obscure - vague/unlit
stare - gaze
dumb - mute/foolish
to commence - begin
artificial - feigned/simulated
to stand smb - obscene/tolerate
stout - plump/sturdy
vicinity - neighbourhood/proximity
disdain - arrogance/scorn
discreet - cautious/reserved
swank - boast
ambiguous - dubious
persistent - obstinate/determined
strident - harsh
bloom - blossom/flourish