rebellious spirit of the artwork. The homeowner, who passed away in 2019, had mixed feelings about the listing, as it both acknowledged his work and imposed control on it.
Key Vocabulary
Supporting bars or rods that are used to brace or strengthen a structure, preventing it from collapsing or moving out of place.
Examples:
- The bridge's design incorporated numerous steel struts to handle the heavy traffic.
- Engineers added extra struts to the building's frame to improve its resistance to seismic activity.
- Without the internal struts, the tent would collapse under the slightest wind.
An artist who creates three-dimensional forms, often by carving, molding, or assembling materials.
Examples:
- The renowned sculptor spent years perfecting her marble masterpiece.
- He decided to become a sculptor after being inspired by ancient Greek statues.
- The park features several abstract pieces created by a local sculptor.
An experience or revelation that provides new and surprising insight, often causing one to reconsider previous beliefs or assumptions.
Examples:
- Visiting a different culture was a real eyeopener for her, broadening her perspective on life.
- The documentary about sustainable living was an eyeopener, making me rethink my daily habits.
- His presentation on market trends was an eyeopener, highlighting opportunities we hadn't considered.
In name only; theoretically or officially, but not necessarily in reality or practice.
Examples:
- The company is nominally managed by a board, but the CEO makes all the real decisions.
- He was nominally in charge of the project, though most of the work was done by his team.
- The peace treaty was nominally signed, but tensions between the two nations remained high.
A lightweight and strong material made from fine fibers of glass, often used in composites for insulation, boat hulls, or sculptures.
Examples:
- The new surfboard was made of fiberglass, making it light and durable.
- Repairing the boat's hull required specialized fiberglass materials.
- Many modern car bodies incorporate fiberglass for weight reduction.
In a way that relates to the structure or framework of something, concerning its construction and stability.
Examples:
- The old bridge was deemed structurally unsound and required immediate repairs.
- Engineers assessed the building's foundation to ensure it was structurally robust.
- The architect focused on making the new wing structurally integrated with the existing building.
In excellent condition; perfectly sound or well-maintained.
Examples:
- After a thorough overhaul, the antique car was in tiptop shape.
- She always keeps her garden in tiptop condition, with no weeds in sight.
- The machinery needs to be in tiptop working order for the production line to run smoothly.
Causing feelings of annoyance or discouragement because of an inability to achieve something or overcome an obstacle.
Examples:
- Dealing with constant technical issues can be very frustrating for users.
- It was frustrating to see all their hard work go to waste due to a last-minute cancellation.
- The slow progress on the project proved to be quite frustrating for the team leader.
A piece of artistic creation, such as a painting, sculpture, or drawing.
Examples:
- The gallery displayed a stunning collection of contemporary artwork.
- She spent hours admiring the intricate details of the ancient artwork.
- The new public park will feature several large-scale pieces of artwork.
A large, predatory marine fish with a cartilaginous skeleton, typically having a streamlined body, sharp teeth, and a dorsal fin.
Examples:
- Divers encountered a large shark while exploring the coral reef.
- The documentary focused on the migratory patterns of the great white shark.
- Fishermen were surprised to catch a small shark so close to the shore.
A person who is present at an event or incident but does not take part.
Examples:
- A bystander captured the entire scene on their phone camera.
- The accident attracted a crowd of curious bystanders.
- As a mere bystander, he felt powerless to intervene in the argument.
Thinking deeply and at length about a particular subject or decision.
Examples:
- She spent the entire weekend mulling over the job offer before making a decision.
- He was mulling the idea of starting his own business for several months.
- The committee was mulling over the various proposals for the new community center.
Stepped in to prevent or alter a course of events; became involved in a situation to influence its outcome.
Examples:
- The teacher intervened to stop the argument between the two students.
- The government intervened with new policies to stabilize the economy.
- She intervened in the negotiation to help both parties reach an agreement.
The accidental escape of liquid, gas, or other contents from a container or system through a hole or crack.
Examples:
- The plumber was called to fix the water leakage under the sink.
- Engineers conducted tests to detect any gas leakage from the pipes.
- Regular inspections help prevent oil leakage from the machinery.
Seeking advice or information from an expert or professional, or providing expert advice to others.
Examples:
- Before making a major investment, he spent time consulting with a financial advisor.
- She is consulting with a specialist to develop a new marketing strategy.
- The architect is consulting with the client on the final design of the building.
An act of attacking a place or target with bombs, often causing significant destruction.
Examples:
- The city suffered extensive damage from the bombing during the conflict.
- Historical records describe the bombing of strategic targets during the war.
- Security measures were heightened after the threat of a bombing was received.
A heavy load or responsibility that is difficult to bear; something that causes difficulty or stress.
Examples:
- The growing medical expenses became a significant financial burden on the family.
- She felt the burden of leadership resting heavily on her shoulders.
- Reducing paperwork helped to ease the administrative burden on employees.
The upper interior surface of a room or enclosure.
Examples:
- The room had a high, vaulted ceiling decorated with intricate carvings.
- He painted the ceiling a light blue to make the small room feel more spacious.
- Water stains on the ceiling indicated a leak in the roof above.
The process of making detailed arrangements or preparations for something in advance.
Examples:
- Careful planning is essential for the success of any large event.
- The team is currently in the planning stages for the new product launch.
- Effective urban planning can greatly improve the quality of life in a city.
To meet or experience something, often unexpectedly or for the first time.
Examples:
- Travelers often encounter unexpected challenges when exploring remote areas.
- During his research, he was fortunate to encounter some rare species of plants.
- It's not uncommon to encounter wildlife while hiking in the national park.