Engineering IELTS Flashcards
1
Q
A large machine used for digging and moving earth.
A
Excavator
Example sentence: “The excavator broke down, causing delays in the construction project.”
2
Q
A naturally occurring material from which a metal or valuable mineral can be extracted.
A
Ore
Example sentence: “The mine is rich in iron ore, making it highly profitable.”
3
Q
A vertical or inclined opening in the ground, typically for accessing a mine or conducting drilling.
A
Shaft
Example sentence: “The miners descended into the shaft to extract coal from deep underground.”
4
Q
Waste material left over after the extraction of valuable minerals from ore.
A
Tailings
Example sentence: “The company implemented measures to properly dispose of tailings to minimize environmental impact.”
5
Q
Vibrations and movements of the Earth’s crust caused by geological processes such as earthquakes.
A
Seismic Activity:
Example sentence: “Seismic activity in the region prompted the mine to reinforce its infrastructure to ensure safety.”
6
Q
Strong and sturdy, capable of withstanding harsh conditions.
A
Robust
Example sentence: “The new equipment has a robust design, making it suitable for rugged mining environments.”
7
Q
Achieving maximum productivity with minimal waste or effort.
A
Efficient
Example sentence: “The company implemented efficient mining practices to reduce costs and increase profitability.”
8
Q
Consistently performing well and meeting expectations.
A
Reliable
Example sentence: “Our team of engineers ensures the reliable operation of machinery to minimize downtime.”
9
Q
Capable of being maintained or continued over the long term without depleting natural resources.
A
Sustainable
Example sentence: “The company is committed to sustainable mining practices to protect the environment for future generations.”
10
Q
To investigate thoroughly or search for hidden information
A
Dig deep:
Example sentence: “We need to dig deep to uncover the root cause of the equipment malfunction.”
11
Q
To find something highly valuable or successful.
A
Strike gold
Example sentence: “The exploration team struck gold when they discovered a new vein of precious metals.”
12
Q
To reach the lowest point or experience the worst situation.
A
Hit rock bottom
Example sentence: “After years of mismanagement, the company hit rock bottom and went bankrupt.”
13
Q
To remove or take out something, usually with effort or force.
A
Extract
Example sentence: “The miners extract coal from underground mines using specialized equipment.”
14
Q
To bore holes into the ground or rock for exploration or extraction purposes.
A
Drill
Example sentence: “The geologists drilled core samples to analyze the composition of the rock formations.”
15
Q
To search for valuable minerals or metals in a particular area.
A
Prospect
Example sentence: “The company hired a team of geologists to prospect for gold deposits in the region.”
16
Q
Operating at a financial loss or having negative profits.
A
In the red
Example sentence: “The company has been in the red for several consecutive quarters due to declining commodity prices.”
17
Q
Practical, realistic, and straightforward.
A
Down to earth:
Example sentence: “The project manager is down to earth and prefers simple solutions to complex problems.”
18
Q
Take advantage of an opportunity promptly while it’s available.
A
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.”
19
Q
Doing something quickly or cheaply without following proper procedures or standards.
A
Cutting corners:
Example sentence: “Cutting corners in safety protocols led to a series of accidents at the mine.”
20
Q
To work hard or persistently.
A
Grind
Example sentence: “Miners have to grind through long shifts in difficult conditions.”
21
Q
A machine used to crush large rocks or stones into smaller pieces.
A
Rock Crusher
Example sentence: “The rock crusher processes ore into manageable sizes for further processing.”
22
Q
A hole drilled into the ground and filled with explosives for blasting.
A
Blast Hole
Example sentence: “The blast hole was carefully prepared before detonation to maximize efficiency.”
23
Q
Mechanical device for transporting materials or ore within a mine.
A
Conveyor
Example: “The conveyor system efficiently moves ore from the extraction site to the processing plant.”
24
Q
Machine used for drilling holes in rock formations to extract minerals or for exploration purposes.
A
Drill rig
Example: “The drill rig reached depths of over 500 meters in search of gold deposits.”
25
Residue material left over after the extraction of minerals from ore.
Tailings
Example: "The company implemented measures to responsibly dispose of tailings and minimize environmental impact."
26
Established procedures to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment in mining operations.
Safety protocol
Example: "All employees must adhere to strict safety protocols while working in the mine."
27
Furnace used for smelting or refining metals from ore using high temperatures.
Blast furnace
Example: "The blast furnace operates continuously to produce molten iron from raw materials."
28
Mixture of water and finely ground particles of ore or other materials.
Slurry
Example: "The slurry is pumped through pipelines for processing and extraction of valuable minerals."
29
Accumulation of ore or materials stored for future use or processing.
Stockpile
Example: "The company maintains a large stockpile of coal to meet demand during peak seasons."
30
Containment area for storing and managing tailings from mining operations.
Tailings pond
Example: "The tailings pond underwent regular inspections to ensure compliance with environmental regulations."
31
Having high concentration or compactness.
Dense
Example: "The dense rock formations required specialized drilling equipment."
32
Broken or cracked, especially concerning rock formations.
Fractured
Example: "The fractured bedrock posed challenges during tunneling operations."
33
Left empty or deserted, often referring to old mine sites.
Abandoned
Example: "The abandoned mine was reclaimed and rehabilitated to restore the surrounding ecosystem."
34
Strong and sturdy, capable of withstanding heavy use.
Robust
Example: "The robust conveyor system operated efficiently even under extreme conditions."
35
Meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Sustainable
Example: "The company implemented sustainable mining practices to minimize environmental impact."
36
Covering a wide area or scope.
Expansive
Example: "The mine had an expansive network of tunnels and shafts."
37
Difficult or impossible to reach or access.
Inaccessible
Example: "The ore deposit was located in an inaccessible region of the mountains."
38
Relating to or caused by earthquakes or other earth movements.
Seismic
Example: "Seismic monitoring detected minor tremors in the vicinity of the mine."
39
Having the tendency to cause gradual deterioration or destruction.
Corrosive
Example: "The corrosive nature of certain chemicals required special handling procedures."
40
To discover a rich deposit of minerals or ore.
Hit a vein
Example: "After months of exploration, the geologists finally hit a vein of gold."
41
Coming close to the deadline or endpoint of a project.
Down to the wire
Example: "We're down to the wire with the construction of the new mine shaft."
42
To start over or rethink a plan after a setback or failure.
"Back to the drawing board"
43
Currently being planned or developed and expected to happen in the future
In the pipeline
Example: "The new ore processing plant is in the pipeline and should be operational by next year."
44
A small, visible part of a larger problem or issue.
Tip of the iceberg
Example: "The environmental damage caused by the mine is just the tip of the iceberg."
45
To restore or reclaim land affected by mining activities.
Rehabilitate
Example: "The company is required to rehabilitate the land once mining operations cease."
46
To observe, track, or supervise the progress or conditions of something.
Monitor
Example: "The environmental team monitors water quality in the vicinity of the mine."
47
To purify or process raw materials to improve their quality or value.
Refine
Example: "The ore undergoes refining to extract precious metals."
48
To cease operations and leave a mine site.
Abandon
Example: "The company decided to abandon the mine due to declining profitability."
49
To restore or rehabilitate land affected by mining activities.
Reclaim
Example: "The government mandated the mining company to reclaim the land after operations ceased."
50
To use explosives to break or fragment rock formations.
Blasting
Example: "The miners conducted controlled blasting to create access tunnels."
51
To evaluate or determine the nature, quality, or significance of something.
Assess
Example: "The engineers assessed the stability of the mine shaft before allowing workers to enter."
52
To start a process or activity.
Get the ball rolling
Example: "Let's get the ball rolling on the construction of the new mine facility."
53
To improvise or make decisions as events unfold.
Play it by ear
Example: "We'll play it by ear and adjust our plans based on the drilling results."
54
To understand or grasp the meaning or intention behind someone's words.
Catch someone's drift
Example: "I'm not sure what the engineer meant, but I think I caught his drift."
55
To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation.
"Bite the bullet"
Example: "We'll have to bite the bullet and invest in new equipment to improve efficiency."
56
To familiarize oneself with a new or unfamiliar situation.
Get the lay of the land
Example: "Before starting exploration, the geologists need to get the lay of the land."
57
Extremely angry or agitated about something.
Up in arms
Example: "The community was up in arms over the proposed expansion of the mine."
58
To maintain one's position or opinion firmly.
Stick to one's guns
Example: "Despite opposition, the company decided to stick to its guns and proceed with the project."
59
To go through a series of difficult or time-consuming tasks or procedures.
"Jump through hoops"
Example: "We had to jump through hoops to obtain the necessary permits for the new mine."
60
A network of fans and shafts used to circulate air throughout a mine to maintain air quality and remove hazardous gases.
Ventilation system
Example: "The ventilation system malfunctioned, causing concerns about air quality in the mine."
61
A structure built to contain and manage tailings from mining operations, often constructed with embankments and liners to prevent environmental contamination.
Tailings dam
Example: "The tailings dam overflowed during heavy rainfall, leading to environmental damage downstream."
62
A study of the geological and structural characteristics of an area to assess its suitability for mining activities and identify potential risks.
Geotechnical survey
Example: "The geotechnical survey revealed unstable ground conditions, prompting adjustments to the mine design."
63
A large, heavy-duty vehicle used to transport materials or ore within a mine, typically equipped with a bed for carrying loads
Haul truck
Example: "The haul truck transported ore from the extraction site to the processing plant."
64
The residue or by-product left over after smelting or refining metal ores, often consisting of impurities and waste materials.
Slag
Example: "The slag from the smelting process was disposed of in designated landfills."
65
A mining method in which horizontal tunnels, or drifts, are excavated along the mineral deposit to access and extract ore.
Drift mining
Example: "Drift mining is commonly used in situations where the ore body is shallow and extends horizontally."
66
A chemical process used to extract gold and silver from ore by dissolving them in a cyanide solution.
Cyanide leaching
Example: "The mine employed cyanide leaching to recover gold from low-grade ore deposits."
67
The gradual sinking or settling of the ground surface due to underground mining activities, often resulting in surface depressions or land deformation.
Subsidence
Example: "Subsidence caused by underground mining led to structural damage to nearby buildings."
68
Not allowing fluid or gases to pass through, often used to describe barriers or liners in tailings dams.
Impermeable
Example: "The impermeable liner of the tailings dam prevented seepage into the surrounding soil."
69
About to happen or occur in the near future.
Impending
Example: "The impending closure of the mine prompted discussions about reclamation plans."
70
Native to a particular region or area, often referring to local communities affected by mining activities.
Indigenous
Example: "The company consulted with indigenous communities to address concerns about land use and resource extraction."
71
Acting to reduce or alleviate the severity or impact of something, such as environmental impacts or safety risks.
Mitigating
Example: "The company implemented mitigating measures to minimize dust emissions from mining operations."
72
Harmful or unfavorable, often used to describe the effects of mining on the environment or communities.
Adverse
Example: "The adverse impacts of mining on water quality required remediation efforts."
73
Tending to spread uncontrollably and disrupt natural ecosystems, often referring to non-native plant species introduced by mining activities.
Invasive
Example: "Invasive species introduced by mining operations threatened the biodiversity of the surrounding area."
74
Restored to a natural or usable state after being affected by mining activities, often referring to land or ecosystems.
Reclaimed
Example: "The reclaimed mine site was transformed into a recreational area for the local community."
75
Designed or constructed to withstand seismic activity or earthquakes.
Seismic-resistant
Example: "The mine's infrastructure was built to be seismic-resistant to minimize damage during earthquakes."
76
Example: "Coal and oil are examples of non-renewable resources that are finite in supply."
Non-renewable
77
Having a wide variety of plant and animal species, often used to describe ecosystems impacted by mining activities.
Biodiverse
Example: "Efforts were made to protect the region's biodiverse habitats from the impacts of mining."
78
To commit to a decision or course of action, especially when it involves risk or uncertainty.
Take the plunge
Example: "After months of planning, the company decided to take the plunge and invest in a new mining project."
79
Operating discreetly or unnoticed, often to avoid attention or scrutiny.
Under the radar
Example: "The company conducted exploratory drilling under the radar to avoid opposition from environmental groups."
80
Free from danger or difficulty, often used to describe a situation where a crisis has been averted.
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."
81
To take action to mitigate or correct environmental damage or contamination caused by mining activities.
Remediate
Example: "The company worked to remediate the polluted waterways affected by acid mine drainage."
82
To remove or drain water from an area or structure, often to facilitate mining operations or prevent flooding
Dewater
Example: "Pumps were used to dewater the mine shaft after heavy rainfall."
83
To dispose of or store waste materials, such as tailings, in a designated area.
Tail
Example: "The company decided to tail the waste rock in an engineered containment facility."
84
To filter or seep through a porous substance, often used to describe the movement of fluids through soil or rock formations.
Percolate
Example: "Rainwater percolated through the soil, carrying contaminants into groundwater sources."
85
To sell off assets or investments, often used to describe companies relinquishing ownership of mining operations.
Divest
Example: "The company decided to divest its coal mining assets to focus on renewable energy."
86
To make something stable or secure, often used to describe efforts to prevent slope instability or collapse in mining areas.
Stabilize
Example: "Rock bolting was used to stabilize the walls of the open pit mine."
87
To spread out or scatter, often used to describe the movement of pollutants or contaminants in the environment.
Disperse
Example: "Wind disperses dust particles from mining operations over a wide area."
88
The layer of soil, rock, or other material covering a mineral deposit, which must be removed before mining can begin.
Overburden
Example: "The excavators cleared away the overburden to expose the coal seam below."
89
A person who searches for mineral deposits or valuable resources, often using exploration techniques such as sampling or drilling.
Prospector
Example: "The prospector spent years traversing remote regions in search of undiscovered mineral deposits."
90
A detailed strategy outlining the steps and measures for restoring land affected by mining activities to its original or equivalent state.
Reclamation plan
Example: "The reclamation plan outlined measures for revegetating the disturbed areas and controlling erosion."
91
Lacking stability or prone to collapse, often used to describe ground conditions or rock formations in mining areas.
Unstable
Example: "The unstable ground posed challenges during tunneling operations."
92
Polluted or tainted by the presence of harmful substances or contaminants, such as heavy metals or chemicals
Contaminated
Example: "The soil and water in the vicinity of the mine were contaminated by industrial runoff."
93
Not transparent or clear, often used to describe water or liquids containing suspended particles or impurities.
Opaque
Example: "The opaque liquid in the settling pond indicated high levels of sedimentation."
94
Causing or characterized by the wearing away of soil or rock surfaces through the action of wind, water, or ice.
Erosive
Example: "The erosive forces of the river eroded the banks near the mine site."
95
In a state of disrepair or deterioration, often used to describe old or neglected structures at abandoned mine sites
Dilapidated
Example: "The dilapidated buildings at the abandoned mine were scheduled for demolition."
96
Exhibiting a tendency to undergo chemical reactions or changes, often used to describe materials that can leach contaminants into the environment.
Reactive
Example: "The reactive nature of certain mine waste materials required careful handling and containment."
97
Repelling or resistant to water, often used to describe minerals or materials that do not readily absorb moisture.
Hydrophobic
Example: "The hydrophobic properties of the mineral made it difficult to separate from water during processing."
98
Chemically inactive or unreactive, often used to describe materials that do not undergo significant chemical changes.
Inert
Example: "The inert waste material was safely disposed of in designated landfills."
99
To remove or extract substances from a solid material, often using a liquid solvent or solution.
Leach
Example: "The leaching process extracted valuable metals from the ore concentrate."
100
To excavate or remove sediment or debris from underwater areas, often using specialized equipment such as dredgers.
Dredge
Example: "The company dredged the riverbed to extract sand and gravel for construction projects."
101
To counteract or render ineffective, often used to describe efforts to mitigate the effects of acidic mine drainage
Neutralize
Example: "Alkaline materials were added to neutralize the acidic runoff from the mine site."
102
To combine or merge separate elements into a unified whole, often used to describe efforts to stabilize or strengthen mine workings.
Consolidate
Example: "The engineers consolidated the mine tunnels to prevent collapses."
103
To spread throughout or penetrate something, often used to describe the movement of fluids through porous materials.
Permeate
Example: "The groundwater began to permeate through the soil, carrying contaminants from the mine."
104
To rearrange or modify the layout or structure of something, often used to describe changes to mine infrastructure.
Reconfigure
Example: "The company reconfigured the processing plant to improve efficiency and throughput."
105
To take action to mitigate or correct environmental damage or contamination caused by mining activities.
Remediate
Example: "The company worked to remediate the polluted waterways affected by acid mine drainage."
106
To remove material from beneath, often used in mining to weaken and collapse overlying rock or ore.
Undercut
Example: "The miners undercut the coal seam to facilitate extraction."
107
To modify or upgrade equipment or infrastructure with new components or features, often to improve performance or compliance with regulations.
Retrofit
Example: "The company retrofitted the ventilation system to enhance airflow and reduce energy consumption."
108
To resolve or bring into agreement conflicting interests or differences, often used in negotiations or discussions.
Reconcile
Example: "The stakeholders worked to reconcile their competing priorities and reach a consensus on the mine's development plan."
109
The gradual sinking or settling of the Earth's surface due to underground mining, oil extraction, or natural causes.
Subsidence
Example: "Subsidence from underground mining can lead to structural damage to buildings and infrastructure."
110
The process of excavating vertical or inclined openings in the ground to access underground mining operations.
Shaft sinking
Example: "The construction crew completed shaft sinking to reach the lower levels of the mine."
111
Emitting or relating to the emission of ionizing radiation, often associated with certain mineral deposits.
Radioactive
Example: "The uranium ore contained radioactive elements, requiring special handling procedures."
112
Producing abundant quantities of something, often used to describe rich mineral deposits.
Prolific
Example: "The region is known for its prolific gold mines."
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.
Acidic
Example: "The acidic water from the mine had a pH level of 4.5, posing risks to aquatic life."
114
Not conforming to traditional or standard practices, often used to describe innovative mining techniques.
Unconventional
Example: "Unconventional extraction methods are being explored to access deep-seated mineral deposits."
115
Having small holes or spaces that allow fluids to pass through, often used to describe rock formations.
Porous
Example: "Porous sandstone formations are ideal for storing natural gas underground."
116
Relating to or containing water, often used in discussions of mineral processing.
Aqueous
Example: "The aqueous solution was used to dissolve and extract gold from the ore."
117
Relating to processes occurring on or near the Earth's surface, often used in discussions of weathering and erosion
Exogenic
Example: "Exogenic forces shape the landscape by breaking down and transporting rock material."
118
In its original, unspoiled condition, often used to describe environments untouched by human activity.
Pristine
Example: "The pristine wilderness surrounding the mine is home to diverse wildlife."
119
To confront or deal with the consequences of one's actions, often used in situations requiring accountability
Face the music
Example: "After the accident, the company had to face the music and address safety concerns."
120
The importance of paying attention to small or hidden details, often used to emphasize the complexity of a situation.
The devil is in the details
Example: "When negotiating contracts, remember that the devil is in the details."
121
To listen attentively or sympathetically to someone, often used to offer support or assistance.
Lend an ear
Example: "If you need advice, I'm here to lend an ear."
122
Stuck or unable to make progress, often used to describe a project or plan that has failed to move forward.
Dead in the water
Example: "Without additional funding, the expansion project is dead in the water."
123
To stop a problem or issue at an early stage before it becomes more serious.
Nip it in the bud
Example: "Let's address the equipment malfunction now and nip it in the bud."
124
To manage to survive, especially financially, despite difficulties.
Keep one's head above water
Example: "With rising costs, it's becoming increasingly difficult to keep our heads above water."
125
To adapt and cope with difficult situations or setbacks, often used to describe resilience.
Roll with the punches
Example: "In this industry, you have to be able to roll with the punches."
126
An overall perspective or understanding of a situation, often used to describe taking a broader view of things
Bird's eye view
Example: "To solve the problem, we need to take a bird's eye view of the entire operation."
127
To use up or exhaust a finite resource, often used to describe the extraction of minerals or natural resources.
Deplete
Example: "Continuous mining operations depleted the coal reserves in the region."
128
To release or allow the escape of gases or pressure, often used in discussions of mine ventilation.
Vent
Example: "The ventilation system was designed to vent harmful gases from underground workings."
129
To prepare or organize resources for a particular purpose or task, often used in discussions of project management.
Mobilize
Example: "The company mobilized its workforce to respond to the emergency."
130
To recover or save something from loss or destruction, often used in discussions of salvage operations.
Salvage
Example: "Efforts were made to salvage equipment damaged in the accident."
131
Tending to evaporate rapidly or change unpredictably, often used to describe chemicals or substances with high vapor pressures.
Volatile
Example: "Volatile organic compounds can pose health risks if released into the atmosphere."
132
Relating to rocks that have been subjected to heat, pressure, or chemical alteration, often resulting in the formation of new minerals or textures.
Metamorphic
Example: "The metamorphic rocks in the region contained valuable minerals such as graphite and garnet."
133
Chemically combined with oxygen, often used to describe minerals or metals that have undergone oxidation reactions.
Oxidized
Example: "The oxidized iron ore formed rusty red deposits on the surface."
134
In agreement or having a shared understanding of a situation or objective.
On the same page
Example: "It's essential for the project team to be on the same page regarding safety protocols."
135
To come to a complete stop or standstill, often due to mechanical failure or logistical issues.
Grind to a halt
Example: "The equipment breakdown caused production to grind to a halt."
136
To organize or prepare oneself effectively, often used before embarking on a task or project.
Get one's ducks in a row
Example: "Before presenting the proposal, make sure to get all your ducks in a row."
137
To take on more responsibilities or commitments than one can manage.
Bite off more than one can chew
Example: "Be careful not to bite off more than you can chew with the new project."
138
To immerse oneself fully in a challenging or unfamiliar situation without hesitation.
Dive into the deep end
Example: "She decided to dive into the deep end and take on the leadership role."
139
A metaphorical expression indicating hope or relief after a period of difficulty or adversity.
Light at the end of the tunnel
Example: "Despite setbacks, there's always a light at the end of the tunnel."
140
To deal with a problem or issue only when it arises, rather than worrying about it in advance.
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."
141
To restore or revive something to a youthful or active state, often used in discussions of ecosystem restoration or reclamation.
Rejuvenate
Example: "The reforestation project aimed to rejuvenate degraded landscapes."
142
To combine or unite multiple elements into a single entity, often used in discussions of mergers or consolidation.
Amalgamate
Example: "The two companies decided to amalgamate their operations to increase efficiency."
143
To expand or vary the range of products, services, or activities, often to reduce dependence on a single source
Diversify
Example: "The company diversified its portfolio to include renewable energy projects."
144
To stimulate or inspire action or change, often used in discussions of motivation or leadership.
Galvanize
Example: "The inspiring speech galvanized the team to work toward their goals."
145
The negative consequences or effects of mining activities on the environment, communities, or human health.
Adverse impact
Example: "The environmental impact assessment identified several adverse impacts of the proposed mining project."
146
Layers or beds of rock, often used to describe the geological structure or composition of underground formations.
Strata
Example: "The geologist analyzed the strata to determine the best location for drilling."
147
A method of extracting oil or gas from underground rock formations by injecting high-pressure fluid to create fractures and release the hydrocarbons.
Hydraulic fracturing
Example: "Hydraulic fracturing revolutionized the extraction of natural gas from shale formations."
148
The sudden collapse or movement of rock material from a cliff face, slope, or excavation, often posing hazards to workers and infrastructure.
Rockfall
Example: "Rockfall protection measures were installed to safeguard workers at the mine site."
149
Dangerously unstable or insecure, often used to describe working conditions in mines with high risks of collapse or accidents.
Precarious
Example: "The miners faced precarious conditions while working in the unstable underground stope."
150
Distinct or fundamentally different, often used to describe elements or factors that do not align or correspond.
Disparate
Example: "The environmental impacts of mining and agriculture are disparate but interconnected."
151
Belonging naturally or inherently, often used to describe the inherent properties or qualities of a mineral deposit.
Intrinsic
Example: "The intrinsic value of the ore deposit justified further exploration and development."
152
Altered or worn down by exposure to the elements, often used to describe the surface of rocks or mineral deposits.
Weathered
Example: "The weathered outcrop indicated the presence of mineralization beneath the surface."
153
Dependent on or conditioned by something else, often used to describe agreements or arrangements with uncertain outcomes
Contingent
Example: "The success of the project was contingent on securing funding from investors."
154
A situation in which a desired outcome is impossible to achieve because of a contradictory or paradoxical rule or condition.
Catch-22
Example: "The company faced a catch-22: they needed experience to win contracts, but they couldn't gain experience without contracts."
155
To fall behind or lose progress compared to others, often used in competitive contexts.
Lose ground
Example: "The company began to lose ground to competitors due to delays in product development."
156
To finalize or secure something definitively, often used in negotiations or agreements.
Nail down
Example: "We need to nail down the details of the contract before proceeding."
157
A mineral processing technique that separates valuable minerals from gangue minerals by selectively attaching air bubbles to the mineral particles.
Flotation
Example: "Flotation is commonly used to concentrate sulfide ores such as copper and lead."
158
The estimation of the quantity and quality of mineral resources present in a deposit based on geological data, sampling, and statistical methods.
Resource estimation
Example: "Resource estimation provided the basis for evaluating the economic potential of the mineral deposit."
159
Resistant to penetration or passage, often used to describe barriers or liners that prevent fluid migration.
Impervious
Example: "The impervious clay layer acted as a natural barrier to groundwater flow."
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.
Dilute
Example: "The wastewater was diluted before discharge to meet regulatory standards."
161
To initiate or stimulate activity or progress, often used to describe efforts to revitalize or kick-start a project.
Jump-start
Example: "The new investment helped jump-start the stalled mining project."
162
To start over or rethink a plan or strategy after it has failed or proven ineffective.
Back to the drawing board
Example: "The initial design didn't meet our requirements, so it's back to the drawing board."
163
To give up or surrender, often used when facing insurmountable obstacles or challenges.
Throw in the towel
Example: "After months of negotiations, they finally threw in the towel and walked away from the deal."
164
To gather or accumulate a large quantity of something, often used to describe the collection of data or resources.
Amass
Example: "The research team amassed a vast amount of geological data from field surveys."
165
To assign or distribute resources, funds, or responsibilities to different purposes or areas, often used in discussions of project management.
Reallocate
Example: "The company decided to reallocate funds from exploration to mine development."
