Engineering IELTS

Question 1

A large machine used for digging and moving earth.

Answer 1

Excavator

Example sentence: “The excavator broke down, causing delays in the construction project.”

Question 2

A naturally occurring material from which a metal or valuable mineral can be extracted.

Answer 2

Ore

Example sentence: “The mine is rich in iron ore, making it highly profitable.”

Question 3

A vertical or inclined opening in the ground, typically for accessing a mine or conducting drilling.

Answer 3

Shaft

Example sentence: “The miners descended into the shaft to extract coal from deep underground.”

Question 4

Waste material left over after the extraction of valuable minerals from ore.

Answer 4

Tailings

Example sentence: “The company implemented measures to properly dispose of tailings to minimize environmental impact.”

Question 5

Vibrations and movements of the Earth’s crust caused by geological processes such as earthquakes.

Answer 5

Seismic Activity:

Example sentence: “Seismic activity in the region prompted the mine to reinforce its infrastructure to ensure safety.”

Question 6

Strong and sturdy, capable of withstanding harsh conditions.

Answer 6

Robust

Example sentence: “The new equipment has a robust design, making it suitable for rugged mining environments.”

Question 7

Achieving maximum productivity with minimal waste or effort.

Answer 7

Efficient

Example sentence: “The company implemented efficient mining practices to reduce costs and increase profitability.”

Question 8

Consistently performing well and meeting expectations.

Answer 8

Reliable

Example sentence: “Our team of engineers ensures the reliable operation of machinery to minimize downtime.”

Question 9

Capable of being maintained or continued over the long term without depleting natural resources.

Answer 9

Sustainable

Example sentence: “The company is committed to sustainable mining practices to protect the environment for future generations.”

Question 10

To investigate thoroughly or search for hidden information

Answer 10

Dig deep:

Example sentence: “We need to dig deep to uncover the root cause of the equipment malfunction.”

Question 11

To find something highly valuable or successful.

Answer 11

Strike gold

Example sentence: “The exploration team struck gold when they discovered a new vein of precious metals.”

Question 12

To reach the lowest point or experience the worst situation.

Answer 12

Hit rock bottom

Example sentence: “After years of mismanagement, the company hit rock bottom and went bankrupt.”

Question 13

To remove or take out something, usually with effort or force.

Answer 13

Extract

Example sentence: “The miners extract coal from underground mines using specialized equipment.”

Question 14

To bore holes into the ground or rock for exploration or extraction purposes.

Answer 14

Drill

Example sentence: “The geologists drilled core samples to analyze the composition of the rock formations.”

Question 15

To search for valuable minerals or metals in a particular area.

Answer 15

Prospect

Example sentence: “The company hired a team of geologists to prospect for gold deposits in the region.”

Question 16

Operating at a financial loss or having negative profits.

Answer 16

In the red

Example sentence: “The company has been in the red for several consecutive quarters due to declining commodity prices.”

Question 17

Practical, realistic, and straightforward.

Answer 17

Down to earth:

Example sentence: “The project manager is down to earth and prefers simple solutions to complex problems.”

Question 18

Take advantage of an opportunity promptly while it’s available.

Answer 18

Strike while the iron is hot:

Example sentence: “The company decided to invest in new technology, striking while the iron was hot to gain a competitive edge.”

Question 19

Doing something quickly or cheaply without following proper procedures or standards.

Answer 19

Cutting corners:

Example sentence: “Cutting corners in safety protocols led to a series of accidents at the mine.”

Question 20

To work hard or persistently.

Answer 20

Grind

Example sentence: “Miners have to grind through long shifts in difficult conditions.”

Question 21

A machine used to crush large rocks or stones into smaller pieces.

Answer 21

Rock Crusher

Example sentence: “The rock crusher processes ore into manageable sizes for further processing.”

Question 22

A hole drilled into the ground and filled with explosives for blasting.

Answer 22

Blast Hole

Example sentence: “The blast hole was carefully prepared before detonation to maximize efficiency.”

Question 23

Mechanical device for transporting materials or ore within a mine.

Answer 23

Conveyor

Example: “The conveyor system efficiently moves ore from the extraction site to the processing plant.”

Question 24

Machine used for drilling holes in rock formations to extract minerals or for exploration purposes.

Answer 24

Drill rig

Example: “The drill rig reached depths of over 500 meters in search of gold deposits.”

Question 25

Residue material left over after the extraction of minerals from ore.

Answer 25

Tailings

Example: “The company implemented measures to responsibly dispose of tailings and minimize environmental impact.”

Question 26

Established procedures to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment in mining operations.

Answer 26

Safety protocol

Example: “All employees must adhere to strict safety protocols while working in the mine.”

Question 27

Furnace used for smelting or refining metals from ore using high temperatures.

Answer 27

Blast furnace

Example: “The blast furnace operates continuously to produce molten iron from raw materials.”

Question 28

Mixture of water and finely ground particles of ore or other materials.

Answer 28

Slurry

Example: “The slurry is pumped through pipelines for processing and extraction of valuable minerals.”

Question 29

Accumulation of ore or materials stored for future use or processing.

Answer 29

Stockpile

Example: “The company maintains a large stockpile of coal to meet demand during peak seasons.”

Question 30

Containment area for storing and managing tailings from mining operations.

Answer 30

Tailings pond

Example: “The tailings pond underwent regular inspections to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.”

Question 31

Having high concentration or compactness.

Answer 31

Dense

Example: “The dense rock formations required specialized drilling equipment.”

Question 32

Broken or cracked, especially concerning rock formations.

Answer 32

Fractured

Example: “The fractured bedrock posed challenges during tunneling operations.”

Question 33

Left empty or deserted, often referring to old mine sites.

Answer 33

Abandoned

Example: “The abandoned mine was reclaimed and rehabilitated to restore the surrounding ecosystem.”

Question 34

Strong and sturdy, capable of withstanding heavy use.

Answer 34

Robust

Example: “The robust conveyor system operated efficiently even under extreme conditions.”

Question 35

Meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Answer 35

Sustainable

Example: “The company implemented sustainable mining practices to minimize environmental impact.”

Question 36

Covering a wide area or scope.

Answer 36

Expansive

Example: “The mine had an expansive network of tunnels and shafts.”

Question 37

Difficult or impossible to reach or access.

Answer 37

Inaccessible

Example: “The ore deposit was located in an inaccessible region of the mountains.”

Question 38

Relating to or caused by earthquakes or other earth movements.

Answer 38

Seismic

Example: “Seismic monitoring detected minor tremors in the vicinity of the mine.”

Question 39

Having the tendency to cause gradual deterioration or destruction.

Answer 39

Corrosive

Example: “The corrosive nature of certain chemicals required special handling procedures.”

Question 40

To discover a rich deposit of minerals or ore.

Answer 40

Hit a vein

Example: “After months of exploration, the geologists finally hit a vein of gold.”

Question 41

Coming close to the deadline or endpoint of a project.

Answer 41

Down to the wire

Example: “We’re down to the wire with the construction of the new mine shaft.”

Question 42

To start over or rethink a plan after a setback or failure.

Answer 42

“Back to the drawing board”

Question 43

Currently being planned or developed and expected to happen in the future

Answer 43

In the pipeline

Example: “The new ore processing plant is in the pipeline and should be operational by next year.”

Question 44

A small, visible part of a larger problem or issue.

Answer 44

Tip of the iceberg

Example: “The environmental damage caused by the mine is just the tip of the iceberg.”

Question 45

To restore or reclaim land affected by mining activities.

Answer 45

Rehabilitate

Example: “The company is required to rehabilitate the land once mining operations cease.”

Question 46

To observe, track, or supervise the progress or conditions of something.

Answer 46

Monitor

Example: “The environmental team monitors water quality in the vicinity of the mine.”

Question 47

To purify or process raw materials to improve their quality or value.

Answer 47

Refine

Example: “The ore undergoes refining to extract precious metals.”

Question 48

To cease operations and leave a mine site.

Answer 48

Abandon

Example: “The company decided to abandon the mine due to declining profitability.”

Question 49

To restore or rehabilitate land affected by mining activities.

Answer 49

Reclaim

Example: “The government mandated the mining company to reclaim the land after operations ceased.”

Question 50

To use explosives to break or fragment rock formations.

Answer 50

Blasting

Example: “The miners conducted controlled blasting to create access tunnels.”

Question 51

To evaluate or determine the nature, quality, or significance of something.

Answer 51

Assess

Example: “The engineers assessed the stability of the mine shaft before allowing workers to enter.”

Question 52

To start a process or activity.

Answer 52

Get the ball rolling

Example: “Let’s get the ball rolling on the construction of the new mine facility.”

Question 53

To improvise or make decisions as events unfold.

Answer 53

Play it by ear

Example: “We’ll play it by ear and adjust our plans based on the drilling results.”

Question 54

To understand or grasp the meaning or intention behind someone’s words.

Answer 54

Catch someone’s drift

Example: “I’m not sure what the engineer meant, but I think I caught his drift.”

Question 55

To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation.

Answer 55

“Bite the bullet”

Example: “We’ll have to bite the bullet and invest in new equipment to improve efficiency.”

Question 56

To familiarize oneself with a new or unfamiliar situation.

Answer 56

Get the lay of the land

Example: “Before starting exploration, the geologists need to get the lay of the land.”

Question 57

Extremely angry or agitated about something.

Answer 57

Up in arms

Example: “The community was up in arms over the proposed expansion of the mine.”

Question 58

To maintain one’s position or opinion firmly.

Answer 58

Stick to one’s guns

Example: “Despite opposition, the company decided to stick to its guns and proceed with the project.”

Question 59

To go through a series of difficult or time-consuming tasks or procedures.

Answer 59

“Jump through hoops”

Example: “We had to jump through hoops to obtain the necessary permits for the new mine.”

Question 60

A network of fans and shafts used to circulate air throughout a mine to maintain air quality and remove hazardous gases.

Answer 60

Ventilation system

Example: “The ventilation system malfunctioned, causing concerns about air quality in the mine.”

Question 61

A structure built to contain and manage tailings from mining operations, often constructed with embankments and liners to prevent environmental contamination.

Answer 61

Tailings dam

Example: “The tailings dam overflowed during heavy rainfall, leading to environmental damage downstream.”

Question 62

A study of the geological and structural characteristics of an area to assess its suitability for mining activities and identify potential risks.

Answer 62

Geotechnical survey

Example: “The geotechnical survey revealed unstable ground conditions, prompting adjustments to the mine design.”

Question 63

A large, heavy-duty vehicle used to transport materials or ore within a mine, typically equipped with a bed for carrying loads

Answer 63

Haul truck

Example: “The haul truck transported ore from the extraction site to the processing plant.”

Question 64

The residue or by-product left over after smelting or refining metal ores, often consisting of impurities and waste materials.

Answer 64

Slag

Example: “The slag from the smelting process was disposed of in designated landfills.”

Question 65

A mining method in which horizontal tunnels, or drifts, are excavated along the mineral deposit to access and extract ore.

Answer 65

Drift mining

Example: “Drift mining is commonly used in situations where the ore body is shallow and extends horizontally.”

Question 66

A chemical process used to extract gold and silver from ore by dissolving them in a cyanide solution.

Answer 66

Cyanide leaching

Example: “The mine employed cyanide leaching to recover gold from low-grade ore deposits.”

Question 67

The gradual sinking or settling of the ground surface due to underground mining activities, often resulting in surface depressions or land deformation.

Answer 67

Subsidence

Example: “Subsidence caused by underground mining led to structural damage to nearby buildings.”

Question 68

Not allowing fluid or gases to pass through, often used to describe barriers or liners in tailings dams.

Answer 68

Impermeable

Example: “The impermeable liner of the tailings dam prevented seepage into the surrounding soil.”

Question 69

About to happen or occur in the near future.

Answer 69

Impending

Example: “The impending closure of the mine prompted discussions about reclamation plans.”

Question 70

Native to a particular region or area, often referring to local communities affected by mining activities.

Answer 70

Indigenous

Example: “The company consulted with indigenous communities to address concerns about land use and resource extraction.”

Question 71

Acting to reduce or alleviate the severity or impact of something, such as environmental impacts or safety risks.

Answer 71

Mitigating

Example: “The company implemented mitigating measures to minimize dust emissions from mining operations.”

Question 72

Harmful or unfavorable, often used to describe the effects of mining on the environment or communities.

Answer 72

Adverse

Example: “The adverse impacts of mining on water quality required remediation efforts.”

Question 73

Tending to spread uncontrollably and disrupt natural ecosystems, often referring to non-native plant species introduced by mining activities.

Answer 73

Invasive

Example: “Invasive species introduced by mining operations threatened the biodiversity of the surrounding area.”

Question 74

Restored to a natural or usable state after being affected by mining activities, often referring to land or ecosystems.

Answer 74

Reclaimed

Example: “The reclaimed mine site was transformed into a recreational area for the local community.”

Question 75

Designed or constructed to withstand seismic activity or earthquakes.

Answer 75

Seismic-resistant

Example: “The mine’s infrastructure was built to be seismic-resistant to minimize damage during earthquakes.”

Question 76

Example: “Coal and oil are examples of non-renewable resources that are finite in supply.”

Answer 76

Non-renewable

Question 77

Having a wide variety of plant and animal species, often used to describe ecosystems impacted by mining activities.

Answer 77

Biodiverse

Example: “Efforts were made to protect the region’s biodiverse habitats from the impacts of mining.”

Question 78

To commit to a decision or course of action, especially when it involves risk or uncertainty.

Answer 78

Take the plunge

Example: “After months of planning, the company decided to take the plunge and invest in a new mining project.”

Question 79

Operating discreetly or unnoticed, often to avoid attention or scrutiny.

Answer 79

Under the radar

Example: “The company conducted exploratory drilling under the radar to avoid opposition from environmental groups.”

Question 80

Free from danger or difficulty, often used to describe a situation where a crisis has been averted.

Answer 80

Out of the woods

Example: “Thanks to swift action, the company was out of the woods and able to resume normal operations after the equipment malfunction.”

Question 81

To take action to mitigate or correct environmental damage or contamination caused by mining activities.

Answer 81

Remediate

Example: “The company worked to remediate the polluted waterways affected by acid mine drainage.”

Question 82

To remove or drain water from an area or structure, often to facilitate mining operations or prevent flooding

Answer 82

Dewater

Example: “Pumps were used to dewater the mine shaft after heavy rainfall.”

Question 83

To dispose of or store waste materials, such as tailings, in a designated area.

Answer 83

Tail

Example: “The company decided to tail the waste rock in an engineered containment facility.”

Question 84

To filter or seep through a porous substance, often used to describe the movement of fluids through soil or rock formations.

Answer 84

Percolate

Example: “Rainwater percolated through the soil, carrying contaminants into groundwater sources.”

Question 85

To sell off assets or investments, often used to describe companies relinquishing ownership of mining operations.

Answer 85

Divest

Example: “The company decided to divest its coal mining assets to focus on renewable energy.”

Question 86

To make something stable or secure, often used to describe efforts to prevent slope instability or collapse in mining areas.

Answer 86

Stabilize

Example: “Rock bolting was used to stabilize the walls of the open pit mine.”

Question 87

To spread out or scatter, often used to describe the movement of pollutants or contaminants in the environment.

Answer 87

Disperse

Example: “Wind disperses dust particles from mining operations over a wide area.”

Question 88

The layer of soil, rock, or other material covering a mineral deposit, which must be removed before mining can begin.

Answer 88

Overburden

Example: “The excavators cleared away the overburden to expose the coal seam below.”

Question 89

A person who searches for mineral deposits or valuable resources, often using exploration techniques such as sampling or drilling.

Answer 89

Prospector

Example: “The prospector spent years traversing remote regions in search of undiscovered mineral deposits.”

Question 90

A detailed strategy outlining the steps and measures for restoring land affected by mining activities to its original or equivalent state.

Answer 90

Reclamation plan

Example: “The reclamation plan outlined measures for revegetating the disturbed areas and controlling erosion.”

Question 91

Lacking stability or prone to collapse, often used to describe ground conditions or rock formations in mining areas.

Answer 91

Unstable

Example: “The unstable ground posed challenges during tunneling operations.”

Question 92

Polluted or tainted by the presence of harmful substances or contaminants, such as heavy metals or chemicals

Answer 92

Contaminated

Example: “The soil and water in the vicinity of the mine were contaminated by industrial runoff.”

Question 93

Not transparent or clear, often used to describe water or liquids containing suspended particles or impurities.

Answer 93

Opaque

Example: “The opaque liquid in the settling pond indicated high levels of sedimentation.”

Question 94

Causing or characterized by the wearing away of soil or rock surfaces through the action of wind, water, or ice.

Answer 94

Erosive

Example: “The erosive forces of the river eroded the banks near the mine site.”

Question 95

In a state of disrepair or deterioration, often used to describe old or neglected structures at abandoned mine sites

Answer 95

Dilapidated

Example: “The dilapidated buildings at the abandoned mine were scheduled for demolition.”

Question 96

Exhibiting a tendency to undergo chemical reactions or changes, often used to describe materials that can leach contaminants into the environment.

Answer 96

Reactive

Example: “The reactive nature of certain mine waste materials required careful handling and containment.”

Question 97

Repelling or resistant to water, often used to describe minerals or materials that do not readily absorb moisture.

Answer 97

Hydrophobic

Example: “The hydrophobic properties of the mineral made it difficult to separate from water during processing.”

Question 98

Chemically inactive or unreactive, often used to describe materials that do not undergo significant chemical changes.

Answer 98

Inert

Example: “The inert waste material was safely disposed of in designated landfills.”

Question 99

To remove or extract substances from a solid material, often using a liquid solvent or solution.

Answer 99

Leach

Example: “The leaching process extracted valuable metals from the ore concentrate.”

Question 100

To excavate or remove sediment or debris from underwater areas, often using specialized equipment such as dredgers.

Answer 100

Dredge

Example: “The company dredged the riverbed to extract sand and gravel for construction projects.”

Question 101

To counteract or render ineffective, often used to describe efforts to mitigate the effects of acidic mine drainage

Answer 101

Neutralize

Example: “Alkaline materials were added to neutralize the acidic runoff from the mine site.”

Question 102

To combine or merge separate elements into a unified whole, often used to describe efforts to stabilize or strengthen mine workings.

Answer 102

Consolidate

Example: “The engineers consolidated the mine tunnels to prevent collapses.”

Question 103

To spread throughout or penetrate something, often used to describe the movement of fluids through porous materials.

Answer 103

Permeate

Example: “The groundwater began to permeate through the soil, carrying contaminants from the mine.”

Question 104

To rearrange or modify the layout or structure of something, often used to describe changes to mine infrastructure.

Answer 104

Reconfigure

Example: “The company reconfigured the processing plant to improve efficiency and throughput.”

Question 105

To take action to mitigate or correct environmental damage or contamination caused by mining activities.

Answer 105

Remediate

Example: “The company worked to remediate the polluted waterways affected by acid mine drainage.”

Question 106

To remove material from beneath, often used in mining to weaken and collapse overlying rock or ore.

Answer 106

Undercut

Example: “The miners undercut the coal seam to facilitate extraction.”

Question 107

To modify or upgrade equipment or infrastructure with new components or features, often to improve performance or compliance with regulations.

Answer 107

Retrofit

Example: “The company retrofitted the ventilation system to enhance airflow and reduce energy consumption.”

Question 108

To resolve or bring into agreement conflicting interests or differences, often used in negotiations or discussions.

Answer 108

Reconcile

Example: “The stakeholders worked to reconcile their competing priorities and reach a consensus on the mine’s development plan.”

Question 109

The gradual sinking or settling of the Earth’s surface due to underground mining, oil extraction, or natural causes.

Answer 109

Subsidence

Example: “Subsidence from underground mining can lead to structural damage to buildings and infrastructure.”

Question 110

The process of excavating vertical or inclined openings in the ground to access underground mining operations.

Answer 110

Shaft sinking

Example: “The construction crew completed shaft sinking to reach the lower levels of the mine.”

Question 111

Emitting or relating to the emission of ionizing radiation, often associated with certain mineral deposits.

Answer 111

Radioactive

Example: “The uranium ore contained radioactive elements, requiring special handling procedures.”

Question 112

Producing abundant quantities of something, often used to describe rich mineral deposits.

Answer 112

Prolific

Example: “The region is known for its prolific gold mines.”

Question 113

Having a pH value less than 7, indicating a higher concentration of hydrogen ions, often used to describe water contaminated by acid mine drainage.

Answer 113

Acidic

Example: “The acidic water from the mine had a pH level of 4.5, posing risks to aquatic life.”

Question 114

Not conforming to traditional or standard practices, often used to describe innovative mining techniques.

Answer 114

Unconventional

Example: “Unconventional extraction methods are being explored to access deep-seated mineral deposits.”

Question 115

Having small holes or spaces that allow fluids to pass through, often used to describe rock formations.

Answer 115

Porous

Example: “Porous sandstone formations are ideal for storing natural gas underground.”

Question 116

Relating to or containing water, often used in discussions of mineral processing.

Answer 116

Aqueous

Example: “The aqueous solution was used to dissolve and extract gold from the ore.”

Question 117

Relating to processes occurring on or near the Earth’s surface, often used in discussions of weathering and erosion

Answer 117

Exogenic

Example: “Exogenic forces shape the landscape by breaking down and transporting rock material.”

Question 118

In its original, unspoiled condition, often used to describe environments untouched by human activity.

Answer 118

Pristine

Example: “The pristine wilderness surrounding the mine is home to diverse wildlife.”

Question 119

To confront or deal with the consequences of one’s actions, often used in situations requiring accountability

Answer 119

Face the music

Example: “After the accident, the company had to face the music and address safety concerns.”

Question 120

The importance of paying attention to small or hidden details, often used to emphasize the complexity of a situation.

Answer 120

The devil is in the details

Example: “When negotiating contracts, remember that the devil is in the details.”

Question 121

To listen attentively or sympathetically to someone, often used to offer support or assistance.

Answer 121

Lend an ear

Example: “If you need advice, I’m here to lend an ear.”

Question 122

Stuck or unable to make progress, often used to describe a project or plan that has failed to move forward.

Answer 122

Dead in the water

Example: “Without additional funding, the expansion project is dead in the water.”

Question 123

To stop a problem or issue at an early stage before it becomes more serious.

Answer 123

Nip it in the bud

Example: “Let’s address the equipment malfunction now and nip it in the bud.”

Question 124

To manage to survive, especially financially, despite difficulties.

Answer 124

Keep one’s head above water

Example: “With rising costs, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to keep our heads above water.”

Question 125

To adapt and cope with difficult situations or setbacks, often used to describe resilience.

Answer 125

Roll with the punches

Example: “In this industry, you have to be able to roll with the punches.”

Question 126

An overall perspective or understanding of a situation, often used to describe taking a broader view of things

Answer 126

Bird’s eye view

Example: “To solve the problem, we need to take a bird’s eye view of the entire operation.”

Question 127

To use up or exhaust a finite resource, often used to describe the extraction of minerals or natural resources.

Answer 127

Deplete

Example: “Continuous mining operations depleted the coal reserves in the region.”

Question 128

To release or allow the escape of gases or pressure, often used in discussions of mine ventilation.

Answer 128

Vent

Example: “The ventilation system was designed to vent harmful gases from underground workings.”

Question 129

To prepare or organize resources for a particular purpose or task, often used in discussions of project management.

Answer 129

Mobilize

Example: “The company mobilized its workforce to respond to the emergency.”

Question 130

To recover or save something from loss or destruction, often used in discussions of salvage operations.

Answer 130

Salvage

Example: “Efforts were made to salvage equipment damaged in the accident.”

Question 131

Tending to evaporate rapidly or change unpredictably, often used to describe chemicals or substances with high vapor pressures.

Answer 131

Volatile

Example: “Volatile organic compounds can pose health risks if released into the atmosphere.”

Question 132

Relating to rocks that have been subjected to heat, pressure, or chemical alteration, often resulting in the formation of new minerals or textures.

Answer 132

Metamorphic

Example: “The metamorphic rocks in the region contained valuable minerals such as graphite and garnet.”

Question 133

Chemically combined with oxygen, often used to describe minerals or metals that have undergone oxidation reactions.

Answer 133

Oxidized

Example: “The oxidized iron ore formed rusty red deposits on the surface.”

Question 134

In agreement or having a shared understanding of a situation or objective.

Answer 134

On the same page

Example: “It’s essential for the project team to be on the same page regarding safety protocols.”

Question 135

To come to a complete stop or standstill, often due to mechanical failure or logistical issues.

Answer 135

Grind to a halt

Example: “The equipment breakdown caused production to grind to a halt.”

Question 136

To organize or prepare oneself effectively, often used before embarking on a task or project.

Answer 136

Get one’s ducks in a row

Example: “Before presenting the proposal, make sure to get all your ducks in a row.”

Question 137

To take on more responsibilities or commitments than one can manage.

Answer 137

Bite off more than one can chew

Example: “Be careful not to bite off more than you can chew with the new project.”

Question 138

To immerse oneself fully in a challenging or unfamiliar situation without hesitation.

Answer 138

Dive into the deep end

Example: “She decided to dive into the deep end and take on the leadership role.”

Question 139

A metaphorical expression indicating hope or relief after a period of difficulty or adversity.

Answer 139

Light at the end of the tunnel

Example: “Despite setbacks, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel.”

Question 140

To deal with a problem or issue only when it arises, rather than worrying about it in advance.

Answer 140

Cross that bridge when one comes to it

Example: “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it and address the staffing shortage as needed.”

Question 141

To restore or revive something to a youthful or active state, often used in discussions of ecosystem restoration or reclamation.

Answer 141

Rejuvenate

Example: “The reforestation project aimed to rejuvenate degraded landscapes.”

Question 142

To combine or unite multiple elements into a single entity, often used in discussions of mergers or consolidation.

Answer 142

Amalgamate

Example: “The two companies decided to amalgamate their operations to increase efficiency.”

Question 143

To expand or vary the range of products, services, or activities, often to reduce dependence on a single source

Answer 143

Diversify

Example: “The company diversified its portfolio to include renewable energy projects.”

Question 144

To stimulate or inspire action or change, often used in discussions of motivation or leadership.

Answer 144

Galvanize

Example: “The inspiring speech galvanized the team to work toward their goals.”

Question 145

The negative consequences or effects of mining activities on the environment, communities, or human health.

Answer 145

Adverse impact

Example: “The environmental impact assessment identified several adverse impacts of the proposed mining project.”

Question 146

Layers or beds of rock, often used to describe the geological structure or composition of underground formations.

Answer 146

Strata

Example: “The geologist analyzed the strata to determine the best location for drilling.”

Question 147

A method of extracting oil or gas from underground rock formations by injecting high-pressure fluid to create fractures and release the hydrocarbons.

Answer 147

Hydraulic fracturing

Example: “Hydraulic fracturing revolutionized the extraction of natural gas from shale formations.”

Question 148

The sudden collapse or movement of rock material from a cliff face, slope, or excavation, often posing hazards to workers and infrastructure.

Answer 148

Rockfall

Example: “Rockfall protection measures were installed to safeguard workers at the mine site.”

Question 149

Dangerously unstable or insecure, often used to describe working conditions in mines with high risks of collapse or accidents.

Answer 149

Precarious

Example: “The miners faced precarious conditions while working in the unstable underground stope.”

Question 150

Distinct or fundamentally different, often used to describe elements or factors that do not align or correspond.

Answer 150

Disparate

Example: “The environmental impacts of mining and agriculture are disparate but interconnected.”

Question 151

Belonging naturally or inherently, often used to describe the inherent properties or qualities of a mineral deposit.

Answer 151

Intrinsic

Example: “The intrinsic value of the ore deposit justified further exploration and development.”

Question 152

Altered or worn down by exposure to the elements, often used to describe the surface of rocks or mineral deposits.

Answer 152

Weathered

Example: “The weathered outcrop indicated the presence of mineralization beneath the surface.”

Question 153

Dependent on or conditioned by something else, often used to describe agreements or arrangements with uncertain outcomes

Answer 153

Contingent

Example: “The success of the project was contingent on securing funding from investors.”

Question 154

A situation in which a desired outcome is impossible to achieve because of a contradictory or paradoxical rule or condition.

Answer 154

Catch-22

Example: “The company faced a catch-22: they needed experience to win contracts, but they couldn’t gain experience without contracts.”

Question 155

To fall behind or lose progress compared to others, often used in competitive contexts.

Answer 155

Lose ground

Example: “The company began to lose ground to competitors due to delays in product development.”

Question 156

To finalize or secure something definitively, often used in negotiations or agreements.

Answer 156

Nail down

Example: “We need to nail down the details of the contract before proceeding.”

Question 157

A mineral processing technique that separates valuable minerals from gangue minerals by selectively attaching air bubbles to the mineral particles.

Answer 157

Flotation

Example: “Flotation is commonly used to concentrate sulfide ores such as copper and lead.”

Question 158

The estimation of the quantity and quality of mineral resources present in a deposit based on geological data, sampling, and statistical methods.

Answer 158

Resource estimation

Example: “Resource estimation provided the basis for evaluating the economic potential of the mineral deposit.”

Question 159

Resistant to penetration or passage, often used to describe barriers or liners that prevent fluid migration.

Answer 159

Impervious

Example: “The impervious clay layer acted as a natural barrier to groundwater flow.”

Question 160

To reduce the concentration or strength of a substance by adding a solvent or diluent, often used in discussions of water treatment or chemical processes.

Answer 160

Dilute

Example: “The wastewater was diluted before discharge to meet regulatory standards.”

Question 161

To initiate or stimulate activity or progress, often used to describe efforts to revitalize or kick-start a project.

Answer 161

Jump-start

Example: “The new investment helped jump-start the stalled mining project.”

Question 162

To start over or rethink a plan or strategy after it has failed or proven ineffective.

Answer 162

Back to the drawing board

Example: “The initial design didn’t meet our requirements, so it’s back to the drawing board.”

Question 163

To give up or surrender, often used when facing insurmountable obstacles or challenges.

Answer 163

Throw in the towel

Example: “After months of negotiations, they finally threw in the towel and walked away from the deal.”

Question 164

To gather or accumulate a large quantity of something, often used to describe the collection of data or resources.

Answer 164

Amass

Example: “The research team amassed a vast amount of geological data from field surveys.”

Question 165

To assign or distribute resources, funds, or responsibilities to different purposes or areas, often used in discussions of project management.

Answer 165

Reallocate

Example: “The company decided to reallocate funds from exploration to mine development.”