engage /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒ/
(verb) to succeed in attracting and keeping somebody’s attention and interest
Example: He engaged us in a fascinating discussion about current business law
(verb) to succeed in attracting and keeping somebody’s attention and interest
Example: He engaged us in a fascinating discussion about current business law
resolve /rɪˈzɑːlv/
(verb) to find an acceptable solution to a problem or difficulty
Example: The manager resolved to clean out all the files at the end of the week.
(verb) to find an acceptable solution to a problem or difficulty
Example: The manager resolved to clean out all the files at the end of the week.
consume /kənˈsuːm/
(verb) to use something, especially fuel, energy or time
Example: The printer consumes more toner than the downstairs printer
(verb) to use something, especially fuel, energy or time
Example: The printer consumes more toner than the downstairs printer
inspiration /ˌɪnspəˈreɪʃn/
(noun) the process that takes place when somebody sees or hears something that causes them to have exciting new ideas or makes them want to create something, especially in art, music or literature
Example: His work is an inspiration to the marketing department.
(noun) the process that takes place when somebody sees or hears something that causes them to have exciting new ideas or makes them want to create something, especially in art, music or literature
Example: His work is an inspiration to the marketing department.
market /ˈmɑːrkɪt/
(noun) an occasion when people buy and sell goods; the open area or building where they meet to do this
Example: The market for brightly colored clothing was brisk last year, but it's moving sluggishly this year
(noun) an occasion when people buy and sell goods; the open area or building where they meet to do this
Example: The market for brightly colored clothing was brisk last year, but it's moving sluggishly this year
productive /prəˈdʌktɪv/
(adjective) making goods or growing crops, especially in large quantities
Example: The unproductive sales meeting brought many staff complaints
(adjective) making goods or growing crops, especially in large quantities
Example: The unproductive sales meeting brought many staff complaints
imply /ɪmˈplaɪ/
(verb) to suggest that something is true or that you feel or think something, without saying so directly
Example: The guarantee on the Walkman implied that all damages were covered under warranty for one year
(verb) to suggest that something is true or that you feel or think something, without saying so directly
Example: The guarantee on the Walkman implied that all damages were covered under warranty for one year
address /əˈdres/
(noun) details of where somebody lives or works and where letters, etc. can be sent
Example: Marco's business plan addresses the needs of small business owners
(noun) details of where somebody lives or works and where letters, etc. can be sent
Example: Marco's business plan addresses the needs of small business owners
demonstrate /ˈdemənstreɪt/
(verb) to show something clearly by giving proof or evidence
Example: The professor demonstrated through a case study that a business plan can impress a lender
(verb) to show something clearly by giving proof or evidence
Example: The professor demonstrated through a case study that a business plan can impress a lender
develop /dɪˈveləp/
(verb) to gradually grow or become bigger, more advanced, stronger, etc.; to make something do this
Example: Lily developed her ideas into a business plan by taking a class at the community college
(verb) to gradually grow or become bigger, more advanced, stronger, etc.; to make something do this
Example: Lily developed her ideas into a business plan by taking a class at the community college
accommodate /əˈkɑːmədeɪt/
(verb) to provide somebody with a room or place to sleep, live or sit
Example: The meeting room was large enough to accommodate the various needs of the groups using it
(verb) to provide somebody with a room or place to sleep, live or sit
Example: The meeting room was large enough to accommodate the various needs of the groups using it
access /ˈækses/
(noun) the opportunity or right to use something or to see somebody/something
Example: You can't gain access to the files unless you know the password
(noun) the opportunity or right to use something or to see somebody/something
Example: You can't gain access to the files unless you know the password
durable /ˈdʊrəbl/
(adjective) likely to last for a long time without breaking or getting weaker
Example: These chairs are more durable than the first ones we looked at
(adjective) likely to last for a long time without breaking or getting weaker
Example: These chairs are more durable than the first ones we looked at
expose /ɪkˈspəʊz/
(verb) to show something that is usually hidden
Example: He did not want to expose his fears and insecurity to anyone.
(verb) to show something that is usually hidden
Example: He did not want to expose his fears and insecurity to anyone.
outdated /ˌaʊtˈdeɪtɪd/
(adjective) no longer useful because of being old-fashioned
Example: Before you do a mailing, make sure that none of the addresses is outdated.
(adjective) no longer useful because of being old-fashioned
Example: Before you do a mailing, make sure that none of the addresses is outdated.
reinforce /ˌriːɪnˈfɔːrs/
(verb) to make a feeling, an idea, etc. stronger
Example: Employees reinforced their learning with practice in the workplace
(verb) to make a feeling, an idea, etc. stronger
Example: Employees reinforced their learning with practice in the workplace
facilitate /fəˈsɪlɪteɪt/
(verb) to make an action or a process possible or easier
Example: The computer program facilitated the scheduling of appointments
(verb) to make an action or a process possible or easier
Example: The computer program facilitated the scheduling of appointments
express /ɪkˈspres/
(verb) to show or make known a feeling, an opinion, etc. by words, looks or actions
Example: It's important that this document be there tomorrow, so please send it express mail.
(verb) to show or make known a feeling, an opinion, etc. by words, looks or actions
Example: It's important that this document be there tomorrow, so please send it express mail.
revise /rɪˈvaɪz/
(verb) to change your opinions or plans, for example because of something you have learned
Example: The brochure was revised several times before it was sent to the printer
(verb) to change your opinions or plans, for example because of something you have learned
Example: The brochure was revised several times before it was sent to the printer
time-consuming /ˈtaɪm kənsuːmɪŋ/
(adjective) taking or needing a lot of time
Example: Five interviews later, Ms. Lopez had the job, but it was the most time-consuming process she had ever gone through
(adjective) taking or needing a lot of time
Example: Five interviews later, Ms. Lopez had the job, but it was the most time-consuming process she had ever gone through
present /ˈpreznt/
(adjective) existing or happening now
Example: The present study has two main aims.
(adjective) existing or happening now
Example: The present study has two main aims.
conduct /kənˈdʌkt/
(verb) to organize and/or do a particular activity
Example: Interviews were conducted over a period of three weeks.
(verb) to organize and/or do a particular activity
Example: Interviews were conducted over a period of three weeks.
generate /ˈdʒenəreɪt/
(verb) to produce energy, especially electricity
Example: The new training program generated a lot of interest among employees
(verb) to produce energy, especially electricity
Example: The new training program generated a lot of interest among employees
benefit /ˈbenɪfɪt/
(noun) an advantage that something gives you; a helpful and useful effect that something has
Example: Although the analyst earned a better salary at his new job, his benefits were better at his previous job
(noun) an advantage that something gives you; a helpful and useful effect that something has
Example: Although the analyst earned a better salary at his new job, his benefits were better at his previous job
compensate /ˈkɑːmpenseɪt/
(verb) to provide something good to balance or reduce the bad effects of damage, loss, etc.
Example: The company will compensate employees for any travel expenses
(verb) to provide something good to balance or reduce the bad effects of damage, loss, etc.
Example: The company will compensate employees for any travel expenses
eligible /ˈelɪdʒəbl/
(adjective) a person who is eligible for something or to do something, is able to have or do it because they have the right qualifications, are the right age, etc.
Example: Some employees may be eligible for the tuition reimbursement plan
(adjective) a person who is eligible for something or to do something, is able to have or do it because they have the right qualifications, are the right age, etc.
Example: Some employees may be eligible for the tuition reimbursement plan
contribute /kənˈtrɪbjuːt/
(verb) to give something, especially money or goods, to help achieve or provide something
Example: Make sure your boss is aware of the work you contributed to the project
(verb) to give something, especially money or goods, to help achieve or provide something
Example: Make sure your boss is aware of the work you contributed to the project
dedication /ˌdedɪˈkeɪʃn/
(noun) the hard work and effort that somebody puts into an activity or a purpose because they think it is important
Example: The director's dedication to a high-quality product has motivated many of his employees
(noun) the hard work and effort that somebody puts into an activity or a purpose because they think it is important
Example: The director's dedication to a high-quality product has motivated many of his employees
promote /prəˈməʊt/
(verb) to help sell a product, service, etc. or make it more popular by advertising it or offering it at a special price
Example: Even though the sales associate had a good year, it wasn't possible to promote him
(verb) to help sell a product, service, etc. or make it more popular by advertising it or offering it at a special price
Example: Even though the sales associate had a good year, it wasn't possible to promote him
value /ˈvæljuː/
(noun) how much something is worth in money or other goods for which it can be exchanged
Example: The expert valued the text at $7,000
(noun) how much something is worth in money or other goods for which it can be exchanged
Example: The expert valued the text at $7,000
mandatory /ˈmændətɔːri/
(adjective) required by law
Example: The jewelry store has a mandatory policy of showing customers only one item at a time
(adjective) required by law
Example: The jewelry store has a mandatory policy of showing customers only one item at a time
enterprise /ˈentərpraɪz/
(noun) a company or business
Example: The new enterprise quickly established an account with the office supply store
(noun) a company or business
Example: The new enterprise quickly established an account with the office supply store
maintain /meɪnˈteɪn/
(verb) to make something continue at the same level, standard, etc.
Example: I've been maintaining a list of office supplies that are in greatest demand
(verb) to make something continue at the same level, standard, etc.
Example: I've been maintaining a list of office supplies that are in greatest demand
prerequisite /ˌpriːˈrekwəzɪt/
(adjective) that must exist or happen before something else can happen or be done
Example: Here are the prerequisites that you need to purchase before coming to class
(adjective) that must exist or happen before something else can happen or be done
Example: Here are the prerequisites that you need to purchase before coming to class
smooth /smuːð/
(adjective) completely flat and even, without any rough areas or holes
Example: Her smooth manner won her the appreciation of the manager but not her colleagues
(adjective) completely flat and even, without any rough areas or holes
Example: Her smooth manner won her the appreciation of the manager but not her colleagues
fulfill /fʊlˈfɪl/
(verb) to do or achieve what was hoped for or expected
Example: Her expectations were so high, we knew they would be hard to fulfill
(verb) to do or achieve what was hoped for or expected
Example: Her expectations were so high, we knew they would be hard to fulfill
integral /ˈɪntɪɡrəl/
(adjective) being an essential part of something
Example: A dependable stream of inventory is integral to reliable shipping of orders
(adjective) being an essential part of something
Example: A dependable stream of inventory is integral to reliable shipping of orders
discrepancy /dɪˈskrepənsi/
(noun) a difference between two or more things that should be the same
Example: We easily explained the discrepancy between the two counts
(noun) a difference between two or more things that should be the same
Example: We easily explained the discrepancy between the two counts
tedious /ˈtiːdiəs/
(adjective) lasting or taking too long and not interesting
Example: Counting merchandise all weekend is the most tedious job I can imagine
(adjective) lasting or taking too long and not interesting
Example: Counting merchandise all weekend is the most tedious job I can imagine
verify /ˈverɪfaɪ/
(verb) to check that something is true or accurate
Example: We have no way of verifying his story
(verb) to check that something is true or accurate
Example: We have no way of verifying his story
balance /ˈbæləns/
(noun) a situation in which different things exist in equal, correct or good amounts
Example: It took him over an hour to balance his checkbook
(noun) a situation in which different things exist in equal, correct or good amounts
Example: It took him over an hour to balance his checkbook
mortgage /ˈmɔːrɡɪdʒ/
(noun) a legal agreement by which a bank or similar organization lends you money to buy a house, etc., and you pay the money back over a particular number of years; the sum of money that you borrow
Example: Hiram mortgaged his home to get extra money to invest in his business
(noun) a legal agreement by which a bank or similar organization lends you money to buy a house, etc., and you pay the money back over a particular number of years; the sum of money that you borrow
Example: Hiram mortgaged his home to get extra money to invest in his business
asset /ˈæset/
(noun) a person or thing that is valuable or useful to somebody/something
Example: The company's asset are worth millions of dollars
(noun) a person or thing that is valuable or useful to somebody/something
Example: The company's asset are worth millions of dollars
budget /ˈbʌdʒɪt/
(noun) the money that is available to a person or an organization and a plan of how it will be spent over a period of time
Example: The company will have to budget more money for this department next year
(noun) the money that is available to a person or an organization and a plan of how it will be spent over a period of time
Example: The company will have to budget more money for this department next year
outstanding /aʊtˈstændɪŋ/
(adjective) extremely good; excellent
Example: She has outstanding debts of over £500.
(adjective) extremely good; excellent
Example: She has outstanding debts of over £500.
attitude /ˈætɪtuːd/
(noun) the way that you think and feel about somebody/something; the way that you behave towards somebody/something that shows how you think and feel
Example: Each investor should assess his or her own attitude toward investment
(noun) the way that you think and feel about somebody/something; the way that you behave towards somebody/something that shows how you think and feel
Example: Each investor should assess his or her own attitude toward investment
invest /ɪnˈvest/
(verb) to buy property, shares in a company, etc. in the hope of making a profit
Example: Don't invest all of your time in just one project
(verb) to buy property, shares in a company, etc. in the hope of making a profit
Example: Don't invest all of your time in just one project
long-term /ˌlɔːŋ ˈtɜːrm/
(adverb) over a long period of time
Example: The CEO's long-term goal was to increase the return on investment
(adverb) over a long period of time
Example: The CEO's long-term goal was to increase the return on investment
withhold /wɪðˈhəʊld/
(verb) to refuse to give something to somebody
Example: Do not withhold any information from your accountant or he will not be able to prepare your tax form correctly
(verb) to refuse to give something to somebody
Example: Do not withhold any information from your accountant or he will not be able to prepare your tax form correctly
perspective /pərˈspektɪv/
(noun) a particular attitude towards something; a way of thinking about something
Example: The budget statement will give the manager some perspective on where the costs of running the business are to be found
(noun) a particular attitude towards something; a way of thinking about something
Example: The budget statement will give the manager some perspective on where the costs of running the business are to be found
realistic /ˌriːəˈlɪstɪk/
(adjective) accepting in a sensible way what it is actually possible to do or achieve in a particular situation
Example: Stefano found that an accurate accounting gave him a realistic idea of his business's financial direction
(adjective) accepting in a sensible way what it is actually possible to do or achieve in a particular situation
Example: Stefano found that an accurate accounting gave him a realistic idea of his business's financial direction
typically /ˈtɪpɪkli/
(adverb) used to say that something usually happens in the way that you are stating
Example: Office expenses typically include such things as salaries, rent, and office supplies
(adverb) used to say that something usually happens in the way that you are stating
Example: Office expenses typically include such things as salaries, rent, and office supplies
conducive /kənˈduːsɪv/
(adjective) making it easy, possible or likely for something to happen
Example: The soft lights and music were conducive to a relaxed atmosphere.
(adjective) making it easy, possible or likely for something to happen
Example: The soft lights and music were conducive to a relaxed atmosphere.
conclude /kənˈkluːd/
(verb) to decide or believe something as a result of what you have heard or seen
Example: After long discussions, the board has concluded that the project has to be canceled
(verb) to decide or believe something as a result of what you have heard or seen
Example: After long discussions, the board has concluded that the project has to be canceled
waste /weɪst/
(noun) the act of using something in a careless or unnecessary way, causing it to be lost or destroyed
Example: Without a leader, the group members wasted time and energy trying to organize themselves
(noun) the act of using something in a careless or unnecessary way, causing it to be lost or destroyed
Example: Without a leader, the group members wasted time and energy trying to organize themselves
brand /brænd/
(noun) a type of product, service, etc. made or offered by a particular company under a particular name
Example: All brands of aspirin are the same
(noun) a type of product, service, etc. made or offered by a particular company under a particular name
Example: All brands of aspirin are the same
enhance /ɪnˈhæns/
(verb) to increase or further improve the good quality, value or status of somebody/something
Example: Every garment must be carefully inspected for defects before it is shipped
(verb) to increase or further improve the good quality, value or status of somebody/something
Example: Every garment must be carefully inspected for defects before it is shipped
supervisor /ˈsuːpərvaɪzər/
(noun) a person who supervises somebody/something
Example: A good supervisor gets his team to work with him, not just for him
(noun) a person who supervises somebody/something
Example: A good supervisor gets his team to work with him, not just for him
fluctuate /ˈflʌktʃueɪt/
(verb) to change frequently in size, amount, quality, etc., especially from one extreme to another
Example: No one is very comfortable making a large investment while the currency values fluctuate almost daily
(verb) to change frequently in size, amount, quality, etc., especially from one extreme to another
Example: No one is very comfortable making a large investment while the currency values fluctuate almost daily
occupy /ˈɑːkjupaɪ/
(verb) to fill or use a space, an area or an amount of time
Example: Our company has occupied this office for more than five years
(verb) to fill or use a space, an area or an amount of time
Example: Our company has occupied this office for more than five years
compromise /ˈkɑːmprəmaɪz/
(noun) an agreement made between two people or groups in which each side gives up some of the things they want so that both sides are happy at the end
Example: John doesn't like sweet dishes so I compromised by adding just a small amount of sugar
(noun) an agreement made between two people or groups in which each side gives up some of the things they want so that both sides are happy at the end
Example: John doesn't like sweet dishes so I compromised by adding just a small amount of sugar
ingredient /ɪnˈɡriːdiənt/
(noun) one of the things from which something is made, especially one of the foods that are used together to make a particular dish
Example: I was unfamiliar with some of the ingredients in the dish
(noun) one of the things from which something is made, especially one of the foods that are used together to make a particular dish
Example: I was unfamiliar with some of the ingredients in the dish
predict /prɪˈdɪkt/
(verb) to say that something will happen in the future
Example: I predicted this restaurant would become popuplar and I was right
(verb) to say that something will happen in the future
Example: I predicted this restaurant would become popuplar and I was right
burden /ˈbɜːrdn/
(noun) a duty, responsibility, etc. that causes worry, difficulty or hard work
Example: The secretary usually takes on the burden of ordering lunch for business meetings
(noun) a duty, responsibility, etc. that causes worry, difficulty or hard work
Example: The secretary usually takes on the burden of ordering lunch for business meetings
individual /ˌɪndɪˈvɪdʒuəl/
(noun) a person considered separately rather than as part of a group
Example: We had the delivery man mark the contents of each individual order
(noun) a person considered separately rather than as part of a group
Example: We had the delivery man mark the contents of each individual order
assist /əˈsɪst/
(verb) to help somebody to do something
Example: Bonnie hired a secretary to assist her with the many details of the event
(verb) to help somebody to do something
Example: Bonnie hired a secretary to assist her with the many details of the event
regulate /ˈreɡjuleɪt/
(verb) to control something by means of rules
Example: The activities of credit companies are regulated by law.
(verb) to control something by means of rules
Example: The activities of credit companies are regulated by law.
itinerary /aɪˈtɪnəreri/
(noun) a plan of a journey, including the route and the places that you visit
Example: I had to change my itinerary when I decided to add two more countries to my vacation
(noun) a plan of a journey, including the route and the places that you visit
Example: I had to change my itinerary when I decided to add two more countries to my vacation
prohibit /prəˈhɪbɪt/
(verb) to stop something from being done or used especially by law
Example: The policy prohibits smoking on school grounds.
(verb) to stop something from being done or used especially by law
Example: The policy prohibits smoking on school grounds.
destination /ˌdestɪˈneɪʃn/
(noun) a place to which somebody/something is going or being sent
Example: The Great Barrier Reef is a popular tourist destination this year
(noun) a place to which somebody/something is going or being sent
Example: The Great Barrier Reef is a popular tourist destination this year
distinguish /dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃ/
(verb) to recognize the difference between two people or things
Example: Suki was able to distinguish between the different types of jets on the runway
(verb) to recognize the difference between two people or things
Example: Suki was able to distinguish between the different types of jets on the runway
entitle /ɪnˈtaɪtl/
(verb) to give somebody the right to have or to do something
Example: During the holiday rush, a train ticket entitled the passenger to a ride, but not necessarily a seat
(verb) to give somebody the right to have or to do something
Example: During the holiday rush, a train ticket entitled the passenger to a ride, but not necessarily a seat
rate /reɪt/
(noun) a measurement of the speed at which something happens
Example: The sign in the lobby lists the seasonal rates
(noun) a measurement of the speed at which something happens
Example: The sign in the lobby lists the seasonal rates
tempt /tempt/
(verb) to attract somebody or make somebody want to do or have something, even if they know it is wrong
Example: I am tempted by the idea of driving across the country instead of flying
(verb) to attract somebody or make somebody want to do or have something, even if they know it is wrong
Example: I am tempted by the idea of driving across the country instead of flying
influence /ˈɪnfluəns/
(noun) the effect that somebody/something has on the way a person thinks or behaves or on the way that something works or develops
Example: The producer was able to influence the town council to allow her to film in the park
(noun) the effect that somebody/something has on the way a person thinks or behaves or on the way that something works or develops
Example: The producer was able to influence the town council to allow her to film in the park
successive /səkˈsesɪv/
(adjective) following immediately one after the other
Example: This was their fourth successive win.
(adjective) following immediately one after the other
Example: This was their fourth successive win.
experience /ɪkˈspɪriəns/
(noun) the knowledge and skill that you have gained through doing something for a period of time; the process of gaining this
Example: The experience of live theater is very thrilling
(noun) the knowledge and skill that you have gained through doing something for a period of time; the process of gaining this
Example: The experience of live theater is very thrilling
review /rɪˈvjuː/
(noun) a report in a newspaper or magazine, or on the internet, television or radio, in which somebody gives their opinion of a book, play, film, product, etc.; the act of writing this kind of report
Example: The terms of the contract are under review.
(noun) a report in a newspaper or magazine, or on the internet, television or radio, in which somebody gives their opinion of a book, play, film, product, etc.; the act of writing this kind of report
Example: The terms of the contract are under review.
instinct /ˈɪnstɪŋkt/
(noun) a natural quality that makes people and animals tend to behave in a particular way using the knowledge and abilities that they were born with rather than thought or training
Example: The student's ability to play the cello was so natural, it seemed an instinct
(noun) a natural quality that makes people and animals tend to behave in a particular way using the knowledge and abilities that they were born with rather than thought or training
Example: The student's ability to play the cello was so natural, it seemed an instinct
acquire /əˈkwaɪər/
(verb) to gain something by your own efforts, ability or behaviour
Example: The museum acquired a Van Gogh during heavy bidding
(verb) to gain something by your own efforts, ability or behaviour
Example: The museum acquired a Van Gogh during heavy bidding
assignment /əˈsaɪnmənt/
(noun) a task or piece of work that somebody is given to do, usually as part of their job or studies
Example: This assignment has to be turned in before midnight
(noun) a task or piece of work that somebody is given to do, usually as part of their job or studies
Example: This assignment has to be turned in before midnight
impact /ˈɪmpækt/
(noun) the powerful effect that something has on somebody/something
Example: The story of the presidential scandal had a huge impact on the public
(noun) the powerful effect that something has on somebody/something
Example: The story of the presidential scandal had a huge impact on the public
investigate /ɪnˈvestɪɡeɪt/
(verb) to carefully examine the facts of a situation, an event, a crime, etc. to find out the truth about it or how it happened
Example: Reporters need to thoroughly investigate the facts before publishing their stories
(verb) to carefully examine the facts of a situation, an event, a crime, etc. to find out the truth about it or how it happened
Example: Reporters need to thoroughly investigate the facts before publishing their stories
assess /əˈses/
(verb) to make a judgement about the nature or quality of somebody/something
Example: The insurance rate Mr. Victor was assessed went up this year after he admitted that he had started smoking again
(verb) to make a judgement about the nature or quality of somebody/something
Example: The insurance rate Mr. Victor was assessed went up this year after he admitted that he had started smoking again
diagnose /ˌdaɪəɡˈnəʊs/
(verb) to say exactly what an illness or the cause of a problem is
Example: After considering the patient's symptoms and looking at his test results, the doctor diagnosed the lump as benign
(verb) to say exactly what an illness or the cause of a problem is
Example: After considering the patient's symptoms and looking at his test results, the doctor diagnosed the lump as benign
evident /ˈevɪdənt/
(adjective) clear; easily seen
Example: The presence of a wisdom tooth was not evident until the dentist started to examine the patient
(adjective) clear; easily seen
Example: The presence of a wisdom tooth was not evident until the dentist started to examine the patient
alternative /ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv/
(noun) a thing that you can choose to do or have out of two or more possibilities
Example: To lower the cost of health insurance, my employer chose an alternative method of insuring us
(noun) a thing that you can choose to do or have out of two or more possibilities
Example: To lower the cost of health insurance, my employer chose an alternative method of insuring us
aspect /ˈæspekt/
(noun) a particular part or feature of a situation, an idea, a problem, etc.; a way in which it may be considered
Example: She felt she had looked at the problem from every aspect.
(noun) a particular part or feature of a situation, an idea, a problem, etc.; a way in which it may be considered
Example: She felt she had looked at the problem from every aspect.
emphasize /ˈemfəsaɪz/
(verb) to give special importance to something
Example: The nurse emphasized the importance of eating a balanced diet
(verb) to give special importance to something
Example: The nurse emphasized the importance of eating a balanced diet
incur /ɪnˈkɜːr/
(verb) if you incur something unpleasant, you are in a situation in which you have to deal with it
Example: I incrurred substantial expenses that my health plan does not coverI incurred substantial expenses that my health plan does not cover
(verb) if you incur something unpleasant, you are in a situation in which you have to deal with it
Example: I incrurred substantial expenses that my health plan does not coverI incurred substantial expenses that my health plan does not cover
portion /ˈpɔːrʃn/
(noun) one part of something larger
Example: A portion of my benefits is my health care coverage
(noun) one part of something larger
Example: A portion of my benefits is my health care coverage
factor /ˈfæktər/
(noun) one of several things that cause or influence something
Example: Could my cat be a factor contributing to my asthma?
(noun) one of several things that cause or influence something
Example: Could my cat be a factor contributing to my asthma?
monitor /ˈmɑːnɪtər/
(noun) a screen that shows information from a computer; a television screen used to show particular kinds of information
Example: The patient had weekly appointments so that the doctor could monitor their progress
(noun) a screen that shows information from a computer; a television screen used to show particular kinds of information
Example: The patient had weekly appointments so that the doctor could monitor their progress
determination /dɪˌtɜːrmɪˈneɪʃn/
(noun) the quality that makes you continue trying to do something even when this is difficult
Example: I admire her determination to get the best result in every exam.
(noun) the quality that makes you continue trying to do something even when this is difficult
Example: I admire her determination to get the best result in every exam.
convert /kənˈvɜːrt/
(verb) to change or make something change from one form, purpose, system, etc. to another
Example: We've converted from oil to gas central heating.
(verb) to change or make something change from one form, purpose, system, etc. to another
Example: We've converted from oil to gas central heating.
height /haɪt/
(noun) the measurement of how tall a person or thing is
Example: The height of this room is 3 meters.
(noun) the measurement of how tall a person or thing is
Example: The height of this room is 3 meters.
pronounce /prəˈnaʊns/
(verb) to make the sound of a word or letter in a particular way
Example: How do you pronounce your surname?
(verb) to make the sound of a word or letter in a particular way
Example: How do you pronounce your surname?
shift /ʃɪft/
(noun) a period of time worked by a group of workers who start work as another group finishes
Example: He shifted a little in his chair.
(noun) a period of time worked by a group of workers who start work as another group finishes
Example: He shifted a little in his chair.
stick /stɪk/
(verb) to fix something to something else, usually with a sticky substance; to become fixed to something in this way
Example: I tried to stick the pieces together with some glue.
(verb) to fix something to something else, usually with a sticky substance; to become fixed to something in this way
Example: I tried to stick the pieces together with some glue.
connection /kəˈnekʃn/
(noun) something that connects two facts, ideas, etc.
Example: How did you make the connection(= realize that there was a connection between two facts that did not seem to be related)?
(noun) something that connects two facts, ideas, etc.
Example: How did you make the connection(= realize that there was a connection between two facts that did not seem to be related)?
exercise /ˈeksərsaɪz/
(noun) physical or mental activity that you do to stay healthy or become stronger
Example: to take exercise
(noun) physical or mental activity that you do to stay healthy or become stronger
Example: to take exercise
concept /ˈkɑːnsept/
(noun) an idea or a principle that is connected with something abstract
Example: the concept that everyone should have equality of opportunity
(noun) an idea or a principle that is connected with something abstract
Example: the concept that everyone should have equality of opportunity
fundamental /ˌfʌndəˈmentl/
(adjective) serious and very important; affecting the most central and important parts of something
Example: a question of fundamental importance
(adjective) serious and very important; affecting the most central and important parts of something
Example: a question of fundamental importance
survive /sərˈvaɪv/
(verb) to continue to live or exist
Example: These plants cannot survive in very cold conditions.
(verb) to continue to live or exist
Example: These plants cannot survive in very cold conditions.
genuine /ˈdʒenjuɪn/
(adjective) real; exactly what it appears to be; not artificial
Example: Only genuine refugees can apply for asylum.
(adjective) real; exactly what it appears to be; not artificial
Example: Only genuine refugees can apply for asylum.
tackle /ˈtækl/
(verb) to make a determined effort to deal with a difficult problem or situation
Example: The government is determined to tackle inflation.
(verb) to make a determined effort to deal with a difficult problem or situation
Example: The government is determined to tackle inflation.
foundation /faʊnˈdeɪʃn/
(noun) a principle, an idea or a fact that something is based on and that it grows from
Example: These stories have no foundation(= are not based on any facts).
(noun) a principle, an idea or a fact that something is based on and that it grows from
Example: These stories have no foundation(= are not based on any facts).
packaging /ˈpækɪdʒɪŋ/
(noun) materials used to wrap or protect goods that are sold in shops
Example: Sweets have plastic packaging.
(noun) materials used to wrap or protect goods that are sold in shops
Example: Sweets have plastic packaging.
regret /rɪˈɡret/
(verb) to feel sorry about something you have done or about something that you have not been able to do
Example: I regret to inform you that your application has been rejected.
(verb) to feel sorry about something you have done or about something that you have not been able to do
Example: I regret to inform you that your application has been rejected.
regulation /ˌreɡjuˈleɪʃn/
(noun) an official rule made by a government or some other authority
Example: Our company is going to have some new regulations.
(noun) an official rule made by a government or some other authority
Example: Our company is going to have some new regulations.
stroke /strəʊk/
(noun) an act of hitting a ball, for example with a bat or racket
Example: He's a beautiful dog. Can I stroke him?
(noun) an act of hitting a ball, for example with a bat or racket
Example: He's a beautiful dog. Can I stroke him?
measure /ˈmeʒər/
(verb) to find the size, quantity, etc. of something in standard units
Example: Can you measure accurately with this ruler?
(verb) to find the size, quantity, etc. of something in standard units
Example: Can you measure accurately with this ruler?
sufficient /səˈfɪʃnt/
(adjective) enough for a particular purpose; as much as you need
Example: Is £100 sufficient for your expenses?
(adjective) enough for a particular purpose; as much as you need
Example: Is £100 sufficient for your expenses?
fame /feɪm/
(noun) the state of being known and talked about by many people
Example: to rise/shoot to fame overnight
(noun) the state of being known and talked about by many people
Example: to rise/shoot to fame overnight
increase /ɪnˈkriːs/
(verb) to become greater in amount, number, value, etc.; to make something greater in amount, number, value, etc.
Example: The number of injuries from automobile accidents increases every year.
(verb) to become greater in amount, number, value, etc.; to make something greater in amount, number, value, etc.
Example: The number of injuries from automobile accidents increases every year.
strain /streɪn/
(noun) pressure on a system or relationship because great demands are being placed on it
Example: Did you find the job a strain?
(noun) pressure on a system or relationship because great demands are being placed on it
Example: Did you find the job a strain?
innocent /ˈɪnəsnt/
(adjective) not guilty of a crime, etc.; not having done something wrong
Example: Someone told your secret, but it wasn't me. I'm innocent.
(adjective) not guilty of a crime, etc.; not having done something wrong
Example: Someone told your secret, but it wasn't me. I'm innocent.
translate /trænzˈleɪt/
(verb) to express the meaning of speech or writing in a different language
Example: ‘Suisse’ had been wrongly translated as ‘Sweden’.
(verb) to express the meaning of speech or writing in a different language
Example: ‘Suisse’ had been wrongly translated as ‘Sweden’.
outdoors /ˌaʊtˈdɔːrz/
(adverb) outside, rather than in a building
Example: It’s raining so we can’t eat outdoors.
(adverb) outside, rather than in a building
Example: It’s raining so we can’t eat outdoors.
decorate /ˈdekəreɪt/
(verb) to make something look more attractive by putting things on it
Example: You should clean and decorate your house for Tet.
(verb) to make something look more attractive by putting things on it
Example: You should clean and decorate your house for Tet.
ruin /ˈruːɪn/
(verb) to damage something so badly that it loses all its value, pleasure, etc.
Example: The crops were ruined by the late frost.
(verb) to damage something so badly that it loses all its value, pleasure, etc.
Example: The crops were ruined by the late frost.
emerge /ɪˈmɜːrdʒ/
(verb) to move out of or away from something and become possible to see
Example: Several possible candidates have emerged.
(verb) to move out of or away from something and become possible to see
Example: Several possible candidates have emerged.
design /dɪˈzaɪn/
(noun) the general arrangement of the different parts of something that is made, such as a building, book, machine, etc.
Example: This dress has a beautiful design.
(noun) the general arrangement of the different parts of something that is made, such as a building, book, machine, etc.
Example: This dress has a beautiful design.
urgent /ˈɜːrdʒənt/
(adjective) that needs to be dealt with or happen immediately
Example: The law is in urgent need of reform.
(adjective) that needs to be dealt with or happen immediately
Example: The law is in urgent need of reform.
right /raɪt/
(adjective) true or correct as a fact
Example: My bag is on your right.
(adjective) true or correct as a fact
Example: My bag is on your right.
threaten /ˈθretn/
(verb) to say that you will cause trouble, hurt somebody, etc. if you do not get what you want
Example: The mugger threatened to kill him.
(verb) to say that you will cause trouble, hurt somebody, etc. if you do not get what you want
Example: The mugger threatened to kill him.
primary /ˈpraɪmeri/
(adjective) connected with the education of children between the ages of about five and eleven
Example: Our primary concern must be the children.
(adjective) connected with the education of children between the ages of about five and eleven
Example: Our primary concern must be the children.
useless /ˈjuːsləs/
(adjective) not useful; not doing or achieving what is needed or wanted
Example: It's useless worrying about it.
(adjective) not useful; not doing or achieving what is needed or wanted
Example: It's useless worrying about it.
sound /saʊnd/
(noun) something that you can hear
Example: That plan sounds interesting, doesn't it?
(noun) something that you can hear
Example: That plan sounds interesting, doesn't it?
adequate /ˈædɪkwət/
(adjective) enough in quantity, or good enough in quality, for a particular purpose or need
Example: Make sure that the lighting is adequate so that the guests can see what they are eating.
(adjective) enough in quantity, or good enough in quality, for a particular purpose or need
Example: Make sure that the lighting is adequate so that the guests can see what they are eating.
artificial /ˌɑːrtɪˈfɪʃl/
(adjective) made or produced to copy something natural; not real
Example: Sputnik is the first artificial satellite.
(adjective) made or produced to copy something natural; not real
Example: Sputnik is the first artificial satellite.
compete /kəmˈpiːt/
(verb) to take part in a contest or game
Example: Both girls compete for their father's attention.
(verb) to take part in a contest or game
Example: Both girls compete for their father's attention.
trial /ˈtraɪəl/
(noun) a formal examination of evidence in court by a judge and often a jury , to decide if somebody accused of a crime is guilty or not
Example: a murder trial
(noun) a formal examination of evidence in court by a judge and often a jury , to decide if somebody accused of a crime is guilty or not
Example: a murder trial
discipline /ˈdɪsəplɪn/
(noun) the practice of training people to obey rules and orders and punishing them if they do not; the controlled behaviour or situation that is the result of this training
Example: Discipline is necessary in any school.
(noun) the practice of training people to obey rules and orders and punishing them if they do not; the controlled behaviour or situation that is the result of this training
Example: Discipline is necessary in any school.
local /ˈləʊkl/
(adjective) belonging to or connected with the particular place or area that you are talking about or with the place where you live
Example: PTV is a channel of Phu Tho province. So it is local.
(adjective) belonging to or connected with the particular place or area that you are talking about or with the place where you live
Example: PTV is a channel of Phu Tho province. So it is local.
obey /əˈbeɪ/
(verb) to do what you are told or expected to do
Example: Road users should obey traffic rules strictly.
(verb) to do what you are told or expected to do
Example: Road users should obey traffic rules strictly.
achievable /əˈtʃiːvəbl/
(adjective) that can be reached, especially by making an effort for a long time
Example: Profits of $20m look achievable.
(adjective) that can be reached, especially by making an effort for a long time
Example: Profits of $20m look achievable.
atmosphere /ˈætməsfɪr/
(noun) the mixture of gases that surrounds the earth
Example: There's a very relaxed atmosphere in our office.
(noun) the mixture of gases that surrounds the earth
Example: There's a very relaxed atmosphere in our office.
device /dɪˈvaɪs/
(noun) an object or a piece of equipment that has been designed to do a particular job
Example: Our lives have been made easier thanks to modern devices.
(noun) an object or a piece of equipment that has been designed to do a particular job
Example: Our lives have been made easier thanks to modern devices.
recommend /ˌrekəˈmend/
(verb) to tell somebody that something is good or useful, or that somebody would be suitable for a particular job, etc.
Example: He recommended reading the book before seeing the movie.
(verb) to tell somebody that something is good or useful, or that somebody would be suitable for a particular job, etc.
Example: He recommended reading the book before seeing the movie.
essential /ɪˈsenʃl/
(adjective) completely necessary; extremely important in a particular situation or for a particular activity
Example: Experience is essential for this job.
(adjective) completely necessary; extremely important in a particular situation or for a particular activity
Example: Experience is essential for this job.
adapt /əˈdæpt/
(verb) to change your behaviour in order to deal more successfully with a new situation
Example: These styles can be adapted to suit individual tastes.
(verb) to change your behaviour in order to deal more successfully with a new situation
Example: These styles can be adapted to suit individual tastes.
adopt /əˈdɑːpt/
(verb) to take somebody else’s child into your family and become its legal parent(s)
Example: a campaign to encourage childless couples to adopt
(verb) to take somebody else’s child into your family and become its legal parent(s)
Example: a campaign to encourage childless couples to adopt
barrier /ˈbæriər/
(noun) an object like a fence that prevents people from moving forward from one place to another
Example: The car crashed into the safety barrier and burst into flames.
(noun) an object like a fence that prevents people from moving forward from one place to another
Example: The car crashed into the safety barrier and burst into flames.
evidence /ˈevɪdəns/
(noun) the facts, signs or objects that make you believe that something is true
Example: There was no obvious evidence of a break-in.
(noun) the facts, signs or objects that make you believe that something is true
Example: There was no obvious evidence of a break-in.
grant /ɡrænt/
(verb) to agree to give somebody what they ask for, especially formal or legal permission to do something
Example: He has been awarded a research grant.
(verb) to agree to give somebody what they ask for, especially formal or legal permission to do something
Example: He has been awarded a research grant.
appropriate /əˈprəʊpriət/
(adjective) suitable, acceptable or correct for the particular circumstances
Example: The book was written in a style appropriate to the age of the children.
(adjective) suitable, acceptable or correct for the particular circumstances
Example: The book was written in a style appropriate to the age of the children.
communicate /kəˈmjuːnɪkeɪt/
(verb) to share or exchange information, news, ideas, feelings, etc.
Example: Thanks to the invention of the telephone, we can communicate with others all over the world.
(verb) to share or exchange information, news, ideas, feelings, etc.
Example: Thanks to the invention of the telephone, we can communicate with others all over the world.
entertaining /ˌentərˈteɪnɪŋ/
(adjective) that you enjoy watching, listening to, doing or experiencing
Example: I found the talk both informative and entertaining.
(adjective) that you enjoy watching, listening to, doing or experiencing
Example: I found the talk both informative and entertaining.
peaceful /ˈpiːsfl/
(adjective) not involving a war, violence or argument
Example: Iceland is considered as the most peaceful country in the world.
(adjective) not involving a war, violence or argument
Example: Iceland is considered as the most peaceful country in the world.
offensive /əˈfensɪv/
(adjective) rude in a way that causes somebody to feel upset or annoyed because it shows a lack of respect
Example: His comments were deeply offensive to a large number of single mothers.
(adjective) rude in a way that causes somebody to feel upset or annoyed because it shows a lack of respect
Example: His comments were deeply offensive to a large number of single mothers.
harmful /ˈhɑːrmfl/
(adjective) causing damage or injury to somebody/something, especially to a person’s health or to the environment
Example: This group of chemicals is harmful to people.
(adjective) causing damage or injury to somebody/something, especially to a person’s health or to the environment
Example: This group of chemicals is harmful to people.
infectious /ɪnˈfekʃəs/
(adjective) an infectious disease can be passed easily from one person to another, especially through air or water
Example: Flu is highly infectious.
(adjective) an infectious disease can be passed easily from one person to another, especially through air or water
Example: Flu is highly infectious.
interpret /ɪnˈtɜːrprət/
(verb) to explain the meaning of something
Example: The students were asked to interpret the poem.
(verb) to explain the meaning of something
Example: The students were asked to interpret the poem.
recover /rɪˈkʌvər/
(verb) to get well again after being ill, hurt, etc.
Example: He's still recovering from his operation.
(verb) to get well again after being ill, hurt, etc.
Example: He's still recovering from his operation.
single /ˈsɪŋɡl/
(adjective) only one
Example: How much is a single to York?
(adjective) only one
Example: How much is a single to York?
adjust /əˈdʒʌst/
(verb) to change something slightly to make it more suitable for a new set of conditions or to make it work better
Example: If the chair is too high you can adjust it to suit you.
(verb) to change something slightly to make it more suitable for a new set of conditions or to make it work better
Example: If the chair is too high you can adjust it to suit you.
practical /ˈpræktɪkl/
(adjective) connected with real situations rather than with ideas or theories
Example: practical problems
(adjective) connected with real situations rather than with ideas or theories
Example: practical problems
strict /strɪkt/
(adjective) that must be obeyed exactly
Example: He is a very strict teacher.
(adjective) that must be obeyed exactly
Example: He is a very strict teacher.
withdraw /wɪðˈdrɔː/
(verb) to take money out of a bank account
Example: Both powers withdrew their forces from the region.
(verb) to take money out of a bank account
Example: Both powers withdrew their forces from the region.
proceed /prəʊˈsiːd/
(verb) to continue doing something that has already been started; to continue being done
Example: Preparations for the festival are now proceeding smoothly.
(verb) to continue doing something that has already been started; to continue being done
Example: Preparations for the festival are now proceeding smoothly.
reflect /rɪˈflekt/
(verb) to show the image of somebody/something on the surface of something such as a mirror, water or glass
Example: His face was reflected in the mirror.
(verb) to show the image of somebody/something on the surface of something such as a mirror, water or glass
Example: His face was reflected in the mirror.
issue /ˈɪʃuː/
(noun) an important topic that people are discussing or arguing about
Example: Next month, VietinBank is going to issue a new service.
(noun) an important topic that people are discussing or arguing about
Example: Next month, VietinBank is going to issue a new service.
absorb /əbˈzɔːrb/
(verb) to take in a liquid, gas or other substance from the surface or space around
Example: Let the rice cook until it has absorbed all the water.
(verb) to take in a liquid, gas or other substance from the surface or space around
Example: Let the rice cook until it has absorbed all the water.
gap /ɡæp/
(noun) a space where something is missing
Example: Leave a gap between your car and the next.
(noun) a space where something is missing
Example: Leave a gap between your car and the next.
surround /səˈraʊnd/
(verb) to be all around something/somebody
Example: Our house is surrounded with a lot of trees and flowers.
(verb) to be all around something/somebody
Example: Our house is surrounded with a lot of trees and flowers.
drive /draɪv/
(verb) to operate a vehicle so that it goes in a particular direction
Example: Can you drive?
(verb) to operate a vehicle so that it goes in a particular direction
Example: Can you drive?
proportion /prəˈpɔːrʃn/
(noun) a part or share of a whole
Example: A higher proportion of Americans go on to higher education than is the case in Britain.
(noun) a part or share of a whole
Example: A higher proportion of Americans go on to higher education than is the case in Britain.
relaxing /rɪˈlæksɪŋ/
(adjective) helping you to rest and become less anxious
Example: a relaxing evening with friends
(adjective) helping you to rest and become less anxious
Example: a relaxing evening with friends
illustrate /ˈɪləstreɪt/
(verb) to use pictures, photographs, diagrams, etc. in a book, etc.
Example: His lecture was illustrated with photos taken during the expedition.
(verb) to use pictures, photographs, diagrams, etc. in a book, etc.
Example: His lecture was illustrated with photos taken during the expedition.
positive /ˈpɑːzətɪv/
(adjective) good or useful
Example: She tried to be more positive about her new job.
(adjective) good or useful
Example: She tried to be more positive about her new job.
affect /əˈfekt/
(verb) to produce a change in somebody/something
Example: The divorce affected every aspect of her life.
(verb) to produce a change in somebody/something
Example: The divorce affected every aspect of her life.
resort /rɪˈzɔːrt/
(noun) a place where a lot of people go on holiday
Example: They are going to build a resort here.
(noun) a place where a lot of people go on holiday
Example: They are going to build a resort here.
ease /iːz/
(noun) lack of difficulty
Example: These pills will ease the pain.
(noun) lack of difficulty
Example: These pills will ease the pain.
confront /kənˈfrʌnt/
(verb) to appear and need to be dealt with by somebody
Example: the economic problems confronting the country
(verb) to appear and need to be dealt with by somebody
Example: the economic problems confronting the country
cure /kjʊr/
(verb) to make a person or an animal healthy again after an illness
Example: The scientists are still studying a new cure for cancer.
(verb) to make a person or an animal healthy again after an illness
Example: The scientists are still studying a new cure for cancer.
formerly /ˈfɔːrmərli/
(adverb) in the past
Example: John Marsh, formerly of London Road, Leicester, now living in France
(adverb) in the past
Example: John Marsh, formerly of London Road, Leicester, now living in France
curb /kɜːrb/
(verb) to control or limit something, especially something bad
Example: curbs on government spending
(verb) to control or limit something, especially something bad
Example: curbs on government spending
gain /ɡeɪn/
(verb) to obtain or win something, especially something that you need or want
Example: Regular exercise helps prevent weight gain.
(verb) to obtain or win something, especially something that you need or want
Example: Regular exercise helps prevent weight gain.
concrete /ˈkɑːnkriːt/
(adjective) made of concrete
Example: The pathway is formed from large pebbles set in concrete.
(adjective) made of concrete
Example: The pathway is formed from large pebbles set in concrete.
dump /dʌmp/
(verb) to get rid of something you do not want, especially in a place that is not suitable
Example: People here have to suffer a disgusting smell from a garbage dump.
(verb) to get rid of something you do not want, especially in a place that is not suitable
Example: People here have to suffer a disgusting smell from a garbage dump.
automatic /ˌɔːtəˈmætɪk/
(adjective) having controls that work without needing a person to operate them
Example: automatic transmission (= in a car, etc.)
(adjective) having controls that work without needing a person to operate them
Example: automatic transmission (= in a car, etc.)
imaginary /ɪˈmædʒɪneri/
(adjective) existing only in your mind or imagination
Example: imaginary fears
(adjective) existing only in your mind or imagination
Example: imaginary fears
deliver /dɪˈlɪvər/
(verb) to take goods, letters, etc. to the person or people they have been sent to
Example: Do you have your milk delivered?
(verb) to take goods, letters, etc. to the person or people they have been sent to
Example: Do you have your milk delivered?
shoulder /ˈʃəʊldər/
(noun) either of the two parts of the body between the top of each arm and the neck
Example: He carried the child on his shoulders..
(noun) either of the two parts of the body between the top of each arm and the neck
Example: He carried the child on his shoulders..
further /ˈfɜːrðər/
(adjective) more; additional
Example: Have you any further questions?
(adjective) more; additional
Example: Have you any further questions?
relevant /ˈreləvənt/
(adjective) closely connected with the subject you are discussing or the situation you are in
Example: Do you have the relevant experience?
(adjective) closely connected with the subject you are discussing or the situation you are in
Example: Do you have the relevant experience?
variation /ˌveriˈeɪʃn/
(noun) a change, especially in the amount or level of something
Example: regional/seasonal variation(= depending on the region or time of year)
(noun) a change, especially in the amount or level of something
Example: regional/seasonal variation(= depending on the region or time of year)
principle /ˈprɪnsəpl/
(noun) a moral rule or a strong belief that influences your actions
Example: He doesn't invest in the arms industry on principle.
(noun) a moral rule or a strong belief that influences your actions
Example: He doesn't invest in the arms industry on principle.
state /steɪt/
(noun) a country considered as an organized political community controlled by one government
Example: There is no need to state the obvious (= to say something that everyone already knows).
(noun) a country considered as an organized political community controlled by one government
Example: There is no need to state the obvious (= to say something that everyone already knows).
memory /ˈmeməri/
(noun) your ability to remember things
Example: He suffered loss of memory for weeks after the accident.
(noun) your ability to remember things
Example: He suffered loss of memory for weeks after the accident.
overcome /ˌəʊvərˈkʌm/
(verb) to succeed in dealing with or controlling a problem that has been preventing you from achieving something
Example: He finally managed to overcome his fear of flying
(verb) to succeed in dealing with or controlling a problem that has been preventing you from achieving something
Example: He finally managed to overcome his fear of flying
enjoy /ɪnˈdʒɔɪ/
(verb) to get pleasure from something
Example: I really enjoyed watching that film.
(verb) to get pleasure from something
Example: I really enjoyed watching that film.
outdoor /ˈaʊtdɔːr/
(adjective) used, happening or located outside rather than in a building
Example: outdoor clothing/activities
(adjective) used, happening or located outside rather than in a building
Example: outdoor clothing/activities
challenge /ˈtʃælɪndʒ/
(noun) a new or difficult task that tests somebody’s ability and skill
Example: This new discovery challenges traditional beliefs.
(noun) a new or difficult task that tests somebody’s ability and skill
Example: This new discovery challenges traditional beliefs.
decline /dɪˈklaɪn/
(verb) to become smaller, fewer, weaker, etc.
Example: Her health was declining rapidly.
(verb) to become smaller, fewer, weaker, etc.
Example: Her health was declining rapidly.
old-fashioned /ˌəʊld ˈfæʃnd/
(adjective) not modern; no longer fashionable
Example: These sweets are still made in the old-fashioned way.
(adjective) not modern; no longer fashionable
Example: These sweets are still made in the old-fashioned way.
transform /trænsˈfɔːrm/
(verb) to change the form of something; to change in form
Example: The photochemical reactions transform the light into electrical impulses.
(verb) to change the form of something; to change in form
Example: The photochemical reactions transform the light into electrical impulses.
punish /ˈpʌnɪʃ/
(verb) to make somebody suffer because they have broken the law or done something wrong
Example: My parents used to punish me by not letting me watch TV.
(verb) to make somebody suffer because they have broken the law or done something wrong
Example: My parents used to punish me by not letting me watch TV.
steep /stiːp/
(adjective) rising or falling quickly, not gradually
Example: a steep climb/descent/drop
(adjective) rising or falling quickly, not gradually
Example: a steep climb/descent/drop
appreciate /əˈpriːʃieɪt/
(verb) to recognize the good qualities of somebody/something
Example: We would appreciate you letting us know of any problems.
(verb) to recognize the good qualities of somebody/something
Example: We would appreciate you letting us know of any problems.
analyse /ˈænəlaɪz/
(verb) to examine the nature or structure of something, especially by separating it into its parts, in order to understand or explain it
Example: He tried to analyse his feelings.
(verb) to examine the nature or structure of something, especially by separating it into its parts, in order to understand or explain it
Example: He tried to analyse his feelings.
phase /feɪz/
(noun) a stage in a process of change or development
Example: the design phase
(noun) a stage in a process of change or development
Example: the design phase
preserve /prɪˈzɜːrv/
(verb) to keep a particular quality, feature, etc.; to make sure that something is kept
Example: He was anxious to preserve his reputation.
(verb) to keep a particular quality, feature, etc.; to make sure that something is kept
Example: He was anxious to preserve his reputation.
bound /baʊnd/
(adjective) certain or likely to happen, or to do or be something
Example: You've done so much work—you're bound to pass the exam.
(adjective) certain or likely to happen, or to do or be something
Example: You've done so much work—you're bound to pass the exam.
satisfy /ˈsætɪsfaɪ/
(verb) to make somebody pleased by doing or giving them what they want
Example: Nothing satisfies him—he's always complaining.
(verb) to make somebody pleased by doing or giving them what they want
Example: Nothing satisfies him—he's always complaining.
indicate /ˈɪndɪkeɪt/
(verb) to show that something is true or exists
Example: Our results indicate how misleading it could be to rely on this method.
(verb) to show that something is true or exists
Example: Our results indicate how misleading it could be to rely on this method.
quantity /ˈkwɑːntəti/
(noun) an amount or a number of something
Example: enormous/vast/huge quantities of food
(noun) an amount or a number of something
Example: enormous/vast/huge quantities of food
construct /kənˈstrʌkt/
(verb) to build or make something such as a road, building or machine
Example: When was the bridge constructed?
(verb) to build or make something such as a road, building or machine
Example: When was the bridge constructed?
inevitable /ɪnˈevɪtəbl/
(adjective) that you cannot avoid or prevent
Example: A rise in the interest rates seems inevitable.
(adjective) that you cannot avoid or prevent
Example: A rise in the interest rates seems inevitable.
Coverage /ˈkʌvərɪdʒ/
(noun) the reporting of news and sport in the media
Example: This is an insurance policy with extensive coverage.
(noun) the reporting of news and sport in the media
Example: This is an insurance policy with extensive coverage.
Venue /ˈvenjuː/
(noun) a place where people meet for an organized event, for example a concert, sporting event or conference
Example: I'm trying to seat all the winners near the front of the venue.
(noun) a place where people meet for an organized event, for example a concert, sporting event or conference
Example: I'm trying to seat all the winners near the front of the venue.
Competitive /kəmˈpetətɪv/
(adjective) used to describe a situation in which people or organizations compete against each other
Example: The rate of emerging graduates is increasing daily, making the labor market very competitive.
(adjective) used to describe a situation in which people or organizations compete against each other
Example: The rate of emerging graduates is increasing daily, making the labor market very competitive.
Renovate /ˈrenəveɪt/
(verb) to repair and paint an old building, a piece of furniture, etc. so that it is in good condition again
Example: We are planning to renovate our main lobby.
(verb) to repair and paint an old building, a piece of furniture, etc. so that it is in good condition again
Example: We are planning to renovate our main lobby.
Insect /ˈɪnsekt/
(noun) any small creature with six legs and a body divided into three parts. Insects usually also have wings. Ants , bees and flies are all insects .
Example: Insects are the most diverse group of animals
(noun) any small creature with six legs and a body divided into three parts. Insects usually also have wings. Ants , bees and flies are all insects .
Example: Insects are the most diverse group of animals
occupation /ˌɑːkjuˈpeɪʃn/
(noun) a job or profession
Example: Please state your name, age and occupation below.
(noun) a job or profession
Example: Please state your name, age and occupation below.
telecommunications /ˌtelikəˌmjuːnɪˈkeɪʃn/
(noun) the technology of sending signals, images and messages over long distances by radio, phone, television, satellite, etc.
Example: technological developments in telecommunications
(noun) the technology of sending signals, images and messages over long distances by radio, phone, television, satellite, etc.
Example: technological developments in telecommunications
insomnia /ɪnˈsɑːmniə/
(noun) the condition of being unable to sleep
Example: to suffer from insomnia
(noun) the condition of being unable to sleep
Example: to suffer from insomnia
obesity /əʊˈbiːsəti/
(noun) the quality or fact of being very fat, in a way that is not healthy
Example: Eating too much fast food can cause obesity.
(noun) the quality or fact of being very fat, in a way that is not healthy
Example: Eating too much fast food can cause obesity.
exceed /ɪkˈsiːd/
(verb) to be greater than a particular number or amount
Example: The price will not exceed £100.
(verb) to be greater than a particular number or amount
Example: The price will not exceed £100.
bland /blænd/
(adjective) with little colour, excitement or interest; without anything to attract attention
Example: How do I make steamed white rice not so bland?
(adjective) with little colour, excitement or interest; without anything to attract attention
Example: How do I make steamed white rice not so bland?
ecotourism /ˈiːkəʊtʊrɪzəm/
(noun) organized holidays that are designed so that the tourists damage the environment as little as possible, especially when some of the money they pay is used to protect the local environment and animals
Example: Ecotourism is financing rainforest preservation.
(noun) organized holidays that are designed so that the tourists damage the environment as little as possible, especially when some of the money they pay is used to protect the local environment and animals
Example: Ecotourism is financing rainforest preservation.
celebrity /səˈlebrəti/
(noun) a famous person
Example: TV celebrities
(noun) a famous person
Example: TV celebrities
allergy /ˈælərdʒi/
(noun) a medical condition that causes you to react badly or feel ill when you eat or touch a particular substance
Example: She has a food allergy to shrimp.
(noun) a medical condition that causes you to react badly or feel ill when you eat or touch a particular substance
Example: She has a food allergy to shrimp.
casual /ˈkæʒuəl/
(adjective) not formal
Example: These clothes are for casual wear.
(adjective) not formal
Example: These clothes are for casual wear.
brisk /brɪsk/
(adjective) quick; busy
Example: a brisk walk
(adjective) quick; busy
Example: a brisk walk
exposure /ɪkˈspəʊʒər/
(noun) the state of being in a place or situation where there is no protection from something harmful or unpleasant
Example: Her new movie has had a lot of exposure in the media.
(noun) the state of being in a place or situation where there is no protection from something harmful or unpleasant
Example: Her new movie has had a lot of exposure in the media.
paparazzi /ˌpapəˈratsi/
the photographers who follow famous people everywhere they go in order to take photographs of them for newspapers and magazines
Example: He'll say the paparazzi and the press come with the territory.
the photographers who follow famous people everywhere they go in order to take photographs of them for newspapers and magazines
Example: He'll say the paparazzi and the press come with the territory.
abstract /ˈæbstrækt/
(adjective) based on general ideas and not on any particular real person, thing or situation
Example: An abstract always appears at the beginning of a manuscript or typescript.
(adjective) based on general ideas and not on any particular real person, thing or situation
Example: An abstract always appears at the beginning of a manuscript or typescript.
accuracy /ˈækjərəsi/
(noun) the state of being exact or correct; the ability to do something with skill and without making mistakes
Example: They questioned the accuracy of the information in the file.
(noun) the state of being exact or correct; the ability to do something with skill and without making mistakes
Example: They questioned the accuracy of the information in the file.
accused /əˈkjuːz/
(verb) to say that somebody has done something wrong or is guilty of something
Example: The accused was found innocent.
(verb) to say that somebody has done something wrong or is guilty of something
Example: The accused was found innocent.
acute /əˈkjuːt/
(adjective) very serious or severe
Example: The government has tried to give many explanations to hide its acute embarrassment.
(adjective) very serious or severe
Example: The government has tried to give many explanations to hide its acute embarrassment.
ageing /ˈeɪdʒɪŋ/
(noun) the process of growing old
Example: signs of ageing
(noun) the process of growing old
Example: signs of ageing
ban /bæn/
(verb) to decide or say officially that something is not allowed
Example: There is to be a total ban on smoking in the office.
(verb) to decide or say officially that something is not allowed
Example: There is to be a total ban on smoking in the office.
beneficial /ˌbenɪˈfɪʃl/
(adjective) improving a situation; having a helpful or useful effect
Example: A good diet is beneficial to health.
(adjective) improving a situation; having a helpful or useful effect
Example: A good diet is beneficial to health.
bias /ˈbaɪəs/
(noun) a strong feeling in favour of or against one group of people, or one side in an argument, often not based on fair judgement
Example: Sexual Orientation discrimination has been a hot topic.
(noun) a strong feeling in favour of or against one group of people, or one side in an argument, often not based on fair judgement
Example: Sexual Orientation discrimination has been a hot topic.
boom /buːm/
(noun) a sudden increase in trade and economic activity; a period of wealth and success
Example: Booming economy still cannot help iron ore manufacturers.
(noun) a sudden increase in trade and economic activity; a period of wealth and success
Example: Booming economy still cannot help iron ore manufacturers.
casualty /ˈkæʒuəlti/
(noun) a person who is killed or injured in war or in an accident
Example: road casualties
(noun) a person who is killed or injured in war or in an accident
Example: road casualties
chronic /ˈkrɑːnɪk/
(adjective) lasting for a long time; difficult to cure
Example: Those with chronic bronchitis and heart disease should take the necessary precautions to reduce their chances of exposure to the dust.
(adjective) lasting for a long time; difficult to cure
Example: Those with chronic bronchitis and heart disease should take the necessary precautions to reduce their chances of exposure to the dust.
cognitive /ˈkɑːɡnətɪv/
(adjective) connected with mental processes of understanding
Example: There are students suffering from cognitive problems in the school we visited two months ago.
(adjective) connected with mental processes of understanding
Example: There are students suffering from cognitive problems in the school we visited two months ago.
complicated /ˈkɑːmplɪkeɪtɪd/
(adjective) made of many different things or parts that are connected; difficult to understand
Example: The story is extremely complicated
(adjective) made of many different things or parts that are connected; difficult to understand
Example: The story is extremely complicated
compound /ˈkɑːmpaʊnd/
(noun) a thing consisting of two or more separate things combined together
Example: Common salt is a compound of sodium and chlorine.
(noun) a thing consisting of two or more separate things combined together
Example: Common salt is a compound of sodium and chlorine.
consistent /kənˈsɪstənt/
(adjective) always behaving in the same way, or having the same opinions, standards, etc.
Example: The university has a consistent approach to addressing sexual violence on campuses.
(adjective) always behaving in the same way, or having the same opinions, standards, etc.
Example: The university has a consistent approach to addressing sexual violence on campuses.
controversial /ˌkɑːntrəˈvɜːrʃl/
(adjective) causing a lot of angry public discussion and disagreement
Example: It is, however, a highly controversial measure.
(adjective) causing a lot of angry public discussion and disagreement
Example: It is, however, a highly controversial measure.
cope /kəʊp/
(verb) to deal successfully with something difficult
Example: I got to the stage where I wasn't coping any more.
(verb) to deal successfully with something difficult
Example: I got to the stage where I wasn't coping any more.
correspondence /ˌkɔːrəˈspɑːndəns/
(noun) the letters, emails, etc. a person sends and receives
Example: There is a close correspondence between the two extracts.
(noun) the letters, emails, etc. a person sends and receives
Example: There is a close correspondence between the two extracts.
criminal /ˈkrɪmɪnl/
(noun) a person who commits a crime
Example: He must be a dangerous criminal.
(noun) a person who commits a crime
Example: He must be a dangerous criminal.
crowded /ˈkraʊdɪd/
(adjective) having a lot of people or too many people
Example: Many people live in Hanoi, so it's very crowded.
(adjective) having a lot of people or too many people
Example: Many people live in Hanoi, so it's very crowded.
decent /ˈdiːsnt/
(adjective) of a good enough standard or quality
Example: Your decent behaviours are much approved.
(adjective) of a good enough standard or quality
Example: Your decent behaviours are much approved.
demanding /dɪˈmændɪŋ/
(adjective) needing a lot of skill, effort, etc.
Example: Her songs are technically more demanding than other contestants'.
(adjective) needing a lot of skill, effort, etc.
Example: Her songs are technically more demanding than other contestants'.
depression /dɪˈpreʃn/
(noun) a medical condition in which a person feels very sad and anxious and often has physical symptoms such as being unable to sleep, etc.
Example: Do you know what often causes depression?
(noun) a medical condition in which a person feels very sad and anxious and often has physical symptoms such as being unable to sleep, etc.
Example: Do you know what often causes depression?
digital /ˈdɪdʒɪtl/
(adjective) using a system of receiving and sending information as a series of the numbers one and zero, showing that an electronic signal is there or is not there
Example: I bought a digital camera yesterday.
(adjective) using a system of receiving and sending information as a series of the numbers one and zero, showing that an electronic signal is there or is not there
Example: I bought a digital camera yesterday.
dilemma /dɪˈlemə/
(noun) a situation that makes problems, often one in which you have to make a very difficult choice between things of equal importance
Example: I have to face a dilemma.
(noun) a situation that makes problems, often one in which you have to make a very difficult choice between things of equal importance
Example: I have to face a dilemma.
discharge /dɪsˈtʃɑːrdʒ/
(verb) to give somebody official permission to leave the police or the armed forces; to make somebody leave the police or the armed forces
Example: The river is diverted through the power station before discharging into the sea.
(verb) to give somebody official permission to leave the police or the armed forces; to make somebody leave the police or the armed forces
Example: The river is diverted through the power station before discharging into the sea.
diversity /daɪˈvɜːrsəti/
(noun) a range of many people or things that are very different from each other
Example: Is America the most ethnic diversity country in the world?
(noun) a range of many people or things that are very different from each other
Example: Is America the most ethnic diversity country in the world?
doubtful /ˈdaʊtfl/
(adjective) not sure; uncertain and feeling doubt
Example: Rose was doubtful about the whole idea.
(adjective) not sure; uncertain and feeling doubt
Example: Rose was doubtful about the whole idea.
earn /ɜːrn/
(verb) to get money for work that you do
Example: He earns about $40000 a year
(verb) to get money for work that you do
Example: He earns about $40000 a year
embrace /ɪmˈbreɪs/
(noun) an act of putting your arms around somebody as a sign of love or friendship
Example: His colleagues embraced his proposals.
(noun) an act of putting your arms around somebody as a sign of love or friendship
Example: His colleagues embraced his proposals.
emission /ɪˈmɪʃn/
(noun) the production or sending out of light, heat, gas, etc.
Example: The government has pledged to clean up industrial emissions.
(noun) the production or sending out of light, heat, gas, etc.
Example: The government has pledged to clean up industrial emissions.
empirical /ɪmˈpɪrɪkl/
(adjective) based on experiments or experience rather than ideas or theories
Example: empirical evidence
(adjective) based on experiments or experience rather than ideas or theories
Example: empirical evidence
era /ˈɪrə/
(noun) a period of time, usually in history, that is different from other periods because of particular characteristics or events
Example: post-war era
(noun) a period of time, usually in history, that is different from other periods because of particular characteristics or events
Example: post-war era
ethnic /ˈeθnɪk/
(adjective) connected with or belonging to a group of people that share a cultural tradition
Example: Vietnam has 54 ethnic groups with a population of 86 million people.
(adjective) connected with or belonging to a group of people that share a cultural tradition
Example: Vietnam has 54 ethnic groups with a population of 86 million people.
exceptional /ɪkˈsepʃənl/
(adjective) unusually good
Example: At the age of five he showed exceptional talent as a musician.
(adjective) unusually good
Example: At the age of five he showed exceptional talent as a musician.
exclude /ɪkˈskluːd/
(verb) to deliberately not include something in what you are doing or considering
Example: We must not exclude any clean energy source including nuclear.
(verb) to deliberately not include something in what you are doing or considering
Example: We must not exclude any clean energy source including nuclear.
expertise /ˌekspɜːrˈtiːz/
(noun) expert knowledge or skill in a particular subject, activity or job
Example: This is a demanding position where you will make significant use of your scientific expertise.
(noun) expert knowledge or skill in a particular subject, activity or job
Example: This is a demanding position where you will make significant use of your scientific expertise.
exploit /ɪkˈsplɔɪt/
(verb) to treat a person or situation as an opportunity to gain an advantage for yourself
Example: We need to make sure that we exploit our resources as fully as possible.
(verb) to treat a person or situation as an opportunity to gain an advantage for yourself
Example: We need to make sure that we exploit our resources as fully as possible.
exploration /ˌekspləˈreɪʃn/
(noun) the act of travelling through a place in order to find out about it or look for something in it
Example: the action of exploring an unfamiliar area The aim is to pay more attention to the human factor of space exploration.
(noun) the act of travelling through a place in order to find out about it or look for something in it
Example: the action of exploring an unfamiliar area The aim is to pay more attention to the human factor of space exploration.
extended family /ɪkˌstendɪd ˈfæməli/
(noun) a family group with a close relationship among the members that includes not only parents and children but also uncles, aunts, grandparents, etc.
Example: She grew up surrounded by a large extended family.
(noun) a family group with a close relationship among the members that includes not only parents and children but also uncles, aunts, grandparents, etc.
Example: She grew up surrounded by a large extended family.
extraordinary /ɪkˈstrɔːrdəneri/
(adjective) unexpected, surprising or strange
Example: It's extraordinary that he managed to sleep through the party
(adjective) unexpected, surprising or strange
Example: It's extraordinary that he managed to sleep through the party
faculty /ˈfæklti/
(noun) a department or group of related departments in a college or university
Example: an inherent mental or physical power It is said that with fading age, the physical and mental faculties do not remain as strong.
(noun) a department or group of related departments in a college or university
Example: an inherent mental or physical power It is said that with fading age, the physical and mental faculties do not remain as strong.
fantastic /fænˈtæstɪk/
(adjective) extremely good; excellent
Example: The football player scored a fantastic goal.
(adjective) extremely good; excellent
Example: The football player scored a fantastic goal.
fatal /ˈfeɪtl/
(adjective) causing or ending in death
Example: The result of a fatal accident inquiry into her death is due later this year.
(adjective) causing or ending in death
Example: The result of a fatal accident inquiry into her death is due later this year.
flexible /ˈfleksəbl/
(adjective) able to change to suit new conditions or situations
Example: You need to be more flexible and imaginative in your approach.
(adjective) able to change to suit new conditions or situations
Example: You need to be more flexible and imaginative in your approach.
flora /ˈflɔːrə/
(noun) the plants of a particular area, type of environment or period of time
Example: We were surprised at the various flora in this area.
(noun) the plants of a particular area, type of environment or period of time
Example: We were surprised at the various flora in this area.
fond /fɑːnd/
(adjective) having warm or loving feelings for somebody, especially somebody you have known for a long time
Example: My sister-in-law and I didn't get along well at first, but now we have grown quite fond of one another.
(adjective) having warm or loving feelings for somebody, especially somebody you have known for a long time
Example: My sister-in-law and I didn't get along well at first, but now we have grown quite fond of one another.
fossil fuel /ˈfɑːsl fjuːəl/
(noun) fuel such as coal or oil that was formed over millions of years from parts of dead animals or plants
Example: Fossil fuels include fuels such as gas, coal and oil formed underground millions of years ago from plant and animal remains .
(noun) fuel such as coal or oil that was formed over millions of years from parts of dead animals or plants
Example: Fossil fuels include fuels such as gas, coal and oil formed underground millions of years ago from plant and animal remains .
fraud /frɔːd/
(noun) the crime of cheating somebody in order to get money or goods illegally
Example: wrongful or criminal deception intended to result in financial or personal gain I don't want to be charged with credit card fraud.
(noun) the crime of cheating somebody in order to get money or goods illegally
Example: wrongful or criminal deception intended to result in financial or personal gain I don't want to be charged with credit card fraud.
functional /ˈfʌŋkʃənl/
(adjective) practical and useful; with little or no decoration
Example: designed to be practical and useful, rather than attractive Bathrooms don't have to be purely functional.
(adjective) practical and useful; with little or no decoration
Example: designed to be practical and useful, rather than attractive Bathrooms don't have to be purely functional.
gesture /ˈdʒestʃər/
(noun) a movement that you make with your hands, your head or your face to show a particular meaning
Example: a movement of part of the body, especially a hand or the head, to express an idea or meaning The angry fans made rude gestures at the striker.
(noun) a movement that you make with your hands, your head or your face to show a particular meaning
Example: a movement of part of the body, especially a hand or the head, to express an idea or meaning The angry fans made rude gestures at the striker.
grasp /ɡræsp/
(verb) to take a strong hold of somebody/something
Example: a person's understanding He has a good grasp of German grammar.
(verb) to take a strong hold of somebody/something
Example: a person's understanding He has a good grasp of German grammar.
gravity /ˈɡrævəti/
(noun) the force that attracts objects in space towards each other, and that on the earth pulls them towards the centre of the planet, so that things fall to the ground when they are dropped
Example: extreme importance; seriousness I don't think you realise the gravity of the situation.
(noun) the force that attracts objects in space towards each other, and that on the earth pulls them towards the centre of the planet, so that things fall to the ground when they are dropped
Example: extreme importance; seriousness I don't think you realise the gravity of the situation.
greenhouse effect /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ɪˈfekt/
(noun)
Example: the trapping of the sun's warmth in a planet's lower atmosphere, due to the greater transparency of the atmosphere to visible radiation from the sun than to infrared radiation emitted from the planet's surface. The destruction of forests is contributing to the greenhouse effect.
(noun)
Example: the trapping of the sun's warmth in a planet's lower atmosphere, due to the greater transparency of the atmosphere to visible radiation from the sun than to infrared radiation emitted from the planet's surface. The destruction of forests is contributing to the greenhouse effect.
guideline /ˈɡaɪdlaɪn/
(noun) a set of rules or instructions that are given by an official organization telling you how to do something, especially something difficult
Example: The doctor has drawn up guidelines on the treatment of the mentally ill.
(noun) a set of rules or instructions that are given by an official organization telling you how to do something, especially something difficult
Example: The doctor has drawn up guidelines on the treatment of the mentally ill.
habitat /ˈhæbɪtæt/
(noun) the place where a particular type of animal or plant is normally found
Example: the natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism Can we have natural resources without destroying wildlife habitat?
(noun) the place where a particular type of animal or plant is normally found
Example: the natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism Can we have natural resources without destroying wildlife habitat?
harsh /hɑːrʃ/
(adjective) cruel, severe and unkind
Example: cruel or severe The punishment was harsh and unfair.
(adjective) cruel, severe and unkind
Example: cruel or severe The punishment was harsh and unfair.
hazard /ˈhæzərd/
(noun) something that can be dangerous or cause damage
Example: a danger or risk The doctor delivered a speech on the hazards of smoking.
(noun) something that can be dangerous or cause damage
Example: a danger or risk The doctor delivered a speech on the hazards of smoking.
horizon /həˈraɪzn/
(noun) the furthest that you can see, where the sky seems to meet the land or the sea
Example: the limit of a person's knowledge, experience, or interest She wanted to travel to broaden her horizons.
(noun) the furthest that you can see, where the sky seems to meet the land or the sea
Example: the limit of a person's knowledge, experience, or interest She wanted to travel to broaden her horizons.
illusion /ɪˈluːʒn/
(noun) a false idea or belief, especially about somebody or about a situation
Example: a false idea or belief He's under the illusion that(= believes wrongly that) he is a giant.
(noun) a false idea or belief, especially about somebody or about a situation
Example: a false idea or belief He's under the illusion that(= believes wrongly that) he is a giant.
inequality /ˌɪnɪˈkwɑːləti/
(noun) the unfair difference between groups of people in society, when some have more wealth, status or opportunities than others
Example: difference in size, degree, circumstances, etc.; lack of equality The free market program implemented by successive governments has widened social inequality to an unprecedented degree.
(noun) the unfair difference between groups of people in society, when some have more wealth, status or opportunities than others
Example: difference in size, degree, circumstances, etc.; lack of equality The free market program implemented by successive governments has widened social inequality to an unprecedented degree.
infant /ˈɪnfənt/
(noun) a baby or very young child
Example: Ever since he was an infant he has loved the sound of music.
(noun) a baby or very young child
Example: Ever since he was an infant he has loved the sound of music.
inflation /ɪnˈfleɪʃn/
(noun) a general rise in the prices of services and goods in a particular country, resulting in a fall in the value of money; the rate at which this happens
Example: The rate of inflation this year is ten percent.
(noun) a general rise in the prices of services and goods in a particular country, resulting in a fall in the value of money; the rate at which this happens
Example: The rate of inflation this year is ten percent.
influential /ˌɪnfluˈenʃl/
(adjective) having a lot of influence on somebody/something
Example: She wanted to work for a bigger and more influential newspaper.
(adjective) having a lot of influence on somebody/something
Example: She wanted to work for a bigger and more influential newspaper.
inform /ɪnˈfɔːrm/
(verb) to tell somebody about something, especially in an official way
Example: We regret to inform you that your account has been suspended.
(verb) to tell somebody about something, especially in an official way
Example: We regret to inform you that your account has been suspended.
inhabitant /ɪnˈhæbɪtənt/
(noun) a person or an animal that lives in a particular place
Example: Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam with more than 6 million inhabitants.
(noun) a person or an animal that lives in a particular place
Example: Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam with more than 6 million inhabitants.
inherent /ɪnˈherənt/
(adjective) that is a basic or permanent part of somebody/something and that cannot be removed
Example: the difficulties inherent in a study of this type
(adjective) that is a basic or permanent part of somebody/something and that cannot be removed
Example: the difficulties inherent in a study of this type
innovation /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/
(noun) the introduction of new things, ideas or ways of doing something
Example: Great innovations have been made by those famous composers.
(noun) the introduction of new things, ideas or ways of doing something
Example: Great innovations have been made by those famous composers.
insight /ˈɪnsaɪt/
(noun) an understanding of what something is like
Example: The book gives us fascinating insights into life in Mexico.
(noun) an understanding of what something is like
Example: The book gives us fascinating insights into life in Mexico.
instant /ˈɪnstənt/
(adjective) happening immediately
Example: Fitzgerald insists instant success will not happen overnight.
(adjective) happening immediately
Example: Fitzgerald insists instant success will not happen overnight.
intake /ˈɪnteɪk/
(noun) the amount of food, drink, etc. that you take into your body
Example: Reduce your salt intake to lower blood pressure.
(noun) the amount of food, drink, etc. that you take into your body
Example: Reduce your salt intake to lower blood pressure.
junk food /ˈdʒʌŋk fuːd/
(noun) food that is quick and easy to prepare and eat but that is thought to be bad for your health
Example: It’s said that junk food is not good for our health.
(noun) food that is quick and easy to prepare and eat but that is thought to be bad for your health
Example: It’s said that junk food is not good for our health.
lasting /ˈlæstɪŋ/
(adjective) continuing to exist or to have an effect for a long time
Example: Her words left a lasting impression on me.
(adjective) continuing to exist or to have an effect for a long time
Example: Her words left a lasting impression on me.
latest /ˈleɪtɪst/
(adjective) the most recent or newest
Example: This is the latest in robot technology
(adjective) the most recent or newest
Example: This is the latest in robot technology
liable /ˈlaɪəbl/
(adjective) legally responsible for paying the cost of something
Example: You are more liable to injury if you exercise infrequently.
(adjective) legally responsible for paying the cost of something
Example: You are more liable to injury if you exercise infrequently.
loss /lɔːs/
(noun) the state of no longer having something or as much of something; the process that leads to this
Example: He suffered a hearing loss.
(noun) the state of no longer having something or as much of something; the process that leads to this
Example: He suffered a hearing loss.
loyalty /ˈlɔɪəlti/
(noun) the quality of being constant in your support of somebody/something
Example: They swore their loyalty to the king.
(noun) the quality of being constant in your support of somebody/something
Example: They swore their loyalty to the king.
mainstream /ˈmeɪnstriːm/
(noun) the ideas and opinions that are thought to be normal because they are shared by most people; the people whose ideas and opinions are most accepted
Example: His radical views place him outside the mainstream of American politics.
(noun) the ideas and opinions that are thought to be normal because they are shared by most people; the people whose ideas and opinions are most accepted
Example: His radical views place him outside the mainstream of American politics.
manual /ˈmænjuəl/
(adjective) involving using the hands or physical strength
Example: I need a manual to know how to use this software.
(adjective) involving using the hands or physical strength
Example: I need a manual to know how to use this software.
marked /mɑːrkt/
(adjective) easy to see
Example: a marked difference/improvement
(adjective) easy to see
Example: a marked difference/improvement
mature /məˈtʃʊr/
(adjective) behaving in a sensible way, like an adult
Example: She is mature enough to make her own decision.
(adjective) behaving in a sensible way, like an adult
Example: She is mature enough to make her own decision.
miserable /ˈmɪzrəbl/
(adjective) very unhappy or uncomfortable
Example: We were cold, wet and thoroughly miserable.
(adjective) very unhappy or uncomfortable
Example: We were cold, wet and thoroughly miserable.
misleading /ˌmɪsˈliːdɪŋ/
(adjective) giving the wrong idea or impression and making you believe something that is not true
Example: misleading information/advertisements
(adjective) giving the wrong idea or impression and making you believe something that is not true
Example: misleading information/advertisements
moderate /ˈmɑːdərət/
(adjective) that is neither very good, large, hot, etc. nor very bad, small, cold, etc.
Example: The car is of moderate size - just right for a small family.
(adjective) that is neither very good, large, hot, etc. nor very bad, small, cold, etc.
Example: The car is of moderate size - just right for a small family.
nuclear family /ˌnuːkliər ˈfæməli/
(noun) a family that consists of father, mother and children, when it is thought of as a unit in society
Example: Not everybody nowadays lives in the conventional nuclear family.
(noun) a family that consists of father, mother and children, when it is thought of as a unit in society
Example: Not everybody nowadays lives in the conventional nuclear family.
obstacle /ˈɑːbstəkl/
(noun) a situation, an event, etc. that makes it difficult for you to do or achieve something
Example: A lack of qualifications can be a major obstacle to finding a job.
(noun) a situation, an event, etc. that makes it difficult for you to do or achieve something
Example: A lack of qualifications can be a major obstacle to finding a job.
optimistic /ˌɑːptɪˈmɪstɪk/
(adjective) expecting good things to happen or something to be successful; showing this feeling
Example: He is optimistic about his life.
(adjective) expecting good things to happen or something to be successful; showing this feeling
Example: He is optimistic about his life.
outbreak /ˈaʊtbreɪk/
(noun) the sudden start of something unpleasant, especially violence or a disease
Example: the outbreak of war
(noun) the sudden start of something unpleasant, especially violence or a disease
Example: the outbreak of war
outlook /ˈaʊtlʊk/
(noun) the attitude to life and the world of a particular person, group or culture
Example: His outlook on this issue is quite subjective. He ignores his employees' needs.
(noun) the attitude to life and the world of a particular person, group or culture
Example: His outlook on this issue is quite subjective. He ignores his employees' needs.
overwhelming /ˌəʊvərˈwelmɪŋ/
(adjective) very great or very strong; so powerful that you cannot resist it or decide how to react
Example: The evidence against him was overwhelming.
(adjective) very great or very strong; so powerful that you cannot resist it or decide how to react
Example: The evidence against him was overwhelming.
participate /pɑːrˈtɪsɪpeɪt/
(verb) to take part in or become involved in an activity
Example: She never participates in any of our discussions.
(verb) to take part in or become involved in an activity
Example: She never participates in any of our discussions.
patent /ˈpætnt/
(noun) an official right to be the only person to make, use or sell a product or an invention; a document that proves this
Example: Albert Einstein was granted about 50 patents.
(noun) an official right to be the only person to make, use or sell a product or an invention; a document that proves this
Example: Albert Einstein was granted about 50 patents.
peer /pɪr/
(noun) a person who is the same age or who has the same social status as you
Example: Unlike their western peers, Vietnamese women get married at a very early age.
(noun) a person who is the same age or who has the same social status as you
Example: Unlike their western peers, Vietnamese women get married at a very early age.
persistent /pərˈsɪstənt/
(adjective) determined to do something despite difficulties, especially when other people are against you and think that you are being annoying or unreasonable
Example: persistent rain
(adjective) determined to do something despite difficulties, especially when other people are against you and think that you are being annoying or unreasonable
Example: persistent rain
possess /pəˈzes/
(verb) to have or own something
Example: He was charged with possessing a shotgun without a licence.
(verb) to have or own something
Example: He was charged with possessing a shotgun without a licence.
prejudice /ˈpredʒədɪs/
(noun) an unreasonable dislike of or preference for a person, group, custom, etc., especially when it is based on their race, religion, sex, etc.
Example: Governmental programs must be administered without prejudice.
(noun) an unreasonable dislike of or preference for a person, group, custom, etc., especially when it is based on their race, religion, sex, etc.
Example: Governmental programs must be administered without prejudice.
pressing /ˈpresɪŋ/
(adjective) needing to be dealt with immediately
Example: I'm afraid I have some pressing business to attend to.
(adjective) needing to be dealt with immediately
Example: I'm afraid I have some pressing business to attend to.
prevention /prɪˈvenʃn/
(noun) the act of stopping something bad from happening
Example: crime prevention
(noun) the act of stopping something bad from happening
Example: crime prevention
prey /preɪ/
(noun) an animal, a bird, etc. that is hunted, killed and eaten by another
Example: He was easy prey for the two con men.
(noun) an animal, a bird, etc. that is hunted, killed and eaten by another
Example: He was easy prey for the two con men.
profound /prəˈfaʊnd/
(adjective) very great; felt or experienced very strongly
Example: profound changes in the earth's climate
(adjective) very great; felt or experienced very strongly
Example: profound changes in the earth's climate
prominent /ˈprɑːmɪnənt/
(adjective) important or well known
Example: Music is a prominent part in my life.
(adjective) important or well known
Example: Music is a prominent part in my life.
radiation /ˌreɪdiˈeɪʃn/
(noun) powerful and very dangerous rays that are sent out from radioactive substances
Example: ultraviolet radiation
(noun) powerful and very dangerous rays that are sent out from radioactive substances
Example: ultraviolet radiation
radical /ˈrædɪkl/
(adjective) relating to the most basic and important parts of something; complete and detailed
Example: the need for radical changes in education
(adjective) relating to the most basic and important parts of something; complete and detailed
Example: the need for radical changes in education
redundant /rɪˈdʌndənt/
(adjective) without a job because there is no more work available for you in a company
Example: Many people were made redundant this year.
(adjective) without a job because there is no more work available for you in a company
Example: Many people were made redundant this year.
remedy /ˈremədi/
(noun) a way of dealing with or improving an unpleasant or difficult situation
Example: There is no simple remedy for unemployment.
(noun) a way of dealing with or improving an unpleasant or difficult situation
Example: There is no simple remedy for unemployment.
reminder /rɪˈmaɪndər/
(noun) something that makes you think about or remember somebody/something, that you have forgotten or would like to forget
Example: Mum sent me off with a final reminder to be back before 11pm.
(noun) something that makes you think about or remember somebody/something, that you have forgotten or would like to forget
Example: Mum sent me off with a final reminder to be back before 11pm.
retail /ˈriːteɪl/
(noun) the selling of goods to the public, usually through shops
Example: The job is open to applicants with over two years' experience in retail.
(noun) the selling of goods to the public, usually through shops
Example: The job is open to applicants with over two years' experience in retail.
satellite /ˈsætəlaɪt/
(noun) an electronic device that is sent into space and moves around the earth or another planet. It is used for communicating by radio, television, etc. and for gathering information.
Example: a weather/communications satellite
(noun) an electronic device that is sent into space and moves around the earth or another planet. It is used for communicating by radio, television, etc. and for gathering information.
Example: a weather/communications satellite
scent /sent/
(noun) the pleasant smell that something has
Example: I love the scents of these flowers.
(noun) the pleasant smell that something has
Example: I love the scents of these flowers.
seek /siːk/
(verb) to look for something/somebody
Example: We are seeking for the missing man in the entire county.
(verb) to look for something/somebody
Example: We are seeking for the missing man in the entire county.
short-term /ˌʃɔːrt ˈtɜːrm/
(adjective) lasting a short time; designed only for a short period of time in the future
Example: This is just a short-term goal to the problem.
(adjective) lasting a short time; designed only for a short period of time in the future
Example: This is just a short-term goal to the problem.
soap opera /ˈsəʊp ɑːprə/
(noun) a story about the lives and problems of a group of people that is broadcast every day or several times a week on television or radio
Example: They like watching Korean soap operas.
(noun) a story about the lives and problems of a group of people that is broadcast every day or several times a week on television or radio
Example: They like watching Korean soap operas.
so-called /ˌsəʊ ˈkɔːld/
(adjective) used to show that you do not think that the word or phrase that is being used to describe somebody/something is appropriate
Example: the opinion of a so-called ‘expert’
(adjective) used to show that you do not think that the word or phrase that is being used to describe somebody/something is appropriate
Example: the opinion of a so-called ‘expert’
solar /ˈsəʊlər/
(adjective) of or connected with the sun
Example: solar radiation
(adjective) of or connected with the sun
Example: solar radiation
sophisticated /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/
(adjective) clever and complicated in the way that it works or is presented
Example: These are among the most sophisticated weapons in the world.
(adjective) clever and complicated in the way that it works or is presented
Example: These are among the most sophisticated weapons in the world.
space station /ˈspeɪs steɪʃn/
(noun) a large structure that is sent into space and remains above the earth as a base for people working and travelling in space
Example: the International Space Station (ISS)
(noun) a large structure that is sent into space and remains above the earth as a base for people working and travelling in space
Example: the International Space Station (ISS)
speculation /ˌspekjuˈleɪʃn/
(noun) the act of forming opinions about what has happened or what might happen without knowing all the facts
Example: There was widespread speculation that she was going to resign.
(noun) the act of forming opinions about what has happened or what might happen without knowing all the facts
Example: There was widespread speculation that she was going to resign.
stimulus /ˈstɪmjələs/
(noun) something that helps somebody/something to develop better or more quickly
Example: Books provide children with ideas and a stimulus for play.
(noun) something that helps somebody/something to develop better or more quickly
Example: Books provide children with ideas and a stimulus for play.
therapy /ˈθerəpi/
(noun) the treatment of a physical problem or an illness
Example: We can apply herbal therapy to treat her disease.
(noun) the treatment of a physical problem or an illness
Example: We can apply herbal therapy to treat her disease.
thesis /ˈθiːsɪs/
(noun) a long piece of writing completed by a student as part of a university degree, based on their own research
Example: Students must submit a thesis on an agreed subject within four years.
(noun) a long piece of writing completed by a student as part of a university degree, based on their own research
Example: Students must submit a thesis on an agreed subject within four years.
toxic /ˈtɑːksɪk/
(adjective) containing poison; poisonous
Example: This site is used to dispose of toxic waste.
(adjective) containing poison; poisonous
Example: This site is used to dispose of toxic waste.
transition /trænˈzɪʃn/
(noun) the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another
Example: the transition from school to full-time work
(noun) the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another
Example: the transition from school to full-time work
tremendous /trəˈmendəs/
(adjective) very great
Example: There is tremendous need for innovation in these days.
(adjective) very great
Example: There is tremendous need for innovation in these days.
triumph /ˈtraɪʌmf/
(noun) a great success, achievement or victory
Example: one of the greatest triumphs of modern science
(noun) a great success, achievement or victory
Example: one of the greatest triumphs of modern science
tutor /ˈtuːtər/
(noun) a private teacher, especially one who teaches an individual student or a very small group
Example: She tutored some secondary school students when she was studying at university.
(noun) a private teacher, especially one who teaches an individual student or a very small group
Example: She tutored some secondary school students when she was studying at university.
underlying /ˌʌndərˈlaɪɪŋ/
(adjective) important in a situation but not always easily noticed or stated clearly
Example: The underlying assumption is that the amount of money available is limited.
(adjective) important in a situation but not always easily noticed or stated clearly
Example: The underlying assumption is that the amount of money available is limited.
universal /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːrsl/
(adjective) done by or involving all the people in the world or in a particular group
Example: Illiteracy is a universal issue.
(adjective) done by or involving all the people in the world or in a particular group
Example: Illiteracy is a universal issue.
vital /ˈvaɪtl/
(adjective) necessary or essential in order for something to succeed or exist
Example: The presence of oceans is vital for optimal climate stability and habitability.
(adjective) necessary or essential in order for something to succeed or exist
Example: The presence of oceans is vital for optimal climate stability and habitability.
voluntary /ˈvɑːlənteri/
(adjective) done willingly, not because you are forced
Example: I do some voluntary work at the local hospital.
(adjective) done willingly, not because you are forced
Example: I do some voluntary work at the local hospital.
vulnerable /ˈvʌlnərəbl/
(adjective) weak and easily hurt physically or emotionally
Example: Tourists are more vulnerable to attack, because they do not know which areas of the city to avoid.
(adjective) weak and easily hurt physically or emotionally
Example: Tourists are more vulnerable to attack, because they do not know which areas of the city to avoid.
wealthy /ˈwelθi/
(adjective) having a lot of money, possessions, etc.
Example: My dream is to become wealthy.
(adjective) having a lot of money, possessions, etc.
Example: My dream is to become wealthy.
workforce /ˈwɜːrkfɔːrs/
(noun) all the people who work for a particular company, organization, etc.
Example: The majority of factories in the region have a workforce of 50 to 100 people.
(noun) all the people who work for a particular company, organization, etc.
Example: The majority of factories in the region have a workforce of 50 to 100 people.
worthwhile /ˌwɜːrθˈwaɪl/
(adjective) important, pleasant, interesting, etc.; worth spending time, money or effort on
Example: It was in aid of a worthwhile cause(= a charity, etc.)
(adjective) important, pleasant, interesting, etc.; worth spending time, money or effort on
Example: It was in aid of a worthwhile cause(= a charity, etc.)
abolish /əˈbɑːlɪʃ/
(verb) to officially end a law, a system or an institution
Example: This tax should be abolished.
(verb) to officially end a law, a system or an institution
Example: This tax should be abolished.
accomplished /əˈkɑːmplɪʃt/
(adjective) very good at a particular thing; having a lot of skills
Example: She's a very accomplished pianist.
(adjective) very good at a particular thing; having a lot of skills
Example: She's a very accomplished pianist.
adhere /ədˈhɪr/
(verb) to stick to something
Example: For ten months he adhered to a strict no-fat low-salt diet.
(verb) to stick to something
Example: For ten months he adhered to a strict no-fat low-salt diet.
adolescent /ˌædəˈlesnt/
(noun) a young person who is developing from a child into an adult
Example: Adolescents nowadays have problems that are different from ours.
(noun) a young person who is developing from a child into an adult
Example: Adolescents nowadays have problems that are different from ours.
advantageous /ˌædvənˈteɪdʒəs/
(adjective) good or useful in a particular situation
Example: A free trade agreement would be advantageous to both countries.
(adjective) good or useful in a particular situation
Example: A free trade agreement would be advantageous to both countries.
adventurous /ədˈventʃərəs/
(adjective) willing to take risks and try new ideas; enjoying being in new, exciting situations
Example: For the more adventurous tourists, there are trips into the mountains with a local guide.
(adjective) willing to take risks and try new ideas; enjoying being in new, exciting situations
Example: For the more adventurous tourists, there are trips into the mountains with a local guide.
adversely /ədˈvɜːrsli/
(adverb) in a way that is negative and unpleasant and not likely to produce a good result
Example: Her health was adversely affected by the climate.
(adverb) in a way that is negative and unpleasant and not likely to produce a good result
Example: Her health was adversely affected by the climate.
affectionate /əˈfekʃənət/
(adjective) showing caring feelings and love for somebody
Example: He is very affectionate towards his children.
(adjective) showing caring feelings and love for somebody
Example: He is very affectionate towards his children.
alleviate /əˈliːvieɪt/
(verb) to make something less severe
Example: A number of measures were taken to alleviate the problem.
(verb) to make something less severe
Example: A number of measures were taken to alleviate the problem.
alternate /ˈɔːltərnət/
(adjective) happening or following one after the other regularly
Example: She alternated between cheerfulness and deep despair.
(adjective) happening or following one after the other regularly
Example: She alternated between cheerfulness and deep despair.
amenity /əˈmenəti/
(noun) a feature or service that makes a place pleasant, comfortable or easy to live in
Example: The campsite is close to all local amenities.
(noun) a feature or service that makes a place pleasant, comfortable or easy to live in
Example: The campsite is close to all local amenities.
analogy /əˈnælədʒi/
(noun) a comparison of one thing with another thing that has similar features; a feature that is similar
Example: He drew an analogy between the brain and a vast computer.
(noun) a comparison of one thing with another thing that has similar features; a feature that is similar
Example: He drew an analogy between the brain and a vast computer.
appealing /əˈpiːlɪŋ/
(adjective) attractive or interesting
Example: Spending the holidays in Britain wasn't a prospect that I found particularly appealing.
(adjective) attractive or interesting
Example: Spending the holidays in Britain wasn't a prospect that I found particularly appealing.
appetite /ˈæpɪtaɪt/
(noun) physical desire for food
Example: He suffered from headaches and loss of appetite.
(noun) physical desire for food
Example: He suffered from headaches and loss of appetite.
arid /ˈærɪd/
(adjective) having little or no rain; very dry
Example: arid and semi-arid deserts
(adjective) having little or no rain; very dry
Example: arid and semi-arid deserts
arithmetic /əˈrɪθmətɪk/
(noun) the type of mathematics that deals with the adding, multiplying, etc. of numbers
Example: He's not very good at arithmetic.
(noun) the type of mathematics that deals with the adding, multiplying, etc. of numbers
Example: He's not very good at arithmetic.
bankrupt /ˈbæŋkrʌpt/
(adjective) without enough money to pay what you owe
Example: They went bankrupt in 2009.
(adjective) without enough money to pay what you owe
Example: They went bankrupt in 2009.
breakthrough /ˈbreɪkθruː/
(noun) an important development that may lead to an agreement or achievement
Example: to achieve a breakthrough
(noun) an important development that may lead to an agreement or achievement
Example: to achieve a breakthrough
breathtaking /ˈbreθteɪkɪŋ/
(adjective) very exciting or impressive (usually in a pleasant way)
Example: a breathtaking view of the mountains
(adjective) very exciting or impressive (usually in a pleasant way)
Example: a breathtaking view of the mountains
carbon dioxide /ˌkɑːrbən daɪˈɑːksaɪd/
(noun) a gas breathed out by people and animals from the lungs or produced by burning carbon
Example: The primary greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone.
(noun) a gas breathed out by people and animals from the lungs or produced by burning carbon
Example: The primary greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone.
catastrophic /ˌkætəˈstrɑːfɪk/
(adjective) causing many people to suffer
Example: catastrophic effects/losses/results
(adjective) causing many people to suffer
Example: catastrophic effects/losses/results
chronological /ˌkrɑːnəˈlɑːdʒɪkl/
(adjective) arranged in the order in which they happened
Example: The stories should be presented in chronological order.
(adjective) arranged in the order in which they happened
Example: The stories should be presented in chronological order.
clarify /ˈklærəfaɪ/
(verb) to make something clearer or easier to understand
Example: This matter must be clarified.
(verb) to make something clearer or easier to understand
Example: This matter must be clarified.
classify /ˈklæsɪfaɪ/
(verb) to arrange something in groups according to features that they have in common
Example: The books in the library are classified by subject.
(verb) to arrange something in groups according to features that they have in common
Example: The books in the library are classified by subject.
clumsy /ˈklʌmzi/
(adjective) moving or doing things in a way that is not smooth or steady or careful
Example: In this cartoon, Maruco is a clumsy and stupid girl.
(adjective) moving or doing things in a way that is not smooth or steady or careful
Example: In this cartoon, Maruco is a clumsy and stupid girl.
coherent /kəʊˈhɪrənt/
(adjective) logical and well organized; easy to understand and clear
Example: When she calmed down, she was more coherent.
(adjective) logical and well organized; easy to understand and clear
Example: When she calmed down, she was more coherent.
complacency /kəmˈpleɪsnsi/
(noun) a feeling of being satisfied with yourself or with a situation, so that you do not think any change is necessary; the state of being complacent
Example: Despite signs of an improvement in the economy, there is no room for complacency.
(noun) a feeling of being satisfied with yourself or with a situation, so that you do not think any change is necessary; the state of being complacent
Example: Despite signs of an improvement in the economy, there is no room for complacency.
complementary /ˌkɑːmplɪˈmentri/
(adjective) two people or things that are complementary are different but together form a useful or attractive combination of skills, qualities or physical features
Example: The school's approach must be complementary to that of the parents.
(adjective) two people or things that are complementary are different but together form a useful or attractive combination of skills, qualities or physical features
Example: The school's approach must be complementary to that of the parents.
comprehend /ˌkɑːmprɪˈhend/
(verb) to understand something fully
Example: He stood staring at the dead body, unable to comprehend.
(verb) to understand something fully
Example: He stood staring at the dead body, unable to comprehend.
conceivable /kənˈsiːvəbl/
(adjective) that you can imagine or believe
Example: It is conceivable that I'll see her tomorrow.
(adjective) that you can imagine or believe
Example: It is conceivable that I'll see her tomorrow.
condemn /kənˈdem/
(verb) to say very strongly that you think something is bad, usually for moral reasons
Example: The government issued a statement condemning the killings.
(verb) to say very strongly that you think something is bad, usually for moral reasons
Example: The government issued a statement condemning the killings.
confer /kənˈfɜːr/
(verb) to discuss something with somebody, in order to exchange opinions or get advice
Example: He wanted to confer with his colleagues before reaching a decision.
(verb) to discuss something with somebody, in order to exchange opinions or get advice
Example: He wanted to confer with his colleagues before reaching a decision.
confidential /ˌkɑːnfɪˈdenʃl/
(adjective) meant to be kept secret and not told to or shared with other people
Example: What we have talked about today is confidential.
(adjective) meant to be kept secret and not told to or shared with other people
Example: What we have talked about today is confidential.
consecutive /kənˈsekjətɪv/
(adjective) following one after another in a continuous series
Example: She was absent for five consecutive days.
(adjective) following one after another in a continuous series
Example: She was absent for five consecutive days.
constructive /kənˈstrʌktɪv/
(adjective) having a useful and helpful effect rather than being negative or with no purpose
Example: constructive suggestions/advice
(adjective) having a useful and helpful effect rather than being negative or with no purpose
Example: constructive suggestions/advice
contrived /kənˈtraɪvd/
(adjective) planned in advance and not natural or what somebody claims it is; written or arranged in a way that is not natural or realistic
Example: a contrived situation
(adjective) planned in advance and not natural or what somebody claims it is; written or arranged in a way that is not natural or realistic
Example: a contrived situation
convey /kənˈveɪ/
(verb) to make ideas, feelings, etc. known to somebody
Example: Colours like red convey a sense of energy and strength.
(verb) to make ideas, feelings, etc. known to somebody
Example: Colours like red convey a sense of energy and strength.
convict /kənˈvɪkt/
(verb) to decide and state officially in court that somebody is guilty of a crime
Example: a convicted murderer
(verb) to decide and state officially in court that somebody is guilty of a crime
Example: a convicted murderer
cosmic /ˈkɑːzmɪk/
(adjective) connected with the whole universe
Example: This was disaster on a cosmic scale.
(adjective) connected with the whole universe
Example: This was disaster on a cosmic scale.
cosy /ˈkəʊzi/
(adjective) warm, comfortable and safe, especially in a small space
Example: I enjoy the cosy atmosphere in my family.
(adjective) warm, comfortable and safe, especially in a small space
Example: I enjoy the cosy atmosphere in my family.
cramped /kræmpt/
(adjective) a cramped room, etc. does not have enough space for the people in it
Example: We have six desks in this room, so we're rather cramped.
(adjective) a cramped room, etc. does not have enough space for the people in it
Example: We have six desks in this room, so we're rather cramped.
creativity /ˌkriːeɪˈtɪvəti/
(noun) the use of skill and imagination to produce something new or to produce art
Example: Creativity and originality are more important than technical skill.
(noun) the use of skill and imagination to produce something new or to produce art
Example: Creativity and originality are more important than technical skill.
credible /ˈkredəbl/
(adjective) that can be believed or trusted
Example: They haven't produced any credible evidence for convicting him.
(adjective) that can be believed or trusted
Example: They haven't produced any credible evidence for convicting him.
cumulative /ˈkjuːmjəleɪtɪv/
(adjective) having a result that increases in strength or importance each time more of something is added
Example: Learning is a cumulative process.
(adjective) having a result that increases in strength or importance each time more of something is added
Example: Learning is a cumulative process.
cutting edge /ˌkʌtɪŋ ˈedʒ/
(noun) the newest, most advanced stage in the development of something
Example: working at the cutting edge of computer technology
(noun) the newest, most advanced stage in the development of something
Example: working at the cutting edge of computer technology
debris /dəˈbriː/
(noun) pieces of wood, metal, building materials, etc. that are left after something has been destroyed
Example: Emergency teams are still clearing the debris from the plane crash.
(noun) pieces of wood, metal, building materials, etc. that are left after something has been destroyed
Example: Emergency teams are still clearing the debris from the plane crash.
deficiency /dɪˈfɪʃnsi/
(noun) the state of not having, or not having enough of, something that is essential
Example: Vitamin deficiency in the diet can cause illness.
(noun) the state of not having, or not having enough of, something that is essential
Example: Vitamin deficiency in the diet can cause illness.
demographics /ˌdeməˈɡræfɪk/
(noun) data relating to the population and different groups within it
Example: the demographics of radio listeners
(noun) data relating to the population and different groups within it
Example: the demographics of radio listeners
deprive /dɪˈpraɪv/
(verb)
Example: Rather than deprive yourself of snacks, you should make healthier choices about them.
(verb)
Example: Rather than deprive yourself of snacks, you should make healthier choices about them.
derelict /ˈderəlɪkt/
(adjective) not used or cared for and in bad condition
Example: derelict land/buildings
(adjective) not used or cared for and in bad condition
Example: derelict land/buildings
deter /dɪˈtɜːr/
(verb) to make somebody decide not to do something or continue doing something, especially by making them understand the difficulties and unpleasant results of their actions
Example: I told him I wasn't interested, but he wasn't deterred.
(verb) to make somebody decide not to do something or continue doing something, especially by making them understand the difficulties and unpleasant results of their actions
Example: I told him I wasn't interested, but he wasn't deterred.
deterrent /dɪˈtɜːrənt/
(noun) something that makes somebody less likely to do something (= that deters them)
Example: Hopefully his punishment will act as a deterrent to others.
(noun) something that makes somebody less likely to do something (= that deters them)
Example: Hopefully his punishment will act as a deterrent to others.
detrimental /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/
(adjective) harmful
Example: the sun's detrimental effect on skin
(adjective) harmful
Example: the sun's detrimental effect on skin
devastating /ˈdevəsteɪtɪŋ/
(adjective) causing a lot of damage and destroying things
Example: The injuries she suffered from were devastating.
(adjective) causing a lot of damage and destroying things
Example: The injuries she suffered from were devastating.
devise /dɪˈvaɪz/
(verb) to invent something new or a new way of doing something
Example: A new system has been devised to control traffic in the city.
(verb) to invent something new or a new way of doing something
Example: A new system has been devised to control traffic in the city.
devotion /dɪˈvəʊʃn/
(noun) great love, care and support for somebody/something
Example: Her devotion to the job left her with very little free time.
(noun) great love, care and support for somebody/something
Example: Her devotion to the job left her with very little free time.
diabetes /ˌdaɪəˈbiːtiːz/
(noun) a medical condition in which the body cannot produce enough insulin to control the amount of sugar in the blood
Example: My mother has suffered from diabetes for more than a decade.
(noun) a medical condition in which the body cannot produce enough insulin to control the amount of sugar in the blood
Example: My mother has suffered from diabetes for more than a decade.
dialect /ˈdaɪəlekt/
(noun) the form of a language that is spoken in one area with grammar, words and pronunciation that may be different from other forms of the same language
Example: the Yorkshire dialect
(noun) the form of a language that is spoken in one area with grammar, words and pronunciation that may be different from other forms of the same language
Example: the Yorkshire dialect
diminish /dɪˈmɪnɪʃ/
(verb) to become smaller, weaker, etc.; to make something become smaller, weaker, etc.
Example: The world's resources are rapidly diminishing.
(verb) to become smaller, weaker, etc.; to make something become smaller, weaker, etc.
Example: The world's resources are rapidly diminishing.
disadvantaged /ˌdɪsədˈvæntɪdʒd/
(adjective) not having the things, such as education, or enough money, that people need in order to succeed in life
Example: We visited disadvantaged children in this village.
(adjective) not having the things, such as education, or enough money, that people need in order to succeed in life
Example: We visited disadvantaged children in this village.
disastrous /dɪˈzæstrəs/
(adjective) very bad, harmful or unsuccessful
Example: a disastrous harvest
(adjective) very bad, harmful or unsuccessful
Example: a disastrous harvest
disparity /dɪˈspærəti/
(noun) a difference, especially one connected with unfair treatment
Example: the wide disparity between rich and poor
(noun) a difference, especially one connected with unfair treatment
Example: the wide disparity between rich and poor
disposable /dɪˈspəʊzəbl/
(adjective) made to be thrown away after use
Example: disposable gloves/razors
(adjective) made to be thrown away after use
Example: disposable gloves/razors
dispose /dɪˈspəʊz/
(verb) to arrange things or people in a particular way or position
Example: the difficulties of disposing of nuclear waste
(verb) to arrange things or people in a particular way or position
Example: the difficulties of disposing of nuclear waste
disrupt /dɪsˈrʌpt/
(verb) to make it difficult for something to continue in the normal way
Example: A heavy snowfall disrupted the city's transport system.
(verb) to make it difficult for something to continue in the normal way
Example: A heavy snowfall disrupted the city's transport system.
disruptive /dɪsˈrʌptɪv/
(adjective) causing problems, noise, etc. so that something cannot continue normally
Example: He was the most noisy and disruptive student at high school.
(adjective) causing problems, noise, etc. so that something cannot continue normally
Example: He was the most noisy and disruptive student at high school.
dissatisfied /dɪsˈsætɪsfaɪd/
(adjective) not happy or satisfied with somebody/something
Example: dissatisfied customers
(adjective) not happy or satisfied with somebody/something
Example: dissatisfied customers
dissertation /ˌdɪsərˈteɪʃn/
(noun) a long piece of writing on a particular subject, especially one written for a university degree
Example: She has been collecting data for her dissertation.
(noun) a long piece of writing on a particular subject, especially one written for a university degree
Example: She has been collecting data for her dissertation.
distorted /dɪˈstɔːrtɪd/
(adjective) pulled out of shape so that it looks strange; made to sound strange
Example: The facts about this war have been distorted in the book.
(adjective) pulled out of shape so that it looks strange; made to sound strange
Example: The facts about this war have been distorted in the book.
divert /daɪˈvɜːrt/
(verb) to make somebody/something change direction
Example: The course of the stream has now been diverted.
(verb) to make somebody/something change direction
Example: The course of the stream has now been diverted.
dominate /ˈdɑːmɪneɪt/
(verb) to control or have a lot of influence over somebody/something, especially in an unpleasant way
Example: To dominate means to be more successful or powerful than others in a game or competition.
(verb) to control or have a lot of influence over somebody/something, especially in an unpleasant way
Example: To dominate means to be more successful or powerful than others in a game or competition.
drastic /ˈdræstɪk/
(adjective) extreme in a way that has a sudden, serious or violent effect on something
Example: drastic measures/changes
(adjective) extreme in a way that has a sudden, serious or violent effect on something
Example: drastic measures/changes
drawback /ˈdrɔːbæk/
(noun) a disadvantage or problem that makes something a less attractive idea
Example: Samsung smartphones have certain drawbacks.
(noun) a disadvantage or problem that makes something a less attractive idea
Example: Samsung smartphones have certain drawbacks.
drought /draʊt/
(noun) a long period of time when there is little or no rain
Example: A drought caused most of the corn crop to fail.
(noun) a long period of time when there is little or no rain
Example: A drought caused most of the corn crop to fail.
ecology /iˈkɑːlədʒi/
(noun) the relation of plants and living creatures to each other and to their environment; the study of this
Example: She hopes to study ecology at college.
(noun) the relation of plants and living creatures to each other and to their environment; the study of this
Example: She hopes to study ecology at college.
economical /ˌiːkəˈnɑːmɪkl/
(adjective) providing good service or value in relation to the amount of time or money spent
Example: A pair of earbuds is economical.
(adjective) providing good service or value in relation to the amount of time or money spent
Example: A pair of earbuds is economical.
eliminate /ɪˈlɪmɪneɪt/
(verb) to remove or get rid of something
Example: Two contestants were eliminated from last night’s show.
(verb) to remove or get rid of something
Example: Two contestants were eliminated from last night’s show.
embark /ɪmˈbɑːrk/
(verb) to get onto a ship or plane; to put somebody/something onto a ship or plane
Example: She is about to embark on a diplomatic career.
(verb) to get onto a ship or plane; to put somebody/something onto a ship or plane
Example: She is about to embark on a diplomatic career.
endeavour /ɪnˈdevər/
(noun) an attempt to do something, especially something new or difficult
Example: Please make every endeavour to arrive on time.
(noun) an attempt to do something, especially something new or difficult
Example: Please make every endeavour to arrive on time.
endorse /ɪnˈdɔːrs/
(verb) to say publicly that you support a person, statement or course of action
Example: I wholeheartedly endorse his remarks.
(verb) to say publicly that you support a person, statement or course of action
Example: I wholeheartedly endorse his remarks.
endure /ɪnˈdʊr/
(verb) to experience and deal with something that is painful or unpleasant without giving up
Example: They had to endure a long wait before the case came to trial.
(verb) to experience and deal with something that is painful or unpleasant without giving up
Example: They had to endure a long wait before the case came to trial.
enduring /ɪnˈdʊrɪŋ/
(adjective) lasting for a long time
Example: What is the reason for the game's enduring appeal?
(adjective) lasting for a long time
Example: What is the reason for the game's enduring appeal?
enforce /ɪnˈfɔːrs/
(verb) to make sure that people obey a particular law or rule
Example: It's the job of the police to enforce the law.
(verb) to make sure that people obey a particular law or rule
Example: It's the job of the police to enforce the law.
entrepreneur /ˌɑːntrəprəˈnɜːr/
(noun) a person who makes money by starting or running businesses, especially when this involves taking financial risks
Example: He was one of the entrepreneurs of the 80s who made their money in property.
(noun) a person who makes money by starting or running businesses, especially when this involves taking financial risks
Example: He was one of the entrepreneurs of the 80s who made their money in property.
envisage /ɪnˈvɪzɪdʒ/
(verb) to imagine what will happen in the future
Example: What level of profit do you envisage?
(verb) to imagine what will happen in the future
Example: What level of profit do you envisage?
erratic /ɪˈrætɪk/
(adjective) not happening at regular times; not following any plan or regular pattern; that you cannot rely on
Example: The electricity supply here is quite erratic.
(adjective) not happening at regular times; not following any plan or regular pattern; that you cannot rely on
Example: The electricity supply here is quite erratic.
esteem /ɪˈstiːm/
(noun) great respect and approval; a good opinion of somebody
Example: She is held in high esteem by her colleagues.
(noun) great respect and approval; a good opinion of somebody
Example: She is held in high esteem by her colleagues.
evolve /ɪˈvɑːlv/
(verb) to develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complicated form; to develop something in this way
Example: The idea evolved from a drawing I discovered in the attic.
(verb) to develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complicated form; to develop something in this way
Example: The idea evolved from a drawing I discovered in the attic.
excavation /ˌekskəˈveɪʃn/
(noun) the activity of digging in the ground to look for old buildings or objects that have been buried for a long time
Example: They decided to continue with the excavation.
(noun) the activity of digging in the ground to look for old buildings or objects that have been buried for a long time
Example: They decided to continue with the excavation.
exert /ɪɡˈzɜːrt/
(verb) to use power or influence to affect somebody/something
Example: He exerted all his authority to make them accept the plan.
(verb) to use power or influence to affect somebody/something
Example: He exerted all his authority to make them accept the plan.
exhaust /ɪɡˈzɔːst/
(noun) waste gases that come out of a vehicle, an engine or a machine
Example: I'm afraid he's exhausted my patience.
(noun) waste gases that come out of a vehicle, an engine or a machine
Example: I'm afraid he's exhausted my patience.
extinct /ɪkˈstɪŋkt/
(adjective) no longer in existence
Example: There is concern that the giant panda will soon become extinct.
(adjective) no longer in existence
Example: There is concern that the giant panda will soon become extinct.
extravagant /ɪkˈstrævəɡənt/
(adjective) spending a lot more money or using a lot more of something than you can afford or than is necessary
Example: I felt very extravagant spending £100 on a dress.
(adjective) spending a lot more money or using a lot more of something than you can afford or than is necessary
Example: I felt very extravagant spending £100 on a dress.
facade /fəˈsɑːd/
(noun) the front of a building
Example: a classical facade
(noun) the front of a building
Example: a classical facade
factual /ˈfæktʃuəl/
(adjective) based on or containing facts
Example: a factual account of events
(adjective) based on or containing facts
Example: a factual account of events
far-reaching /ˌfɑːr ˈriːtʃɪŋ/
(adjective) likely to have a lot of influence or many effects
Example: far-reaching consequences
(adjective) likely to have a lot of influence or many effects
Example: far-reaching consequences
fauna /ˈfɔːnə/
(noun) all the animals living in an area or in a particular period of history
Example: the local flora and fauna(= plants and animals)
(noun) all the animals living in an area or in a particular period of history
Example: the local flora and fauna(= plants and animals)
feasible /ˈfiːzəbl/
(adjective) that is possible and likely to be achieved
Example: With the extra resources, the project now seems feasible.
(adjective) that is possible and likely to be achieved
Example: With the extra resources, the project now seems feasible.
fertilizer /ˈfɜːrtəlaɪzər/
(noun) a substance added to soil to make plants grow more successfully
Example: The farmer should apply fertilizer regularly.
(noun) a substance added to soil to make plants grow more successfully
Example: The farmer should apply fertilizer regularly.
flaw /flɔː/
(noun) a mistake in something that means that it is not correct or does not work correctly
Example: The argument is full of fundamental flaws.
(noun) a mistake in something that means that it is not correct or does not work correctly
Example: The argument is full of fundamental flaws.
flourish /ˈflɜːrɪʃ/
(verb) to develop quickly and become successful or common
Example: My tomatoes are flourishing this summer.
(verb) to develop quickly and become successful or common
Example: My tomatoes are flourishing this summer.
food chain /ˈfuːd tʃeɪn/
(noun) a series of living creatures in which each type of creature feeds on the one below it in the series
Example: Insects are fairly low down (on) the food chain.
(noun) a series of living creatures in which each type of creature feeds on the one below it in the series
Example: Insects are fairly low down (on) the food chain.
freelance /ˈfriːlæns/
(adjective) earning money by selling your work or services to several different organizations rather than being employed by one particular organization
Example: Linda has worked in Yemen as a freelance journalist since 2012.
(adjective) earning money by selling your work or services to several different organizations rather than being employed by one particular organization
Example: Linda has worked in Yemen as a freelance journalist since 2012.
fumes /fjuːmz/
(noun) smoke, gas, or something similar that smells strongly or is dangerous to breathe in
Example: diesel/petrol/exhaust fumes
(noun) smoke, gas, or something similar that smells strongly or is dangerous to breathe in
Example: diesel/petrol/exhaust fumes
fume /fjuːm/
(verb) to be very angry about something
Example: The fuming process is used to turn the color of these woods into other shades of yellow and honey-browns.
(verb) to be very angry about something
Example: The fuming process is used to turn the color of these woods into other shades of yellow and honey-browns.
galaxy /ˈɡæləksi/
(noun) any of the large systems of stars, etc. in outer space
Example: Another name for the Galaxy is the Milky Way.
(noun) any of the large systems of stars, etc. in outer space
Example: Another name for the Galaxy is the Milky Way.
GDP /ˌdʒiː diː ˈpiː/
(noun) the total value of all the goods and services produced by a country in one year (the abbreviation for ‘ gross domestic product’ )
Example: The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Vietnam was worth 141.67 billion US dollars in 2012.
(noun) the total value of all the goods and services produced by a country in one year (the abbreviation for ‘ gross domestic product’ )
Example: The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Vietnam was worth 141.67 billion US dollars in 2012.
greedy /ˈɡriːdi/
(adjective) wanting more money, power, food, etc. than you really need
Example: He is greedy for power.
(adjective) wanting more money, power, food, etc. than you really need
Example: He is greedy for power.
harness /ˈhɑːrnɪs/
(noun) a set of narrow pieces of leather and metal pieces that is put around the head and body of an animal, especially a horse, so that the animal can be controlled and fastened to a carriage , etc.
Example: attempts to harness the sun's rays as a source of energy
(noun) a set of narrow pieces of leather and metal pieces that is put around the head and body of an animal, especially a horse, so that the animal can be controlled and fastened to a carriage , etc.
Example: attempts to harness the sun's rays as a source of energy
haul /hɔːl/
(verb) to pull something/somebody with a lot of effort
Example: They began the long slow haul to the summit.
(verb) to pull something/somebody with a lot of effort
Example: They began the long slow haul to the summit.
heart attack /ˈhɑːrt ətæk/
(noun) a sudden serious medical condition in which the flow of blood to the heart is blocked, sometimes causing death
Example: He is prone to heart attack.
(noun) a sudden serious medical condition in which the flow of blood to the heart is blocked, sometimes causing death
Example: He is prone to heart attack.
hesitation /ˌhezɪˈteɪʃn/
(noun) the act of being slow to speak or act because you feel uncertain or nervous
Example: After a slight hesitation, she began to speak.
(noun) the act of being slow to speak or act because you feel uncertain or nervous
Example: After a slight hesitation, she began to speak.
hindsight /ˈhaɪndsaɪt/
(noun) the understanding that you have of a situation only after it has happened and that means you would have done things in a different way
Example: With hindsight it is easy to say they should not have released him.
(noun) the understanding that you have of a situation only after it has happened and that means you would have done things in a different way
Example: With hindsight it is easy to say they should not have released him.
hospitality /ˌhɑːspɪˈtæləti/
(noun) friendly and generous behaviour towards guests
Example: Thank you for your hospitality.
(noun) friendly and generous behaviour towards guests
Example: Thank you for your hospitality.
hybrid /ˈhaɪbrɪd/
(adjective) having parents of different species or varieties
Example: A mule is a hybrid of a male donkey and a female horse.
(adjective) having parents of different species or varieties
Example: A mule is a hybrid of a male donkey and a female horse.
hypocrisy /hɪˈpɑːkrəsi/
(noun) behaviour that does not meet the moral standards or match the opinions that somebody claims to have
Example: He condemned the hypocrisy of those politicians who do one thing and say another.
(noun) behaviour that does not meet the moral standards or match the opinions that somebody claims to have
Example: He condemned the hypocrisy of those politicians who do one thing and say another.
icon /ˈaɪkɑːn/
(noun) a small symbol on a computer or smartphone screen that represents a program or a file
Example: Click on the printer icon with the mouse.
(noun) a small symbol on a computer or smartphone screen that represents a program or a file
Example: Click on the printer icon with the mouse.
imaginative /ɪˈmædʒɪnətɪv/
(adjective) having or showing new and exciting ideas
Example: He is an imaginative designer.
(adjective) having or showing new and exciting ideas
Example: He is an imaginative designer.
immune /ɪˈmjuːn/
(adjective) that cannot catch or be affected by a particular disease or illness
Example: You'll eventually become immune to criticism.
(adjective) that cannot catch or be affected by a particular disease or illness
Example: You'll eventually become immune to criticism.
impoverished /ɪmˈpɑːvərɪʃt/
(adjective) very poor; without money
Example: impoverished peasants
(adjective) very poor; without money
Example: impoverished peasants
impoverishment /ɪmˈpɑːvərɪʃmənt/
(noun) the act of making somebody poor; the state of being poor
Example: During times of impoverishment, the jewelry may be sold to provide family resources.
(noun) the act of making somebody poor; the state of being poor
Example: During times of impoverishment, the jewelry may be sold to provide family resources.
indifference /ɪnˈdɪfrəns/
(noun) a lack of interest, feeling or reaction towards somebody/something
Example: Your indifference to my feelings is causing me a lot of unhappiness.
(noun) a lack of interest, feeling or reaction towards somebody/something
Example: Your indifference to my feelings is causing me a lot of unhappiness.
indigenous /ɪnˈdɪdʒənəs/
(adjective) coming from a particular place and having lived there for a long time before other people came there; relating to, belonging to or developed by these people
Example: the indigenous peoples/languages of the area
(adjective) coming from a particular place and having lived there for a long time before other people came there; relating to, belonging to or developed by these people
Example: the indigenous peoples/languages of the area
induce /ɪnˈduːs/
(verb) to persuade or influence somebody to do something
Example: Nothing would induce me to take the job.
(verb) to persuade or influence somebody to do something
Example: Nothing would induce me to take the job.
indulge /ɪnˈdʌldʒ/
(verb) to allow yourself to have or do something that you like, especially something that is considered bad for you
Example: They went into town to indulge in some serious shopping.
(verb) to allow yourself to have or do something that you like, especially something that is considered bad for you
Example: They went into town to indulge in some serious shopping.
infancy /ˈɪnfənsi/
(noun) the time when a child is a baby or very young
Example: a time when the cinema was still in its infancy
(noun) the time when a child is a baby or very young
Example: a time when the cinema was still in its infancy
informative /ɪnˈfɔːrmətɪv/
(adjective) giving useful information
Example: He is kind to give me such an informative book.
(adjective) giving useful information
Example: He is kind to give me such an informative book.
infrastructure /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/
(noun) the basic systems and services that are necessary for a country or an organization to run smoothly, for example buildings, transport and water and power supplies
Example: It is necessary to improve the infrastructure for better traffic systems.
(noun) the basic systems and services that are necessary for a country or an organization to run smoothly, for example buildings, transport and water and power supplies
Example: It is necessary to improve the infrastructure for better traffic systems.
inhibit /ɪnˈhɪbɪt/
(verb) to prevent something from happening or make it happen more slowly or less frequently than normal
Example: A lack of oxygen may inhibit brain development in the unborn child.
(verb) to prevent something from happening or make it happen more slowly or less frequently than normal
Example: A lack of oxygen may inhibit brain development in the unborn child.
initiate /ɪˈnɪʃieɪt/
(verb) to make something begin
Example: The program was initiated by the state government.
(verb) to make something begin
Example: The program was initiated by the state government.
innate /ɪˈneɪt/
(adjective) that you have when you are born
Example: the innate ability to learn
(adjective) that you have when you are born
Example: the innate ability to learn
integrate /ˈɪntɪɡreɪt/
(verb) to combine two or more things so that they work together; to combine with something else in this way
Example: We need to help disabled students to become independent, integrate in the community and achieve success at school.
(verb) to combine two or more things so that they work together; to combine with something else in this way
Example: We need to help disabled students to become independent, integrate in the community and achieve success at school.
interactive /ˌɪntərˈæktɪv/
(adjective) that allows information to be passed continuously and in both directions between a computer or other device and the person who uses it
Example: The school believes in interactive teaching methods.
(adjective) that allows information to be passed continuously and in both directions between a computer or other device and the person who uses it
Example: The school believes in interactive teaching methods.
intervene /ˌɪntərˈviːn/
(verb) to become involved in a situation in order to improve or help it
Example: The teacher intervened in the quarrel between the two students.
(verb) to become involved in a situation in order to improve or help it
Example: The teacher intervened in the quarrel between the two students.
intimacy /ˈɪntɪməsi/
(noun) the state of having a close personal relationship with somebody
Example: The old intimacy between them had gone for ever.
(noun) the state of having a close personal relationship with somebody
Example: The old intimacy between them had gone for ever.
intricate /ˈɪntrɪkət/
(adjective) having a lot of different parts and small details that fit together
Example: The watch mechanism is extremely intricate and very difficult to repair.
(adjective) having a lot of different parts and small details that fit together
Example: The watch mechanism is extremely intricate and very difficult to repair.
intrusion /ɪnˈtruːʒn/
(noun) something that affects a situation or people’s lives in a way that they do not want
Example: They claim the noise from the new airport is an intrusion on their lives.
(noun) something that affects a situation or people’s lives in a way that they do not want
Example: They claim the noise from the new airport is an intrusion on their lives.
irresponsible /ˌɪrɪˈspɑːnsəbl/
(adjective) not thinking enough about the effects of what they do; not showing a feeling of responsibility
Example: What the BJP is doing now is totally irresponsible behaviour.
(adjective) not thinking enough about the effects of what they do; not showing a feeling of responsibility
Example: What the BJP is doing now is totally irresponsible behaviour.
isolate /ˈaɪsəleɪt/
(verb) to separate somebody/something physically or socially from other people or things
Example: Patients with the disease should be isolated.
(verb) to separate somebody/something physically or socially from other people or things
Example: Patients with the disease should be isolated.
labourer /ˈleɪbərər/
(noun) a person whose job involves hard physical work that does not need special skills, especially work that is done outdoors
Example: Samuel wanted more than a life as an agricultural labourer.
(noun) a person whose job involves hard physical work that does not need special skills, especially work that is done outdoors
Example: Samuel wanted more than a life as an agricultural labourer.
landmark /ˈlændmɑːrk/
(noun) something, such as a large building, that you can see clearly from a distance and that will help you to know where you are
Example: The One Pillar Pagoda is a famous landmark of Hanoi.
(noun) something, such as a large building, that you can see clearly from a distance and that will help you to know where you are
Example: The One Pillar Pagoda is a famous landmark of Hanoi.
literate /ˈlɪtərət/
(adjective) able to read and write
Example: Though nearly twenty he was barely literate.
(adjective) able to read and write
Example: Though nearly twenty he was barely literate.
livelihood /ˈlaɪvlihʊd/
(noun) a means of earning money in order to live
Example: Communities on the island depended on whaling for their livelihood.
(noun) a means of earning money in order to live
Example: Communities on the island depended on whaling for their livelihood.
lucrative /ˈluːkrətɪv/
(adjective) producing a large amount of money; making a large profit
Example: Croatia could be a potentially lucrative market for political consultants.
(adjective) producing a large amount of money; making a large profit
Example: Croatia could be a potentially lucrative market for political consultants.
luxurious /lʌɡˈʒʊriəs/
(adjective) very comfortable; containing expensive things that give pleasure
Example: They lead a comfortable and luxurious life without anyone disturbing them.
(adjective) very comfortable; containing expensive things that give pleasure
Example: They lead a comfortable and luxurious life without anyone disturbing them.
magical /ˈmædʒɪkl/
(adjective) containing magic; used in magic
Example: Some metals was thought to be magical.
(adjective) containing magic; used in magic
Example: Some metals was thought to be magical.
mass media /mæs ˈmiːdiə/
(noun)
Example: Mass media has a great effect on human life.
(noun)
Example: Mass media has a great effect on human life.
maternal /məˈtɜːrnl/
(adjective) having feelings that are typical of a caring mother towards a child
Example: The importance of family planning in reducing maternal mortality is uncontroversial.
(adjective) having feelings that are typical of a caring mother towards a child
Example: The importance of family planning in reducing maternal mortality is uncontroversial.
meaningful /ˈmiːnɪŋfl/
(adjective) serious and important
Example: This is a meaningful volunteer activity.
(adjective) serious and important
Example: This is a meaningful volunteer activity.
merge /mɜːrdʒ/
(verb) to combine or make two or more things combine to form a single thing
Example: The banks are set to merge next year.
(verb) to combine or make two or more things combine to form a single thing
Example: The banks are set to merge next year.
modify /ˈmɑːdɪfaɪ/
(verb) to change something slightly, especially in order to make it more suitable for a particular purpose
Example: The software we use has been modified for us.
(verb) to change something slightly, especially in order to make it more suitable for a particular purpose
Example: The software we use has been modified for us.
mother tongue /ˌmʌðər ˈtʌŋ/
(noun) the language that you first learn to speak when you are a child
Example: Our mother tongue is Vietnamese.
(noun) the language that you first learn to speak when you are a child
Example: Our mother tongue is Vietnamese.
motive /ˈməʊtɪv/
(noun) a reason for doing something
Example: There seemed to be no motive for the murder.
(noun) a reason for doing something
Example: There seemed to be no motive for the murder.
mundane /mʌnˈdeɪn/
(adjective) not interesting or exciting
Example: Sitting by a river meditating is nice, but real spirituality comes from making the mundane sacred.
(adjective) not interesting or exciting
Example: Sitting by a river meditating is nice, but real spirituality comes from making the mundane sacred.
negative equity /ˌneɡətɪv ˈekwəti/
(noun) the situation in which the value of somebody’s house is less than the amount of money that is still owed to a mortgage company, such as a bank
Example: How long can a company survive with negative equity and how long is this state permitted in the USA?
(noun) the situation in which the value of somebody’s house is less than the amount of money that is still owed to a mortgage company, such as a bank
Example: How long can a company survive with negative equity and how long is this state permitted in the USA?
niche /niːʃ/
(noun) a comfortable or suitable role, job, way of life, etc.
Example: They spotted a niche in the market, with no serious competition.
(noun) a comfortable or suitable role, job, way of life, etc.
Example: They spotted a niche in the market, with no serious competition.
nominal /ˈnɑːmɪnl/
(adjective) being something in name only, and not in reality
Example: Peter did not get a lot of job applicants because he offered only a nominal salary to his employees.
(adjective) being something in name only, and not in reality
Example: Peter did not get a lot of job applicants because he offered only a nominal salary to his employees.
novice /ˈnɑːvɪs/
(noun) a person who is new and has little experience in a skill, job or situation
Example: I'm a complete novice at skiing.
(noun) a person who is new and has little experience in a skill, job or situation
Example: I'm a complete novice at skiing.
nutrient /ˈnuːtriənt/
(noun) a substance that is needed to keep a living thing alive and to help it to grow
Example: Some essential nutrients have no stores in the body, so we need regular supplies from food.
(noun) a substance that is needed to keep a living thing alive and to help it to grow
Example: Some essential nutrients have no stores in the body, so we need regular supplies from food.
oblivious /əˈblɪviəs/
(adjective) not aware of something
Example: He drove off, oblivious of the damage he had caused.
(adjective) not aware of something
Example: He drove off, oblivious of the damage he had caused.
onset /ˈɑːnset/
(noun) the beginning of something, especially something unpleasant
Example: These drugs could be developed into an effective intervention strategy that eliminates liver stage malaria parasites before the onset of disease.
(noun) the beginning of something, especially something unpleasant
Example: These drugs could be developed into an effective intervention strategy that eliminates liver stage malaria parasites before the onset of disease.
orbit /ˈɔːrbɪt/
(noun) a curved path followed by a planet or an object as it moves around another planet, star, moon, etc.
Example: Mercury orbits the Sun.
(noun) a curved path followed by a planet or an object as it moves around another planet, star, moon, etc.
Example: Mercury orbits the Sun.
overweight /ˌəʊvərˈweɪt/
(adjective) too heavy, in a way that may be unhealthy
Example: She was only a few pounds overweight.
(adjective) too heavy, in a way that may be unhealthy
Example: She was only a few pounds overweight.
paradox /ˈpærədɑːks/
(noun) a person, thing or situation that has two opposite features and therefore seems strange
Example: He was a paradox—a loner who loved to chat to strangers.
(noun) a person, thing or situation that has two opposite features and therefore seems strange
Example: He was a paradox—a loner who loved to chat to strangers.
passionate /ˈpæʃənət/
(adjective) having or showing strong feelings of sexual love or of anger, etc.
Example: He has had a passionate interest in music since he was a child.
(adjective) having or showing strong feelings of sexual love or of anger, etc.
Example: He has had a passionate interest in music since he was a child.
peninsula /pəˈnɪnsələ/
(noun) an area of land that is almost surrounded by water but is joined to a larger piece of land
Example: the Iberian peninsula (= Spain and Portugal)
(noun) an area of land that is almost surrounded by water but is joined to a larger piece of land
Example: the Iberian peninsula (= Spain and Portugal)
perceive /pərˈsiːv/
(verb) to understand or think of somebody/something in a particular way
Example: I perceived a change in his behaviour.
(verb) to understand or think of somebody/something in a particular way
Example: I perceived a change in his behaviour.
perk /pɜːrk/
(noun) something you receive as well as your wages for doing a particular job
Example: In exchange for your loyalty, I will provide perks you can't get from other companies.
(noun) something you receive as well as your wages for doing a particular job
Example: In exchange for your loyalty, I will provide perks you can't get from other companies.
persist /pərˈsɪst/
(verb) to continue to do something despite difficulties or opposition, in a way that can seem unreasonable
Example: The reporter persisted with his questioning.
(verb) to continue to do something despite difficulties or opposition, in a way that can seem unreasonable
Example: The reporter persisted with his questioning.
pervasive /pərˈveɪsɪv/
(adjective) existing in all parts of a place or thing; spreading gradually to affect all parts of a place or thing
Example: a pervasive smell of damp
(adjective) existing in all parts of a place or thing; spreading gradually to affect all parts of a place or thing
Example: a pervasive smell of damp
pesticide /ˈpestɪsaɪd/
(noun) a chemical used for killing pests , especially insects
Example: vegetables grown without the use of pesticides
(noun) a chemical used for killing pests , especially insects
Example: vegetables grown without the use of pesticides
picturesque /ˌpɪktʃəˈresk/
(adjective) pretty, especially in a way that looks old-fashioned
Example: I like the picturesque streets of the old city.
(adjective) pretty, especially in a way that looks old-fashioned
Example: I like the picturesque streets of the old city.
pioneer /ˌpaɪəˈnɪr/
(noun) a person who is the first to study and develop a particular area of knowledge, culture, etc. that other people then continue to develop
Example: He was a pioneer in the field of archaeology.
(noun) a person who is the first to study and develop a particular area of knowledge, culture, etc. that other people then continue to develop
Example: He was a pioneer in the field of archaeology.
pitfall /ˈpɪtfɔːl/
(noun) a danger or difficulty, especially one that is hidden or not obvious at first
Example: Her $70 billion acquisition comes with several potential pitfalls.
(noun) a danger or difficulty, especially one that is hidden or not obvious at first
Example: Her $70 billion acquisition comes with several potential pitfalls.
plateau /plæˈtəʊ/
(noun) an area of flat land that is higher than the land around it
Example: A plateau is a large flat area of land that is high above sea level.
(noun) an area of flat land that is higher than the land around it
Example: A plateau is a large flat area of land that is high above sea level.
plunge /plʌndʒ/
(verb) to move or make somebody/something move suddenly forwards and/or downwards
Example: Stock markets plunged at the news of the coup.
(verb) to move or make somebody/something move suddenly forwards and/or downwards
Example: Stock markets plunged at the news of the coup.
pointless /ˈpɔɪntləs/
(adjective) having no purpose; not worth doing
Example: We searched until we knew it would be pointless to continue.
(adjective) having no purpose; not worth doing
Example: We searched until we knew it would be pointless to continue.
poisonous /ˈpɔɪzənəs/
(adjective) causing death or illness if swallowed or taken into the body
Example: Ivy leaves are poisonous but I am immune to the poison.
(adjective) causing death or illness if swallowed or taken into the body
Example: Ivy leaves are poisonous but I am immune to the poison.
pollutant /pəˈluːtənt/
(noun) a substance that pollutes something, especially air and water
Example: These pollutants are extremely dangerous and harmful.
(noun) a substance that pollutes something, especially air and water
Example: These pollutants are extremely dangerous and harmful.
portable /ˈpɔːrtəbl/
(adjective) that is easy to carry or to move
Example: A tablet is portable. You can put it in your school bag.
(adjective) that is easy to carry or to move
Example: A tablet is portable. You can put it in your school bag.
postgraduate /ˌpəʊstˈɡrædʒuət/
(noun) a person who already holds a first degree and who is doing advanced study or research; a graduate student
Example: postgraduate students
(noun) a person who already holds a first degree and who is doing advanced study or research; a graduate student
Example: postgraduate students
predominant /prɪˈdɑːmɪnənt/
(adjective) most obvious or easy to notice
Example: Research is the predominant part of my job.
(adjective) most obvious or easy to notice
Example: Research is the predominant part of my job.
prehistoric /ˌpriːhɪˈstɔːrɪk/
(adjective) connected with the time in history before information was written down
Example: in prehistoric times
(adjective) connected with the time in history before information was written down
Example: in prehistoric times
prevalent /ˈprevələnt/
(adjective) that exists or is very common at a particular time or in a particular place
Example: The disease is even more prevalent in Latin America.
(adjective) that exists or is very common at a particular time or in a particular place
Example: The disease is even more prevalent in Latin America.
privacy /ˈpraɪvəsi/
(noun) the state of being alone and not watched or interrupted by other people
Example: I don’t like how my mother doesn’t respect my privacy.
(noun) the state of being alone and not watched or interrupted by other people
Example: I don’t like how my mother doesn’t respect my privacy.
prototype /ˈprəʊtətaɪp/
(noun) the first design of something from which other forms are copied or developed
Example: the prototype of the modern bicycle
(noun) the first design of something from which other forms are copied or developed
Example: the prototype of the modern bicycle
provoke /prəˈvəʊk/
(verb) to cause a particular reaction or have a particular effect
Example: Facing eyeball to eyeball is sure to provoke a fight.
(verb) to cause a particular reaction or have a particular effect
Example: Facing eyeball to eyeball is sure to provoke a fight.
questionable /ˈkwestʃənəbl/
(adjective) that you have doubts about because you think it is not accurate or correct
Example: The conclusions that they come to are highly questionable.
(adjective) that you have doubts about because you think it is not accurate or correct
Example: The conclusions that they come to are highly questionable.
rash /ræʃ/
(noun) an area of red spots on a person’s skin, caused by an illness or a reaction to something
Example: It would be extremely rash to make such an assumption.
(noun) an area of red spots on a person’s skin, caused by an illness or a reaction to something
Example: It would be extremely rash to make such an assumption.
reckless /ˈrekləs/
(adjective) showing a lack of care about danger and the possible results of your actions
Example: He showed a reckless disregard for his own safety.
(adjective) showing a lack of care about danger and the possible results of your actions
Example: He showed a reckless disregard for his own safety.
recreational /ˌrekriˈeɪʃənl/
(adjective) connected with activities that people do for pleasure when they are not working
Example: What recreational activity would you take up if you had the time?
(adjective) connected with activities that people do for pleasure when they are not working
Example: What recreational activity would you take up if you had the time?
relieve /rɪˈliːv/
(verb) to remove or reduce an unpleasant feeling or pain
Example: Eating bananas can relieve the stress.
(verb) to remove or reduce an unpleasant feeling or pain
Example: Eating bananas can relieve the stress.
render /ˈrendər/
(verb) to cause somebody/something to be in a particular state or condition
Example: The virus rendered the computer useless.
(verb) to cause somebody/something to be in a particular state or condition
Example: The virus rendered the computer useless.
renewable /rɪˈnuːəbl/
(adjective) that is replaced naturally or controlled carefully and can therefore be used without the risk of using it all up
Example: There are some renewable energy sources such as wind and wave power.
(adjective) that is replaced naturally or controlled carefully and can therefore be used without the risk of using it all up
Example: There are some renewable energy sources such as wind and wave power.
resemblance /rɪˈzembləns/
(noun) the fact of being or looking similar to somebody/something
Example: He bears a resemblance to someone I used to know.
(noun) the fact of being or looking similar to somebody/something
Example: He bears a resemblance to someone I used to know.
resent /rɪˈzent/
(verb) to feel bitter or angry about something, especially because you feel it is unfair
Example: I deeply resented her criticism.
(verb) to feel bitter or angry about something, especially because you feel it is unfair
Example: I deeply resented her criticism.
resistant /rɪˈzɪstənt/
(adjective) not affected by something; able to resist something
Example: plants that are resistant to disease
(adjective) not affected by something; able to resist something
Example: plants that are resistant to disease
respiratory /ˈrespərətɔːri/
(adjective) connected with breathing
Example: Living in the polluted environment can cause some respiratory diseases.
(adjective) connected with breathing
Example: Living in the polluted environment can cause some respiratory diseases.
rewarding /rɪˈwɔːrdɪŋ/
(adjective) worth doing; that makes you happy because you think it is useful or important
Example: Volunteering is the most rewarding way to get involved and change people's lives.
(adjective) worth doing; that makes you happy because you think it is useful or important
Example: Volunteering is the most rewarding way to get involved and change people's lives.
rivalry /ˈraɪvlri/
(noun) a state in which two people, companies, etc. are competing for the same thing
Example: There is an invisible rivalry between the two men.
(noun) a state in which two people, companies, etc. are competing for the same thing
Example: There is an invisible rivalry between the two men.
rocket /ˈrɑːkɪt/
(noun) a spacecraft in the shape of a tube that is driven by a stream of gases let out behind it when fuel is burned inside
Example: Sales rocketed from 1,000 units last week to 5,000 units this week.
(noun) a spacecraft in the shape of a tube that is driven by a stream of gases let out behind it when fuel is burned inside
Example: Sales rocketed from 1,000 units last week to 5,000 units this week.
safeguard /ˈseɪfɡɑːrd/
(verb) to protect something/somebody from loss, harm or damage; to keep something/somebody safe
Example: to safeguard a person's interests
(verb) to protect something/somebody from loss, harm or damage; to keep something/somebody safe
Example: to safeguard a person's interests
salient /ˈseɪliənt/
(adjective) most important or easy to notice
Example: The comments come amid heated debate over immigration, which is particularly salient in Italy.
(adjective) most important or easy to notice
Example: The comments come amid heated debate over immigration, which is particularly salient in Italy.
sceptical /ˈskeptɪkl/
(adjective) having doubts that a claim or statement is true or that something will happen
Example: When I said I'd finished my homework early, Mom looked sceptical.
(adjective) having doubts that a claim or statement is true or that something will happen
Example: When I said I'd finished my homework early, Mom looked sceptical.
setback /ˈsetbæk/
(noun) a difficulty or problem that delays or prevents something, or makes a situation worse
Example: The team suffered a major setback when their best player was injured.
(noun) a difficulty or problem that delays or prevents something, or makes a situation worse
Example: The team suffered a major setback when their best player was injured.
sibling /ˈsɪblɪŋ/
(noun) a brother or sister
Example: I have two siblings: one brother and one sister.
(noun) a brother or sister
Example: I have two siblings: one brother and one sister.
sign language /ˈsaɪn læŋɡwɪdʒ/
(noun) a system of communicating using hand movements rather than spoken words, as used by people who cannot hear
Example: American Sign Language is one of the most beautiful languages in the world.
(noun) a system of communicating using hand movements rather than spoken words, as used by people who cannot hear
Example: American Sign Language is one of the most beautiful languages in the world.
skip /skɪp/
(verb) to move forwards lightly and quickly making a little jump with each step
Example: Do you want to skip rope?
(verb) to move forwards lightly and quickly making a little jump with each step
Example: Do you want to skip rope?
slender /ˈslendər/
(adjective) thin in an attractive way
Example: We found that the evidence on which to base clinical decisions was slender.
(adjective) thin in an attractive way
Example: We found that the evidence on which to base clinical decisions was slender.
slum /slʌm/
(noun) an area of a city that is very poor and where the houses are dirty and in bad condition
Example: The area was fast becoming a slum for the destitute.
(noun) an area of a city that is very poor and where the houses are dirty and in bad condition
Example: The area was fast becoming a slum for the destitute.
slump /slʌmp/
(verb) to fall in price, value, number, etc., suddenly and by a large amount
Example: a slump in profits
(verb) to fall in price, value, number, etc., suddenly and by a large amount
Example: a slump in profits
smuggling /ˈsmʌɡlɪŋ/
(noun) the crime of taking, sending or bringing goods secretly and illegally into or out of a country
Example: drug smuggling
(noun) the crime of taking, sending or bringing goods secretly and illegally into or out of a country
Example: drug smuggling
spacious /ˈspeɪʃəs/
(adjective) large and with plenty of space for people to move around in
Example: It is a spacious house with ten rooms.
(adjective) large and with plenty of space for people to move around in
Example: It is a spacious house with ten rooms.
span /spæn/
(verb) to last all through a period of time or to cover the whole of it
Example: I worked with him over a span of six years.
(verb) to last all through a period of time or to cover the whole of it
Example: I worked with him over a span of six years.
speculate /ˈspekjuleɪt/
(verb) to form an opinion about something without knowing all the details or facts
Example: We all speculated about the reasons for her resignation.
(verb) to form an opinion about something without knowing all the details or facts
Example: We all speculated about the reasons for her resignation.
spontaneous /spɑːnˈteɪniəs/
(adjective) not planned but done because you suddenly want to do it
Example: They just do it, and it's beautiful and creative and spontaneous.
(adjective) not planned but done because you suddenly want to do it
Example: They just do it, and it's beautiful and creative and spontaneous.
staggering /ˈstæɡərɪŋ/
(adjective) so great, shocking or surprising that it is difficult to believe
Example: They paid a staggering £5 million for the house.
(adjective) so great, shocking or surprising that it is difficult to believe
Example: They paid a staggering £5 million for the house.
state of the art /ˌsteɪt əv ði ˈɑːrt/
(adjective) using the most modern or advanced techniques or methods; as good as it can be at the present time
Example: The system was state of the art.
(adjective) using the most modern or advanced techniques or methods; as good as it can be at the present time
Example: The system was state of the art.
stimulate /ˈstɪmjuleɪt/
(verb) to make something develop or become more active; to encourage something
Example: Reading stories can stimulate children's imagination.
(verb) to make something develop or become more active; to encourage something
Example: Reading stories can stimulate children's imagination.
stimulating /ˈstɪmjuleɪtɪŋ/
(adjective) full of interesting or exciting ideas; making people feel enthusiastic
Example: We have very stimulating conversations.
(adjective) full of interesting or exciting ideas; making people feel enthusiastic
Example: We have very stimulating conversations.
stressful /ˈstresfl/
(adjective) causing a lot of worry
Example: I know this has been a very difficult and stressful time for the family and for staff involved.
(adjective) causing a lot of worry
Example: I know this has been a very difficult and stressful time for the family and for staff involved.
stunning /ˈstʌnɪŋ/
(adjective) extremely attractive or impressive
Example: I saw a stunning woman at the party.
(adjective) extremely attractive or impressive
Example: I saw a stunning woman at the party.
superficial /ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃl/
(adjective) not studying or looking at something carefully or completely; seeing only what is obvious
Example: a superficial friendship
(adjective) not studying or looking at something carefully or completely; seeing only what is obvious
Example: a superficial friendship
susceptible /səˈseptəbl/
(adjective) very likely to be influenced, harmed or affected by something
Example: He's highly susceptible to flattery.
(adjective) very likely to be influenced, harmed or affected by something
Example: He's highly susceptible to flattery.
sustainable /səˈsteɪnəbl/
(adjective) involving the use of natural products and energy in a way that does not harm the environment
Example: sustainable economic growth
(adjective) involving the use of natural products and energy in a way that does not harm the environment
Example: sustainable economic growth
syllabus /ˈsɪləbəs/
(noun) a list of the topics, books, etc. that students should study in a particular subject at school or college
Example: Read the syllabus before the first day of class.
(noun) a list of the topics, books, etc. that students should study in a particular subject at school or college
Example: Read the syllabus before the first day of class.
tabloid /ˈtæblɔɪd/
(adjective) tabloid newspapers have small pages and short articles with a lot of pictures and stories about famous people, and are often thought of as less serious than other newspapers
Example: The story made the front page in all the tabloids.
(adjective) tabloid newspapers have small pages and short articles with a lot of pictures and stories about famous people, and are often thought of as less serious than other newspapers
Example: The story made the front page in all the tabloids.
tangible /ˈtændʒəbl/
(adjective) that can be clearly seen to exist
Example: We cannot accept his findings without tangible evidence.
(adjective) that can be clearly seen to exist
Example: We cannot accept his findings without tangible evidence.
taxing /ˈtæksɪŋ/
(adjective) needing a great amount of physical or mental effort
Example: They find the work too taxing.
(adjective) needing a great amount of physical or mental effort
Example: They find the work too taxing.
temperament /ˈtemprəmənt/
(noun) a person’s or an animal’s nature as shown in the way they behave or react to situations or people
Example: She has an artistic temperament.
(noun) a person’s or an animal’s nature as shown in the way they behave or react to situations or people
Example: She has an artistic temperament.
tertiary /ˈtɜːrʃieri/
(adjective) third in order, rank or importance
Example: the tertiary stage of the disease
(adjective) third in order, rank or importance
Example: the tertiary stage of the disease
thrive /θraɪv/
(verb) to become, and continue to be, successful, strong, healthy, etc.
Example: New businesses thrive in this area.
(verb) to become, and continue to be, successful, strong, healthy, etc.
Example: New businesses thrive in this area.
tolerance /ˈtɑːlərəns/
(noun) the quality of being willing to accept or tolerate somebody/something, especially opinions or behaviour that you may not agree with, or people who are not like you
Example: She had no tolerance for jokes of any kind.
(noun) the quality of being willing to accept or tolerate somebody/something, especially opinions or behaviour that you may not agree with, or people who are not like you
Example: She had no tolerance for jokes of any kind.
tolerant /ˈtɑːlərənt/
(adjective) able to accept what other people say or do even if you do not agree with it
Example: He has a very tolerant attitude towards other religions.
(adjective) able to accept what other people say or do even if you do not agree with it
Example: He has a very tolerant attitude towards other religions.
trait /treɪt/
(noun) a particular quality in your personality
Example: One of her brother's more admirable personality traits was his general lack of prejudice.
(noun) a particular quality in your personality
Example: One of her brother's more admirable personality traits was his general lack of prejudice.
trauma /ˈtrɔːmə/
(noun) a mental condition caused by severe shock, especially when the harmful effects last for a long time
Example: the effects of trauma and stress on the body
(noun) a mental condition caused by severe shock, especially when the harmful effects last for a long time
Example: the effects of trauma and stress on the body
traumatic /trəˈmætɪk/
(adjective) extremely unpleasant and causing you to feel upset and/or anxious
Example: she was going through a traumatic divorce.
(adjective) extremely unpleasant and causing you to feel upset and/or anxious
Example: she was going through a traumatic divorce.
treacherous /ˈtretʃərəs/
(adjective) that cannot be trusted; intending to harm you
Example: He was weak, cowardly and treacherous.
(adjective) that cannot be trusted; intending to harm you
Example: He was weak, cowardly and treacherous.
trigger /ˈtrɪɡər/
(verb) to make something happen suddenly
Example: The trigger for the strike was the closure of another factory.
(verb) to make something happen suddenly
Example: The trigger for the strike was the closure of another factory.
trivial /ˈtrɪviəl/
(adjective) not important or serious; not worth considering
Example: My younger brother and I used to have some arguments about trivial things.
(adjective) not important or serious; not worth considering
Example: My younger brother and I used to have some arguments about trivial things.
ubiquitous /juːˈbɪkwɪtəs/
(adjective) seeming to be everywhere or in several places at the same time; very common
Example: Leather is very much in fashion this season, as is the ubiquitous denim.
(adjective) seeming to be everywhere or in several places at the same time; very common
Example: Leather is very much in fashion this season, as is the ubiquitous denim.
undergo /ˌʌndərˈɡəʊ/
(verb) to experience something, especially a change or something unpleasant
Example: He underwent a life-saving brain operation.
(verb) to experience something, especially a change or something unpleasant
Example: He underwent a life-saving brain operation.
underline /ˌʌndərˈlaɪn/
(verb) to draw or print a line under a word, sentence, etc.
Example: All the mistakes were underlined in red ink.
(verb) to draw or print a line under a word, sentence, etc.
Example: All the mistakes were underlined in red ink.
unprecedented /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/
(adjective) that has never happened, been done or been known before
Example: The situation is unprecedented in modern times.
(adjective) that has never happened, been done or been known before
Example: The situation is unprecedented in modern times.
unskilled /ˌʌnˈskɪld/
(adjective) not having or needing special skills or training
Example: Those that are employed are in unskilled jobs in this mining district.
(adjective) not having or needing special skills or training
Example: Those that are employed are in unskilled jobs in this mining district.
upbringing /ˈʌpbrɪŋɪŋ/
(noun) the way in which a child is cared for and taught how to behave while it is growing up
Example: He had a Christian upbringing.
(noun) the way in which a child is cared for and taught how to behave while it is growing up
Example: He had a Christian upbringing.
up to date /ˌʌp tə ˈdeɪt/
(adjective) modern; fashionable
Example: We are keeping up to date with the latest developments.
(adjective) modern; fashionable
Example: We are keeping up to date with the latest developments.
vandalism /ˈvændəlɪzəm/
(noun) the crime of destroying or damaging something, especially public property, deliberately and for no good reason
Example: Reports of criminal damage and persistent vandalism were also relayed to councillors.
(noun) the crime of destroying or damaging something, especially public property, deliberately and for no good reason
Example: Reports of criminal damage and persistent vandalism were also relayed to councillors.
versatile /ˈvɜːrsətl/
(adjective) able to do many different things
Example: This food processor is versatile. You can mix or chop up wet and dry foods.
(adjective) able to do many different things
Example: This food processor is versatile. You can mix or chop up wet and dry foods.
viable /ˈvaɪəbl/
(adjective) that can be done; that will be successful
Example: I am afraid your plan is not viable.
(adjective) that can be done; that will be successful
Example: I am afraid your plan is not viable.
vivid /ˈvɪvɪd/
(adjective) producing very clear pictures in your mind
Example: This is a vivid story about life and death.
(adjective) producing very clear pictures in your mind
Example: This is a vivid story about life and death.
vocational /vəʊˈkeɪʃənl/
(adjective) connected with the skills, knowledge, etc. that you need to have in order to do a particular job
Example: Many are engaged in vocational activities like weaving bedsheets and towels.
(adjective) connected with the skills, knowledge, etc. that you need to have in order to do a particular job
Example: Many are engaged in vocational activities like weaving bedsheets and towels.
volatile /ˈvɑːlətl/
(adjective) changing easily from one mood to another
Example: a volatile exchange rate.
(adjective) changing easily from one mood to another
Example: a volatile exchange rate.
well-being /ˈwel biːɪŋ/
(noun) general health and happiness
Example: As we get older, this facet of our lives becomes even more important to our well-being and our health.
(noun) general health and happiness
Example: As we get older, this facet of our lives becomes even more important to our well-being and our health.
abate /əˈbeɪt/
(verb) to become less intense or severe; to make something less intense or severe
Example: The storm showed no signs of abating.
(verb) to become less intense or severe; to make something less intense or severe
Example: The storm showed no signs of abating.
abhor /əbˈhɔːr/
(verb) to hate something, for example a way of behaving or thinking, especially for moral reasons
Example: I abhor all forms of racism.
(verb) to hate something, for example a way of behaving or thinking, especially for moral reasons
Example: I abhor all forms of racism.
acclimatize /əˈklaɪmətaɪz/
(verb) to get used to a new place, situation or climate
Example: You should arrive two days early in order to acclimatize.
(verb) to get used to a new place, situation or climate
Example: You should arrive two days early in order to acclimatize.
acquiesce /ˌækwiˈes/
(verb) to accept something without arguing, even if you do not really agree with it
Example: Senior government figures must have acquiesced in the cover-up.
(verb) to accept something without arguing, even if you do not really agree with it
Example: Senior government figures must have acquiesced in the cover-up.
activate /ˈæktɪveɪt/
(verb) to make something such as a device or chemical process start working
Example: The burglar alarm is activated by movement.
(verb) to make something such as a device or chemical process start working
Example: The burglar alarm is activated by movement.
addicted /əˈdɪktɪd/
(adjective) unable to stop using or doing something as a habit, especially something harmful
Example: to become addicted to drugs/gambling
(adjective) unable to stop using or doing something as a habit, especially something harmful
Example: to become addicted to drugs/gambling
admonish /ədˈmɑːnɪʃ/
(verb) to tell somebody strongly and clearly that you do not approve of something that they have done
Example: She was admonished for chewing gum in class.
(verb) to tell somebody strongly and clearly that you do not approve of something that they have done
Example: She was admonished for chewing gum in class.
adulthood /əˈdʌlthʊd/
(noun) the state of being an adult
Example: a child reaching adulthood
(noun) the state of being an adult
Example: a child reaching adulthood
affable /ˈæfəbl/
(adjective) pleasant, friendly and easy to talk to
Example: He greeted everyone in the same relaxed and affable manner.
(adjective) pleasant, friendly and easy to talk to
Example: He greeted everyone in the same relaxed and affable manner.
aggravate /ˈæɡrəveɪt/
(verb) to make an illness or a bad or unpleasant situation worse
Example: Pollution can aggravate asthma.
(verb) to make an illness or a bad or unpleasant situation worse
Example: Pollution can aggravate asthma.
alacrity /əˈlækrəti/
(noun) great happiness or enthusiasm
Example: They accepted the offer with alacrity.
(noun) great happiness or enthusiasm
Example: They accepted the offer with alacrity.
amiable /ˈeɪmiəbl/
(adjective) pleasant; friendly and easy to like
Example: Her parents seemed very amiable.
(adjective) pleasant; friendly and easy to like
Example: Her parents seemed very amiable.
appease /əˈpiːz/
(verb) to make somebody calmer or less angry by giving them what they want
Example: The move was widely seen as an attempt to appease critics of the regime.
(verb) to make somebody calmer or less angry by giving them what they want
Example: The move was widely seen as an attempt to appease critics of the regime.
arcane /ɑːrˈkeɪn/
(adjective) secret and mysterious and therefore difficult to understand
Example: He was the only person who understood all the arcane details of the agreement.
(adjective) secret and mysterious and therefore difficult to understand
Example: He was the only person who understood all the arcane details of the agreement.
arduous /ˈɑːrdʒuəs/
(adjective) involving a lot of effort and energy, especially over a period of time
Example: an arduous journey across the Andes
(adjective) involving a lot of effort and energy, especially over a period of time
Example: an arduous journey across the Andes
assimilate /əˈsɪməleɪt/
(verb) to fully understand an idea or some information so that you are able to use it yourself
Example: The older generation had more trouble assimilating
(verb) to fully understand an idea or some information so that you are able to use it yourself
Example: The older generation had more trouble assimilating
at-risk /ˌæt ˈrɪsk/
(adjective) in danger of being attacked or harmed
Example: Social services keep lists of at-risk children.
(adjective) in danger of being attacked or harmed
Example: Social services keep lists of at-risk children.
attainable /əˈteɪnəbl/
(adjective) that you can achieve
Example: Losing 20 kilograms in three months is a realistic and attainable goal.
(adjective) that you can achieve
Example: Losing 20 kilograms in three months is a realistic and attainable goal.
attention-grabbing /əˈtenʃn ˈɡræbɪŋ/
(adjective)
Example: I ask him how he copes with the American attitude to his attention-grabbing books.
(adjective)
Example: I ask him how he copes with the American attitude to his attention-grabbing books.
backpack /ˈbækpæk/
(noun) a bag that you carry on your back, made of strong material and often used by people who go climbing or walking
Example: Get your backpack and let’s go!
(noun) a bag that you carry on your back, made of strong material and often used by people who go climbing or walking
Example: Get your backpack and let’s go!
biodiversity /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːrsəti/
(noun) the existence of a large number of different kinds of animals and plants which make a balanced environment
Example: A new National Biological Survey will protect species habitat and biodiversity.
(noun) the existence of a large number of different kinds of animals and plants which make a balanced environment
Example: A new National Biological Survey will protect species habitat and biodiversity.
biofuel /ˈbaɪəʊfjuːəl/
(noun) fuel made from plant or animal sources and used in engines
Example: biofuels made from sugar cane and sugar beet
(noun) fuel made from plant or animal sources and used in engines
Example: biofuels made from sugar cane and sugar beet
blue-collar /ˌbluː ˈkɑːlər/
(adjective) connected with people who do physical work in industry
Example: She is comfortable dealing with blue-collar workers and elite patrons.
(adjective) connected with people who do physical work in industry
Example: She is comfortable dealing with blue-collar workers and elite patrons.
brazen /ˈbreɪzn/
(adjective) open and without shame, usually about something that shocks people
Example: She had become brazen about the whole affair.
(adjective) open and without shame, usually about something that shocks people
Example: She had become brazen about the whole affair.
brusque /brʌsk/
(adjective) using very few words and sounding rude
Example: The doctor spoke in a brusque tone.
(adjective) using very few words and sounding rude
Example: The doctor spoke in a brusque tone.
burgeon /ˈbɜːrdʒən/
(verb) to begin to grow or develop rapidly
Example: Love burgeoned between them.
(verb) to begin to grow or develop rapidly
Example: Love burgeoned between them.
cajole /kəˈdʒəʊl/
(verb) to make somebody do something by talking to them and being very nice to them
Example: He cajoled me into agreeing to do the work.
(verb) to make somebody do something by talking to them and being very nice to them
Example: He cajoled me into agreeing to do the work.
callous /ˈkæləs/
(adjective) not caring about other people’s feelings, pain or problems
Example: It might sound callous, but I don't care if he's homeless. He's not living with me!
(adjective) not caring about other people’s feelings, pain or problems
Example: It might sound callous, but I don't care if he's homeless. He's not living with me!
candour /ˈkændər/
(noun) the quality of saying what you think openly and honestly
Example: \"We really don't know what to do about it\" she said with surprising candour.
(noun) the quality of saying what you think openly and honestly
Example: \"We really don't know what to do about it\" she said with surprising candour.
censor /ˈsensər/
(noun) a person whose job is to examine books, films, etc. and remove parts that are considered to be offensive or a political threat
Example: The news reports had been heavily censored.
(noun) a person whose job is to examine books, films, etc. and remove parts that are considered to be offensive or a political threat
Example: The news reports had been heavily censored.
cherish /ˈtʃerɪʃ/
(verb) to love somebody/something very much and want to protect them or it
Example: Children need to be cherished.
(verb) to love somebody/something very much and want to protect them or it
Example: Children need to be cherished.
circumspect /ˈsɜːrkəmspekt/
(adjective) thinking very carefully about something before doing it, because there may be risks involved
Example: He was very circumspect in his financial affairs.
(adjective) thinking very carefully about something before doing it, because there may be risks involved
Example: He was very circumspect in his financial affairs.
circumvent /ˌsɜːrkəmˈvent/
(verb) to find a way of avoiding a difficulty or a rule
Example: They found a way of circumventing the law.
(verb) to find a way of avoiding a difficulty or a rule
Example: They found a way of circumventing the law.
clandestine /klænˈdestɪn/
(adjective) done secretly or kept secret
Example: The group held weekly clandestine meetings in a church.
(adjective) done secretly or kept secret
Example: The group held weekly clandestine meetings in a church.
close-knit /ˌkləʊs ˈnɪt/
(adjective) having strong relationships with each other and taking a close, friendly interest in each other’s activities and problems
Example: One of the school's strengths is its place at the centre of a close-knit village community.
(adjective) having strong relationships with each other and taking a close, friendly interest in each other’s activities and problems
Example: One of the school's strengths is its place at the centre of a close-knit village community.
cluttered /ˈklʌtərd/
(adjective) covered with, or full of, a lot of things or people, in a way that is untidy
Example: a cluttered room/desk
(adjective) covered with, or full of, a lot of things or people, in a way that is untidy
Example: a cluttered room/desk
coerce /kəʊˈɜːrs/
(verb) to force somebody to do something by using threats
Example: They were coerced into negotiating a settlement.
(verb) to force somebody to do something by using threats
Example: They were coerced into negotiating a settlement.
cohesive /kəʊˈhiːsɪv/
(adjective) forming a united whole
Example: Family life can be a cohesive force in society.
(adjective) forming a united whole
Example: Family life can be a cohesive force in society.
colonize /ˈkɑːlənaɪz/
(verb) to take control of an area or a country that is not your own, especially using force, and send people from your own country to live there
Example: The area was colonized by the Vikings.
(verb) to take control of an area or a country that is not your own, especially using force, and send people from your own country to live there
Example: The area was colonized by the Vikings.
colossal /kəˈlɑːsl/
(adjective) extremely large
Example: Now we're paying a huge price for their colossal mistake.
(adjective) extremely large
Example: Now we're paying a huge price for their colossal mistake.
computerize /kəmˈpjuːtəraɪz/
(verb) to provide a computer or computers to do the work of something
Example: The factory has been fully computerized.
(verb) to provide a computer or computers to do the work of something
Example: The factory has been fully computerized.
confidant /ˈkɑːnfɪdænt/
(noun) a person that you trust and who you talk to about private or secret things
Example: John didn't have any close friends or confidants.
(noun) a person that you trust and who you talk to about private or secret things
Example: John didn't have any close friends or confidants.
conjecture /kənˈdʒektʃər/
(noun) an opinion or idea that is not based on definite knowledge and is formed by guessing
Example: There's been a lot of conjecture in the media recently about the marriage.
(noun) an opinion or idea that is not based on definite knowledge and is formed by guessing
Example: There's been a lot of conjecture in the media recently about the marriage.
connive /kəˈnaɪv/
(verb) to seem to allow something wrong to happen
Example: The government was accused of having connived with the security forces to permit murder.
(verb) to seem to allow something wrong to happen
Example: The government was accused of having connived with the security forces to permit murder.
conserve /kənˈsɜːrv/
(verb) to protect something and prevent it from being changed or destroyed
Example: People in this city are trying to conserve the historic buildings.
(verb) to protect something and prevent it from being changed or destroyed
Example: People in this city are trying to conserve the historic buildings.
construe /kənˈstruː/
(verb) to understand the meaning of a word, a sentence or an action in a particular way
Example: He considered how the remark was to be construed.
(verb) to understand the meaning of a word, a sentence or an action in a particular way
Example: He considered how the remark was to be construed.
contaminate /kənˈtæmɪneɪt/
(verb) to make a substance or place dirty or no longer pure by adding a substance that is dangerous or carries disease
Example: The drinking water has become contaminated with lead.
(verb) to make a substance or place dirty or no longer pure by adding a substance that is dangerous or carries disease
Example: The drinking water has become contaminated with lead.
converse /kənˈvɜːrs/
(verb) to have a conversation with somebody
Example: She conversed with the Romanians in French.
(verb) to have a conversation with somebody
Example: She conversed with the Romanians in French.
cosmopolitan /ˌkɑːzməˈpɑːlɪtən/
(adjective) containing people of different types or from different countries, and influenced by their culture
Example: New York is a highly cosmopolitan city.
(adjective) containing people of different types or from different countries, and influenced by their culture
Example: New York is a highly cosmopolitan city.
counteract /ˌkaʊntərˈækt/
(verb) to do something to reduce or prevent the bad or harmful effects of something
Example: These exercises aim to counteract the effects of stress and tension.
(verb) to do something to reduce or prevent the bad or harmful effects of something
Example: These exercises aim to counteract the effects of stress and tension.
craving /ˈkreɪvɪŋ/
(noun) a strong desire for something
Example: Hunger cravings are very powerful, and trying to resist them is a constant struggle.
(noun) a strong desire for something
Example: Hunger cravings are very powerful, and trying to resist them is a constant struggle.
crux /krʌks/
(noun) the most important or difficult part of a problem or an issue
Example: Now we come to the crux of the matter.
(noun) the most important or difficult part of a problem or an issue
Example: Now we come to the crux of the matter.
cultivate /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/
(verb) to prepare and use land for growing plants or crops
Example: Most of the land there is too poor to cultivate.
(verb) to prepare and use land for growing plants or crops
Example: Most of the land there is too poor to cultivate.
current affairs /ˌkɜːrənt əˈferz/
(noun) events of political or social importance that are happening now
Example: Current Affairs in 2013
(noun) events of political or social importance that are happening now
Example: Current Affairs in 2013
debase /dɪˈbeɪs/
(verb) to make somebody/something less valuable or respected
Example: Sport is being debased by commercial sponsorship.
(verb) to make somebody/something less valuable or respected
Example: Sport is being debased by commercial sponsorship.
decry /dɪˈkraɪ/
(verb) to strongly criticize somebody/something, especially publicly
Example: The measures were decried as useless.
(verb) to strongly criticize somebody/something, especially publicly
Example: The measures were decried as useless.
deferential /ˌdefəˈrenʃl/
(adjective) showing that you respect somebody/something, especially somebody older or more senior than you
Example: He was always deferential towards his mentor.
(adjective) showing that you respect somebody/something, especially somebody older or more senior than you
Example: He was always deferential towards his mentor.
deforestation /ˌdiːˌfɔːrɪˈsteɪʃn/
(noun) the act of cutting down or burning the trees in an area
Example: There has been rising deforestation recently.
(noun) the act of cutting down or burning the trees in an area
Example: There has been rising deforestation recently.
demeanour /dɪˈmiːnər/
(noun) the way that somebody looks or behaves
Example: He maintained a professional demeanour throughout.
(noun) the way that somebody looks or behaves
Example: He maintained a professional demeanour throughout.
demolish /dɪˈmɑːlɪʃ/
(verb) to pull or knock down a building; to destroy something
Example: The factory is due to be demolished next year.
(verb) to pull or knock down a building; to destroy something
Example: The factory is due to be demolished next year.
demure /dɪˈmjʊr/
(adjective) behaving in a quiet, shy way that does not attract attention
Example: a demure young lady
(adjective) behaving in a quiet, shy way that does not attract attention
Example: a demure young lady
denote /dɪˈnəʊt/
(verb) to be a sign of something
Example: A very high temperature often denotes a serious illness.
(verb) to be a sign of something
Example: A very high temperature often denotes a serious illness.
depict /dɪˈpɪkt/
(verb) to show an image of somebody/something in a picture
Example: a painting depicting the Virgin and Child
(verb) to show an image of somebody/something in a picture
Example: a painting depicting the Virgin and Child
deplete /dɪˈpliːt/
(verb) to reduce something by a large amount so that there is not enough left; to be reduced by a large amount
Example: Food supplies were severely depleted.
(verb) to reduce something by a large amount so that there is not enough left; to be reduced by a large amount
Example: Food supplies were severely depleted.
deride /dɪˈraɪd/
(verb) to treat somebody/something as silly and not worth considering seriously
Example: His views were derided as old-fashioned.
(verb) to treat somebody/something as silly and not worth considering seriously
Example: His views were derided as old-fashioned.
despot /ˈdespɑːt/
(noun) a leader with great power, especially one who uses it in a cruel way
Example: an enlightened despot (= one who tries to use his/her power in a good way)
(noun) a leader with great power, especially one who uses it in a cruel way
Example: an enlightened despot (= one who tries to use his/her power in a good way)
deteriorate /dɪˈtɪriəreɪt/
(verb) to become worse
Example: Her health deteriorated rapidly, and she died shortly afterwards.
(verb) to become worse
Example: Her health deteriorated rapidly, and she died shortly afterwards.
diligent /ˈdɪlɪdʒənt/
(adjective) showing care and effort in your work or duties
Example: She is a diligent and committed officer, who goes far beyond the call of duty as treasurer.
(adjective) showing care and effort in your work or duties
Example: She is a diligent and committed officer, who goes far beyond the call of duty as treasurer.
distracting /dɪˈstræktɪŋ/
(adjective) taking your attention away from what you are trying to do
Example: I hate hearing distracting noise while working.
(adjective) taking your attention away from what you are trying to do
Example: I hate hearing distracting noise while working.
domesticate /dəˈmestɪkeɪt/
(verb) to make a wild animal used to living with or working for humans
Example: Dogs were probably the first animals to be domesticated.
(verb) to make a wild animal used to living with or working for humans
Example: Dogs were probably the first animals to be domesticated.
double-edged /ˌdʌbl ˈedʒd/
(adjective) having two cutting edges
Example: Their exploitation is double-edged - both by the factories and by the contractors.
(adjective) having two cutting edges
Example: Their exploitation is double-edged - both by the factories and by the contractors.
downsize /ˈdaʊnsaɪz/
(verb) to reduce the number of people who work in a company, business, etc. in order to reduce costs
Example: a TV news producer told what happened after her director downsized the newsroom.
(verb) to reduce the number of people who work in a company, business, etc. in order to reduce costs
Example: a TV news producer told what happened after her director downsized the newsroom.
dumbfounded /dʌmˈfaʊndɪd/
(adjective) unable to speak because of surprise
Example: The news left her dumbfounded.
(adjective) unable to speak because of surprise
Example: The news left her dumbfounded.
dwindle /ˈdwɪndl/
(verb) to become gradually less or smaller
Example: Love fades and dwindles in the hurly-burly of life.
(verb) to become gradually less or smaller
Example: Love fades and dwindles in the hurly-burly of life.
eco-friendly /ˌiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/
(adjective) not harmful to the environment
Example: Architects are trying to use eco-friendly materials for their building designs.
(adjective) not harmful to the environment
Example: Architects are trying to use eco-friendly materials for their building designs.
ecosystem /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/
(noun) all the plants and living creatures in a particular area considered in relation to their physical environment
Example: different ecosystems and biomes on our planet
(noun) all the plants and living creatures in a particular area considered in relation to their physical environment
Example: different ecosystems and biomes on our planet
elated /ɪˈleɪtɪd/
(adjective) very happy and excited because of something good that has happened, or will happen
Example: They were elated at the result.
(adjective) very happy and excited because of something good that has happened, or will happen
Example: They were elated at the result.
elevate /ˈelɪveɪt/
(verb) to give somebody/something a higher position or rank, often more important than they deserve
Example: Lie down and elevate your feet.
(verb) to give somebody/something a higher position or rank, often more important than they deserve
Example: Lie down and elevate your feet.
eloquent /ˈeləkwənt/
(adjective) able to use language and express your opinions well, especially when you are speaking in public
Example: People would listen to them only because of their eloquent expressions.
(adjective) able to use language and express your opinions well, especially when you are speaking in public
Example: People would listen to them only because of their eloquent expressions.
elucidate /ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/
(verb) to make something clearer by explaining it more fully
Example: He elucidated a point of grammar.
(verb) to make something clearer by explaining it more fully
Example: He elucidated a point of grammar.
embezzle /ɪmˈbezl/
(verb) to steal money that you are responsible for or that belongs to your employer
Example: He was found guilty of embezzling $150000 of public funds.
(verb) to steal money that you are responsible for or that belongs to your employer
Example: He was found guilty of embezzling $150000 of public funds.
emit /iˈmɪt/
(verb) to send out something such as light, heat, sound, gas, etc.
Example: The metal container began to emit a clicking sound.
(verb) to send out something such as light, heat, sound, gas, etc.
Example: The metal container began to emit a clicking sound.
empathy /ˈempəθi/
(noun) the ability to understand another person’s feelings, experience, etc.
Example: the writer's imaginative empathy with his subject
(noun) the ability to understand another person’s feelings, experience, etc.
Example: the writer's imaginative empathy with his subject
endanger /ɪnˈdeɪndʒər/
(verb) to put somebody/something in a situation in which they could be harmed or damaged
Example: Smoking endangers children's health.
(verb) to put somebody/something in a situation in which they could be harmed or damaged
Example: Smoking endangers children's health.
enmity /ˈenməti/
(noun) feelings of hate towards somebody
Example: personal enmities and political conflicts
(noun) feelings of hate towards somebody
Example: personal enmities and political conflicts
enrich /ɪnˈrɪtʃ/
(verb) to improve the quality of something, often by adding something to it
Example: The study of science has enriched all our lives.
(verb) to improve the quality of something, often by adding something to it
Example: The study of science has enriched all our lives.
enrol /ɪnˈrəʊl/
(verb) to arrange for yourself or for somebody else to officially join a course, school, etc.
Example: You need to enrol before the end of August.
(verb) to arrange for yourself or for somebody else to officially join a course, school, etc.
Example: You need to enrol before the end of August.
environmentally friendly /ɪnˌvaɪrənmentəli ˈfrendli/
(adjective) not harming the environment
Example: The blue plastic bag is environmentally friendly.
(adjective) not harming the environment
Example: The blue plastic bag is environmentally friendly.
equable /ˈekwəbl/
(adjective) calm and not easily upset or annoyed
Example: an equable temperament
(adjective) calm and not easily upset or annoyed
Example: an equable temperament
eradicate /ɪˈrædɪkeɪt/
(verb) to destroy or get rid of something completely, especially something bad
Example: The government claims to be doing all it can to eradicate corruption.
(verb) to destroy or get rid of something completely, especially something bad
Example: The government claims to be doing all it can to eradicate corruption.
erode /ɪˈrəʊd/
(verb) to gradually destroy the surface of something through the action of wind, rain, etc.; to be gradually destroyed in this way
Example: The cliff face has been steadily eroded by the sea.
(verb) to gradually destroy the surface of something through the action of wind, rain, etc.; to be gradually destroyed in this way
Example: The cliff face has been steadily eroded by the sea.
erudite /ˈerjədaɪt/
(adjective) having or showing great knowledge that is gained from academic study
Example: She could turn any conversation into an erudite discussion.
(adjective) having or showing great knowledge that is gained from academic study
Example: She could turn any conversation into an erudite discussion.
escalate /ˈeskəleɪt/
(verb) to become greater, worse, more serious, etc.; to make something greater, worse, more serious, etc.
Example: The fighting escalated into a full-scale war.
(verb) to become greater, worse, more serious, etc.; to make something greater, worse, more serious, etc.
Example: The fighting escalated into a full-scale war.
exacerbate /ɪɡˈzæsərbeɪt/
(verb) to make something worse, especially a disease or problem
Example: His aggressive reaction only exacerbated the situation.
(verb) to make something worse, especially a disease or problem
Example: His aggressive reaction only exacerbated the situation.
exhort /ɪɡˈzɔːrt/
(verb) to try hard to persuade somebody to do something
Example: The party leader exhorted his members to start preparing for government.
(verb) to try hard to persuade somebody to do something
Example: The party leader exhorted his members to start preparing for government.
exorbitant /ɪɡˈzɔːrbɪtənt/
(adjective) much too high
Example: Some hotels charge exorbitant rates for phone calls.
(adjective) much too high
Example: Some hotels charge exorbitant rates for phone calls.
extol /ɪkˈstəʊl/
(verb) to praise somebody/something very much
Example: Doctors often extol the virtues of eating less fat.
(verb) to praise somebody/something very much
Example: Doctors often extol the virtues of eating less fat.
eyesore /ˈaɪsɔːr/
(noun) a building, an object, etc. that is unpleasant to look at
Example: That old factory is a real eyesore!
(noun) a building, an object, etc. that is unpleasant to look at
Example: That old factory is a real eyesore!
fabricate /ˈfæbrɪkeɪt/
(verb) to invent false information in order to trick people
Example: The evidence was totally fabricated.
(verb) to invent false information in order to trick people
Example: The evidence was totally fabricated.
flabbergasted /ˈflæbərɡæstɪd/
(adjective) extremely surprised and/or shocked
Example: Friends were flabbergasted by the news that they'd split up.
(adjective) extremely surprised and/or shocked
Example: Friends were flabbergasted by the news that they'd split up.
fluency /ˈfluːənsi/
(noun) the quality of being able to speak or write a language, especially a foreign language, easily and well
Example: I have achieved certain fluency in German.
(noun) the quality of being able to speak or write a language, especially a foreign language, easily and well
Example: I have achieved certain fluency in German.
forsake /fərˈseɪk/
(verb) to leave somebody/something, especially when you have a responsibility to stay
Example: He had made it clear to his wife that he would never forsake her.
(verb) to leave somebody/something, especially when you have a responsibility to stay
Example: He had made it clear to his wife that he would never forsake her.
fractious /ˈfrækʃəs/
(adjective) easily upset, especially by small things
Example: Children often get fractious and tearful when tired.
(adjective) easily upset, especially by small things
Example: Children often get fractious and tearful when tired.
fruitless /ˈfruːtləs/
(adjective) producing no useful results
Example: I know the search for her will be fruitless but I still have to try.
(adjective) producing no useful results
Example: I know the search for her will be fruitless but I still have to try.
furtive /ˈfɜːrtɪv/
(adjective) behaving in a way that shows that you want to keep something secret and do not want to be noticed
Example: She cast a furtive glance over her shoulder.
(adjective) behaving in a way that shows that you want to keep something secret and do not want to be noticed
Example: She cast a furtive glance over her shoulder.
futuristic /ˌfjuːtʃəˈrɪstɪk/
(adjective) extremely modern and unusual in appearance, as if belonging to a future time
Example: They are also designing futuristic homes for the Qatari royal family.
(adjective) extremely modern and unusual in appearance, as if belonging to a future time
Example: They are also designing futuristic homes for the Qatari royal family.
gadget /ˈɡædʒɪt/
(noun) a small tool or device that does something useful
Example: Doraemon is a robot cat with a lot of miraculous gadgets in his pocket.
(noun) a small tool or device that does something useful
Example: Doraemon is a robot cat with a lot of miraculous gadgets in his pocket.
genetically modified /dʒəˌnetɪkli ˈmɑːdɪfaɪd/
(adjective) (of a plant, etc.) having had its genetic structure changed artificially, so that it will, for example, produce more fruit or not be affected by disease
Example: genetically modified food
(adjective) (of a plant, etc.) having had its genetic structure changed artificially, so that it will, for example, produce more fruit or not be affected by disease
Example: genetically modified food
globalization /ˌɡləʊbələˈzeɪʃn/
(noun) the fact that different cultures and economic systems around the world are becoming connected and similar to each other because of the influence of large multinational companies and of improved communication
Example: Globalization has certainly provided a boost to trade and labour reform in many countries.
(noun) the fact that different cultures and economic systems around the world are becoming connected and similar to each other because of the influence of large multinational companies and of improved communication
Example: Globalization has certainly provided a boost to trade and labour reform in many countries.
gluttony /ˈɡlʌtəni/
(noun) the habit of eating and drinking too much
Example: They treat Christmas as just another excuse for gluttony.
(noun) the habit of eating and drinking too much
Example: They treat Christmas as just another excuse for gluttony.
gratuitous /ɡrəˈtuːɪtəs/
(adjective) done without any good reason or purpose and often having harmful effects
Example: gratuitous violence on television
(adjective) done without any good reason or purpose and often having harmful effects
Example: gratuitous violence on television
grilling /ˈɡrɪlɪŋ/
(noun) a period of being questioned closely about your ideas, actions, etc.
Example: The minister faced a tough grilling at today's press conference.
(noun) a period of being questioned closely about your ideas, actions, etc.
Example: The minister faced a tough grilling at today's press conference.
gruelling /ˈɡruːəlɪŋ/
(adjective) very difficult and making you very tired, needing great effort for a long time
Example: The work week was six days, and each work day was a grueling 12 hours.
(adjective) very difficult and making you very tired, needing great effort for a long time
Example: The work week was six days, and each work day was a grueling 12 hours.
harass /həˈræs/
(verb) to annoy or worry somebody by putting pressure on them or saying or doing unpleasant things to them
Example: He has complained of being harassed by the police.
(verb) to annoy or worry somebody by putting pressure on them or saying or doing unpleasant things to them
Example: He has complained of being harassed by the police.
haughty /ˈhɔːti/
(adjective) behaving in an unfriendly way towards other people because you think that you are better than them
Example: He replied with haughty disdain.
(adjective) behaving in an unfriendly way towards other people because you think that you are better than them
Example: He replied with haughty disdain.
headway /ˈhedweɪ/
(noun) to make progress, especially when this is slow or difficult
Example: We are making little headway with the negotiations.
(noun) to make progress, especially when this is slow or difficult
Example: We are making little headway with the negotiations.
high-rise /ˈhaɪ raɪz/
(noun) a building that is very tall and has a lot of floors
Example: Several high-rise office buildings near the embassy were heavily damaged.
(noun) a building that is very tall and has a lot of floors
Example: Several high-rise office buildings near the embassy were heavily damaged.
human nature /ˌhjuːmən ˈneɪtʃər/
(noun) the ways of behaving, thinking and feeling that are shared by most people and are considered to be normal
Example: Is Human Nature fundamentally selfish or altruistic?
(noun) the ways of behaving, thinking and feeling that are shared by most people and are considered to be normal
Example: Is Human Nature fundamentally selfish or altruistic?
hygienic /haɪˈdʒenɪk/
(adjective) clean and free of bacteria and therefore unlikely to spread disease
Example: Food must be prepared in hygienic conditions.
(adjective) clean and free of bacteria and therefore unlikely to spread disease
Example: Food must be prepared in hygienic conditions.
imitate /ˈɪmɪteɪt/
(verb) to copy somebody/something
Example: Some animals can imitate humans’ actions.
(verb) to copy somebody/something
Example: Some animals can imitate humans’ actions.
immerse /ɪˈmɜːrs/
(verb) to put somebody/something into a liquid, especially so that they or it are completely covered
Example: She immersed herself in her work.
(verb) to put somebody/something into a liquid, especially so that they or it are completely covered
Example: She immersed herself in her work.
immortal /ɪˈmɔːrtl/
(adjective) that lives or lasts forever
Example: The soul is immortal.
(adjective) that lives or lasts forever
Example: The soul is immortal.
impair /ɪmˈper/
(verb) to damage something or make something worse
Example: His age impaired his chances of finding a new job.
(verb) to damage something or make something worse
Example: His age impaired his chances of finding a new job.
impart /ɪmˈpɑːrt/
(verb) to pass information, knowledge, etc. to other people
Example: to impart the bad news
(verb) to pass information, knowledge, etc. to other people
Example: to impart the bad news
impartial /ɪmˈpɑːrʃl/
(adjective) not supporting one person or group more than another
Example: As chairman, I must remain impartial.
(adjective) not supporting one person or group more than another
Example: As chairman, I must remain impartial.
impeccable /ɪmˈpekəbl/
(adjective) without mistakes or faults
Example: Her written English is impeccable.
(adjective) without mistakes or faults
Example: Her written English is impeccable.
impediment /ɪmˈpedɪmənt/
(noun) something that delays or stops the progress of something
Example: The level of inflation is a serious impediment to economic recovery.
(noun) something that delays or stops the progress of something
Example: The level of inflation is a serious impediment to economic recovery.
impertinent /ɪmˈpɜːrtnənt/
(adjective) rude and not showing respect for somebody who is older or more important
Example: an impertinent question/child
(adjective) rude and not showing respect for somebody who is older or more important
Example: an impertinent question/child
implacable /ɪmˈplækəbl/
(adjective) that cannot be changed
Example: an implacable enemy
(adjective) that cannot be changed
Example: an implacable enemy
impracticable /ɪmˈpræktɪkəbl/
(adjective) impossible or very difficult to do; not practical in a particular situation
Example: It would be impracticable for each member to be consulted on every occasion.
(adjective) impossible or very difficult to do; not practical in a particular situation
Example: It would be impracticable for each member to be consulted on every occasion.
imprison /ɪmˈprɪzn/
(verb) to put somebody in a prison or another place from which they cannot escape
Example: He was imprisoned in 1965 for attempted murder.
(verb) to put somebody in a prison or another place from which they cannot escape
Example: He was imprisoned in 1965 for attempted murder.
impudent /ˈɪmpjədənt/
(adjective) rude; not showing respect for other people
Example: an impudent young fellow
(adjective) rude; not showing respect for other people
Example: an impudent young fellow
incisive /ɪnˈsaɪsɪv/
(adjective) showing clear thought and good understanding of what is important, and the ability to express this
Example: an incisive mind
(adjective) showing clear thought and good understanding of what is important, and the ability to express this
Example: an incisive mind
incline /ɪnˈklaɪn/
(verb) to tend to think or behave in a particular way; to make somebody do this
Example: I incline to the view that we should take no action at this stage.
(verb) to tend to think or behave in a particular way; to make somebody do this
Example: I incline to the view that we should take no action at this stage.
indolent /ˈɪndələnt/
(adjective) not wanting to work
Example: They were indolent and addicted to a life of pleasure.
(adjective) not wanting to work
Example: They were indolent and addicted to a life of pleasure.
industrious /ɪnˈdʌstriəs/
(adjective) working hard; busy
Example: He struck me as being particularly hardworking, energetic and industrious.
(adjective) working hard; busy
Example: He struck me as being particularly hardworking, energetic and industrious.
inept /ɪˈnept/
(adjective) acting or done with no skill
Example: She was left feeling inept and inadequate.
(adjective) acting or done with no skill
Example: She was left feeling inept and inadequate.
inexorable /ɪnˈeksərəbl/
(adjective) that cannot be stopped or changed
Example: the inexorable rise of crime
(adjective) that cannot be stopped or changed
Example: the inexorable rise of crime
infamy /ˈɪnfəmi/
(noun) the state of being well known for something bad or evil
Example: scenes of horror and infamy
(noun) the state of being well known for something bad or evil
Example: scenes of horror and infamy
infer /ɪnˈfɜːr/
(verb) to reach an opinion or decide that something is true on the basis of information that is available
Example: Much of the meaning must be inferred from the context.
(verb) to reach an opinion or decide that something is true on the basis of information that is available
Example: Much of the meaning must be inferred from the context.
innumerate /ɪˈnuːmərət/
(adjective) unable to count or do simple mathematics
Example: an old innumerate lady
(adjective) unable to count or do simple mathematics
Example: an old innumerate lady
insatiable /ɪnˈseɪʃəbl/
(adjective) always wanting more of something; not able to be satisfied
Example: He was accused of sacrificing all, including justice, to his insatiable ambition.
(adjective) always wanting more of something; not able to be satisfied
Example: He was accused of sacrificing all, including justice, to his insatiable ambition.
insoluble /ɪnˈsɑːljəbl/
(adjective) that cannot be solved or explained
Example: The problem is insoluble.
(adjective) that cannot be solved or explained
Example: The problem is insoluble.
intimidating /ɪnˈtɪmɪdeɪtɪŋ/
(adjective) frightening in a way that makes a person feel less confident
Example: an intimidating manner
(adjective) frightening in a way that makes a person feel less confident
Example: an intimidating manner
intrepid /ɪnˈtrepɪd/
(adjective) very brave; not afraid of danger or difficulties
Example: an intrepid explorer
(adjective) very brave; not afraid of danger or difficulties
Example: an intrepid explorer
invade /ɪnˈveɪd/
(verb) to enter a country, town, etc. using military force in order to take control of it
Example: Troops invaded on August 9th that year.
(verb) to enter a country, town, etc. using military force in order to take control of it
Example: Troops invaded on August 9th that year.
inveterate /ɪnˈvetərət/
(adjective) always doing something or enjoying something, and unlikely to stop
Example: He was a congenital reformer, an inveterate crusader.
(adjective) always doing something or enjoying something, and unlikely to stop
Example: He was a congenital reformer, an inveterate crusader.
irreparable /ɪˈrepərəbl/
(adjective) too bad or too serious to repair or put right
Example: to cause irreparable harm to your health
(adjective) too bad or too serious to repair or put right
Example: to cause irreparable harm to your health
irreversible /ˌɪrɪˈvɜːrsəbl/
(adjective) that cannot be changed back to what it was before
Example: She suffered irreversible damage to her health.
(adjective) that cannot be changed back to what it was before
Example: She suffered irreversible damage to her health.
joint venture /ˌdʒɔɪnt ˈventʃər/
(noun) a business project or activity that is begun by two or more companies, etc., which remain separate organizations
Example: The website was a joint venture between him and his partner.
(noun) a business project or activity that is begun by two or more companies, etc., which remain separate organizations
Example: The website was a joint venture between him and his partner.
jubilant /ˈdʒuːbɪlənt/
(adjective) feeling or showing great happiness because of a success
Example: The fans were in jubilant mood after the victory.
(adjective) feeling or showing great happiness because of a success
Example: The fans were in jubilant mood after the victory.
kidnap /ˈkɪdnæp/
(verb) to take somebody away illegally and keep them as a prisoner, especially in order to get money or something else for returning them
Example: Two businessmen have been kidnapped by terrorists.
(verb) to take somebody away illegally and keep them as a prisoner, especially in order to get money or something else for returning them
Example: Two businessmen have been kidnapped by terrorists.
labour-saving /ˈleɪbər seɪvɪŋ/
(adjective) designed to reduce the amount of work or effort needed to do something
Example: modern labour-saving devices such as washing machines and dishwashers
(adjective) designed to reduce the amount of work or effort needed to do something
Example: modern labour-saving devices such as washing machines and dishwashers
law-abiding /ˈlɔː əbaɪdɪŋ/
(adjective) obeying and respecting the law
Example: law-abiding citizens
(adjective) obeying and respecting the law
Example: law-abiding citizens
lay-off /leɪ ɒf/
(phrasal verb) used to tell somebody to stop doing something
Example: lay-offs in the factory
(phrasal verb) used to tell somebody to stop doing something
Example: lay-offs in the factory
life-threatening /ˈlaɪf θretnɪŋ/
(adjective) that is likely to kill somebody
Example: She got into an accident and is now in a life-threatening condition.
(adjective) that is likely to kill somebody
Example: She got into an accident and is now in a life-threatening condition.
linger /ˈlɪŋɡər/
(verb) to continue to exist for longer than expected
Example: The faint smell of her perfume lingered in the room.
(verb) to continue to exist for longer than expected
Example: The faint smell of her perfume lingered in the room.
mass-produce /ˌmæs prəˈduːs/
(verb) to produce goods in large quantities, using machines
Example: mass-produced souvenirs
(verb) to produce goods in large quantities, using machines
Example: mass-produced souvenirs
materialistic /məˌtɪriəˈlɪstɪk/
(adjective) caring more about money and possessions than anything else
Example: Children today are so materialistic.
(adjective) caring more about money and possessions than anything else
Example: Children today are so materialistic.
maverick /ˈmævərɪk/
(adjective) independent, with unusual opinions
Example: a political maverick
(adjective) independent, with unusual opinions
Example: a political maverick
meteoric /ˌmiːtiˈɔːrɪk/
(adjective) achieving success very quickly
Example: a meteoric rise to fame
(adjective) achieving success very quickly
Example: a meteoric rise to fame
meticulous /məˈtɪkjələs/
(adjective) paying careful attention to every detail
Example: Their room had been prepared with meticulous care.
(adjective) paying careful attention to every detail
Example: Their room had been prepared with meticulous care.
midterm /ˈmɪdtɜːrm/
(adjective) in the middle of the period that a government, a council, etc. is elected for
Example: a midterm examination/break
(adjective) in the middle of the period that a government, a council, etc. is elected for
Example: a midterm examination/break
migrate /ˈmaɪɡreɪt/
(verb) to move from one part of the world to another according to the season
Example: Thousands were forced to migrate from rural to urban areas in search of work.
(verb) to move from one part of the world to another according to the season
Example: Thousands were forced to migrate from rural to urban areas in search of work.
milestone /ˈmaɪlstəʊn/
(noun) a very important stage or event in the development of something
Example: The successful flight marked a milestone in China's space project.
(noun) a very important stage or event in the development of something
Example: The successful flight marked a milestone in China's space project.
mishap /ˈmɪshæp/
(noun) a small accident or piece of bad luck that does not have serious results
Example: The event passed without mishap.
(noun) a small accident or piece of bad luck that does not have serious results
Example: The event passed without mishap.
modernize /ˈmɑːdərnaɪz/
(verb) to make a system, methods, etc. more modern and more suitable for use at the present time
Example: The company is investing $9 million to modernize its factories.
(verb) to make a system, methods, etc. more modern and more suitable for use at the present time
Example: The company is investing $9 million to modernize its factories.
momentous /məʊˈmentəs/
(adjective) very important or serious, especially because there may be important results
Example: At the same time, momentous events were taking place in Russia.
(adjective) very important or serious, especially because there may be important results
Example: At the same time, momentous events were taking place in Russia.
monotonous /məˈnɑːtənəs/
(adjective) never changing and therefore boring
Example: New secretaries came and went with monotonous regularity.
(adjective) never changing and therefore boring
Example: New secretaries came and went with monotonous regularity.
motivate /ˈməʊtɪveɪt/
(verb) to be the reason why somebody does something or behaves in a particular way
Example: She's very good at motivating her students.
(verb) to be the reason why somebody does something or behaves in a particular way
Example: She's very good at motivating her students.
mountainous /ˈmaʊntənəs/
(adjective) having many mountains
Example: A minority of people live in the mountainous region.
(adjective) having many mountains
Example: A minority of people live in the mountainous region.
multicultural /ˌmʌltiˈkʌltʃərəl/
(adjective) for or including people of several different cultures (= beliefs, languages, customs and traditions, etc.)
Example: My company is multicultural and has many international employees.
(adjective) for or including people of several different cultures (= beliefs, languages, customs and traditions, etc.)
Example: My company is multicultural and has many international employees.
nadir /ˈneɪdɪr/
(noun) the worst moment of a particular situation
Example: The party had made little headway since the nadir of 2002.
(noun) the worst moment of a particular situation
Example: The party had made little headway since the nadir of 2002.
narrow-minded /ˌnærəʊ ˈmaɪndɪd/
(adjective) not willing to listen to new ideas or to the opinions of others
Example: He had been narrow-minded before he took this volunteer trip.
(adjective) not willing to listen to new ideas or to the opinions of others
Example: He had been narrow-minded before he took this volunteer trip.
needy /ˈniːdi/
(adjective) not having enough money, food, clothes, etc.
Example: This fund is to help children of needy families.
(adjective) not having enough money, food, clothes, etc.
Example: This fund is to help children of needy families.
non-violent /ˌnɑːn ˈvaɪələnt/
(adjective) using peaceful methods, not force, to bring about political or social change
Example: non-violent resistance
(adjective) using peaceful methods, not force, to bring about political or social change
Example: non-violent resistance
nostalgic /nəˈstældʒɪk/
(adjective) having or bringing a sad feeling mixed with pleasure when you think of happy times in the past
Example: I feel quite nostalgic for the place where I grew up.
(adjective) having or bringing a sad feeling mixed with pleasure when you think of happy times in the past
Example: I feel quite nostalgic for the place where I grew up.
nuance /ˈnuːɑːns/
(noun) a very slight difference in meaning, sound, colour or somebody’s feelings that is not usually very obvious
Example: He changed his nuance of expression when he heard this news.
(noun) a very slight difference in meaning, sound, colour or somebody’s feelings that is not usually very obvious
Example: He changed his nuance of expression when he heard this news.
nurture /ˈnɜːrtʃər/
(verb) to care for and protect somebody/something while they are growing and developing
Example: It's important to nurture a good working relationship.
(verb) to care for and protect somebody/something while they are growing and developing
Example: It's important to nurture a good working relationship.
obsess /əbˈses/
(verb) to completely fill your mind so that you cannot think of anything else, in a way that is not normal
Example: She's obsessed by computers.
(verb) to completely fill your mind so that you cannot think of anything else, in a way that is not normal
Example: She's obsessed by computers.
obstruct /əbˈstrʌkt/
(verb) to block a road, an entrance, a passage, etc. so that somebody/something cannot get through, see past, etc.
Example: They were charged with obstructing the police in the course of their duty.
(verb) to block a road, an entrance, a passage, etc. so that somebody/something cannot get through, see past, etc.
Example: They were charged with obstructing the police in the course of their duty.
obtuse /əbˈtuːs/
(adjective) slow or unwilling to understand something
Example: Are you being deliberately obtuse?
(adjective) slow or unwilling to understand something
Example: Are you being deliberately obtuse?
on-air /ˌɑːn ˈer/
(adjective) being broadcast
Example: She explains how she deals with on-air technical problems.
(adjective) being broadcast
Example: She explains how she deals with on-air technical problems.
one-sided /ˌwʌn ˈsaɪdɪd/
(adjective) showing only one side of the situation; not balanced
Example: The game is quite one-sided because one of the two players is too strong.
(adjective) showing only one side of the situation; not balanced
Example: The game is quite one-sided because one of the two players is too strong.
onus /ˈəʊnəs/
(noun) the responsibility for something
Example: The onus is on employers to follow health and safety laws.
(noun) the responsibility for something
Example: The onus is on employers to follow health and safety laws.
opportune /ˌɑːpərˈtuːn/
(adjective) suitable for doing a particular thing, so that it is likely to be successful
Example: The offer could not have come at a more opportune moment.
(adjective) suitable for doing a particular thing, so that it is likely to be successful
Example: The offer could not have come at a more opportune moment.
optimize /ˈɑːptɪmaɪz/
(verb) to make something as good as it can be; to use something in the best possible way
Example: to optimize the use of resources
(verb) to make something as good as it can be; to use something in the best possible way
Example: to optimize the use of resources
orient /ˈɔːrient/
(verb) to direct somebody/something towards something; to make or adapt somebody/something for a particular purpose
Example: Our students are oriented towards science subjects.
(verb) to direct somebody/something towards something; to make or adapt somebody/something for a particular purpose
Example: Our students are oriented towards science subjects.
outer space /ˌaʊtər ˈspeɪs/
(noun) the area outside the earth’s atmosphere where all the other planets and stars are
Example: radio waves from outer space
(noun) the area outside the earth’s atmosphere where all the other planets and stars are
Example: radio waves from outer space
outweigh /ˌaʊtˈweɪ/
(verb) to be greater or more important than something
Example: The advantages of watching TV outweigh its disadvantages.
(verb) to be greater or more important than something
Example: The advantages of watching TV outweigh its disadvantages.
overdo /ˌəʊvərˈduː/
(verb) to do something too much; to make something seem larger, better, worse or more important than it really is
Example: She really overdid the sympathy (= and so did not seem sincere).
(verb) to do something too much; to make something seem larger, better, worse or more important than it really is
Example: She really overdid the sympathy (= and so did not seem sincere).
overpopulated /ˌəʊvərˈpɑːpjuleɪtɪd/
(adjective) with too many people living in it
Example: No one ever reads about the richer countries being overpopulated; their populations in fact seem to be going down.
(adjective) with too many people living in it
Example: No one ever reads about the richer countries being overpopulated; their populations in fact seem to be going down.
overworked /ˌəʊvərˈwɜːrkt/
(adjective) made to work too hard or too much
Example: Being overworked for a long time can make you exhausted.
(adjective) made to work too hard or too much
Example: Being overworked for a long time can make you exhausted.
panacea /ˌpænəˈsiːə/
(noun) something that will solve all the problems of a particular situation
Example: There is no single panacea for the problem of unemployment.
(noun) something that will solve all the problems of a particular situation
Example: There is no single panacea for the problem of unemployment.
penchant /ˈpentʃənt/
(noun) a special liking for something
Example: She has a penchant for champagne.
(noun) a special liking for something
Example: She has a penchant for champagne.
perpetrate /ˈpɜːrpətreɪt/
(verb) to commit a crime or do something wrong or evil
Example: to perpetrate a crime/fraud/massacre
(verb) to commit a crime or do something wrong or evil
Example: to perpetrate a crime/fraud/massacre
peruse /pəˈruːz/
(verb) to read something, especially in a careful way
Example: A copy of the report is available for you to peruse at your leisure.
(verb) to read something, especially in a careful way
Example: A copy of the report is available for you to peruse at your leisure.
PhD /ˌpiː eɪtʃ ˈdiː/
(noun) a university degree of a very high level that is given to somebody who has done research in a particular subject (the abbreviation for ‘ Doctor of Philosophy’ )
Example: In four years, I finished my Master's and PhD.
(noun) a university degree of a very high level that is given to somebody who has done research in a particular subject (the abbreviation for ‘ Doctor of Philosophy’ )
Example: In four years, I finished my Master's and PhD.
pink-collar /ˌpɪŋk ˈkɑːlər/
(adjective) connected with low-paid jobs traditionally done mainly by women, for example in offices and restaurants
Example: pink-collar workers
(adjective) connected with low-paid jobs traditionally done mainly by women, for example in offices and restaurants
Example: pink-collar workers
placid /ˈplæsɪd/
(adjective) not easily excited or annoyed
Example: It's the same in the fishing hamlets by this now calm and placid sea.
(adjective) not easily excited or annoyed
Example: It's the same in the fishing hamlets by this now calm and placid sea.
plethora /ˈpleθərə/
(noun) an amount that is greater than is needed or can be used
Example: The report contained a plethora of detail.
(noun) an amount that is greater than is needed or can be used
Example: The report contained a plethora of detail.
pollute /pəˈluːt/
(verb) to add dirty or harmful substances to land, air, water, etc. so that it is no longer pleasant or safe to use
Example: People should not pollute their environment.
(verb) to add dirty or harmful substances to land, air, water, etc. so that it is no longer pleasant or safe to use
Example: People should not pollute their environment.
polygamy /pəˈlɪɡəmi/
(noun) the custom of having more than one wife or husband at the same time
Example: mormon polygamy
(noun) the custom of having more than one wife or husband at the same time
Example: mormon polygamy
precipitous /prɪˈsɪpɪtəs/
(adjective) very steep, high and often dangerous
Example: precipitous intervention
(adjective) very steep, high and often dangerous
Example: precipitous intervention
preponderant /prɪˈpɑːndərənt/
(adjective) larger in number or more important than other people or things in a group
Example: Music does not play a very preponderant role in the school's teaching.
(adjective) larger in number or more important than other people or things in a group
Example: Music does not play a very preponderant role in the school's teaching.
pressurize /ˈpreʃəraɪz/
(verb) to persuade somebody to do something, especially by making them feel that they have to or should do it
Example: A pump is used to pressurize the fuel.
(verb) to persuade somebody to do something, especially by making them feel that they have to or should do it
Example: A pump is used to pressurize the fuel.
presumptuous /prɪˈzʌmptʃuəs/
(adjective) too confident, in a way that shows a lack of respect for other people
Example: Would it be presumptuous of me to ask to borrow your car?
(adjective) too confident, in a way that shows a lack of respect for other people
Example: Would it be presumptuous of me to ask to borrow your car?
pristine /ˈprɪstiːn/
(adjective) fresh and clean, as if new
Example: The car is in pristine condition.
(adjective) fresh and clean, as if new
Example: The car is in pristine condition.
prodigy /ˈprɑːdədʒi/
(noun) a young person whose intelligence or skill is unusually good for their age
Example: Mozart was a famous child prodigy, he composed music at the age of four.
(noun) a young person whose intelligence or skill is unusually good for their age
Example: Mozart was a famous child prodigy, he composed music at the age of four.
proficient /prəˈfɪʃnt/
(adjective) able to do something well because of training and practice
Example: I'm a reasonably proficient driver.
(adjective) able to do something well because of training and practice
Example: I'm a reasonably proficient driver.
profusion /prəˈfjuːʒn/
(noun) a very large quantity of something
Example: a profusion of colours
(noun) a very large quantity of something
Example: a profusion of colours
propel /prəˈpel/
(verb) to move, drive or push something forward or in a particular direction
Example: mechanically propelled vehicles
(verb) to move, drive or push something forward or in a particular direction
Example: mechanically propelled vehicles
publicize /ˈpʌblɪsaɪz/
(verb) to make something known to the public; to advertise something
Example: They flew to Europe to publicize the plight of the refugees.
(verb) to make something known to the public; to advertise something
Example: They flew to Europe to publicize the plight of the refugees.
punctual /ˈpʌŋktʃuəl/
(adjective) happening or doing something at the arranged or correct time; not late
Example: You are all required to be punctual.
(adjective) happening or doing something at the arranged or correct time; not late
Example: You are all required to be punctual.
quadrant /ˈkwɑːdrənt/
(noun) a quarter of a circle or of its circumference (= the distance around it)
Example: The river runs through the southwest quadrant of the city.
(noun) a quarter of a circle or of its circumference (= the distance around it)
Example: The river runs through the southwest quadrant of the city.
reap /riːp/
(verb) to obtain something, especially something good, as a direct result of something that you have done
Example: They are now reaping the rewards of all their hard work.
(verb) to obtain something, especially something good, as a direct result of something that you have done
Example: They are now reaping the rewards of all their hard work.
rebellious /rɪˈbeljəs/
(adjective) unwilling to obey rules or accept normal standards of behaviour, dress, etc.
Example: rebellious teenagers
(adjective) unwilling to obey rules or accept normal standards of behaviour, dress, etc.
Example: rebellious teenagers
recharge /ˌriːˈtʃɑːrdʒ/
(verb) to fill a battery with electrical power; to be filled with electrical power
Example: We needed the break in order to recharge.
(verb) to fill a battery with electrical power; to be filled with electrical power
Example: We needed the break in order to recharge.
recyclable /ˌriːˈsaɪkləbl/
(adjective) able to be recycled
Example: Are plastic bags recyclable?
(adjective) able to be recycled
Example: Are plastic bags recyclable?
reminiscence /ˌremɪˈnɪsns/
(noun) a spoken or written description of something that somebody remembers about their past life
Example: The book is a collection of his reminiscences about the actress.
(noun) a spoken or written description of something that somebody remembers about their past life
Example: The book is a collection of his reminiscences about the actress.
repercussion /ˌriːpərˈkʌʃn/
(noun) an indirect and usually bad result of an action or event that may happen some time afterwards
Example: The collapse of the company will have repercussions for the whole industry.
(noun) an indirect and usually bad result of an action or event that may happen some time afterwards
Example: The collapse of the company will have repercussions for the whole industry.
resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/
(noun) the ability of people or things to recover quickly after something unpleasant, such as shock, injury, etc.
Example: He showed great courage and resilience in fighting back from a losing position to win the game.
(noun) the ability of people or things to recover quickly after something unpleasant, such as shock, injury, etc.
Example: He showed great courage and resilience in fighting back from a losing position to win the game.
revolutionize /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/
(verb) to completely change the way that something is done
Example: Aerial photography has revolutionized the study of archaeology.
(verb) to completely change the way that something is done
Example: Aerial photography has revolutionized the study of archaeology.
risk-taker /rɪsk ˈteɪkə(r)/
(noun)
Example: They are risk-takers who either make a lot of money or lose a lot.
(noun)
Example: They are risk-takers who either make a lot of money or lose a lot.
rife /raɪf/
(adjective) if something bad or unpleasant is rife in a place, it is very common there
Example: It is a country where corruption is rife.
(adjective) if something bad or unpleasant is rife in a place, it is very common there
Example: It is a country where corruption is rife.
rotate /ˈrəʊteɪt/
(verb) to move or turn around a central fixed point; to make something do this
Example: The EU presidency rotates among the members.
(verb) to move or turn around a central fixed point; to make something do this
Example: The EU presidency rotates among the members.
sabbatical /səˈbætɪkl/
(noun) a period of time when somebody, especially a teacher at a university, is allowed to stop their normal work in order to study or travel
Example: to take a year's sabbatical
(noun) a period of time when somebody, especially a teacher at a university, is allowed to stop their normal work in order to study or travel
Example: to take a year's sabbatical
scenic /ˈsiːnɪk/
(adjective) having beautiful natural scenery
Example: National parks usually contain a variety of scenic features.
(adjective) having beautiful natural scenery
Example: National parks usually contain a variety of scenic features.
scrupulous /ˈskruːpjələs/
(adjective) careful about paying attention to every detail
Example: He was scrupulous in all his business dealings.
(adjective) careful about paying attention to every detail
Example: He was scrupulous in all his business dealings.
sedentary /ˈsednteri/
(adjective) in which you spend a lot of time sitting down
Example: a sedentary job/occupation/lifestyle
(adjective) in which you spend a lot of time sitting down
Example: a sedentary job/occupation/lifestyle
self-expression /ˌself ɪkˈspreʃn/
(noun) the expression of your thoughts or feelings, especially through activities such as writing, painting, dancing, etc.
Example: Self-expression is a healthy thing to do for your own development.
(noun) the expression of your thoughts or feelings, especially through activities such as writing, painting, dancing, etc.
Example: Self-expression is a healthy thing to do for your own development.
self-worth /ˌself ˈwɜːrθ/
(noun) a feeling of confidence in yourself that you are a good and useful person
Example: Praise your child to increase her sense of self-worth.
(noun) a feeling of confidence in yourself that you are a good and useful person
Example: Praise your child to increase her sense of self-worth.
sensationalist /senˈseɪʃənəlɪst/
(adjective) getting people's interest by using words that are intended to shock or by presenting facts and events as worse or more shocking than they really are
Example: sensationalist headlines
(adjective) getting people's interest by using words that are intended to shock or by presenting facts and events as worse or more shocking than they really are
Example: sensationalist headlines
serendipity /ˌserənˈdɪpəti/
(noun) the fact of something interesting or pleasant happening by chance
Example: Meeting her like that, and there of all places, was true serendipity!
(noun) the fact of something interesting or pleasant happening by chance
Example: Meeting her like that, and there of all places, was true serendipity!
short sighted /ˌʃɔːrt ˈsaɪtɪd/
(adjective) able to see things clearly only if they are very close to you
Example: a short sighted policy
(adjective) able to see things clearly only if they are very close to you
Example: a short sighted policy
showcase /ˈʃəʊkeɪs/
(noun) an event that presents somebody’s abilities or the good qualities of something in an attractive way
Example: The program showcases up-and-coming musicians.
(noun) an event that presents somebody’s abilities or the good qualities of something in an attractive way
Example: The program showcases up-and-coming musicians.
shun /ʃʌn/
(verb) to avoid somebody/something
Example: She was shunned by her family when she remarried.
(verb) to avoid somebody/something
Example: She was shunned by her family when she remarried.
signify /ˈsɪɡnɪfaɪ/
(verb) to be a sign of something
Example: Nobody really knows what the marks on the ancient stones signify.
(verb) to be a sign of something
Example: Nobody really knows what the marks on the ancient stones signify.
simulate /ˈsɪmjuleɪt/
(verb) to create particular conditions that exist in real life using computers, models, etc., usually for study or training purposes
Example: Computer software can be used to simulate conditions on the seabed.
(verb) to create particular conditions that exist in real life using computers, models, etc., usually for study or training purposes
Example: Computer software can be used to simulate conditions on the seabed.
skyscraper /ˈskaɪskreɪpər/
(noun) a very tall building in a city
Example: Are skyscrapers ugly?
(noun) a very tall building in a city
Example: Are skyscrapers ugly?
sprawl /sprɔːl/
(verb) to sit, lie or fall with your arms and legs spread out in a relaxed or careless way
Example: attempts to control the fast-growing urban sprawl
(verb) to sit, lie or fall with your arms and legs spread out in a relaxed or careless way
Example: attempts to control the fast-growing urban sprawl
stagnant /ˈstæɡnənt/
(adjective) stagnant water or air is not moving and therefore smells unpleasant
Example: A stagnant economy is not growing or developing.
(adjective) stagnant water or air is not moving and therefore smells unpleasant
Example: A stagnant economy is not growing or developing.
staid /steɪd/
(adjective) not fun or interesting; boring and old-fashioned
Example: The museum is trying to get rid of its staid image.
(adjective) not fun or interesting; boring and old-fashioned
Example: The museum is trying to get rid of its staid image.
stifle /ˈstaɪfl/
(verb) to prevent something from happening; to prevent a feeling from being expressed
Example: She managed to stifle a yawn.
(verb) to prevent something from happening; to prevent a feeling from being expressed
Example: She managed to stifle a yawn.
streamline /ˈstriːmlaɪn/
(verb) to give something a smooth, even shape so that it can move quickly and easily through air or water
Example: The production process is to be streamlined.
(verb) to give something a smooth, even shape so that it can move quickly and easily through air or water
Example: The production process is to be streamlined.
stutter /ˈstʌtər/
(verb) to have difficulty speaking because you cannot stop yourself from repeating the first sound of some words several times
Example: ‘W-w-what?’ he stuttered.
(verb) to have difficulty speaking because you cannot stop yourself from repeating the first sound of some words several times
Example: ‘W-w-what?’ he stuttered.
succumb /səˈkʌm/
(verb) to not be able to fight an attack, a temptation , etc.
Example: The town succumbed after a short siege.
(verb) to not be able to fight an attack, a temptation , etc.
Example: The town succumbed after a short siege.
superfluous /suːˈpɜːrfluəs/
(adjective) unnecessary or more than you need or want
Example: The report was marred by a mass of superfluous detail.
(adjective) unnecessary or more than you need or want
Example: The report was marred by a mass of superfluous detail.
surpass /sərˈpæs/
(verb) to do or be better than somebody/something
Example: The book's success surpassed everyone's expectations.
(verb) to do or be better than somebody/something
Example: The book's success surpassed everyone's expectations.
sycophant /ˈsɪkəfænt/
(noun) a person who praises important or powerful people too much and in a way that is not sincere, especially in order to get something from them
Example: The prime minister is surrounded by sycophants.
(noun) a person who praises important or powerful people too much and in a way that is not sincere, especially in order to get something from them
Example: The prime minister is surrounded by sycophants.
tantamount /ˈtæntəmaʊnt/
(adjective) having the same bad effect as something else
Example: If he resigned it would be tantamount to admitting that he was guilty.
(adjective) having the same bad effect as something else
Example: If he resigned it would be tantamount to admitting that he was guilty.
telecommute /ˌtelikəˈmjuːt/
(verb) to work from home, making use of the internet, email and phone
Example: The company now allows some of its employees to telecommute.
(verb) to work from home, making use of the internet, email and phone
Example: The company now allows some of its employees to telecommute.
terrestrial /təˈrestriəl/
(adjective) living on the land or on the ground, rather than in water, in trees or in the air
Example: top 12 fastest terrestrial animals
(adjective) living on the land or on the ground, rather than in water, in trees or in the air
Example: top 12 fastest terrestrial animals
timeline /ˈtaɪmlaɪn/
(noun) a horizontal line that is used to represent time, with the past towards the left and the future towards the right
Example: timeline on Facebook
(noun) a horizontal line that is used to represent time, with the past towards the left and the future towards the right
Example: timeline on Facebook
transcend /trænˈsend/
(verb) to be or go beyond the usual limits of something
Example: The best films are those which transcend national or cultural barriers.
(verb) to be or go beyond the usual limits of something
Example: The best films are those which transcend national or cultural barriers.
truculent /ˈtrʌkjələnt/
(adjective) tending to argue or become angry; slightly aggressive
Example: ‘What do you want?’ he asked, sounding slightly truculent.
(adjective) tending to argue or become angry; slightly aggressive
Example: ‘What do you want?’ he asked, sounding slightly truculent.
ultra /ˈʌltrə/
(noun) a person who holds extreme views, especially in politics
Example:
(noun) a person who holds extreme views, especially in politics
Example:
unintentional /ˌʌnɪnˈtenʃənl/
(adjective) not done deliberately, but happening by accident
Example: Perhaps I misled you, but it was quite unintentional (= I did not mean to).
(adjective) not done deliberately, but happening by accident
Example: Perhaps I misled you, but it was quite unintentional (= I did not mean to).
unleaded /ˌʌnˈledɪd/
(noun) petrol that does not contain lead and is therefore less harmful to the environment
Example: The proposal is to use ethanol to mix with unleaded petrol on a 1: 10 basis, known as E10.
(noun) petrol that does not contain lead and is therefore less harmful to the environment
Example: The proposal is to use ethanol to mix with unleaded petrol on a 1: 10 basis, known as E10.
unmanned /ˌʌnˈmænd/
(adjective) if a machine, a vehicle, a place or an activity is unmanned , it does not have or need a person to control or operate it
Example: an unmanned spacecraft
(adjective) if a machine, a vehicle, a place or an activity is unmanned , it does not have or need a person to control or operate it
Example: an unmanned spacecraft
unspoiled /ˌʌnˈspɔɪld/
(adjective) beautiful because it has not been changed or built on
Example: She was an affectionate child and remarkably unspoiled.
(adjective) beautiful because it has not been changed or built on
Example: She was an affectionate child and remarkably unspoiled.
upbeat /ˈʌpbiːt/
(adjective) positive and enthusiastic; making you feel that the future will be good
Example: The tone of the speech was upbeat.
(adjective) positive and enthusiastic; making you feel that the future will be good
Example: The tone of the speech was upbeat.
uphold /ʌpˈhəʊld/
(verb) to support something that you think is right and make sure that it continues to exist
Example: We have a duty to uphold the law.
(verb) to support something that you think is right and make sure that it continues to exist
Example: We have a duty to uphold the law.
upmarket /ˌʌpˈmɑːrkɪt/
(adverb) in a way that involves buying or selling goods and services that are expensive and of high quality
Example: an upmarket restaurant
(adverb) in a way that involves buying or selling goods and services that are expensive and of high quality
Example: an upmarket restaurant
upsurge /ˈʌpsɜːrdʒ/
(noun) a sudden large increase in something
Example: an upsurge in violent crime
(noun) a sudden large increase in something
Example: an upsurge in violent crime
urbanized /ˈɜːrbənaɪzd/
(adjective) having a lot of towns, streets, factories, etc. rather than countryside
Example: an increasingly urbanized society
(adjective) having a lot of towns, streets, factories, etc. rather than countryside
Example: an increasingly urbanized society
user-friendly /ˌjuːzər ˈfrendli/
(adjective) easy for people who are not experts to use or understand
Example: a user-friendly interface/ printer
(adjective) easy for people who are not experts to use or understand
Example: a user-friendly interface/ printer
varsity /ˈvɑːrsəti/
(noun) the main team that represents a college or high school , especially in sports competitions
Example: the varsity match
(noun) the main team that represents a college or high school , especially in sports competitions
Example: the varsity match
vehement /ˈviːəmənt/
(adjective) showing very strong feelings, especially anger
Example: a vehement denial/attack/protest, etc.
(adjective) showing very strong feelings, especially anger
Example: a vehement denial/attack/protest, etc.
venal /ˈviːnl/
(adjective) prepared to do things that are not honest or moral in return for money
Example: venal journalists
(adjective) prepared to do things that are not honest or moral in return for money
Example: venal journalists
venerable /ˈvenərəbl/
(adjective) venerable people or things deserve respect because they are old, important, wise, etc.
Example: a venerable old man
(adjective) venerable people or things deserve respect because they are old, important, wise, etc.
Example: a venerable old man
vindicate /ˈvɪndɪkeɪt/
(verb) to prove that something is true or that you were right to do something, especially when other people had a different opinion
Example: I have every confidence that this decision will be fully vindicated.
(verb) to prove that something is true or that you were right to do something, especially when other people had a different opinion
Example: I have every confidence that this decision will be fully vindicated.
violate /ˈvaɪəleɪt/
(verb) to go against or refuse to obey a law, an agreement, etc.
Example: He violated international law.
(verb) to go against or refuse to obey a law, an agreement, etc.
Example: He violated international law.
visualize /ˈvɪʒuəlaɪz/
(verb) to form a picture of somebody/something in your mind
Example: Try to visualize him as an old man.
(verb) to form a picture of somebody/something in your mind
Example: Try to visualize him as an old man.
vociferous /vəʊˈsɪfərəs/
(adjective) expressing your opinions or feelings in a loud and confident way
Example: He was a vociferous opponent of the takeover.
(adjective) expressing your opinions or feelings in a loud and confident way
Example: He was a vociferous opponent of the takeover.
weightless /ˈweɪtləs/
(adjective) having no weight or appearing to have no weight, for example because there is no gravity
Example: The experiment was carried out in weightless conditions.
(adjective) having no weight or appearing to have no weight, for example because there is no gravity
Example: The experiment was carried out in weightless conditions.
well informed /ˌwel ɪnˈfɔːrmd/
(adjective) having or showing knowledge or information about many subjects or about one particular subject
Example: a well-informed decision
(adjective) having or showing knowledge or information about many subjects or about one particular subject
Example: a well-informed decision
well rounded /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/
(adjective) having a variety of experiences and abilities and a fully developed personality
Example: schools that turn out well–rounded graduates
(adjective) having a variety of experiences and abilities and a fully developed personality
Example: schools that turn out well–rounded graduates
white-collar /ˌwaɪt ˈkɑːlər/
(adjective) working in an office, rather than in a factory, etc.; connected with work in offices
Example: white-collar workers
(adjective) working in an office, rather than in a factory, etc.; connected with work in offices
Example: white-collar workers
win-win /ˌwɪn ˈwɪn/
(adjective) in which there is a good result for each person or group involved
Example: This is a win-win situation all around.
(adjective) in which there is a good result for each person or group involved
Example: This is a win-win situation all around.
worsen /ˈwɜːrsn/
(verb) to become or make something worse than it was before
Example: The political situation is steadily worsening.
(verb) to become or make something worse than it was before
Example: The political situation is steadily worsening.
zenith /ˈziːnɪθ/
(noun) the highest point that the sun or moon reaches in the sky, directly above you
Example: In the 1860s, Tolstoy was at the zenith of his achievement.
(noun) the highest point that the sun or moon reaches in the sky, directly above you
Example: In the 1860s, Tolstoy was at the zenith of his achievement.