C1 - advanced Flashcards
C1 indicates advanced level of ability based on ‘Common European Framework of Reference’ (CEFR) for languages, which is a description of the language abilities of students at different levels of learning.
v
To officially end a law, a system or an institution.
abolish
/əˈbɑːlɪʃ/
This tax should be abolished.
n
The deliberate ending of a pregnancy at an early stage.
abortion
/əˈbɔːrʃn/
She decided to have an abortion.
n
The fact of somebody being away from a place where they are usually expected to be.
absence
/ˈæbsəns/
The decision was made in my absence.
adj
Not in a place because of illness, etc.
absent
/ˈæbsənt/
He was absent from work for two weeks.
N
(noun): The use of something in a way that is wrong or harmful
abuse
/əˈbjuːs/
(as a noun): “The system of paying cash bonuses is open to abuse.”
adj
Extremely silly; not logical and sensible.
absurd
/əbˈsɝːd/
That uniform makes the guards look absurd.
V
To treat a person or an animal in a cruel or violent way, especially sexually.
abuse
/əˈbjuːs/
“The boy had been sexually abused.”
n
A large quantity that is more than enough.
abundance
/əˈbʌndəns/
“The brochure promised beautiful walks with an abundance of wildlife.”
n
A school or college for special training.
academy
/əˈkæd.ə.mi/
“She trained at the Royal Academy of Music.”
v
To happen faster or earlier; to make something happen faster or earlier.
accelerate
/ekˈsel.ɚ.eɪt/
“Inflation continues to accelerate.”
n
The act of accepting a gift, an invitation, an offer, etc.
acceptance
/əkˈseptəns/
“Please confirm your acceptance of this offer in writing.”
noun
According to a rule or the way that somebody says that something should be done.
accordance
/əˈkɔːrdns/
We acted in accordance with my parents’ wishes.
adj
That can be reached, entered, used, seen, etc.
accessible
/əkˈsesəbl/6
“The remote desert area is accessible only by helicopter.”
n
An impressive thing that is done or achieved after a lot of work.
accomplishment
/əˈkɑmplɪʃmənt/
“It was one of the President’s greatest accomplishments.”
adv
In a way that is suitable or right for the situation
accordingly
/əˈkɔːrdɪŋli/
“We have to discover his plans and act accordingly.”
n
The fact of being responsible for your decisions or actions and expected to explain them when you are asked.
accountability
/əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/
“The accountability of a company’s directors to the shareholders.”
adjective
Expected to explain your actions or decisions to someone.
accountable
/əˈkaʊntəbl/
“Politicians are ultimately accountable to the voters.”
verb
To gradually get more and more of something over a period of time.
accumulate
/əˈkjuːmjəleɪt/
“I seem to have accumulated a lot of books.”
noub
The process of gradually increasing or getting more and more of something over a period of time.
accumulation
/əˌkjuːmjəˈleɪʃn/
The accumulation of wealth.
adjective
- That contains acid or has the essential characteristics of an acid; that has a pH of less than seven
- That has a bitter sharp taste
- (Of a person’s remarks) critical and unkind.
acid
/ˈæsɪd/
1) Rye is tolerant of poor, acid soils. /
2) Acid fruit. It’s a very juicy fruit with a slightly acid flavour. /
3) 3) An acid wit
noun
A statement saying that you think a person is guilty of doing something wrong or illegal; the fact of accusing somebody.
accusation
/ˌækjuˈzeɪʃn/
I don’t want to make an accusation until I have some proof.
Verb
To say that somebody has done something wrong or is guilty of something.
accused
/əˈkjuːz/
She accused him of lying.
noub
The act of getting something, especially knowledge, a skill, etc.
acquisition
/ˌækwɪˈzɪʃn/
Theories of child language acquisition.
noun
(in Britain and North America) a unit for measuring an area of land;
4840 square yards or about 4 050 square metres
acre
/ˈeɪkər/
3 000 acres of parkland /
a three-acre wood /
(informal) Each house has acres of space around it (= a lot of space).
noun
The act of making something such as a device or chemical process start working.
activation
/ˌæktɪˈveɪʃn/
The activation of several target genes results in two major effects.
noun
A person who works to achieve political or social change, especially as a member of an organization with particular aims.
activist
/ˈæktɪvɪst/
Thousands of environmental activists joined the march to demand action on climate change.
adjective
Very serious or severe.
acute
/əˈkjuːt/
There is an acute shortage of water.
noun
The action or process of changing something, or of being changed, to suit a new purpose or situation.
adaptation
/ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/
The adaptation of buildings for military purposes
verb
To stick to something.
adhere
/ədˈhɪə/
Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria adhere to the surface of the red cells. /
Clean the surface first, or the paint will not adhere. /
There was oil adhering to the bird’s feathers.
adjective
Next to or near something.
adjacent
/əˈdʒeɪsnt/
The planes landed on adjacent runways. /
Our farmland was adjacent to the river.
noun
A small change made to something in order to correct or improve it.
adjustment
/əˈdʒʌstmənt/
“I’ve made a few adjustments to the design. /
Some adjustment of the lens may be necessary.”
verb
To manage and organize the affairs of a company, an organization, a country, etc.
administer
/ədˈmɪnɪstə /
“The pension funds are administered by commercial banks.”
adjective
Connected with organizing the work of a business or an institution.
administrative
/ədˈmɪnɪstrətɪv/
an administrative job/assistant/error.
noun
A person whose job is to manage and organize the public or business affairs of a company or an institution, or a person who works in an office dealing with records, accounts, etc.
administrator
/ədˈmɪnɪstreɪtə/
“Such organizational decisions are made by the hospital administrators.”
noun
The act of accepting somebody into an institution, organization, etc.; the right to enter a place or to join an institution or organization.
admission
/ədˈmɪʃn/
the university admissions policy/office /
Hospital admission is not necessary in most cases.
noun
A young person who is developing from a child into an adult.
adolescent
/ˌædəˈlesnt/
“Adolescents between the ages of 13 and 18 and the problems they face.”
noun
The act of adopting a child; the fact of being adopted.
adoption
/əˈdɒpʃn/
“She put the baby up for adoption.”
adjective
Negative and unpleasant; not likely to produce a good result.
adverse
/ədˈvɜːs/
This drug is known to have adverse side effects. /
adverse change/circumstances/weather conditions
noun
(noun): A person who supports or speaks in favor of somebody or of a public plan or action.
advocate
/ˈædvəkeɪt/
(noun): “An advocate for hospital workers.”
verb
to support something publicly
advocate
/ˈædvəkeɪt/
These policies have been widely advocated.
adjective
Connected with beauty and art and the understanding of beautiful things.
aesthetic
/esˈθetɪk/
“The new building has little aesthetic value / appeal.”
noun
The feeling of liking or loving somebody/something very much and caring about them.
affection
/əˈfekʃn/
“Children need lots of love and affection /
He didn’t show his wife any affection. /
She was held in deep affection by all her students.”
noun
The situation that exists as a result of an important (and usually unpleasant) event, especially a war, an accident, etc.
aftermath
/ˈæftərmæθ/
“A lot of rebuilding took place in the aftermath of the war.”
noun
Feelings of anger and hate that may result in threatening or violent behaviour.
aggression
/əˈɡreʃn/
“The research shows that computer games may cause aggression.”
adjective
Connected with the science or practice of farming.
agricultural
/ˌæɡrɪˈkʌltʃərəl/
“agricultural policy/land/production/development.”
Verb
To warn somebody about a dangerous situation or one that requires immediate action.
alert
/əˈlɜːrt/
“The public has been alerted to the dangers of eating raw shellfish.”
noun
A state of being watchful for possible danger
alert
/əˈlɜːrt/
“The police are on the alert for any suspicious activity.”
noun
A person who helps another person, especially a politician, in their job.
aide
/eɪd/
“He was a top aide to the president.”
adverb
In a very similar way.
alike
/əˈlaɪk/
“The twins dress alike.”
conjunction
although; even though
albeit
/ˌɔːlˈbiːɪt/
He finally agreed, albeit reluctantly, to help us.
adjective
Able to think quickly; quick to notice things.
alert
/əˈlɜːrt/
“She’s a very alert driver.”
adjective
strange and frightening; different from what you are used to
alien
/ˈeɪliən/
an alien environment /
In a world that had suddenly become alien and dangerous, he was her only security.
verb
to arrange something in the correct position, or to be in the correct position, in relation to something else, especially in a straight line
align
/əˈlaɪn/
Make sure the shelf is aligned with the top of the cupboard. /
The top and bottom line of each column on the page should align.
noun
Arrangement in a straight line or in correct relative positions.
alignment
/əˈlaɪnmənt/
“The wheels of the car are out of alignment.”
adjective
Similar to each other.
alike
/əˈlaɪk/
“The two houses are much alike.”
noun
A public statement that is made without giving proof, accusing somebody of doing something that is wrong or illegal.
allegation
/ˌælɪˈɡeɪʃn/
“He denied the allegations of corruption.”
verb
To state something as a fact but without giving proof.
allege
/əˈledʒ/
“The newspaper alleged the mayor’s corrupt practices.”
adverb
Used when something illegal or wrong is said to have been done, but has not been proved.
allegedly
/əˈledʒɪdli/
“He was allegedly involved in the robbery.”
adjective
Doing something for pleasure or interest, not as a job.
amateur
/ˈæmətʃə /
“An amateur photographer.”
noun
An agreement between countries, political parties, etc. to work together in order to achieve something that they all want.
alliance
/əˈlaɪəns/
“The two parties formed an alliance.”
verb
To give something officially to somebody/something for a particular purpose.
allocate
/ˈæləkeɪt/
“A large sum has been allocated for buying new books for the library.”
noun
An amount of money, space, etc. that is given to somebody for a particular purpose.
allocation
/ˌæləˈkeɪʃn/
“We have spent our entire allocation for the year.”
noun
A country that has agreed to help and support another country, especially in case of a war.
ally
/ˈælaɪ/
“Portugal is a traditional ally of England.”
noun
An amount of money that is given to somebody regularly or for a particular purpose.
allowance
/əˈlaʊəns/
“Do you get an allowance for clothing?”
noun
A light, silver-grey metal used for making pans, etc.
aluminum
/əˈluːmɪnəm/
“Aluminium saucepans/window frames aluminium foil.”
noun
- a person who takes part in a sport or other activity for pleasure, not as a job /
- (usually disapproving) a person who does not have enough skill to be able to do something well
amateur
/ˈæmətʃə /
- The tournament is open to both amateurs and professionals. /
- This work was done by a bunch of amateurs!
noun
An official who lives in a foreign country as the senior representative there of their own country.
ambassador
/æmˈbæsədə/
“The British Ambassador to Italy/in Rome.”
verb
To change a law, document, statement, etc. slightly in order to correct a mistake or to improve it.
amend
/əˈmend/
“He asked to see the amended version.”6
noun
A small change or improvement that is made to a document or proposed new law.
amendment
/əˈmendmənt/
“Parliament passed the bill without further amendment.”
prep
In the middle of or during something, especially something that causes excitement or fear.
amid
/əˈmɪd/
“He finished his speech amid tremendous applause.”
noun
A comparison of one thing with another thing that has similar features.
analogy
/əˈnælədʒi/
“The teacher drew an analogy between the human heart and a pump.”
noun
A spirit who is believed to be a servant of God, and is sent by God to deliver a message or perform a task.
angel
/ˈeɪndʒl/
A host of angels /
Angels are often shown dressed in white, with wings.
adjective
(of a person) with a name that is not known or that is not made public2. Pronunciation
anonymous
/əˈnɒnɪməs/
Example: The money was donated by a local businessman who wishes to remain anonymous
noun
A heavy metal object that is attached to a rope or chain and dropped over the side of a ship or boat to keep it in one place.
anchor
/ˈæŋkə /
“We raised the anchor and set sail.”
noun
The tools or other pieces of equipment that are needed for a particular activity or task:
apparatus
/ˌæpəˈreɪtəs/
Firefighters needed breathing apparatus to enter the burning house
adj
Attractive or interesting
appealing
/əˈpiːlɪŋ/
Spending the holidays in Britain wasn’t a prospect that I found particularly appealing
noun
Physical desire for food
appetite
/ˈæpɪtaɪt/
He suffered from headaches and loss of appetite
verb
To show your approval of somebody/something by clapping your hands.
applaud
/əˈplɔːd/
He started to applaud and the others joined in.
adjective
That can be said to be true in the case of somebody/something.
applicable
/ˈæplɪkəbl/
Much of the form was not applicable to me
verb
To choose somebody for a job or position of responsibility
appoint
/əˈpɔɪnt/
They have appointed a new head teacher at my son’s school.
adjective
Not seeming to be based on a reason, system or plan and sometimes seeming unfair
arbitrary
/ˈɑːbɪtri/
The choice of players for the team seemed completely arbitrary.
noun
Pleasure that you have when you recognize and enjoy the good qualities of somebody/something.
appreciation
/əˌpriːʃiˈeɪʃn/
She shows little appreciation of good music.
adjective
Relating to architecture and buildings.
architectural
/ˌɑːkɪˈtektʃərəl/
architectural features
noun
The grey or black powder that is left after something, especially tobacco, wood or coal, has burnt
archive
/ˈɑːkaɪv/
The BBC’s archives are bulging with material.
noun
A place with a flat open area in the middle and seats around it where people can watch sports and entertainment.
arena
/əˈriːnə/
A concert at Wembley Arena
adverb
used (often before a comparative or superlative adjective) when you are stating an opinion that you believe you could give reasons to support
arguably
/ˈɑːrɡjuəbli/
He is arguably the best actor of his generation.
noun
A violent attack on somebody, usually with physical force but can also mean a determined or forceful attempt to have an impact on somebody or something.
assault
/əˈsɔːlt/
“Both men were charged with assault.”
verb
To provide yourself or somebody else with weapons in order to fight a battle or war.
arm
/ɑːm/
The country was arming against the enemy.
verb
To express or explain your thoughts or feelings clearly in words.
articulate
/ɑːˈtɪkjuleɪt/
“She struggled to articulate her thoughts.”
noun
A group or collection of things or people, often one that is large or impressive.
array
/əˈreɪ/
A vast array of bottles of different shapes and sizes.
noun
The grey or black powder that is left after something, especially tobacco, wood or coal, has burnt.
ash
/æʃ/
Cigarette ash
noun
A strong desire to achieve something.
aspiration
/ˌæspəˈreɪʃn/
“I didn’t realize you had political aspirations.”
verb
To have a strong desire to achieve or to become something.
aspire
/əˈspaɪər/
“She aspired to a scientific career.”
noun
A group of people who have been elected to meet together regularly and make decisions or laws for a particular region or country.
assembly
/əˈsembli/
“Power has been handed over to provincial and regional assemblies.”
verb
to attack somebody violently, especially when this is a crime
assault
/əˈsɔːlt/
Four women have been sexually assaulted in the area recently.
noun
The act of murdering somebody, especially a famous person or political leader.
assassination
/əˌsæsɪˈneɪʃn/
“The president survived a number of assassination attempts.”
verb
To come together in a single place or bring parts together in a single group.
assemble
/əˈsembl/
“All the students were asked to assemble in the main hall.”
verb
To say or believe that something is the result of a particular thing.
attribute
/əˈtrɪbjuːt/
“She attributes her success to hard work and a little luck.”
verb
To state clearly and definitely that something is true.
assert
/əˈsɜːt/
“She continued to assert that she was innocent.”
noun
A statement saying that you strongly believe something to be true.
assertion
/əˈsɜːʃn/
“He was correct in his assertion that the minister had been lying.”
noun
A statement that something will certainly be true or will certainly happen, particularly when there has been doubt about it.
assurance
/əˈʃʊərəns/
“They called for assurances that the government is committed to its education policy.”
noun
Protection that a government gives to people who have left their own country, usually because they were in danger for political reasons.
asylum
/əˈsaɪləm/
There was a nationwide debate on whether the asylum laws should be changed.”
verb
To succeed in getting something, usually after a lot of effort.
attain
/əˈteɪn/
“He has attained the highest grade in his music exams.”
noun
An extremely cruel, violent, or shocking act.
atrocity
/əˈtrɑːsəti/
“The world was horrified by the atrocities committed against civilians.”
noun
The act of being present at a place, for example at school
attendance
/əˈtendəns/
“Attendance at these lectures is not compulsory.”
noun
a lawyer, especially one who can act for somebody in court
attorney
/əˈtɜːrni/
The prosecuting attorney began with a short opening statement.
noun
A quality or characteristic that someone or something has.
attribute
/əˈtrɪbjuːt/
“One of the key attributes of a good manager is flexibility.”
noun
An official examination of business accounts.
audit
/ˈɔːdɪt/
“The company’s accounts are subject to an annual audit.”
adjective
Known to be real and not fake.
authentic
/ɔːˈθentɪk/
“The signature on the painting is authentic.”
verb
To give official permission for something to happen.
authorize
/ˈɔːθəraɪz/
“The city council has authorized the construction of a new library.”
noun
The right of a group of people to govern itself, or to organize its own activities.
autonomy
/ɔːˈtɑːnəmi/
“The university has the autonomy to govern its own affairs.”
noun
A car.
auto
/ˈɔːtoʊ/
“He drives a red auto.”
noun
The state of being able to be used or obtained.
availability
/əˌveɪləˈbɪləti/
“The availability of affordable housing is limited in the city.”
verb
To wait for something or someone.
await
/əˈweɪt/
“She is anxiously awaiting her test results.”
noun
Everything that can be seen around an event or scene.
backdrop
/ˈbækdrɑp/
“The mountains provided a dramatic backdrop for our picnic.”
noun
Extra help or support that you can get if necessary
backup
/ˈbækʌp/
The police had backup from the army.
noun
Help and support from somebody to do something; financial support for something.
backing
/ˈbækɪŋ/
The police gave the proposals their full backing.
noun
Money that somebody agrees to pay if a person accused of a crime does not appear at their trial.
bail
/beɪl/
Can anyone put up bail for you?
noun
The system of voting in writing and usually in secret; an occasion on which a vote is held.
ballot
/ˈbælət/
The chairperson is chosen by secret ballot.
noun
A long piece of cloth with a message on it that is carried between two poles or hung in a public place to show support for something.
banner
/ˈbænər/
A huge banner over the street said ‘Welcome home’.
adjective
Not covered by any clothes.
bare
/beər/
She likes to walk around in bare feet.
noun
A large round container, usually made of wood or metal, with flat ends and, usually, curved sides.
barrel
/ˈbærəl/
They filled the barrels with cider.
noun
The lowest tone or part in music, for instruments or voices.
bass
/beɪs/
He always plays his stereo with the bass turned right up.
verb
to hit something small that is flying through the air
bat
He batted the wasp away.
noun
A place where a battle is being fought or has been fought.
battlefield
/ˈbætlfiːld/
Heavy casualties on the battlefield. He was wounded on the battlefield
noun
A part of the sea, or of a large lake, partly surrounded by a wide curve of the land.
bay
/beɪ/
The Bay of Bengal.
Hudson Bay.
A magnificent view across the bay.
noun
A line of light, electromagnetic waves or particles.
beam
/biːm/
Narrow beams of light/sunlight.
The beam of a torch/flashlight.
A laser/electron beam.
noun
An animal, especially one that is large or dangerous, or one that is unusual.
beast
/biːst/
Wild/savage/ferocious beasts.
Mythical beasts such as unicorns and dragons.
noun
In or to a lower position than somebody/something; under somebody/something.
behalf
/bɪˈhɑːf/
They collected money in behalf of the homeless.
adjective
Loved very much.
beloved
/bɪˈlʌvɪd/
In memory of our dearly beloved son, John. /
They were glad to be back in their beloved Ireland.
noun
A long seat for two or more people, usually made of wood.
bench
/bentʃ/
A park bench.
noun
Something that can be measured and used as a standard that other things can be compared with.
benchmark
/ˈbentʃmɑːk/
Tests at the age of seven provide a benchmark against which the child’s progress at school can be measured.
preposition
In or to a lower position than somebody/something; under somebody/something.
beneath
/bɪˈniːθ/
They found the body buried beneath a pile of leaves. / The boat sank beneath the waves.
noun
A person who gains as a result of something.
beneficiary
/ˌbenɪˈfɪʃəri/
Example: Who will be the main beneficiary of the cuts in income tax?
verb
To give information about somebody/something to an enemy.
betray
/bɪˈtreɪ/
He was offered money to betray his colleagues.
verb
To tie somebody/something with rope, string, etc. so that they/it cannot move or are held together strongly.
bind
bind - bound - bound
/baɪnd/
She was bound to a chair.
noun
The story of a person’s life written by somebody else; this type of writing.
biography
/baɪˈɒɡrəfi/
Boswell’s biography of Johnson.
noun
A senior priest in charge of the work of the Church in a city or district.
bishop
/ˈbɪʃəp/
The Bishop of Oxford.
adjective
Very strange or unusual.
bizarre
/bɪˈzɑː/
A bizarre situation/incident/story.
noun
The flat part of a knife, tool or machine, which has a sharp edge or edges for cutting.
blade
/bleɪd/
The machine comes with a plastic guard over the blade to protect the operator.
noun
An explosion or a powerful movement of air caused by an explosion.
blast
/blɑːst/
A bomb blast.
verb
To lose blood, especially from a wound or an injury.
bleed
/bliːd/
My finger’s bleeding.
verb
To mix two or more substances together.
blend
/blend/
Blend the flour with the milk to make a smooth paste.
verb
To ask God to protect somebody/something.
bless
/bles/
They brought the children to Jesus and he blessed them.
noun
God’s help and protection, or a prayer asking for this. /
An approval of or permission for something. /
Something that is good or helpful
blessing
To pray for God’s blessing.
The government gave its blessing to the new plans. It’s a blessing that nobody was in the house at the time.
verb
To talk in a way that shows you are too proud of something that you have or can do.
boast
/baʊst/
I don’t want to boast, but I can actually speak six languages.
noun
An extra amount of money that is added to a payment, especially to somebody’s wages or salary as a reward. /
Another pleasant thing in addition to something you were expecting.
bonus
/ˈbəʊnəs/
A £100 Christmas bonus3. The sunny weather was an added bonus.
verb
If something …. or you …. it, it moves quickly away from a surface it has just hit or you make it do this. /
bounce
/baʊns/
The ball bounced twice before he could reach it.
noun
A real or imagined line that marks the limits or edges of something and separates it from other things or places;
a dividing line.
boundary
/ˈbaʊndri/
After the war the national boundaries were redrawn.
verb
To move your head or the top half of your body forwards and downwards as a sign of respect or to say hello or goodbye. /
A weapon used for shooting arrows, consisting of a long curved piece of wood or metal with a tight string joining its ends.
bow
/bəʊ/
He bowed low to the assembled crowd. /
He was armed with a bow and arrow.
noun
A sudden increase in trade and economic activity; /
a period of wealth and success. /
A loud deep sound.
boom
/buːm/
Living standards improved rapidly during the post-war boom.
Outside, thunder boomed and crashed.
noun
A failure to do something that must be done by law.
breach
/briːtʃ/
They are in breach of Article 1199.
noun
An occasion when a vehicle or machine stops working.
breakdown
/ˈbreɪkdaʊn/
A breakdown on the motorway.
noun
An important development that may lead to an agreement or achievement.
breakthrough
/ˈbreɪkθruː/
To make/achieve a breakthrough
noun
A particular type of animal that has been developed by people in a certain way, especially a type of dog, cat, or farm animal.
breed
/briːd/
Labradors and other large breeds of dog
verb
To keep animals or plants in order to produce young ones for a particular purpose.
breed
breed - bred - bred
/briːd/
The rabbits are bred for their long coats.
noun
A way of connecting to the internet that allows you to receive information, including pictures, etc., very quickly and that is always active.
broadband
/ˈbrɔːdbænd/
Plans to provide rural areas with fast broadband
noun
A computer program that lets you look at or read documents on the World Wide Web
browser
/ˈbraʊzər/
What do you use as your default browser?
Adjective
Violent and cruel
brutal
/ˈbruːtl/
A brutal attack/murder/rape/killing
noun
A US, Australian or New Zealand dollar; a South African rand; an Indian rupee.
buck
/bʌk/
They cost ten bucks
noun
A friend
buddy
(plural buddies)
(North American English also bud)
/ˈbʌdi/
An old college buddy of mine.
noun
A thing or person that reduces a shock or protects somebody/something against difficulties.
buffer
/ˈbʌfər/
Support from family and friends acts as a buffer against stress.
noun
The (large) size or quantity of something
bulk
/bʌlk/
Despite its bulk and weight, the car is extremely fast.
noun
A duty, responsibility, etc. that causes worry, difficulty or hard work.
burden
/ˈbɜːrdn/
The main burden of caring for old people falls on the state
noun
The system of official rules and ways of doing things that a government or an organization has, especially when these seem to be too complicated
bureaucracy
/bjʊəˈrɒkrəsi/
We need to reduce paperwork and bureaucracy in the company
noun
The act or ceremony of burying a dead body
burial
/ˈberiəl/
Her body was sent home for burial
verb
To break open or apart, especially because of pressure from inside;
to make something break in this way
burst
/bɜːrst/
That balloon will burst if you blow it up any more
noun
- a group of senior members of a government that is responsible for advising and deciding on government policy;
- a piece of furniture with doors, drawers and/or shelves, that is used for storing or showing things
cabinet
/ˈkæbɪnət/
- a cabinet meeting
- “kitchen cabinets” or “a medicine cabinet”.
noun
the act or process of using numbers to find out an amount
calculation
/ˌkælkjuˈleɪʃn/
Cathy did a rough calculation”
“By my calculation(s), we made a profit of £20,000 last year”
noun
a strong, heavy, rough material used for making tents, sails, etc., and by artists for painting on.
canvas
/ˈkænvəs/
tents made from heavy canvas
adjective
something based on the principles of capitalism.
capitalist
/ˈkæpɪtəlɪst/
“a capitalist society/system/economy”
noun
the ability or qualities necessary to do something.
capability
/ˌkeɪpəˈbɪləti/
“Age affects the range of a person’s capabilities” /
“She has the capability to become a very fine actor”
noun
an economic system in which a country’s businesses and industry are controlled and run for profit by private owners rather than by the government.
capitalism
/ˈkæpɪtəlɪzəm/
the growth of industrial capitalism in the West
noun
a separate section of a train for carrying passengers /
a road vehicle, usually with four wheels, that is pulled by one or more horses and was used in the past to carry people.
carriage
/ˈkærɪdʒ/
a railway carriage
noun
the goods carried in a ship, an aircraft, or a motor vehicle
cargo
/ˈkɑːrɡəʊ/
“The tanker began to spill its cargo of oil”
verb
to make objects, patterns, etc. by cutting away material from a piece of wood or stone, or another hard material. /
the act of writing something on a surface by cutting into it.
carve
/kɑːrv/
“They carved their initials on the desk” /
“A Latin inscription had been carved on the lid of the box”.
noun
a public building or room where people play gambling games for money10. For example,
casino
/kəˈsiːnoʊ/
“a new hotel and casino in Las Vegas”
noun
A person who is killed or injured in war or in an accident.
casualty
/ˈkæʒuəlti/
“Our primary objective is reducing road casualties. Both sides had suffered heavy casualties”.
noun
A complete list of items, for example of things that people can look at or buy
catalogue
/ˈkætəlɔːɡ/
. “A mail-order catalogue”.
verb
To provide food and drinks for a social event.
cater
/ˈkeɪtər/
“Most of our work now involves catering for weddings”.
noun
Cows and bulls that are kept as farm animals for their milk or meat.
cattle
/ˈkætl/
“He moved his cattle farther down into the valley in winter”.
noun
Care that you take in order to avoid danger or mistakes; the fact of not taking any risks.
caution
/ˈkɔːʃn/
“Statistics should be treated with caution”.
Being careful about what you say or do, especially to avoid danger or mistakes; not taking any risks.
cautious
/ˈkɔːʃəs/
“The government has been cautious in its response to the report”.
verb
To stop happening or existing; to stop something from happening or existing.
cease
/siːs/
“Welfare payments cease as soon as an individual starts a job”.
noun
An area of land used for burying dead people, especially one that is not next to a church.
cemetery
/ˈsemətri/
“He was buried in a private cemetery”.
noun
A hall in a public building that is used for formal meetings.
chamber
/ˈtʃeɪmbə/
“The members left the council chamber”.
noun
A state of complete confusion and lack of order.
chaos
/ˈkeɪɑs/
“Heavy snow has caused total chaos on the roads”.
verb
To describe or show the qualities of somebody/something in a particular way.
characterize
/ˈkærəktəraɪz/
“Activities that are characterized as ‘male’ or ‘female’ work”.
noun
The power of pleasing or attracting people
charm
/tʃɑːrm/
He was a man of great charm. /
The hotel is full of charm and character
noun
A written grant by a country’s legislative or sovereign power, by which a body such as a company, college, or city is created and its rights and privileges defined
charter
/ˈtʃɑːrtər/
The United Nations Charter
adjective
(of a disease) lasting for a long time; difficult to cure
chronic
/ˈkrɑːnɪk/
Chronic bronchitis/arthritis/asthma
noun
A thick, solid piece that has been cut or broken off something
chunk
/tʃʌŋk/
A chunk of cheese/masonry
verb
When a liquid, gas or air …. or is …, it moves continuously around a place or system
circulate
/ˈsɜːrkjəleɪt/
The condition prevents the blood from circulating freely. /
Cooled air is circulated throughout the building
noun
The passing or spreading of something from one person or place to another
circulation
/ˌsɜːrkjəˈleɪʃn/
The circulation of money/information/ideas
noun
The legal right to belong to a particular country
citizenship
/ˈsɪtɪzənʃɪp/
They were granted full French citizenship. /
You can apply for citizenship after five years’ residency
adjcetive
Officially connected with a town or city
civic
/ˈsɪvɪk/
Civic buildings/leaders
adjective
Not belonging to or having a role in the armed forces
civilian
/sɪˈvɪliən/
Civilian casualties/life
noun
A person who is not a member of the military, the police, or a fire department
civilian
/sɪˈvɪliən/
The war caused many civilian casualties
noun
The quality of being clear and easy to understand
clarity
/ˈklærɪti/
The clarity of the picture. The report is lacking in clarity.
noun
A short fight between two groups of people.
clash
/klæʃ/
Clashes broke out between police and demonstrators.
noun
The act or process of putting people or things into a group or class.
classification
/ˌklæsɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/)
A document with the security classification ‘confidential’.
verb
To hold on tightly to somebody/something
cling
/klɪŋ/
Survivors clinging to a raft
adjective
Relating to the examination and treatment of patients and their illnesses.
clinical
/ˈklɪnɪkl/
She regarded her patients from a purely clinical standpoint
noun
A group of things of the same type that grow or appear close together
cluster
/ˈklʌstə /
The telescope is focused on a dense cluster of stars at the edge of the galaxy
noun
The situation when a factory, school, hospital, etc. shuts permanently
closure
/ˈkləʊʒə /
Spending cuts could mean the closure of the village school
noun
A government formed by two or more political parties working together.
coalition
/ˌkəʊəˈlɪʃn/
The two parties have formed a coalition
adjective
Of or near a coast.
coastal
/ˈkəʊstl/
A coastal path (one that follows the line of the coast)
noun
An alcoholic drink consisting of a spirit or spirits mixed with other ingredients, such as fruit juice or cream.
cocktail
/ˈkɑːkteɪl/
She sipped her cocktail slowly
adjective
Connected with mental processes of understanding
cognitive
/ˈkɒɡnətɪv/
A child’s cognitive development
noun
to describe when two or more events take place at the same time
coincide
/ˌkəʊɪnˈsaɪd/
“It’s a pity our trips to New York don’t coincide.”
verb
to work together with somebody in order to produce or achieve something.
collaborate
/kəˈlæbəreɪt/
“Researchers around the world are collaborating to develop a new vaccine.”
verb
to the act of working with another person or group of people to create or produce something.
collaboration
/kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/
“It was a collaboration that produced extremely useful results.”
adjective
used to describe something done or shared by all members of a group of people; /
involving a whole group or society.
collective
/kəˈlektɪv/
collective leadership/decision-making/responsibility; /
collective memory (= things that a group of people or a community know or remember, that are often passed from parents to children)
noun
an accident in which two vehicles or people crash into each other
collision
/kəˈlɪʒn/
“Stewart was injured in a collision with another player.”
noun
a journalist who writes regular articles for a newspaper or magazine
columnist
/ˈkɒləmnɪst/
a gossip/newspaper/political columnist
adjective
connected with or belonging to a country that controls another country
colonial
/kəˈləʊniəl/
a colonial power;
Tunisia achieved independence from French colonial rule in 1956;
Western colonial attitudes
noun
fighting or a fight, especially during a time of war.
combat
/ˈkɒmbæt/
“He was killed in combat.”
noun
A member of a commission, an official group of people who are responsible for controlling something or finding out about something.
commissioner
/kəˈmɪʃənər/
European Commissioners
noun
A spoken description of an event that is given while it is happening, especially on the radio or television
commentary
/ˈkɑːmənteri/
our reporters will give a running commentary on the election results as they are announced
noun
A product or a raw material that can be bought and sold.
commodity
/kəˈmɑːdəti/
rice, flour and other basic commodities
noun
Trade, especially between countries; the buying and selling of goods and services
commerce
/ˈkɑːmɜːrs/
Leaders of industry and commerce met at the summit in Paris.
verb / (formal)
to fight against an enemy
combat
/ˈkɒmbæt/
The security forces were unwilling to combat the insurgents.
noun
A person who describes an event while it is happening, especially on television or radio
commentator
/ˈkɑːmənteɪtər/
a television/sports commentator;
He’s one of the great sports commentators of our time.
noun
Connected with communism.
communist
/ˈkɑːmjənɪst/
a Communist country/government/leader
noun
A person or an animal that travels with you or spends a lot of time with you.
companion
/kəmˈpænjən/
Geoff was my companion on the journey.
adjective
Similar to somebody/something else and able to be compared
comparable
/ˈkɑːmpərəbl/
a comparable house in the south of the city would cost twice as much8.
noun
A strong feeling of sympathy for people or animals who are suffering and a desire to help them.
compassion
/kəmˈpæʃn/
to feel/show compassion;
She was known as a hard woman with no compassion, no emotion. ;
In an overworked doctor, feelings of compassion are soon lost.
verb
To force somebody to do something; to make something necessary
compel
/kəmˈpel/
The law can compel fathers to make regular payments for their children.
adjective
That makes you pay attention to it because it is so interesting and exciting
compelling
/kəmˈpɛlɪŋ/
her latest book makes compelling reading
noun
Something, especially money, that somebody gives you because they have hurt you, or damaged something that you own
compensation
/ˌkɑːmpenˈseɪʃn/
the employer has a duty to pay full compensation for injuries received at work
noun
The ability to do something well
competence
/ˈkɑːmpɪtəns/
to gain a high level of competence in English4
adjective
Having enough skill or knowledge to do something well or to the necessary standard
competent
/ˈkɑːmpɪtənt/
he’s very competent in his work
verb
To produce a book, list, report, etc. by bringing together different items, articles, songs, etc
compile
/kəmˈpaɪl/
we are trying to compile a list of suitable people for the job6.
verb
To add to something in a way that improves it or makes it more attractive
complement
/ˈkɑːmplɪment/
the excellent menu is complemented by a good wine list.
verb
To act in order to balance or correct something wrong or not normal
compensate
/ˈkɑːmpenseɪt/
in the second experiment, the temperature was raised to compensate for this bias
noun
The state of being formed of many parts; the state of being difficult to understand
complexity
/kəmˈpleksəti/
the increasing complexity of modern telecommunication systems
noun
The practice of obeying rules or requests made by people in authority
compliance
/kəmˈplaɪəns/
procedures that must be followed to ensure full compliance with the law
noun
A thing that makes a situation more complicated or difficult
complication
/ˌkɑːmplɪˈkeɪʃn/
the bad weather added a further complication to our journey
verb
To obey a rule, an order, etc.; to meet particular standards.
comply
/kəmˈplaɪ/
“They refused to comply with the UN resolution.”
noun
The different parts that something is made of; the way in which the different parts are organized.
composition
/ˌkɑːmpəˈzɪʃn/
“The chemical composition of the soil.”
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.
compromise
/ˈkɑːmprəmaɪz/
“After lengthy talks, the two sides finally reached a compromise.”
verb
To settle a dispute by agreeing that each side will give up something.
compromise
/ˈkɑːmprəmaɪz/
“It was a difficult decision to make, but eventually we compromised.”
verb
to begin to happen; to begin something.
commence
/kəˈmens/
“The negotiations are scheduled to commence at noon.”
verb
To calculate something.
compute
/kəmˈpjuːt/
“The losses were computed at £5 million.”
verb
To admit, often unwillingly, that something is true.
concede
/kənˈsiːd/
“He was forced to concede (that) there might be difficulties.”
verb
To hide somebody/something.
conceal
/kənˈsiːl/
“The paintings were concealed beneath a thick layer of plaster.”
verb
To form an idea, a plan, etc. in your mind; to imagine something.
conceive
/kənˈsiːv/
“He conceived the idea of transforming the old power station into an arts center.”
noun
An idea or a mental image that your mind can form of something or somebody.
conception
/kənˈsepʃn/
“Marx’s conception of social justice.”
noun
Something that you allow or do, or allow somebody to have, in order to end an argument or to make a situation less difficult.
concession
/kənˈseʃn/
“The firm will be forced to make concessions if it wants to avoid a strike.”
verb
to express very strong disapproval of somebody/something, usually for moral reasons;
to sentence somebody to a particular punishment, especially death;
to say that something is very bad or unacceptable.
condemn
/kənˈdem/
The violence was condemned as an act of barbarism. He was condemned to life imprisonment.
The building was condemned as unsafe.
verb
to discuss something with somebody, in order to exchange opinions or get advice;
to give somebody an award, a degree, a right, etc.;
to give somebody/something a particular quality or title.
confer
/kənˈfɜːr/
He wanted to confer with his colleagues before reaching a decision.
The university conferred an honorary degree on her. The new constitution confers wide powers on the president.
noun
a statement that a person makes, admitting that they are guilty of a crime;
a statement that a person makes, admitting that they have done something wrong or embarrassing;
the act of confessing something, especially your sins to a priest in the Roman Catholic Church.
confession
/kənˈfeʃn/
He signed a confession to both murders.
She made a confession: she had never read any of his books.
He went to confession every week.
noun
the arrangement of the parts that make up a whole, especially in a computer system or a machine;
the shape or outline of something.
configuration
/kənˌfɪɡjəˈreɪʃn/
You can change the configuration of your computer. The aircraft has a low-wing configuration.
verb
to keep somebody/something inside the limits of a particular activity, subject, area, etc.;
to keep somebody in a small or closed space; to prevent somebody from leaving a place, especially a place where they have been put as a punishment.
confine
/kənˈfaɪn/
Please confine your use of the phone to business calls.
The bird was confined in a small cage.
He was confined to a prison cell for 23 hours a day.
noun
a situation in which there is a lot of angry disagreement between two people or groups; the act of facing or meeting somebody, especially in an angry or aggressive way.
confrontation
/ˌkɑːnfrʌnˈteɪʃn/
The police are trying to avoid a violent confrontation with the protesters.
He was killed in a confrontation with a rival gang.
verb
to tell somebody that you are pleased about their success, good luck, etc.;
to tell somebody that you think they have done something very well.
congratulate
/kənˈɡrætʃuleɪt/
I’d like to congratulate you on your promotion.
He congratulated her on her excellent exam results.
noun
a group of people who are gathered together in a church or other religious building for a service, prayer, etc.;
a group of people who regularly attend religious services;
a group of people or animals that are gathered together in one place
congregation
/ˌkɑːŋɡrɪˈɡeɪʃn/
The priest addressed the congregation.
She joined the congregation of a local church.
A large congregation of birds was perched on the tree.
adjective
connected with the Congress of the United States or its members.
congressional
/kənˈɡreʃənl/
A congressional committee is investigating the scandal.
He is a congressional representative from Texas.
verb
To gain control of or subdue by military force; to overcome by force of arms;
to take possession of
conquer
/ˈkɑːŋkər/
“The Normans conquered England in 1066”
noun
The state of being able to use your senses and mental powers to understand what is happening.
consciousness
/ˈkɑːnʃəsnəs/
I can’t remember any more—I must have lost consciousness.
She did not regain consciousness and died the next day.
adjective
Following one after another in a continuous series.
consecutive
/kənˈsekjətɪv/
“She was absent for nine consecutive days”
noun
An opinion that all members of a group agree with
consensus
/kənˈsɛnsəs/
“There is a growing consensus of opinion on this issue”
noun
The part of your mind that tells you whether your actions are right or wrong
conscience
/ˈkɑːnʃəns/
“She was seized by a sudden pang of conscience”
noun
Permission to do something, especially given by somebody in authority.
consent
/kənˈsent/
“Children under 16 cannot give consent to medical treatment”.
verb
To agree to something or give your permission for something
consent
/kənˈsent/
“She finally consented to answer our questions”
verb
To protect something and prevent it from being changed or destroyed;
to use as little of something as possible so that it lasts a long time
conserve
/kənˈsɜːv/
“Help to conserve energy by insulating your home”
noun
The quality of always behaving in the same way or of having the same opinions, standard, etc.; the quality of being consistent
consistency
/kənˈsɪstənsi/
“She has played with great consistency all season”
verb
To make a position of power or success stronger so that it is more likely to continue;
to join things together into one
consolidate
/kənˈsɒlɪdeɪt/
“With this new movie he has consolidated his position as the country’s leading director”
noun
the people who live in and vote in a particular district
constituency
/kənˈstɪtʃuənsi/
constituency opinion
verb
To be considered to be something; to be the parts that together form something
constitute
/ˈkɒnstɪtjuːt/
“Female workers constitute the majority of the labour force”
noun
The system of laws and basic principles that a state, a country or an organization is governed by
constitution
/ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃn/
“Your right to vote under the constitution”
adjective
Relating to the constitution of a country or organization
constitutional
/ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənl/
“A constitutional amendment”.
noun
A thing that limits something, or limits your freedom to do something.
constraint
/kənˈstreɪnt/
Constraints of time/money/space; / financial/economic/legal/political constraints.
noun
The act of discussing something with somebody or with a group of people before making a decision about it
consultation
/ˌkɒnslˈteɪʃn/
The decision was taken after close consultation with local residents
verb
To think about whether you should do something, or how you should do something.
contemplate
/ˈkɒntəmpleɪt/
I have never contemplated living abroad
noun
The feeling that somebody/something is without value and deserves no respect at all.
contempt
/kənˈtempt/
She looked at him with contempt
verb
To compete against somebody in order to gain something.
contend
/kənˈtend/
Three armed groups were contending for power
noun
A person or team with a chance of winning a competition.
contender
/kənˈtendə /
A contender for a gold medal in the Olympics.
noun
a statement, letter, etc. that shows that something is true, correct or definite
confirmation
/ˌkɑːnfərˈmeɪʃn/
I’m still waiting for confirmation of the test results.
verb
confront somebody/something (of problems or a difficult situation) to appear and need to be dealt with by somebody
confront
/kənˈfrʌnt/
What is to be done about the economic problems confronting the country?
I was suddenly confronted by the task of rewriting the entire book.
The government found itself confronted by massive opposition.
noun
The subject matter of a book, speech, programme, etc
content
/ˈkɒntent/
Her poetry has a good deal of political content.
adverb
In a way that is repeated many times so that it is annoying
continually
/kənˈtɪnjuəli/
They argue continually about money.
noun
A belief or an opinion that you express, especially in an argument.
contention
/kənˈtenʃn/
It is our client’s contention that the fire was an accident
noun
A lack of agreement between facts, opinions, actions, etc
contradiction
/ˌkɑːntrəˈdɪkʃn/
There is a contradiction between the two sets of figures
noun
a person or company that has a contract to do work or provide goods or services for another company
contractor
/ˈkɑːntræktər/
a building/roofing/electrical contractor
a defence/security/military/civilian contractor
a private/an independent contractor
to employ an outside contractor
adjective
Completely different in nature or direction; different from something; against something
contrary
/ˈkɑːntreri/
Contrary advice/opinions/arguments.
Contrary to popular belief, many cats dislike milk.
noun
A person who writes articles for a magazine, book or website, or who talks on a radio or television program or at a meeting
contributor
/kənˈtrɪbjətər/
She is a regular contributor to this magazine
noun
the opposite fact, event or situation
contrary
/ˈkɑːntreri/
In the end the contrary was proved true: he was innocent and she was guilty.
noun
The act or process of changing something from one form, use or system to another.
conversion
/kənˈvɜːrʒn/
Their main business is the conversion of farm buildings into family homes
verb
To decide and state officially in court that somebody is guilty of a crime
convict
/kənˈvɪkt/
He was convicted of fraud
noun
The act of finding somebody guilty of a crime in court;
the fact of having been found guilty.
conviction
/kənˈvɪkʃn/
He plans to appeal against his conviction
verb
To work together with somebody else in order to achieve something.
cooperate
/kəʊˈɒpəreɪt/
The two groups agreed to cooperate with each other
adjective
Involving doing something together or working together with others towards a shared aim
cooperative
/kəʊˈɒpərətɪv/
This is a cooperative venture with the University of Copenhagen.
verb
To organize the different parts of an activity and the people involved in it so that it works well
coordinate
/koʊˈɔrdnˌeɪt/
They appointed a new manager to coordinate the work of the team
noun
The act of making parts of something, groups of people, etc. work together in an efficient and organized way
coordination
/kəʊˌɔːdɪˈneɪʃn/
The aim was to improve the coordination of services
noun
A person who organizes the different parts of an activity and the people involved in it so that it works well
coordinator
/kəʊˈɔːdɪneɪtə /
The campaign needs an effective coordinator
noun
A chemical element; a soft red-brown metal used for making electric wires, pipes, and coins
copper
/ˈkɒpə /
A copper mine
noun (informal)
A police officer
cop
/kɒp/
Somebody call the cops.
children playing cops and robbers
a TV cop show
noun
the legal right to be the only producer or seller of a book, play, film, or record for a specific length of time
copyright
/ˈkɒpiraɪt/
Copyright expires seventy years after the death of the author
noun
A change that makes something more accurate than it was before
correction
/kəˈrekʃn/
I’ve made a few small corrections to your report
verb
If two or more facts, figures, etc. …….. or if a fact, figure, etc. ……….. with another, the facts are closely connected and affect or depend on each other6
correlate
/ˈkɒrəleɪt/
The figures do not seem to correlate.
noun
A connection between two things in which one thing changes as the other does
correlation
/ˌkɒrəˈleɪʃn/
There is a direct correlation between exposure to sun and skin cancer
verb
To be similar to or the same as something else.
correspond
/ˈkɒrəleɪt/
The British job of Lecturer corresponds roughly to the US Associate Professor.
noun
The letters, emails, etc. a person sends and receives
correspondence
/ˌkɒrəˈspɒndəns/
Personal/private correspondence.
noun
A person who reports news from a particular country or on a particular subject for a newspaper or a television or radio station
correspondent
/ˌkɒrəˈspɒndənt/
She’s the BBC’s political correspondent.
adjetive
matching or connected with something that you have just mentioned
corresponding
/ˌkɔːrəˈspɑːndɪŋ/
SYNONYM equivalent
Fewer houses are available, but there is no corresponding decrease in demand.
adjective
(of people) willing to use their power to do dishonest or illegal things in return for money or to get an advantage.
corrupt
/kəˈrʌpt/
It was seen as the only way to overthrow a corrupt regime.
noun
Dishonest or illegal behaviour, especially of people in authority.
corruption
/kəˈrʌpʃn/
The new district attorney has promised to fight police corruption.
adverb
Costing a lot of money, especially more than you want to pay. Synonym: expensive.
costly
/ˈkɒstli/
Buying new furniture may prove too costly.
noun
A member of a city or county council.
councillor
/ˈkaʊnsələ/
Talk to your local councillor about the problem.
noun
Professional advice about a problem.
counselling
/ˈkaʊnsəlɪŋ/
The couple decided to go for relationship counselling.
noun
A person who has been trained to advise people with problems, especially personal problems.
counsellor
/ˈkaʊnsələ/
I went to see a debt counsellor and she agreed to come to the bank with me.
noun
A long flat surface over which goods are sold or business is done in a shop, bank, etc.
counter
/ˈkaʊntə/
I asked the woman behind the counter if they had any postcards.
noun
A person or thing that has the same position or function as somebody/something else in a different place or situation.
counterpart
/ˈkaʊntəpɑːt/
The Foreign Minister held talks with his Chinese counterpart.
adjective
Very many; too many to be counted or mentioned.
countless
/ˈkaʊntləs/
I’ve warned her countless times.
noun
Polite behavior that shows respect for other people.
courtesy
/ˈkərt̮əsi/
I was treated with the utmost courtesy by the staff.
noun
A sudden change of government that is illegal and often violent.
coup
/kuː/
He seized power in a military coup in 2008.
noun
An activity involving a special skill at making things with your hands.
craft
/krɑːft/
Traditional crafts like basket-weaving.
verb
to move forward on your hands and knees or with your body close to the ground
crawl
/krɔːl/
Our baby is just starting to crawl.
A man was crawling away from the burning wreckage.
She crawled under the fence.
verb
To move slowly, quietly, and carefully, because you do not want to be seen or heard.
creep
/kriːp/
creep - crept - crept
I crept up the stairs, trying not to wake my parents.
noun
The quality that somebody/something has that makes people believe or trust them.
credibility
/ˌkredəˈbɪləti/
The prosecution did its best to undermine the credibility of the witness.
adjective
That can be believed or trusted.
credible
/ˈkredəbl/
A credible explanation/witness.
noun
A person who has made or invented a particular thing.
creator
/kriˈeɪtə/
Walt Disney, the creator of Mickey Mouse.
noun
(of oil and other natural substances) in its natural state, before it has been processed or refined.
crude
/kruːd/
Crude oil/metal.
noun
An object in the shape of a circle, usually made of gold and precious stones, that a king or queen wears on his or her head on official occasions.
crown
/kraʊn/
The crown was placed upon the new monarch’s head.
noun
A piece of written criticism of a set of ideas, a work of art, etc.
critique
/krɪˈtiːk/
She wrote a feminist critique of Freud’s theories.
verb
To press something so hard that it is damaged or injured, or loses its shape.
crush
/krʌʃ/
The car was completely crushed under the truck.
noun
a small piece of a substance with many even sides, that is formed naturally when the substance becomes solid
crystal
/ˈkrɪstl/
A crystal of salt.
ice/salt crystals
noun
A way of life, an attitude, an idea, etc. that has become very popular.
cult
/kʌlt/
The cult of physical fitness.
adjective . [only before noun]
very popular with a particular group of people
cult
/kʌlt/
a cult movie/book
The singer has become a cult figure in America.
The cartoon has achieved cult status.
The TV series has a cult following among young people.
verb
To prepare and use land for growing plants or crops.
cultivate
/ˈkʌltɪveɪt/
The land around here has never been cultivated.
noun
A strong desire to know about something.
curiosity
/ˌkjʊəriˈɒsəti/
Children show curiosity about everything.
Idioms
curiosity killed the cat
(saying) used to tell somebody not to ask questions or try to find out about things that do not involve them
noun
The legal right or duty to take care of or keep somebody/something; the act of taking care of something/somebody.
custody
/ˈkʌstədi/
Who will have custody of the children?
noun
An article or a story that you cut from a newspaper or magazine and keep.
cutting
/ˈkʌtɪŋ/
Newspaper/press cuttings
noun
A barrier that is built across a river in order to stop the water from flowing, used especially to make a reservoir or to produce electricity.
dam
/dæm/
“The dam burst and the valley was flooded.”.
adjective
Believing that people only do things to help themselves rather than for good or honest reasons
cynical
/ˈsɪnɪkl/
“Do you have to be so cynical about everything?”
noun
Causing damage; having a bad effect on somebody/something
damaging
/ˈdæmɪdʒɪŋ/
“Smoking is damaging to health.”
noun
The time of day when light first appears
dawn
/dɔːn/
“They start work at dawn.”
noun
Rubbish or pieces of material that are left somewhere and are not wanted
debris
/ˈdeɪbriː/
“Clear away leaves and other garden debris from the pond.”
noun
The first public appearance of a performer or sports player
debut
/ˈdebjuː/
“He will make his debut for the first team this week.”
noun
The process of deciding about something important, especially in a group of people or in an organization
decision-making
/dɪˈsɪʒn meɪkɪŋ/
“All the staff should be involved in the decision-making process.”
adjective
Very important for the final result of a particular situation
decisive
/dɪˈsaɪsɪv/
“Climate was a decisive factor in establishing where the tournament should be held.”
noun . (approving)
the hard work and effort that somebody puts into an activity or a purpose because they think it is important
SYNONYM commitment
dedication
/ˌdedɪˈkeɪʃn/
hard work and dedication
dedication to somebody/something: I really admire Gina for her dedication to her family.
noun
An official or formal statement, especially about the plans of a government or an organization
declaration
/ˌdekləˈreɪʃn/
“The declaration of war.”
adjective
Working hard at something because it is very important to you
dedicated
/ˈdedɪkeɪtɪd/
“She is dedicated to her job.”
noun . (formal, literary)
a thing that somebody does that is usually very good or very bad
SYNONYM act
deed
/diːd/
It’s a stirring tale of heroic deeds.
a brave/charitable deed
She tried to do a good deed every day.
They will be punished for their evil deeds.
verb
To have a particular opinion about somebody/something.
deem
/diːm/
The evening was deemed a great success.
noun
The state of not having, or not having enough of, something that is essential.
default
US Phonetics: /dɪˈfɔːlt/, /ˈdiːfɔːlt/
The default option is to save your work every five minutes. /
What is your default browser?
All his life, anger has been my brother default emotion.
noun
A fault in something or in the way it has been made that means that it is not perfect.
defect
/ˈdiːfekt/
A defect in the glass.
adjective
Protecting somebody/something against attack.
defensive
/dɪˈfensɪv/
As a defensive measure he built a series of coastal forts and watchtowers.
noun
The state of not having, or not having enough of, something that is essential.
deficiency
/dɪˈfɪʃnsi/ (plural deficiencies)
Vitamin deficiency in the diet can cause illness.
noun . (economics)
The amount by which money spent or owed is greater than money earned in a particular period of time.
deficit
/ˈdefɪsɪt/
A budget/trade deficit
noun
- A person who is chosen or elected to represent the views of a group of people and vote and make decisions for them.
- a person who attends a conference
delegate
/ˈdelɪɡət/
- Congress delegates rejected the proposals.
- The conference was attended by delegates from 56 countries.
verb
To refuse to obey or show respect for somebody in authority, a law, a rule, etc.
defy
/dɪˈfaɪ/
I wouldn’t have dared to defy my teachers.
noun
A group of people who represent the views of an organization, a country, etc.
delegation
/ˌdelɪˈɡeɪʃn/
The Dutch delegation to the United Nations.
adjective
Very fine in texture or structure;
of intricate workmanship or quality.
delicate
/ˈdelɪkət/
delicate china teacups . /
The eye is one of the most delicate organs of the body.
noun
An evil spirit or devil, especially one thought to possess a person or act as a tormentor in hell.
Example:
demon
/ˈdiːmən/
He was possessed by an evil demon.
noun
a statement that something is not true or does not exist; the action of denying something.
denial
/dɪˈnaɪəl/
The terrorists issued a denial of responsibility for the attack.
verb
- to strongly criticize somebody/something that you think is wrong, illegal, etc.
(2nd meaning): to tell the police, the authorities, etc. about somebody’s illegal political activities
denounce
/dɪˈnaʊns/
- She publicly denounced the government’s handling of the crisis.
- They were denounced as spies.
adjective
containing a lot of people, things, plants, etc. with little space between them.
dense
/dens/
dense - (comparative denser, superlative densest)
The forest is quite dense at that point.
noun
the quality of being dense; the degree to which something is dense.
density
/ˈdensəti/
(also denseness)
The population density in this city is very high.
verb . (formal)
- [often passive] to say officially that somebody/something has a particular character or name; to describe somebody/something in a particular way
- to choose or name somebody for a particular job or position
- [often passive] to show something using a particular mark or sign
designate
/ˈdezɪɡneɪt/
- This area has been designated (as) a National Park.
- Who has she designated (as) her deputy?
- be designated (by something): The different types are designated by the letters A, B and C.
noun [U]
the state of needing the help and support of somebody/something in order to survive or be successful.
dependence
/dɪˈpendəns/
OPPOSITE independence
His dependence on his parents was unhealthy. /
Our relationship was based on mutual dependence.
verb
to show an image of somebody/something in a picture or to describe something in words, or give an impression of something in words or with a picture.
depict
/dɪˈpɪkt/
The novel depicts French society in the 1930s
verb
to move soldiers or weapons into a position where they are ready for military action or to use something or someone, especially in an effective way.
deploy
/dɪˈplɔɪ/
2,000 troops were deployed in the area
noun
the act of moving soldiers or weapons into a position where they are ready for military action or the act of using something effectively.
deployment
/dɪˈplɔɪmənt/
the deployment of peacekeeping forces /
troop deployments/
the deployment of resources/staff
adjective
- (formal) that you would like to have or do; worth having or doing
- (of a person) causing other people to feel sexual desire
desirable
/dɪˈzaɪərəbl/
OPPOSITE undesirable
- She chatted for a few minutes about the qualities she considered desirable in a secretary.
- She suddenly saw herself as a desirable young woman.
noun
- a sum of money that is given as the first part of a larger payment;
- a layer of a substance that has been left somewhere, especially by a river, flood, etc., or is found at the bottom of a liquid.
deposit
/dɪˈpɑːzɪt/
SYNONYM down payment
They normally ask you to pay $100 (as a) deposit.
adjective
- causing destruction or damage
- negative or not helpful
destructive
/dɪˈstrʌktɪv/
- The war demonstrated the destructive power of modern weapons.
the destructive effects of anxiety -
destructive behaviour/impulses/tendencies/
destructive emotions that fuel anger and self-pity/
They don’t think about how damaging and destructive their words are.
verb
to take something, especially something necessary or pleasant, away from someone.
deprive (of)
/dɪˈpraɪv/
He claimed that he had been deprived of his freedom/rights /
Why should you deprive yourself of such simple pleasures?
noun
a person who is the next most important person below a business manager, a head of a school, a political leader, etc. and who does that person’s job when they are away
deputy
/ˈdepjuti/
I’m acting as deputy till the manager returns./
She was appointed deputy head of the school.
verb
to come or go down from a higher to a lower level.
descend
/dɪˈsend/
OPPOSITE ascend
- The plane began to descend
- The results, ranked in descending order (= from the highest to the lowest) are as follows…
- descend something She descended the stairs slowly.
noun
an action of coming or going down.
descent
/dɪˈsent/
The plane began its descent to Heathrow.
/ˈdesktɑːp/
a screen on a computer that shows the icons of programs and files that can be used
desktop
ˈdesktɑːp/
desktop icons
detain
noun
the process of discovering or noticing something, especially something that is not easy to see, hear, etc.;
the fact of being discovered or noticed.
detection
/dɪˈtekʃn/
Last year the detection rate for car theft was just 13 per cent.
verb
the state of being kept in a place, especially a prison, and prevented from leaving.
detention
/dɪˈtɛnʃn/
They were sentenced to 12 months’ detention in a young offender institution.
verb
to become worse
deteriorate
/dɪˈtɪəriəreɪt/
Her health deteriorated rapidly, and she died shortly afterwards.
to completely destroy a place or an area
devastate
/ˈdevəsteɪt/
The bomb devastated much of the old part of the city
noun
- the most powerful evil being (in the Christian, Jewish and Muslim religions)
- an evil spirit
- (informal) a person who behaves badly, especially a child
- (old-fashioned, informal) used to talk about somebody and to emphasize an opinion that you have of them
SYNONYM Satan
devil
/ˈdevl/
belief in the Devil
1. His strong left-wing views make him the devil incarnate to more extreme Conservatives.
2. He behaved like someone possessed by devils.
3. a naughty little devil
4. I miss the old *devil, now that he’s gone.
She’s off to Greece for a month—lucky *devil!
James was a handsome *devil and rich, too.
They were handsome young *devils in their uniforms, weren’t they?
verb
to invent something new or a new way of doing something
SYNONYM think up
devise
SYNONYM think up
/dɪˈvaɪz/
A new system has been devised to control traffic in the city.
diagnose
dictate
dictator
differentiate
dignity
dilemma
dimension
diminish
diplomat
diagnosis
dip
diplomatic
directory
disastrous
