Vocabulary and Synonyms

Vis-a-vis is a French expression meaning 'face to face'. It's used to describe direct confrontation, comparison, or relation between two things or people.

En masse is a French phrase meaning 'in a mass' or 'as a whole'. It refers to people doing something together simultaneously or in large numbers.

Deja vu is a French phrase meaning 'already seen'. It describes the feeling that one has experienced the current situation before, creating an eerie sense of familiarity.

Alfresco is an Italian term meaning 'in the cool air' or 'in the open air'. It refers to dining or activities done outdoors, such as outdoor restaurants or picnics.

Carte blanche is a French term literally meaning 'blank card' or 'white card'. It refers to complete authority or freedom to act as one decides, without any restrictions or conditions. The term originates from giving someone a signed blank card to fill in whatever terms they wish.

Affaire d'amour is a French expression literally translating to 'affair of love'. It refers to a romantic love affair or relationship between two people. Option B correctly captures this meaning.

Ombudsman is a Swedish term referring to an appointed official or commissioner who investigates complaints (usually from citizens) against public authorities or organizations. The role exists to ensure fairness and accountability in administration.

Quixotic: from, of or like Don Quixote

Guillotine - On the name of its inventor J Guillotine; a device consisting of a sharp blade in a tall frame which was used in the past for killing criminals by cutting off their heads

Machiavellian- From the name of its originator Niccolo Machivellan; suggestive of expediency and cunning

Vidkun Quisling was a Norwegian politician who turned traitor in World War II, siding with Hitler. He was executed by a firing squad at the end of the War.

Martinet- After French General Jean Martinet a rigid military disciplinarian

Maudlin - foolishly and tearfully or weakly sentimental.  

Byzantine, named after Byzantine Empire

Armageddon — after "mount of Megiddo", where the last decisive battle was to be fought between the forces of good and evil, according to myth