PoochyB’s Wordstock

Democratic candidates have promised to withdraw U.S. troops and “end the war” by fiat, regardless of the consequences.

fi·at
n.  

1. An arbitrary order or decree.
2. Authorization or sanction: government fiat.

Given the present dangers, our country cannot afford the kind of malaise, drift, and fecklessness that followed the Vietnam War.

mal·aise
n.  

1. A vague feeling of bodily discomfort, as at the beginning of an illness.
2. A general sense of depression or unease: “One year after the crash, the markets remain mired in a deep malaise” (New York Times).

While a spike in internecine Shiite violence in Basra and Baghdad last month led to an increase in overall attacks in March, many analysts share General Petraeus’ opinion on security improvements.

in·ter·nec·ine
adj.  

1. Of or relating to struggle within a nation, organization, or group.
2. Mutually destructive; ruinous or fatal to both sides.
3. Characterized by bloodshed or carnage.