TOEFL WORDS Flashcards
Definition and examples
To give up completely, to leave usually forever example: the company had to abandon its plans to build a new factory
Abandon
To not do something, especially something enjoyable that you think might be bad or unhealthy.
abstain
Different from what is usual or average, especially in a way that is bad.
Example: “The scientists noted that the test results showed abnormal levels of certain enzymes, indicating a potential health issue that required further investigation.”
Abnormal
Definition: Stupid and unreasonable, or silly in a humorous way.
Example: “The claim that the ancient civilization built the pyramids with the help of aliens was dismissed as absurd by mainstream archaeologists, who pointed to extensive evidence of human ingenuity and labor.”
Absurd (adjective)
Definition: Very bad or unpleasant.
Example: “The report condemned the abominable working conditions in the factory, calling for immediate reforms to protect workers’ rights and well-being.”
Abominable (adjective)
Definition: To respect and approve of someone or their behavior.
Example: “Many students admire Dr. Thompson for her groundbreaking research in environmental science and her dedication to mentoring young scientists.”
Admire (verb)
Definition: To change something to suit different conditions or uses.
Example: “The ability of certain species to adapt quickly to changing environmental conditions has been a crucial factor in their survival.”
Adapt (verb)
Definition: Very near, next to, or touching.
Example: “The university plans to build a new research facility adjacent to the existing library to foster greater collaboration between departments.”
Adjacent (adjective)
Definition: To tell someone that they have done something wrong.
Example: “The professor admonished the student for not citing sources properly, emphasizing the importance of academic integrity.”
Admonish (verb)
Definition: An enemy.
Example: “In the field of international relations, countries must carefully navigate their policies to balance cooperation and competition with their adversaries.”
Adversary (noun)
Definition: To avoid something, especially cleverly or illegally.
Example: “The company attempted to circumvent the new environmental regulations by relocating its factories to countries with less stringent laws.”
Circumvent (verb)
Definition: A fact or event that makes a situation the way it is.
Example: “Given the unique circumstances of the pandemic, universities had to adapt their teaching methods to include more online and hybrid courses.”
Circumstance (noun)
Definition: (Of evidence or a legal case) pointing indirectly toward someone’s guilt but not conclusively proving it.
Example: “The prosecution’s case was largely based on circumstantial evidence, which raised questions about the reliability of the charges brought against the defendant.”
Circumstantial (adjective)
Definition: The distance around a circle.
Example: “In geometry, students learn to calculate the circumference of a circle using the formula C = 2πr, where ‘r’ is the radius.”
Circumference (noun)
Definition: To cut off the foreskin of a boy or man for religious or medical reasons.
Example: “The cultural anthropology course explored various rituals and traditions, including the practice of circumcising male infants in certain religious communities.”
Circumcise (verb)
Definition: To bring or gather together.
Example: “The researchers aim to collect data from various sources to analyze the impact of climate change on biodiversity.”
Collect (verb)
Definition: An organization that sells goods or services in order to make money.
Example: “The case study focused on a tech company that rapidly expanded its market share through innovative product development and strategic acquisitions.
Company (noun)
Definition: To direct your attention or your efforts towards a particular activity, subject, or problem.
Example: “The study aims to concentrate on the effects of social media usage on teenagers’ mental health.”
Concentrate (verb)
Definition: If lines, roads, or paths converge, they move towards the same point where they join or meet.
Example: “The theories of different scientific disciplines often converge when addressing complex global issues such as climate change.”
Converge (verb)
Definition: To live or exist together at the same time or in the same place.
Example: “The research explores how various species in the ecosystem coexist, sharing resources and maintaining a balance.”
Coexist (verb)
Definition: A conversation between two or more people as a feature of a book, play, or movie.
Example: “The seminar focused on the role of dialogue in resolving conflicts and fostering mutual understanding between different cultural groups.”
Dialogue (noun)
Definition: Relating to the changes in something, especially a language, that happen over time.
Example: “The diachronic study of the English language revealed how its vocabulary and grammar have evolved from Old English to Modern English.”
Diachronic (adjective)
Definition: A straight line going from one side of a circle or any other round object to the other side, passing through the center of the circle.
Example: “In the geometry class, students learned how to calculate the diameter of a circle by doubling the length of its radius.”
Diameter (noun)
Definition: An angry speech or piece of writing that severely criticizes something or someone.
Example: “The professor’s lecture turned into a diatribe against the current education system, highlighting its numerous flaws and inefficiencies.”
Diatribe (noun)
Definition: A simple drawing or plan that shows exactly where something is, what something looks like, or how something works.
Example: “The textbook included a detailed diagram of the human circulatory system to help students understand the flow of blood through the body.”
Diagram (noun)
Definition: The same in quantity, size, degree, or value.
Example: “The research study ensured that each participant was given an equal amount of time to complete the test to maintain fairness.”
Equal (adjective)
Definition: The situation in which everyone is treated fairly and given the same opportunities.
Example: “The policy on educational equity aims to provide equal resources and opportunities to students from diverse backgrounds to ensure fair outcomes.”
Equity (noun)
Definition: The same distance from two or more places.
Example: “In the urban planning project, the new park was designed to be equidistant from the residential areas to provide equal access to all residents.”
Equidistant (adjective)
Definition: A state in which opposing forces or influences are balanced.
Example: “In economics, market equilibrium occurs when supply equals demand, resulting in stable prices for goods and services.”
Equilibrium (noun)
Definition: Either of the two times each year when the sun crosses the celestial equator and day and night are of equal length.
Example: “The study of astronomical events often includes the equinox, as it marks significant changes in seasonal patterns and has historical importance in various cultures.”
Equinox
Definition: Having the same value, amount, meaning, etc.
Example: “In the translation of scientific terms, finding an equivalent term in another language is crucial to maintain accuracy and clarity.”
Equivalent (adjective)
No protection: The fact of experiencing something or being affected by it because of being in a particular situation or place.
exposure
Children’s exposure to violence on television is a serious concern.
To make something seem larger, more important, better, or worse than it really is.
Word: Exaggerate
He tends to exaggerate his achievements to impress others.
To show or state that someone or something is not guilty of something.
Word: Exonerate
The evidence presented in court finally exonerated the defendant.
Definition:
To have a lot of a particular quality or feeling, or to show that you have it.
To produce a liquid or smell that flows out slowly.
Exude
She exudes confidence and charm wherever she goes.
The trees exude a sticky resin that smells like pine.
The act of not allowing someone or something to take part in an activity or to enter a place.
The exclusion of certain students from the event was controversial.
The part of a view, picture, etc. that is nearest to you when you look at it.
The most noticeable or important position in a situation.
Foreground
The artist placed a bright flower in the foreground of the painting.
Environmental issues have come to the foreground of political debates.
The lower part of the arm, between the wrist and the elbow.
Word: Forearm
A statement of what is likely to happen in the future, especially in connection with a particular situation, or the expected weather conditions.
The weather forecast predicts rain for tomorrow.
Economists have released a new forecast for economic growth this year.
To take legal action to take possession of a property when the owner has not paid their mortgage.
To prevent something from happening or to make it impossible.
The bank had to foreclose on the house because the owner failed to make mortgage payments.
The new policy forecloses the possibility of future negotiations.
To show or suggest that something will happen in the future.
Foreshadow
The dark clouds foreshadowed the approaching storm.
The author used subtle hints to foreshadow the novel’s dramatic conclusion.
The time at which something begins or is created.
The establishment or starting point of an institution or activity.
Inception
The project has been successful since its inception three years ago.
The project has been successful since its inception three years ago.
To say or recite something in a slow and even voice, often with a particular pitch or tone.
To speak or sing with a particular intonation.
The priest intoned the prayers during the ceremony.
She intoned her lines with a rhythmic and melodic quality.
To suggest or hint something unpleasant in an indirect way.
To gradually introduce or insert something in a subtle manner.
Insinuate
He tried to insinuate that his colleague was not trustworthy without saying it outright.
The villain’s comments were designed to insinuate doubt among the heroes.
Not correct or accurate; wrong.
Containing mistakes or errors.
Incorrect
The answer he provided was incorrect, leading to a lower score on the test.
The data in the report was deemed incorrect due to several errors in calculation.
Not correct or precise.
Not accurate; containing errors or mistakes.
Inaccurate
The report was criticized for being inaccurate and misleading.
The measurements were inaccurate, leading to faulty conclusions.
The action or influence of people, things, or events on each other.
The process of talking to or meeting with others.
Interaction
The interaction between the team members was crucial for the project’s success.
The doctor studied the interaction of the two medications to ensure safety.
To stop and take control of something before it reaches its intended destination.
To catch or interrupt something on its way.
intercept
The police were able to intercept the shipment of illegal goods before it reached the city.
The football player managed to intercept the pass and score a touchdown.
Involving a level of skill or knowledge that is between beginner and advanced.
Located or occurring between two stages, levels, or points.
Intermediate
She enrolled in an intermediate French course to improve her language skills.
The intermediate stage of the project requires more complex tasks than the initial phase.
To say something suddenly while another person is speaking or while something else is happening.
To insert a comment or remark into a conversation or discussion.
Interject
He interjected a quick comment during the meeting to clarify his point.
She interjected with a question while the speaker was explaining the concept.
Relating to or involving two or more countries.
Occurring or existing between nations.
The international conference brought together leaders from around the world.
She works for an international organization that focuses on global health issues.
A person who is trained to give emergency medical care to people who are injured or ill, often working with ambulances.
Paramedic
The paramedic arrived quickly at the scene of the accident to provide first aid.
Paramedics are trained to handle a wide range of medical emergencies.
Relating to events or phenomena that are beyond the range of normal experience or scientific explanation, such as ghosts or supernatural occurrences.
Paranormal
She enjoys reading books about paranormal activities and ghost stories.
The film’s plot revolves around a series of paranormal events in an old mansion.
A group of sentences that are related to a single topic or idea and are usually separated from other paragraphs by a new line or indentation.
Paragraph
Each paragraph in the essay should focus on a different aspect of the topic.
The editor suggested breaking the long paragraph into two shorter ones for clarity.
To express the meaning of something written or spoken using different words, especially to achieve greater clarity.
Paraphrase
Can you paraphrase this sentence to make it easier to understand?
The teacher asked the students to paraphrase the passage in their own words.
Experiencing or showing irrational distrust or suspicion of others.
Experiencing or showing irrational distrust or suspicion of others.
Paranoid
His paranoid behavior made it difficult for him to trust even close friends.
The character in the novel is portrayed as being increasingly paranoid about government surveillance.
To become aware of, know, or identify by means of the senses.
To interpret or understand something in a particular way.
Perceive
She could perceive the subtle differences in the flavors of the wine.
How you perceive someone’s behavior can be influenced by your own experiences.
To continue firmly or obstinately in an opinion or course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.
To remain unchanged or constant over time.
Persist
Despite numerous setbacks, he decided to persist with his research.
The rain will persist throughout the weekend according to the weather forecast.
To read or examine something carefully and in detail.
To look at something in a relaxed and leisurely manner.
Peruse
She took time to peruse the documents before signing them.
He perused the menu slowly, enjoying the variety of options.
To continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty or with little or no prospect of success.
To continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty or with little or no prospect of success.
Persevere
To achieve your goals, you must persevere through the challenges.
She persevered in her studies despite the difficulties she faced.
A magazine or newspaper that is published at regular intervals, such as monthly or quarterly.
Occurring or appearing at intervals or periodically.
Periodical
She subscribes to several periodicals to stay updated on current events.
The periodical review of the project’s progress is scheduled every three months.
A device used in submarines or other situations to allow a person to see things that are out of their direct line of sight.
An optical instrument for viewing objects not directly visible
Periscope
The submarine’s periscope allowed the crew to observe the surface without being detected.
She used a periscope to look over the fence and check if anyone was around.
The continuous line or boundary enclosing a shape or area.
The outermost limits or edge of an area or object.
Perimeter
The security team walked the perimeter of the building to ensure it was secure.
The perimeter of the park is lined with trees and fences.
Relating to or situated on the edge or periphery of something.
Not central or of primary importance.
Peripheral
A group of people or vehicles moving forward in an organized manner, often as part of a ceremony or celebration.
The act of moving forward in a formal or orderly way.
Procession
The wedding procession made its way down the street, accompanied by music and cheers.
The parade featured a colorful procession of floats and marching bands.
A high degree of competence or skill in a particular area.
The state of being proficient or skilled.
Proficiency
Her proficiency in multiple languages makes her a valuable asset to the team.
The test assesses your proficiency in mathematical problem-solving.
An introductory section of a book, play, or other literary work that provides background or context.
A preface or introduction to a story or work.
Prologue
The prologue of the novel set the stage for the events that followed.
The play’s prologue introduced the main themes and characters.
Important or famous; easily noticeable or standing out.
Having a high profile or significance in a particular field.
Prominent
She is a prominent figure in the field of environmental science.
She is a prominent figure in the field of environmental science.
The likely course or outcome of a medical condition or disease.
A forecast or prediction about the future based on current conditions.
Prognosis
The doctor provided a favorable prognosis for recovery after the surgery.
The economic prognosis for the coming year suggests moderate growth.
Relating to or denoting particles smaller than atoms, such as electrons, protons, and neutrons
Existing or occurring at a scale smaller than an atom.
Subatomic
Subatomic particles are studied in the field of quantum physics.
The experiment aimed to explore the interactions of subatomic particles.
The part of the mind that is not fully aware but influences actions and feelings.
Relating to mental processes occurring below the level of conscious awareness.
Subconscious
Many of our habits are driven by subconscious thoughts and feelings.
The therapist explored her subconscious to understand the root of her anxiety.
To divide something that has already been divided into smaller parts or sections.
To split into smaller or more detailed parts.
Subdivide
The large plot of land was subdivided into smaller lots for residential development.
The report was subdivided into various sections to cover different aspects of the topic.
To bring under control or domination, often by force.
To subdue or conquer a group or territory.
Subjugate
The empire sought to subjugate neighboring territories to expand its influence.
The tyrant’s regime aimed to subjugate the people through fear and repression.
The act of accepting or yielding to a superior force or authority.
A document or proposal formally presented for consideration.
Submission
The prisoner’s submission to the authority was a strategic move to avoid further punishment.
The submission of the manuscript marked the final step in the publishing process.
Showing compassion or understanding for someone else’s situation or feelings.
Feeling or expressing sympathy.
Sympathetic
She offered a sympathetic ear to her friend during a difficult time.
The counselor was very sympathetic to the students’ concerns.
The combined effect of a group that is greater than the sum of their individual effects.
The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations or agents to produce a combined effect greater than their separate effects.
Synergy
The team’s synergy was evident in their successful project delivery.
The team’s synergy was evident in their successful project delivery.
A word that has the same or nearly the same meaning as another word.
A term used to denote words with similar meanings.
Synonym
“Happy” and “joyful” are synonyms in the English language.
Using synonyms can help to avoid repetition in writing.
Relating to or denoting a mutually beneficial relationship between different people or groups.
Pertaining to a close and often long-term interaction between different biological organisms.
Symbiotic
The relationship between the clownfish and the sea anemone is a classic example of a symbiotic relationship.
The two companies formed a symbiotic partnership that benefited both parties.
Having parts that are the same or very similar on both sides of a central line or point.
Balanced and proportionate in arrangement or form.
Symmetrical
The design of the building features symmetrical patterns and shapes.
Symmetrical shapes are often used in art and architecture to create a sense of balance.
A broadcast of a television program or event.
To transmit a program or event by television.
Telecast
The telecast of the live concert reached millions of viewers around the world.
She watched the telecast of the evening news to stay updated on current events.
Communication over a distance by cable, telegraph, telephone, or broadcasting.
The technology and methods used to transmit information over long distances.
Telecommunication
Telecommunication advancements have revolutionized the way people connect globally.
The company specializes in telecommunication services such as internet and phone lines.
A device used to make and receive calls by converting sound into electrical signals and vice versa.
A system that allows people to communicate with each other over distances using voice.
Telephone
She answered the telephone to discuss the job offer with the recruiter.
The invention of the telephone greatly improved long-distance communication.
An optical instrument used to view distant objects by making them appear closer.
A device with lenses or mirrors that gathers and magnifies light to observe celestial bodies or distant objects.
Telescope
The astronomer used a telescope to observe the surface of distant planets.
They set up the telescope on the hill to get a better view of the stars.
A device for receiving television broadcasts and displaying them on a screen.
A medium for transmitting visual and audio content to an audience.
Television
The family gathered around the television to watch their favorite show.
The television has become an integral part of daily life for entertainment and news.
A written or printed version of material originally presented in another form, such as spoken speech.
An official record of a student’s academic performance and courses taken.
Transcript
She requested a transcript of her university grades for the job application.
She requested a transcript of her university grades for the job application.
To move from one place, position, or person to another.
The act of changing ownership or possession of something.
Transfer
He decided to transfer to a different department within the company.
The transfer of funds between bank accounts can be done online.
The state of going beyond ordinary limits or surpassing typical boundaries.
The quality of being superior or exceeding usual expectations.
Transcendence
The artist’s work is celebrated for its transcendence of traditional artistic boundaries.
Many philosophical theories explore the concept of transcendence beyond the physical world.
To carry or move something from one place to another.
The system or means used for moving people or goods from one location to another.
Transport
The company specializes in the transport of goods across international borders.
The bus is a common form of public transport in many cities.
An instance of buying or selling something; a business deal.
An act of conducting business or communication between parties.
Transaction
The transaction was completed smoothly with the transfer of funds.
They recorded each transaction in the ledger to keep track of their finances.
To make an exact copy of something
A copy that corresponds to an original
He duplicated the document to ensure everyone at the meeting had a copy.
The duplicate key was kept as a spare
Consisting of two parts, elements, or aspects.
Having a double function or character.
She holds a dual citizenship in Canada and Ireland.
The device serves a dual purpose as a phone and a camera.
Sexually attracted to both men and women.
Relating to or having characteristic of both sexes
Bisexual individuals may feel attraction to both male and female partners.
The meeting was for a support group for bisexual teens.
Occurring every two weeks.
Happening twice a week.
The team meetings are scheduled biweekly, on the first and third Mondays.
He visits his therapist biweekly to discuss his progress.
Having or relating to two poles or extremities.
In psychiatry, relating to or suffering from bipolar disorder, characterized by episodes of mania and depression.
Bipolar magnets have both a north and south pole.
She was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and began treatment to manage the symptoms.
A person who is 100 years old or older.
The town honored the centenarian with a celebration for her 100th birthday.
Living as a centenarian is increasingly common with advances in healthcare.
A period of 100 years
The 20th century was marked by rapid technological advancements.
He wrote a book on the major political changes of the last century.
Relating to a temperature scale in which water freezes at 0 degrees and boils at 100 degrees under standard conditions. Also known as Celcius.
The temperature today is 28 degrees centigrade.
She set the oven to 200 degrees centigrade for baking the cake.
A metric unit of length, equals to one hundredth of a meter.
The doctor measured the small wound as being 5 centimeters long.
He cut the fabric into strips that were each 10 centimeters wide.
A small, elongated creature with a segmented body, each segment having a pair of legs, known for moving quickly.
The garden was home to several types of insects, including quick-moving centipede.
Centipedes are predators that feed on other smaller incests.
A period of one thousand years.
A point of time used to denote the beginning of a period of 1000 years.
The new millennium began on January 1, 2000.
Many significant historical events occurred over the last millennium.
A metric unit of volume equal to one thousandth of a liter
She measured 20 milliliters of vinegar for the salad dressing.
The medication dosage is prescribed in milliliters.
A metric unit of mass equal to one thousandth of a gram.
The chemist weighed out 5 milligrams of the substance for the experiment.
Nutritional information often includes measurements as small as milligrams.
A person reaching young adulthood in the early 21st century.
Relating to a millennium or span of one thousand years.
Millennials are known for their comfort with digital technology.
The millennial generation faces different economic challenges than their predecessors.
A small, elongated invertebrate with a segmented body, each segment having two pairs of legs, known for their slow, crawling movements.
A millipede curled up into a tight coil when threatened.
Millipedes are often found in moist environments and feed on decaying organic matter.
Consisting of or displaying images in black and white or varying tones of one color.
The photographer chose a monochrome palette for his latest exhibition to focus on texture over color.
She decorated her office in a monochrome style, using only shades of gray.
A continuous sound, especially of someone’s voice, that is unchanging in pitch and without intonation.
His speech was delivered in a dull monotone that hardly captured anyone’s attention.
She practiced varying her pitch to avoid speaking a monotone during presentations.
