matchmakingThe activity of trying to arrange relationships or marriages for others
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Busy activity of arranging relationships or marriages for others"Emma was keenly involved in matchmaking in her society."
gentryPeople of high social class, especially in the past
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The class of people next below the nobility in position and birth"In Emma, a considerable part of the story is around the gentry of Highbury."
vanityExcessive pride in or admiration of one's own appearance or achievements
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Excessive pride in one's appearance, qualities, abilities, achievements etc."Emma’s vanity led her to make poor decisions."
misconstrueTo interpret wrongly, mistaking the meaning
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Interpret (something, especially a person's words or actions) wrongly"Emma often misconstrues the intentions of people around her."
meddleInterfere in something that is not one's concern
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Interfere in or busy oneself unduly with something that is not one's concern"Despite being warned, Emma continues to meddle in Harriet's love life."
commissionAn instruction, command, or role given to a person or group
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An instruction, command, or duty given to a person or group of people"Mr. Elton was commissioned to return with the charade."
courtshipA period during which a couple develop a romantic relationship before getting married
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A period during which a couple develop a romantic relationship before getting married"The novel provides an interesting view into the practices of courtship during the Regency era."
manoeuvreA carefully planned or cunning scheme or action
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A movement or series of movements requiring skill and care"Emma's manoeuvres in matchmaking often lead to unexpected consequences."